The main drawback is that you can't snuggle up under it with your family like more traditional throw designs, but if your budget allows, you can kit the little ones out in their own kids' blanket hoodie instead. It warms up quickly, has a timer so you don't leave it on if you fall asleep, has 6 temperature settings and is very economical to run".

By doing this, we whittled our longlist down and chose a selection of products that we think offer something for everybody. Offering heat in just five minutes, with 5 continuous heat settings to choose from on an easy-to-use controller. The one thing I will say is that if you wrap yourself up in them, they don’t work as well - you need to lay them out flat so the wires are as flat as possible then the heat distributes well. With with a soft, cream-coloured fleece lining on one side and a soft-to-the-touch tactile outer side, heated throws don't come much cosier than the Dreamland Velvety edition.The Dreamland Alaskan Husky Faux Fur Blanket has been awarded our best heated throw title thanks to its gloriously soft and luxurious fabric, machine washability, fast heat-up time and ease with which you can control the comforting heat. I don't even put the log burner on any more, just plug this beauty in, it heats up, and I snuggle underneath. The Dreamland Deluxe Velvet Herringbone Heated Throw is our best luxury pick due to its gloriously soft fabric, machine washability, fast heat-up time and ease with which you can control the comforting heat. Plus thanks to detachable lead cables these throws are even machine washable, to ensure they're easy to keep fresh and clean. If you have sticky-handed toddlers or pets that will enjoy cuddling up under this throw, that’s OK, as it is machine washable.

However, a heated blanket that can run on low for a long time uses up less energy and is actually more cost effective than one that is powerful all the time. Maybe having a heated throw on the sofa isn't enough, perhaps you want to be able to work from home or have your arms free to be able to get things done whilst keeping warm. And when you’re not requiring the warmth and wellbeing benefits, it doubles up as a deluxe living room accessory. Cost per hour is based on using the blanket on its highest setting because, following our testing, we think that this is the setting you're more likely to use.Temperature settings: Look for adjustable heat settings so you can get the most out of your blanket – some options have as many as 10 different settings! For electric blankets, we also assess how easy each one is to attach to a mattress and how comfortable each one is to lie on under a fitted sheet. Also the heat isn't all over, it's in patches, some warmer than others so don't expect the whole blanket to be warm. If you're on a tight budget, look out for electric blanket deals around sales events like Black Friday.

You can choose to have either side against your skin, and it’s lovely and warm even when switched off – you won't need to bundle up in the best thermals for women when you're wrapped up in this. Invest in one of these best electric throws, and you’ll be able to turn your heating down, or even off, and stop your energy bills spiralling. Dreamland’s fashionable Hygge Days Alaskan Husky faux fur warming throw is a gorgeous accessory to add to your living room or bedroom, and fits right in if you are after the scandi look. Running cost – Running a heated throw is definitely a less expensive option than putting the heating on. Any risk posed by electric blankets tends to come from disreputable online sellers, or old blankets that have become worn and unsafe.There's also a heat safe function for added peace of mind, making it a great option for the whole family to snuggle under. It can be set to switch off after one, three or nine hours, plus the Intelliheat+ functionality runs a complete check of the electrics every time you switch your throw on. Size – Most heated throws come in the standard 160cm x 120cm size, however, if you have a big family and want to share it and make sure it covers everyone on the sofa then it may be better to opt for a larger option, for example number 7 on this list which is 180cm x 135cm. A perfect option for those who need a bit of extra heat while still having full use of their arms and hands, this cleverly designed Lakeland Heated Poncho fills a gap in the market between a humble heated throw and a blanket hoodie. When testing and selecting the best heated throws we considered size, heat settings, timer function and value.

Also it's more efficient to use the heated throw on a low heat for a long time than intense heat for quick bursts as this requires more wattage.

With winter just around the corner again, many people are looking for ways to stay warm while keeping the heating off, and Mumsnet users swear by the best heated throws as a potential solution. Tried and tested by many a chilly Mumsnetter, Dreamland have proven themselves consistent frontrunners when it comes to reliable, long-lasting heated throw blankets. Simply add in the watts of the throw and the time you will use it for, and it will give you an estimate running cost. If you want to keep warm in bed without shelling out for an electric blanket, a cheaper option is a hot water bottle.