Are electric blankets more cost effective than central heating?

Key takeaways

• With the Energy Price Cap at 24.367p per kWh, a 100W electric blanket costs about 2.5p per hour to run making it a cost-effective way to stay warm

• Electric heaters like fan heaters, use around 2kW per hour, costing about 49p per hour to run

• Central heating, using gas at 5.74p per kWh, costs around £1.38 per hour or £166 per month if used for four hours daily

• Electric blankets can save money compared to central heating, but they only warm the person not the room, which can lead to issues like mould

The cost-effectiveness of electric blankets: A warm investment?

As it gets colder, and our heating bills go up, many of us reach for our electric blankets - but are they cost effective? They come as underblankets for beds and throws for sofas, with prices starting at £18 and climbing over £100 for underblankets, while throws begin at £30. But beyond the initial purchase, what does it really cost to snuggle up under an electric blanket?

The real price of staying toasty

How much your electric blanket costs varies based on how much you pay for energy, how efficient it is and how long you use it for. For example, a 100W electric blanket, which uses 0.1kWh, costs around 2.5p per hour to run. That’s based on the April 2026 energy price cap^{^} , which sets electricity prices at 24.67p per kWh for a typical household paying by Direct Debit. If you're using the blanket for a typical two-hour wind-down at bedtime, you're looking at 5p per day—a small price to pay for the comfort it provides.

Opting for cooler settings on your electric blanket can further reduce costs, making it a particularly economical choice for heating individuals directly, rather than entire unused rooms. This targeted approach to warmth can be a game-changer for those looking to cut down on their energy bills.

For more extensive advice on keeping your home toasty during the colder months, read our guide on how to keep your home warm in winter. This is packed with tips and tricks to maintain a comfortable living space without breaking the bank.

Turning down the heat to save

Check your blanket for settings and features that might help you reduce costs even further. For example, some have a timer so you don’t forget to switch it off and waste energy. Others have different heat settings, which can make them more energy efficient as using a cooler setting costs less.

A comprehensive guide to winter warmth

For more extensive advice on keeping your home toasty during the colder months, read our guide on how to keep your home warm in winter. This resource is packed with tips and tricks to maintain a comfortable living space without breaking the bank.

Comparing electric heaters and central heating

When weighing up the costs of electric blankets against other heating methods, it's important to consider the alternatives. Electric heaters, for instance, can be quite the energy guzzlers. A fan heater, which typically uses around 2kW per hour, will cost about 49p per hour to run under the current UK price cap. It's always a good idea to check for deals below the Energy Price Cap to find more precise running costs.

However, it's important to note that they are not a direct replacement for central heating systems, which warm entire rooms or homes, as opposed to blankets that warm individuals or beds.

Do electric blankets cause mould or damp?

One aspect to be mindful of is that electric blankets do not warm the room air, which can lead to potential health issues and promote the growth of mould and damp.

Gas prices have fallen significantly from their 2022 peak, with the Energy Price Cap now set at an average of 5.74p per kWh from April to June 2026 for households paying via direct debit.

While some energy providers may offer deals below this cap, the costs can still add up. A typical gas boiler, for example, uses about 24kW per hour, translating to roughly £1.38 per hour. If you're running your heating for four hours a day, that's close to £166 per month. To save on these costs, consider lowering your boiler temperature and turning off radiators in rooms that aren't in use.

Smart energy use and savings

The Energy Saving Trust recommends only turning on your heating when you need it. You can save money by installing insulation in your loft or walls and draft-proofing doors and windows. It may be possible, depending on your income, benefits or energy efficiency of your home to apply for support through government-backed schemes or local authority grants. These can help towards the costs. Even smaller fixes can make a noticeable difference.

In areas prone to condensation, it may be wiser to keep the heating on low continuously rather than cycling it on and off, which can exacerbate condensation issues.

Investing in a smart meter can also lead to savings, as it allows you to more closely monitor your energy usage. Smart heating controls can help lower bills by making it easier to heat your home more efficiently. Some systems allow you to control the temperature room by room, meaning you can focus heat where you actually need it rather than warming the whole house. Many also come with app controls and timers, helping you avoid wasting energy when rooms are empty or when you’re out.

The savings potential of electric blankets

When it comes down to it, electric blankets may offer significant savings since they are used only when needed and generally cost less than running central heating. However, it's important to note that they are not a direct replacement for central heating systems, which warm entire rooms or homes, as opposed to blankets that warm individuals or beds.

Health considerations and room air warming

One aspect to be mindful of is that electric blankets do not warm the room air, which can lead to potential health issues and promote the growth of mold and damp. It's crucial to balance the use of electric blankets with adequate room heating to maintain a healthy living environment.

Support for heating costs in winter

For those struggling with heating costs in winter, it's worth remembering that there are government schemes available, including the Warm Home Discount, the Winter Fuel Payment, and the Cold Weather Payment. These programs can provide much-needed financial relief during the colder months.

It’s also worth seeing if you are eligible for extra help from your energy supplier or local council.

Final thoughts on energy efficiency

For additional insights into reducing your energy consumption and keeping costs low, you can read our Energy Saving Tips. As we navigate through the colder seasons, it's essential to find a balance between comfort, health, and financial well-being. Electric blankets can be a part of this balance, offering a personal touch of warmth that is both cost-effective and comforting.