The evenings are getting colder and darker, and with the cost of energy always rising, people are opting for lower cost alternatives to putting the heating on. And one popular solution is to add an electric blanket to your bed.
They’re warm, cozy and — most importantly — cheap. So it’s not surprising that people all over the country are ditching even the best duvets and replacing them with a heated throw. But most people don’t realise there’s one type of mattress that you shouldn’t use an electric blanket with.
Martin Sealy, CEO of MattressNextDay has shared his warning to the millions of people currently sleeping on this type of bed. Here’s what you should know.
The risk of using an electric blanket with a memory foam mattress
Memory foam mattresses are gaining in popularity — in fact, a recent survey published this year reported that memory foam beds were the top choice among 44% of respondents.
But if you sleep on a foam bed, you shouldn’t be using an electric blanket.
“Memory foam is designed to work with your body’s natural warmth,” Martin explains. “Introducing extra heat can interfere with the foam’s structure, leading to premature wear and reducing its ability to support your body properly.”
Overheating for long periods of time can permanently warp the foam, meaning you won’t get enough support from even the best mattresses.
It’s also important to note that “in extreme cases, prolonged overheating can pose a safety risk,” when paired with memory foam.
Plus, this type of foam has a dense structure which can trap heat. This can make your bed uncomfortably warm, causing you to wake in the night.
Can you use an electric blanket safely with memory foam?
While it’s best to avoid an electric blanket if you’re sleeping on a memory foam bed, there are some things that can make it safer:
- Stick to low levels of heat: Keeping your electric blanket on a low heat level can avoid too much warmth getting trapped in your mattress.
- Turn it off before you fall asleep: Don’t fall asleep with the electric blanket switched on as this could lead to too much heat build up.
- Use a mattress topper: Opt for the best mattress toppers to stop the blanket from coming in direct contact with your mattress,
Check out our dos and don'ts for using an electric blanket on a memory foam mattress.
3 alternatives to electric blankets to keep warm with winter
Layer up your bedding
Opting for the right bedding over winter can make a big difference. Martin Seely recommends flannel and brushed cotton materials.
“These fabrics naturally trap warmth thanks to their slightly raised texture,” he explains.
“They hold tiny pockets of air that help insulate your body, keeping you warm without extra heat sources.”
Ensuring your bedding is in good condition is essential, too. “Over time, older bedding can lose its softness and insulating power, so refreshing your sheets each winter can make a real difference.”
Try a weighted blanket
The best weighted blankets can keep you warm and cozy without becoming stuffy and overheating.
Made with small beads sewn into squares, these blankets offer pressure therapy through their extra weight, helping to keep sleepers calm and relaxed throughout the night.
Opt for cooling models, like the YnM Weighted Blanket, to help regulate temperatures.
Wear the right pajamas
You might think that throwing on a fluffy jumper and layers of leggings will you help you sleep in the cold, but it’s only going to lead to overheating in the night. Instead, wearing temperature regulating materials is key.
“Opt for breathable natural fibers such as cotton, bamboo or merino wool,” says Martin. “These materials help your body maintain a steady temperature, keeping you warm without causing you to sweat.”
He suggests layering light pajamas with warm socks for maximum comfort. “A small change in fabric can make a big difference to how cozy and restful your night feels.”
