We recommend heated throw blankets with a CHOICE Expert Rating of at least 85% and at least 80% for ease of use.

The CHOICE Expert Rating is made up of ease of use (40%), the performance of the heated throw blanket's heat-up time (40%) and durability (20%). 

We measure how long it takes the blanket to pre-heat to its maximum temperature. The shorter the time, the better the score. We also collect general data, measure energy use, check for correct labelling, and take thermal images to see how well the blankets distribute heat. We put the controllers and cord through durability tests, then perform leakage current tests to check for damage.

We assess how easy it is to use and understand the controls, how ease it is to clean and whether the blanket can be machine washed, spot cleaned or washed by hand. We also assess the overall cord length and reach of the controller.

We put the controllers and cabling through two durability tests. Passing both tests earns a perfect 100, passing one earns 50 and failing both earns a zero.

Kilowatt hours, based on a 92-day period for winter.

The temperature recorded is that of the blanket's heating element. The temperature of the material, say, on the corner of the blanket, could be lower. 

The temperature recorded is that of the blanket's heating element. The temperature of the material, say, on the corner of the blanket, could be lower.

The temperature recorded is that of the blanket's heating element. The temperature of the material, say, on the corner of the blanket, could be lower.

Shop Ethical rates the environmental and social impact of the company (not the product) using independent sources. This rating is not included in our total score. The rating ranks from A (highest) to F (lowest); N/A means there is no rating for that company.

This shows which products have been discontinued and which are still available in shops. 'Tested model' indicates this heated throw blanket can still be found in shops.

This is the manufacturer’s recommended retail price but you can often save money by shopping around.

This is calculated based on a 92-day period for winter. We include the manufacturer recommended pre-heat period (if there isn't one, we pre-heat for 60 mins), then set the blanket to its maximum setting for three hours and lowest setting for three hours. We calculate the energy result by 40c/kWh.

This is important to determine if you can sit in your favourite spot while using the heated throw blanket.

The controller is illuminated so that when it's dark you can see the selected heat or temperature level.

This feature will turn off your blanket automatically after a certain amount of time has passed. This can be helpful for safety and comfort.

Whether you can remove the controllers to clean the blanket.

Handy for use in the dark or for the visually impaired.

The number of levels that are available in the temperature controls.

Can you put your heated throw blanket in the wash? Which program can you wash it on? Controllers are removable on washable blankets.

Timer settings let you decide in advance how long the blanket will be on for.