Electric blanket — How much does an electric blanket cost to run in Australia? At around 19 cents per day versus $3+ for a heater, the savings are significant. Discover types, safety tips, and what to look for when buying.
Australian winters can be genuinely cold, especially in Victoria, Tasmania, the ACT, and the Southern Highlands of NSW. While many households reach for the electric heater when temperatures drop, there’s a far more economical option that delivers targeted warmth right where you need it most: the electric blanket. With Australian electricity prices averaging around 34 cents per kilowatt hour, among the highest in the world, the cost difference between heating a room and warming a bed is substantial.
This guide covers how much electric blankets cost to run, how they compare to heaters, the different types available, what to look for when buying, and how to use them safely.
How Much Does It Cost to Run an Electric Blanket?
Electric Blanket Power Consumption
Electric blankets in Australia are available with power ratings ranging from 50 to 200 watts. The higher the wattage, the faster the blanket heats up, but also the more electricity it draws. Importantly, the wattage rating is the maximum draw at the highest heat setting. During normal use, most blankets cycle between settings, so the effective average power draw is typically around half the stated maximum.
At 34 cents per kWh, an 80-watt blanket running for 8 hours draws 0.64 kWh, costing approximately 22 cents. A 150-watt blanket over the same period costs around 41 cents. Compare this to a typical electric space heater at 1,500 watts running for 8 hours: that costs $4.08, roughly 10 to 16 times more than a blanket, depending on wattage.
Seasonal Cost Comparison
If you run an electric blanket every night through a 3-month Australian winter, the total cost is approximately $15–$20 for the season. Running a 2,400-watt electric heater for just 5 hours per night over the same period costs around $280. An electric blanket used for pre-warming your bed, which is the most effective use, costs as little as 19 cents per day. The annual savings on a room heater are significant for any household.
How Long Should You Run an Electric Blanket?
The most efficient way to use an electric blanket is to turn it on 30–60 minutes before bed to pre-warm the mattress and bedding, then turn it off when you get in. Your body heat combined with the pre-warmed bedding will keep you comfortable all night. Most people don’t need the blanket running while they sleep; the stored warmth is sufficient.
Many modern electric blankets include a built-in timer that automatically turns the blanket off after a set period (typically 1–9 hours). This is ideal if you prefer to fall asleep with the warmth on, or if you tend to forget to switch it off manually. In general, it is not recommended to sleep with an electric blanket running all night, particularly for infants, young children, or people with certain medical conditions.
Types of Electric Blankets
Electric Underblanket
The most common type in Australian homes. An underblanket sits on top of the mattress and under the fitted sheet, secured with elastic straps or ties that prevent it from shifting during sleep. It heats the bed from below, warming both the mattress surface and the bedding above. Underblankets are available in soft fleece and firmer quilted fabrics. On memory foam beds, always use the lowest heat setting to avoid degrading the foam.
Electric Overblanket
An overblanket sits on top of the top sheet, covering the sleeper from shoulder to foot. It provides direct body warmth and can also be used on a couch or lounge chair. On memory foam mattresses, avoid wrapping or folding the blanket around yourself, as this traps heat and risks overheating. Overblankets are generally softer and more flexible than underblankets.
Heated Throws
Heated throws are smaller, more versatile blankets designed for daytime use on the couch, in a recliner, or for general lounging. They come in a wide range of fabrics, sizes, and designs, some as low as $39 and are ideal for keeping warm while watching TV or reading without having to heat the whole room. Some are also used to pre-warm a bed before getting in.
What to Look for When Buying an Electric Blanket
The most important safety feature to look for is an overheat sensor, which automatically shuts the blanket off if it exceeds a safe temperature. This prevents fire risk and protects the blanket’s internal wiring. Regarding wattage, 80–100 watts is adequate for most Australians. Higher wattage heats faster, but it isn’t necessary for typical use.
If you share a bed with a partner who prefers a different temperature, look for a dual-zone blanket with separate controllers for each side. A timer function is useful for pre-warming and for those who like falling asleep with the warmth on. Choose a fitted underblanket rather than one with simple ties; it stays in place through the night regardless of how much you move. Finally, a thicker, denser fabric provides better heat retention and comfort than thin alternatives.
Are Electric Blankets Safe?
Yes, when used correctly and maintained properly, electric blankets are safe. The key is regular inspection and proper care. Check the cord and wiring periodically for fraying, worn patches, damp spots, or loose connections. Any damage should be repaired or the blanket replaced before use. Even undamaged blankets should be replaced after approximately 10 years, as the internal wiring degrades over time, regardless of outward appearance.
Children should not operate electric blankets without adult supervision, and electric blankets should never be placed in an infant’s cot. When purchasing in Australia, always look for the AS/NZS 60335.2.17:2012 certification tag, which confirms the blanket meets Australian and New Zealand electrical safety standards. Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions for washing and storage, as improper folding can kink internal wires.
Conclusion
An electric blanket is one of the most cost-effective and energy-efficient ways to stay warm in bed during an Australian winter. At a fraction of the running cost of a room heater, it delivers targeted warmth exactly where you need it. Whether you prefer the simplicity of an underblanket, the full-body coverage of an overblanket, or the versatility of a heated throw, there’s an option to suit every sleeper and budget. Just ensure you buy a model with the Australian safety certification, inspect it regularly, and use it as a pre-warming tool rather than leaving it on all night.
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For independent guidance on sleep and wellbeing, the Sleep Health Foundation is a good starting point.
