Trading Standards no longer carries out electric blanket testing.

We strongly advise consumers to have their blankets checked or replaced if they show any of the following danger signs:

• It displays the old BSI safety mark (commonly known as the Kite Mark). This means that it will be more than 15 years old and will not comply with the latest safety standard. It should now show the BEAB logo.
• The fabric is worn or frayed.
• There are scorch marks anywhere.
• The tie-tapes (where originally fitted) are damaged or missing.
• The flex is worn or damaged.
• Any connections are loose.
• The plug or mains lead is damaged.
• The heating wires have been damaged or displaced. To check, hold the blanket up to the light. The wires should be evenly spaced and should not touch each other anywhere.
• It has not been examined by an expert in the last three years.

Using your blanket

• Always read the manufacturer’s instructions carefully – and follow them.
• Make sure that the switch/heat control hangs freely, and that the electric flex is not twisted across the blanket or tucked under the mattress or covers.
• Switch your underblanket off before you get into bed, unless it is of the type that can be used at night.
• Make sure your underblanket is kept flat.
• Tie the underblanket to the bed or mattress. This stops it slipping and creasing. Check that the head of the blanket is not at the foot of the bed. Never use an underblanket as an overblanket, or an overblanket as an underblanket.
• Do not fit the blanket to an adaptor or multi-socket block with another appliance plugged in.
• Never use the blanket if it is wet, soiled, creased or rucked-up. Never switch it on to dry it out.
• Never use a blanket with scorch marks or exposed elements.
• Do not use a hot water bottle and an electric blanket together.

Storing your blanket

• An underblanket can be left tied to the bed all year round if you wish.
• An overblanket can be rolled up, avoiding creasing as much as possible, and kept in a dry place.
• Store separately from other bedding, if possible, or keep on top to avoid bedding pressing down on the blanket.
• Store your blanket by putting it on a spare bed – but make sure it stays dry and flat.

Choosing your blanket

• Always buy new. Second-hand blankets may not be safe.
• Make sure your blanket has an overheating protection system – this cuts the power off if the blanket starts overheating. All new UK blankets now have this feature.
• Look out for a European Certification Mark, such as the new BEAB safety mark, on the blanket and packaging. This will mean it conforms to the latest European safety standard.

It is important to get your electric blanket serviced regularly - once a year if possible, but certainly every three years. If your blanket does need a repair, it is likely to work out cheaper to buy a new one.

When selecting a trader to service your electric blanket ensure they are suitably qualified. You can use our Trader Register to find a local electrician but we would also recommend you seek further advice from the Electrical Safety Council and Age UK. The links to the relevant websites are on this page.

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