Can you use an electric blanket with a memory foam mattress?

With rising energy bills, many people are looking for cheaper ways to keep warm at night. An electric blanket is an item of bedding with a heating source inside. It plugs into a power outlet, where the electricity heats up the blanket to keep you warm and cosy at night.

Most electric blankets have controls to adjust the temperature, and some have timers to turn off the heat after a certain time automatically. Electric blankets use a small amount of electricity, making them a cost-effective way to heat your bed.

Can you use an electric blanket on memory foam?

Whether you can use an electric blanket with a memory foam mattress depends on the manufacturer’s recommendations. An electric blanket might affect how the mattress feels and performs, and the heat could damage the material. While electric blankets are generally safe, those less sensitive to heat should avoid using them. Here are some factors to consider before using an electric blanket on your bed.

Excessive heat from an electric blanket can make memory foam too soft

Memory foam is a temperature-sensitive material that conforms to the body using natural heat. It can initially feel firm but gradually softens as body heat is generated during the night. Once pressure is removed, the material slowly recovers to its original shape. The hotter the foam becomes, the more it softens, causing the body to sink deeper into the mattress. This also means the material takes longer to return to its original shape.

An electric blanket can generate additional heat, which may cause the foam to soften more than usual. This delayed recovery can make it harder to turn over in bed, which can be particularly problematic for heavier individuals or those with mobility issues, who may feel ‘stuck’ in the mattress.

Memory foam retains more heat than other materials

Most memory foam mattresses have a dense cell structure that retains heat, making the body feel warmer. While some manufacturers use technologies to improve airflow, memory foam can feel warmer than other materials. As a result, an electric blanket is usually unnecessary, as body heat naturally keeps you warm in bed.

An electric blanket adds an extra layer that may affect comfort

Sleeping on an electric blanket adds an additional layer between you and the memory foam, affecting the material’s ability to conform to your body.

Skin irritations and burns

Prolonged exposure to heat from an electric blanket, especially on a high setting or in direct contact with the skin, can cause irritation, rashes, marks, discolouration, itchiness, and, in some cases, burns.

Sleep disruption

Your body temperature naturally drops during sleep. However, heat from an electric blanket prevents the body from cooling down properly, which can interfere with your sleep, especially during the deeper stages. Keeping an electric blanket on all night can overheat the body, making it harder to stay asleep.

Electric blankets can also dry out the air, causing dehydration, dry throat, and irritated skin.

Who should avoid using electric blankets?

Although electric blankets are generally safe to use, pregnant women, people with dementia or diabetes, infants, and young children should avoid using them.

People with Dementia

Electric blankets may not be safe for people with dementia who live alone. They may be less sensitive to heat and unaware if they are overheating or getting burned. They may also forget to switch off the blanket after use.

If someone with dementia uses an electric blanket, ensure it has safety features like an automatic shut-off if it reaches a certain temperature.

People with Diabetes

People with diabetes or circulation issues may be advised against using electric blankets because they may be less sensitive to heat, especially in their legs and feet, which could lead to skin burns if the temperature is too high. A safer option is to preheat the bed with the electric blanket, then switch it off and unplug it before going to sleep. This will help keep the bed warm without the risk of overheating during the night. Alternatively, they could wear socks to keep their feet warm if they are cold.

People with Incontinence

People with incontinence issues should avoid using electric blankets. An accident in bed could damage the heating element and increase the risk of an electric shock or fire. It may also stain or damage the bedding and mattress.  

Infants and young children

Electric blankets are not recommended for infants. This is because infants have sensitive skin and are more prone to burns, even from low temperatures. Infants cannot regulate their body temperature, increasing the risks of overheating or dehydration.  

Children should not be left unattended with an electric blanket unless a responsible adult has pre-set the temperature settings. Children prone to bedwetting should avoid using an electric blanket as it may be unsafe.

Pregnant women

Some studies suggest that exposure to radiation from electric blankets could be harmful to pregnancy, especially during the early stages of conception. Although further research is needed, using an electric blanket during pregnancy is not advisable.

Can you use a hot water bottle to warm up the bed?

Manufacturers do not recommend using a hot water bottle with memory foam for reasons similar to those of an electric blanket. Memory foam works best with your natural body heat. Furthermore, if the hot water bottle leaks, it could damage or stain the material, voiding the manufacturer’s warranty.

How to use an electric blanket safely

Manufacturers should provide guidance on whether their mattresses are suitable for electric blankets. If you choose to use one, here are some safety tips:

• Always follow the manufacturer’s care instructions and keep the electric blanket in good condition.
• Avoid using a second-hand electric blanket.

• Ensure the electric blanket has an automatic shut-off feature to prevent it from overheating.
• Do not operate the appliance if there are visible signs of wear and tear.
• Avoid placing the electric blanket directly on top of the mattress.
• Limit its use to shorter periods, such as pre-warming the bed.
• If the electric blanket has temperature controls, ensure it remains on a low to medium heat setting.
• Do not operate an electric blanket with wet hands or use the appliance if it becomes wet.
• Avoid using a hot water bottle or heating pad with an electric blanket.
• Ensure the appliance is switched off when not in use.

How to keep warm in bed without an electric blanket

There are various ways to stay warm in bed without using an electric blanket or turning up the heating.

Use thicker bedding and extra layers

An easy and cost-effective way to keep warm in bed is by using warmer bedding. Use a thicker duvet, extra blankets, and flannel or fleece bedding to keep you warm and cosy in bed.  

Draught-proof your bedroom

Draught-proofing your bedroom is an effective way to prevent cold air from coming in and warm air from escaping. But before blocking or sealing any gaps, remember that properties need ventilation to prevent dampness and condensation.

If you feel cold air coming through doors or windows, you can seal the gaps with draught-proofing strips. You can also use draught excluders to cover the gaps across the bottom of doors.

Closing curtains and blinds at night can help prevent heat from escaping the room. But keep them open during the day to let warm sunlight into your home and allow fresh air to circulate.

If your bed is positioned close to a window or door where you are exposed to cold air, consider moving the bed to a warmer part of the room.

Also, consider using thick rugs, especially in bedrooms with exposed floorboards. Not only are rugs a stylish addition to the bedroom, but they also help to insulate the floors.

Wear thicker sleepwear

Wearing thicker sleepwear and socks in bed can help you stay warm. Materials, like wool are beneficial for colder environments. Wool is a natural insulator that helps retain body heat. It is also breathable, keeping you dry and comfortable at night.

Wearing thicker socks in bed can not only keep your feet warm but can also improve circulation.

Take a warm shower or bath 

Taking a warm shower or bath before bed may improve sleep quality by improving circulation to your hands and feet. This helps your body cool down more effectively, promoting deeper, more restful sleep.

Final thoughts

Always double-check with the manufacturer before using an electric blanket with a memory foam mattress. Electric blankets are designed to pre-warm the bed and should not be left on during sleep.