The electric blanket was invented in the early 1900s, but these bulky contraptions were considered a dangerous oddity. By 1921, electric blankets, or "heated quilts" as they were called at the time, were being used at tuberculosis sanitariums, where patients were often instructed to sleep outside to get "adequate fresh air."
Following several years of improvements, the first automatic consumer-friendly electric blanket with a thermostat control and automatic turn-off feature was marketed in 1936. The term "electric blanket" was used in the 1950s, when demand increased for this comfortable product. Today, the technology available on this type of blanket will astound you!
There are many noteworthy brands to consider when looking at blankets that are wired for electricity. The audaciously titled "Best Electric Blanket" offered by the esteemed bedding accessories company, Hammacher Schlemmer, is one of the top items.
After rigorous testing, this low-voltage, machine-washable blanket has been proven extremely safe, with a ten-hour automatic shut-off and low voltage. The hypo-allergenic fleece is extremely comfortable and the large-print, easy-to-read controller appeals to senior citizens particularly. Yet, even the lonely single person can snuggle up in a warm bed for $199.95.
The electric blankets by Sunbeam are another brand you can trust. They offer a variety of models, but one of the most luxurious is the "Safe & Sound" electric blanket. This blanket is made of pure wool and is designed to be an underlay beneath your comforters, unlike other blankets that do not allow you to cover them and are meant to be more like a throw blanket.
The programmable timer on the blanket is a convenient feature, as is the illuminated LCD screen that allows you to program in the dark. The blanket will be heated up and ready within 10 minutes and there are dual controls so you and your spouse can choose the warmth level of your own halves.
You can detach the controls for machine washability and there are nine levels of safety protection. The exclusive SleepPerfect technology senses and adjusts to changes in your room or body temperature to ensure your comfort all night.
Electric blankets became extremely popular in the 1970s and 80s, particularly among senior citizens. A thin electric blanket was much more cost-efficient than down comforter sets, provided added comfort for people in wheelchairs, soothed menopause symptoms and allowed couples to choose their own individual heat levels in the bed.
Additionally, the blanket can save money on heating bills in the winter, allowing consumers to turn down the heat at night. The blankets themselves only use about as much energy as a light bulb.
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