Best Car Electric Blanket

Nothing compares to slipping into a cozy bed after a long day of exploring, but sometimes a little extra warmth is required to really relax and wind down for the night. That’s exactly where portable heated blankets come in.

The best portable heated blankets come in all shapes and sizes to suit your needs and allow you to get cozy wherever you are, whether it’s in the passenger seat on a long road trip, in your sleeping bag at the campsite, and even on a chilly airplane (yep—heated blankets are permitted to use on flights!).

Not all heated blankets are created equal, and some brands and models are definitely better than others. Our favorite portable heated blanket overall is the Cosi Home Heated Blanket, which lets you choose between six settings to find your ideal level of warmth. From USB-powered blankets to use on the go to oversized blankets for getting snug in your heavily air-conditioned hotel room, we’ve got even more excellent options for you to consider.

Why you Buy a Heated Car Blanket?

• Keep your body warm. If you often get chilly while traveling, a car blanket warmer will ensure that you don’t get cold on the road. They’re also handy if your vehicle unexpectedly breaks down and you end up waiting for assistance in the cold weather.
• Keep your partner warm. If your spouse likes it warmer in the vehicle while you like it cooler, a plug-in car blanket is a solution. You no longer need to argue about the temperature inside the vehicle.
• Get warm quickly. When the temperature is particularly low, it may take a while for the cabin of your vehicle to heat up. Heating blankets for cars will keep your body warm while you wait for your vehicle to reach a comfortable temperature.
• Preheat your truck bed. If you drive a truck, heated travel blankets can make a big difference. Plug in the blanket after a long drive, and it will make your cold bed much cozier.
• Loosen your muscles. You can wrap auto blankets around your shoulders while driving to relax your muscles and make your back feel better. This is particularly advantageous if you drive long distances and suffer from joint issues.

Why are Electric Car Blankets Popular?

Electric car blankets have become popular today because they are a kind of heater installed in the shape of clothing.

Blankets are not just coming in the shape of being put on your legs, but they also come in a poncho style so you can look fashionable while staying warmed up in the freezing temperatures.

In addition to car or van heaters, electric car blankets are a popular choice, especially for people that live on the road and want to make their van conversion life easier. Be it an overnight road trip or a long drive; an electric car blanket can come in handy at any time.

1

Heated 12 Volt Fleece Travel Stalwart Electric Car Blanket

The Stalwart 12-volt electric blanket is 100 percent polyester and features an eight-foot cord that plugs into car, truck and RV cigarette lighters. The blanket is 59 inches long by 43 inches wide and comes in a storage case with handles. It is lightweight and is easily folded for storage.

The blanket is very warm even when it is not plugged in, and it takes 10 minutes or less to reach a comfortable temperature. One benefit is that it does not get too hot to the touch. Also, it does not overheat. The material is durable, and the blanket is a decent size. In addition, it features an indicator on the plug that lets you know when it is on and working.

The blanket does not have an automatic shut-off switch, which may be a deal breaker if you want to keep the heat on for a long period of time without forgetting about it. Also, the blanket is not machine-washable and does not feature a high/low setting. Finally, the built-in heating elements struggle to reach high temperatures.

Proe

• Heats up quickly

• Long cable reaches everywhere in the car

• Very useful if other passengers don’t want the car heater on

Cons:

• Can feel a bit stiff due to the wires

• No temperature control – just on and off

2

Car Cozy 12-Volt Heated Travel Blanket

This heated car blanket is a good companion for a long ride in cooler months. It is big enough (58 inches x 42 inches) to cover you and a companion, but why not keep it all to yourself? It’s made from 100-percent polyester fleece, which gives you both warmth and super-soft comfort even when it is not plugged in. Kids love to cuddle up in it on the rear seat of the car.

It will plug into any 12-volt power outlet and has a seven-foot-long fused cord, so it can be used anywhere in your car or even on a boat. To ensure your safety, there is a 30 or 45-minute timer that will automatically shut off the heat. All you have to do is press the reset button to keep the warmth flowing.

Pros

• Whether you’re in a truck, car, or SUV, this blanket easily plugs into any 12-volt power outlet. 
• A safety timer will automatically shut this blanket off to prevent your car battery from draining, and keep your body from overheating while you snooze. 
• Its fleece cover fabric is super warm and cozy on the skin, perfect for overnight camping trips. 

Cons

• This blanket is a pretty good value for its quality, but might be more than some shoppers are looking to spend. 
• To prevent damage to this electric blanket, you must avoid getting wet as much as possible. 

3

MAXSA Large Heated Travel Blanket

The MAXSA Heated Travel Blanket provides gentle heat whenever you connect it to a 12-volt power outlet in your car, boat, or RV. It is warm and comfy and measures 41 by 57 inches. It is big enough to cover two people. The blanket also comes with a seven-foot cord that can extend to the back seat of your car. You can program it to automatically switch off after 30 or 45 minutes. That way, it won’t drain the car’s battery.

This heated car blanket will keep you warm as you camp, commute, or travel in cold weather. It is made of polyester fleece, a fabric with an exceptional ability to retain heat. Polyester fleece is naturally warm, so the blanket will stay warm even when it’s not plugged in. It is available in three different colors: red plaid, leopard, and navy blue.

But here’s something you may not know: Most heated car blankets only use 12 volts. As a result, they don’t get very warm, and that’s the main issue with this blanket. Many people complain that it does not get warm and that they still feel cold when using it. Also, the plastic electrical cord insulation may get frayed after moderate usage, revealing the inner copper wire.

PROS

• Retains heat very well

• Very soft and comfortable

• Cable is very flexible

Cons

• Can’t be used without engine running – will drain battery

• Material holds dust

Tips for Buying a Portable Heated Blanket

Now that you’ve taken a close look at my favorite heated car blankets, let’s talk about the methodology behind my picks. Ultimately, shopping for an electric blanket has a lot to do with personal preference. However, there are several key factors to keep in mind in order to make the best buying decision.

Consider care needs

If you’re planning on bringing your heated blanket through airports or into hotel rooms, you’ll want to purchase a blanket that can be thrown in the washer and dryer. Not every blanket is built with removable wiring, so be sure to read the fine print to ensure your top pick is easy to care for and clean.

Look for a versatile power source

Wondering whether to bring your American-manufactured blanket with you on a trip abroad? “As long as you have the appropriate electrical adaptor, you’ll be good to go,” says Madelyn Driver, founder of That Getaway Girl. The biggest mistake travelers make? Plugging heated blankets into extension cords or power strips. According to Driver, travel blankets should only be plugged directly into the wall to avoid overheating.

Choose a size carefully

Sure—a king-sized heated blanket sounds like the coziest thing in the world, but it won’t exactly make sense if you’re hoping to pack your blanket in your carry-on or checked luggage. We recommend opting for a wearable heated blanket or a twin-size blanket if you’re planning on bringing it with you while traveling. If you’re looking for something to suit your bed at home, be sure to purchase the size in accordance with your mattress size.

Materials

Since your heated blanket will be directly on your skin, it’s important to know exactly what it’s made of. Most heated car blankets are covered in fleece, which is a polyester-based material known for its uniquely warm and fuzzy texture. Personally, I recommend fleece heated blankets because I find them to be the warmest and coziest!

That said, you may encounter heated blankets covered in cotton or, on rare occasions, velvet. So, take some time to consider what you want your blanket to feel like, aside from its electric heating qualities. Once you’ve covered the material details, you’re ready to focus on size.

Benefits of a Portable Heated Blanket

There are plenty of reasons for investing in an electric car blanket. They are one of those products that you soon learn to rely on. Here are the top benefits that you will soon learn to value.

• Cold mornings. No one likes to get into a freezing car on a cold morning. If you are tired of your passengers complaining, they can wrap themselves up in one of these blankets and keep nice and warm.
• Tailgate parties and camping. Sometimes, the thought of a get together in the great outdoors is more appealing than reality. When you have a portable heated blanket, you can stay outdoors for longer without getting chilled and uncomfortable.
• Long road trips with kids. Road trips with kids can be very challenging. It helps a lot if they are willing to take a nap and if they have a warm blanket to snuggle under, that is more likely to happen.
• Truckers and couriers. Some people have to drive for a living, but for safety and legal reasons they have to be able to sleep in their vehicles. An electric blanket keeps them nice and warm while they are getting valuable rest.
• For those who like different temperatures. Are you sick of arguments because your passengers like the car to be hotter than you do? Now, you can put all that behind you. Get them an electric car blanket to keep them warm and you can turn the heating down by a few degrees. Everyone will be happy!
• Aches and pains. If you need to ease muscular aches and pains after a strenuous exercise session or if you are feeling under the weather, a portable electric blanket is just what you need.

How to Wash and Care Car Electric Blanket?

Here comes the tricky part. Because heated car blankets are electric, you can’t just throw them in the washing machine. Instead, you’ll have to spot-clean your heated blanket with a damp cloth and mild detergent.

Luckily, a heated blanket doesn’t need to be washed as often as your sheets, for example, because you’re not sleeping with it every night. That said, here’s how to clean your heated blanket when it gets dirty:

1. Dab a bit of mild detergent on a damp cloth. Make sure it’s damp and not soaking wet!
2. Spot-clean the cover of your heated blanket, rubbing the detergent in until it gets slightly soapy.
3. Dampen a new, fresh cloth, and soak up any detergent residue on your blanket.
4. Allow your blanket to air dry until it’s no longer damp at all.

Overall, maintenance is pretty simple, but not being able to machine-wash an electric blanket might be a hassle for some. Just remember to take good care of your heated blanket in order to make it last as long as possible!

Tips & Advice for Heated Car Blankets

• Due to their internal wiring, the majority of electric blankets for cars can’t be cleaned in a washing machine. They should not be submerged in water. Spot clean them instead.
• When you wash your blanket by hand, use a mix of soap and water. Be sure to unplug the blanket first and make sure that it is cool to the touch before you clean it.
• After cleaning your blanket, do not put it in the drying machine. Instead, let it air dry. Ensure that it is completely dry before you plug it in again.
• Replace your heated blanket if you notice any damage or frayed wires. It can cause harm if it’s not functioning properly. Also, do not iron the blanket because that can damage it.
• When you are not using an electric travel blanket, make sure to turn it off and unplug it. For safety reasons, it is not advisable to leave the blanket on without supervision.
• If the blanket does not have an automatic shut-off and you leave it plugged in while the receiving power is on, it will drain the battery. Unplug it when your car isn’t running.
• Gently fold or roll up the heated blanket for storage purposes. Rolling it will protect the insulated wires contained within. Then place it in a plastic bag and seal it closed.
• Be careful not to use the blanket while it is folded over itself. This may create a hotspot and could potentially cause an electrical issue. Read the manufacturer’s instructions and use as intended.

Pricing of Electric Blanket

One of the great things about heated car blankets is that they’re usually pretty affordable! In my experience, they usually range from about $20-$40, depending on the materials used. As I mentioned earlier, special features like safety timers, oversized designs, and adjustable heat settings can contribute to a higher cost as well. But, in general, it’s uncommon for a car heated blanket to be really pricey.

That said, it’s never a bad idea to take note of a retailer’s warranty and return policy, just in case things don’t work out the way you hoped. For example, some brands offer a 5-year warranty that covers any material defects, while others allow you to return your blanket for a full refund if you’re not totally satisfied with its quality. For me, these policies inspire confidence and ease the purchasing pressure a bit.

FAQ

Q: How long can a car battery run an electric blanket?

Answer: A car battery can run an electric blanket for up to 12 hours. The blanket will gradually lose warmth as the battery runs down, so it’s a good idea to turn it off before the battery is completely drained. Otherwise, you might find yourself shivering in the morning!

Q: Are heated car electric blankets safe? 

Answer: Some heated car blankets have shut-off timers to prevent them from getting too hot, thus ensuring the user’s safety. Electric blankets that stay on indefinitely have the potential to be problematic if they are not monitored during use.

Q: How does a car electric blanket work?

Answer: car electric blanket works in generally the same way as a regular electric blanket. There are electrical wires within the fabric or contained between two sheets of fabric. The wires act like heating elements – when current flows through them, they heat up. The only difference is that car electric blankets use a low voltage and have very thin carbon fiber wires inside them. Some have a fuse that will blow if too much current passes through them.

Q: Will a heated car blanket stay on when the vehicle is off? 

Answer: It depends on what type of 12-volt plug you have in your vehicle. Some plugs only function when the vehicle is on or when it is placed in accessory mode. If the 12-volt outlet works without the engine running, the blanket will stay on while the vehicle is turned off.

Q: How long does a portable heated blanket take to heat up?

Answer: Some suppliers quote how long the blankets take to warm up or you may have to read the reviews to get an accurate picture. It is usually a matter of minutes and can be as rapid as just two minutes. Some can take more like six or seven minutes to get warm.

Read more about Automotive and How to Take Care of your car and also Other Accessories. You can also Buy them