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Showing posts with label blankets. Show all posts

Tuesday, January 23, 2024

Reviewing Benefits and Considerations Of Heated Throws

We absolutely love our heated throws and in cold weather we would not be with out them. I was not initially sure if it was worth it to buy a heated blanket or throw but I have to say that there is no way I would be without one now.

A heated blanket or throw is a blanket with wires inside to heat it up. You plug it into a mains electrical socket and use it as a blanket cover over your body.

You must not lie on top of it and must not put it under your mattress, other blankets or duvet. It is only for use over the top of your body. It is excellent at providing warmth and comfort during cold weather.

However there are a number of considerations to bear in mind before purchasing a heated blanket.

The Benefits of a Heated Throw Or Blanket.

Saving energy Costs. We have found that we can keep the heating either off for longer or lower the temperature on the thermostat by using our heated throws. Energy costs are so high that this is an effective way to help reduce the cost of heating the home and heat ourselves instead. Heated throws do heat up much faster and give out much more warmth than a normal blanket. We also find that the room itself is a little warmer when we have been using our heated blankets.

Improving mood. In the winter months when it is invariably cold, dark and with long nights our mood can suffer. A heated throw encourages relaxation and a feeling of cosiness and comfort which is always lovely. On a practical level it can also lower the amount of energy we need to keep us warm and this in turn can help reduce stress and anxiety. If you are cold you are unlikely to feel very happy!

Pain relief. A heated blanket can help if you have minor aches and pains as the gentle warmth can ease muscle tension. It is also lovely if you are feeling ill with flu or other viruses and keeps you cosy warm. However, it is always best to check with your doctor if it is safe if you have any prior health conditions and best not to use if you are pregnant.

Sleep. We sometimes use our heated blanket over the bed at night to provide additional warmth. While we don't keep it on all night, just for a little while on the timer, it can help us drift off to sleep. If it gets very cold during the night and wakes us up, one of us can just switch it on again on the timer for an hour to warm us up. It is also very useful if one of us is warm enough or too hot and the other is cold. That way the cold person can have the heated blanket on just their side. Only use a heated throw in this way if it has an automatic shut off feature.

General warmth. I love gardening and walking that does not stop for me in winter, but I am often really cold by the time I come in. Sometimes I feel really cold and need to warm up and now I can just throw my heated blanket over me and it gently warms me up. Previously I would have needed a warm bath to get my core body temperature right again.

In the event of heating breakdown.

While everyone hopes this will never happen, if it does it is bound to be in the depths of winter! If you have central heating and the boiler or other mechanism breaks down you have lost your heating. However hopefully you will still have electricity and so can still keep warm if you have heated blankets.

Important Considerations Of Heated Throws

Heated throws and blankets can also have some considerations it is important to be aware of.

A poor quality heated blanket can pose a fire hazard if it is left on for too long, damaged, or used improperly. A poor quality one can also overheat. So it is very important to buy a good quality heated throw and carefully follow the safety and washing instructions. It is also vital to periodically check it for any signs of damage and do not use it if it is damaged in any way.

I would strongly advise to buy one with a timer and an auto-off feature so that there is peace of mind that if you forget to switch it off, it will switch off and cool down automatically and safely.

I would advise buying a heated throw that can be washed in a washing machine. Otherwise it is very difficult to keep it clean and hygienic. It should have a detachable lead so you just wash the blanket, clearly never with the lead and plug itself attached. If you buy one that is not washable it would be best to cover it with a washable cover.

Some people with certain serious health issues may be advised against using one, so do check with your doctor. Anyone pregnant should consult with a doctor before use as well. It is not suitable to use one with a small baby or anyone who is unable to say if they are getting too hot, or if someone cannot regulate their temperature very well.

So if you have any serious health issues, pregnant or older check with a doctor and do not use with a baby or small child.

Points To Consider When Buying Heated Throws

Price point : Heated throws can vary in price from relatively inexpensive to a very high price. This tends to depend on several factors such as the quality and luxury of the materials used, the range and quality of features, and its size. There is an initial outlay but we feel we have saved more money on heating, so in the end they have paid for themselves. A less expensive blanket may serve your needs but do also bear in mind how long it might last and what safety features it has compared to a higher quality one.

Features: A heated blanket can have various features, such as a controller, a timer, an auto-off function and a temperature setting. We love the auto timer which means we just set it for an hour or 3 hours or 9 hours and do not have to think about it. Also it is very handy if you forget its on there is no worry about overheating as it just switches itself off safely. We also love the temperature control which can be from very low to really warm.

I would advise to buy one that is washable with a detachable lead and and control.

Safety Features Whatever price point you buy at, I would advise to make sure it includes important safety features, like a timer, heat control and most important auto switch off.

Material: A heated blanket can also be made from different materials, and it is really down to personal preference what you would like. I would advise easy care and something that you like that goes with your living room, office or bedroom colour scheme. We have one that is heavier and thicker with a Faux fur furry feel and one that is much lighter with a soft sherpa feel.

The Size: A heated blanket can come in a variety of sizes. We chose two single throw sized ones so that there are not unwieldly to use on the sofa but still big enough to place across the bed. However you may prefer a larger one to cover a bigger area.

I think a heated throw like this Sunbeam Royal Luxe Heated Throw is an essential for winter, especially if you are wanting to save heating costs and still feel nice and warm and cosy.

I believe a heated throw is a lovely gift for many occasions and one like this Sealy Faux Fur Heated Throw would be lovely perhaps for a winter birthday, a housewarming or wedding present and these heated throws and blankets are always suitable for a Christmas gift.

We feel that our two heated blankets are one of our best purchases for the colder weather. They have saved us money on heating bills, look lovely in our living room and bedroom. They have been fantastic when I am working and sitting still for periods of time to keep me warm or when we are watching a film at night and do not want the heating on. We have had them for two years now with no issues and we would not be without them.

Sunbeam Royal Luxe Rodeen Plaid Grey Heated Personal Throw / Blanket, Cozy-Warm, Adjustable Heat Settings

SEALY Electric Blanket Heated Throw, Faux Fur Heating Blanket with 6 Heat Settings & 2-10 Hours Auto Shut Off, Fast Heating & ETL Certification, 50x60 Inch, Navy Blue

Sunday, January 21, 2024

Recommended Throw Blankets with Inspirational Messages

One of my favorite gifts to give revolves around the warmth of throw blankets paired with uplifting messages.

I'm particularly drawn to throw blankets that convey beautiful sentiments explicitly tailored to the recipient. In my quest for such heartfelt gifts, I stumbled upon ButterTree, an Amazon-based business that has become my go-to for inspirational throw blankets.

A Personal Touch with ButterTree's Inspirational Blankets

Recently, I purchased two inspirational blankets from ButterTree, and the response from my friend was overwhelmingly positive – she absolutely loved it!

Despite being an Amazon shopper who usually prioritizes products over their providers, ButterTree has left a lasting impression. The prospect of finding another soul-soothing throw blanket would undoubtedly lead me back to their products.

Avoiding International Shipping Fees is Important to Me, As Is a Timely Delivery

When sourcing these blankets, I often encounter the challenges of high costs or international shipping with potential duties and import fees. However, ButterTree blankets eliminate these concerns.

Living in Canada, the swift delivery – often within one or two days, especially in cities – is a significant plus. The affordability of their blankets, particularly in the Canadian market, pleasantly surprised me. Even more so for our friends in the USA, who enjoy even better prices.

A Unique Gift That Lasts

What sets these blankets apart is their ability to transform a simple gift into a meaningful, personal gesture.

Whenever I'm seeking a special touch for a present, these inspirational throw blankets from ButterTree consistently deliver. They offer a lasting gift that envelops the recipient in words of kindness, inspiration, and love.

They have become a staple in my gift-giving repertoire, adding a touch of magic to every occasion.

In my eyes, these blankets from ButterTree unquestionably earn a five-star rating ★★★★★.

You can view the inspirational message blankets by ButterTree here on Amazon.

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Sunday, July 23, 2023

This Cooling Blanket Works - It Uses Japanese Arc-Chill Cooling Fibers

I recently purchased a cooling blanket for my friend for her birthday.

Honestly, I was worried it was all hype and wouldn't work. Wow, was I wrong! She loves it, and she's particular!

My friend's problem isn't related to heat in the home or summer weather; they have air conditioning, but instead, it's simply the heat her body generates at night. Her feeling of being overheated was so bad she could barely get a whole night's sleep.

Since I was skeptical about this product, I was shocked to get her personal review saying she absolutely loved it. She loved it so much that she ordered a second one.

The link for the blanket is featured at the end of this article. The blanket is available on Amazon.

The Features of the Elegear Cooling Blanket:

The Cool Factor: Double-Sided Cooling Blanket

Elegear's cooling blanket boasts a brilliant design that caters to your comfort. On one side, they use fabric woven with Japanese Arc-Chill Cooling fibers, ensuring quick moisture transfer from your skin to the fabric's surface, where it rapidly evaporates. This keeps your skin dry and cozy, allowing you to doze off comfortably.

They've incorporated Jade Nano-particles, promoting skin moisture and elasticity for an added touch of luxury. On the flip side, the warm cotton fabric is perfect for cooler seasons like autumn and spring, making this blanket suitable for year-round use.

Your Choice, Your Style: Versatile Usage Cool Blanket

Everyone has unique preferences, so they offer a range of options to suit your needs. With four sizes and six colors, finding the perfect cooling blanket for your throw, queen, or king-size bed is a breeze.

The blanket isn't just for bedrooms. Its versatility allows you to use it in various settings. This lightweight and portable blanket can accompany you, whether in your kid's room, during camping adventures, for travel, in the car, or on airplanes.

Hassle-Free Care: Easy to Maintain Cooling Blanket

Caring for your Cool Blanket is a breeze. It's machine and hand washable, ensuring no shrinkage, color fading, or unraveling after washing. They recommend using a laundry bag to keep the blanket pristine to avoid entanglement or damage to the delicate fibers.

Avoid hanging it to dry in direct sunlight. Dry it in a cool, well-ventilated place, and it can stay fresh and bright for years.

My friend washed it on delicate and hung it to dry (not in the sun) before she used it for the first time.

A Gift of Comfort: Giftable Cooling Blanket

This cooling blanket is a perfect gift idea. It's not overly expensive and ideal for anyone who overheats at night; it's a way to help them.

With its incredibly soft and temperature-regulating properties and naturally faded look, this lightweight blanket offers the perfect balance of weight and warmth, making it ideal for year-round coziness.

If you know someone who suffers from overheating at night, this blanket is certainly worth a try; it helped my friend.

You can find the Elegear Cooling Blanket here on Amazon.

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Sunday, December 18, 2022

Two Gift Ideas that Glow in the Dark - Another Way to Give the Gift of Light

In searching for practical, affordable, and creative gifts, I recently decided upon two items I know will be enjoyed: a glow-in-the-dark blanket and a Galaxy Star projector.

Why Choose a Glow in the Dark Blanket

Most likely, the recipient doesn't have one
It's not too expensive
It's a warm and cozy way to add ambiance to a room
It's easy to order online and have it shipped directly to the recipient
It's something that can be used any time of the year
It makes an excellent accessory for any room in the home
It's a great way to add subtle nighttime light

Various designs and styles; some have stars, words, and characters. This particular blanket offers a combination of words and stars; it's very nice, comes in multiple designs, and is available in pink and grey.

Gifting blankets is one of my favorite things; however, it becomes challenging when I've given too many to come up with something different. This year is the first year I have selected a glow-in-the-dark blanket.

What is a Galaxy Star Projector?

There are two of these in our home at the present time. My son uses his nightly, providing his room a lovely, other-worldly feel.

Although a Star Projector is relatively inexpensive (at least not the one my son has), it provides a gorgeous ambient lit-up ceiling filled with stars.

You'll notice there are many to choose from, and they come in various price ranges.

I recently selected this Galaxy Star Projector as a gift. The star projector my son has is very similar to this particular model.

Make this a Dual Gift for Someone Who Loves Ambient Light and a Room with a Magical Touch

These two items, in combination, make a lovely, thoughtful gift. With the blanket, you'll be gifting warmth and light; with the projector, you'll be giving the magic of the universe in the bedroom.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

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Five Stars For This Cozy Warm Micromink Sherpa Blanket

I've ordered two of these blankets for my friend over the past three years.

Her very loved kitty-kat claimed the first blanket I sent. Apparently, her sweet furbaby loved the softness and warmth of the blanket.

Unfortunately, my friend's loved pet reached the end of her life not too long ago. Since her kitty loved the blanket so much, my friend buried her with it. Awe, so hard.

As most of us know, the passing of a loved pet isn't easy to get over, and my friend is no exception. She's still grieving.

To help her a little, I decided to send her this exact blanket again so she could wrap herself up and remember her missed furbaby.

Features of the Mircomink Sherpa Throw Blanket

Available in 34 different colors or patterns
Comes in many sizes; Throw, King, Queen, and Twin
It's durable, is 100% Polyester
It's reversible - Fur white on one side, soft Mircomink on the other
It's wrinkle-resistant, so it always looks nice, even after washing
Yes, you can wash it in the laundry machine
Use it as a lovely bedspread!

The Best Gift When You Don't Know What to Buy

Blankets are one of my favorite go-to gifts. A throw blanket can be used just about anywhere. Here are some ideas:

As a throw for the family room
A warm bedspread for the cottage
A throw for an outdoor sporting event
Keep one in the car for added warmth when traveling
In your home office for those long cold nights of endless work
Over a chair for quick access to a throw
To add warmth, color, and texture to a basement recreation room
In baby's room on the rocking chair for those nights, baby needs extra soothing
For the back patio swing and outdoor furniture

My friend has attested that she loves this blanket, so I confidently recommend it.

I've purchased this purple (plum) sherpa blanket twice, available on Amazon here.

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Tuesday, January 11, 2022

Reviewing The Benefits Of Weighted Blankets

I recently purchased a weighted blanket. Ours is by Sleepeasy, but now many companies are producing them.

I had read about them for a while and thought they may be helpful to me. Going through perimenopause has been quite stressful with many disrupted nights and I hoped it may help. There have always been other priorities but when I saw this one for a reduced price I could not resist!

They are essentially a heavy blanket filled with beads or similar in strongly stitched pockets or squares weighting between around 5 to 30 pounds and certainly heavier than a normal blanket or most quilts. They purport to produce a deep pressure stimulation that is said to relax the nervous system similar to a great big bear hug, except this comes from having the blanket wrapped around you.

What Are The Benefits Of A Weighted Blanket?

Weighted blankets are said to have several benefits. I have read that researchers are still studying the effects for physical and emotional benefits.

Benefits so far are mainly listed as being helpful to reduce anxiety, relieve stress, aid restful sleep and essentially to give the body a big relaxing hug. Many people say that they have a fantastic sleep while using one.

However, I cannot verify them so do your research and it is best to buy one based on whether you like it and feel you personally receive benefits from it. Any other benefits would be a bonus.

If we choose to use them it should be because we find them comfortable and personally helpful.

What I Like About The Weighted Blanket

I like the colour of ours being a dark grey it goes with everything. I think I would always choose a dark neutral colour for these blankets as it is more versatile. They do come in many colours though so choose whichever suits you and your decor.

I do like the way in mine that the beads are contained in individual pockets so they do not move about very much at all and the stitching is very strong and secure.

I have taken to draping the weighted blanket over me and hubby in the evenings while watching a film and draped over the sofa it looks great in our living room and not like just something for bedtime.

I do enjoy the feeling of a big hug and find it very relaxing. Hubby found it so relaxing the first time we tried the weighted blanket that within 15 minutes he fell asleep and did not see the film!!

It is warm, but surprisingly not too warm. When I use it I sleep really well without waking up several times as usual.

My personal experience is that I like to feel the weight of it over my body and find that feeling very calming and relaxing. I can never rest properly with only a light sheet for covering, so I was always going to be a good candidate for a heavier blanket.

The first night I used it I did not struggle to drop off to sleep which for me usually takes about an hour. Now it is much less than that. I did not wake up all night and usually since starting perimenopause I have woken up two or three times every night.

It is warm, but I bought it in late autumn and since then it has not been too warm. I am not sure if it will be too warm in the summer yet.

I do not feel that it is too heavy when using it as a blanket. Carrying it around I feel it is very heavy, but once on the bed, to me, it just feels comforting.

Can Everyone Use A Weighted Blanket?

Weighted blankets are generally safe for healthy adults, older children and teenagers.

However, they are not suitable for everyone. If you are considering using a weighted blanket for an adult that has any underlying health conditions or for a child of any age please consult with a qualified healthcare practitioner first to ensure that it is safe for you to use.

Our weighted blanket is for adults. It should not weigh more than about 10% of your body weight and so would be unsuitable for a child to use.

You can buy children's weighted blankets specifically for them although please check with a doctor first that it is suitable for your child.

Weighted blankets should never be used for a child under age 2 or older children with developmental difficulties or learning difficulties due to the risk of suffocation.

They are not recommended for people with epilepsy in case the person has a seizure under the blanket.

The heaviness of a weighted blanket may cause difficulties for people with certain pre-existing conditions, such as Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), Asthma and sleep apnea where any breathing issues may be exacerbated and diabetes where any circulation issues may be further affected by the heaviness of the blanket. In people with Claustrophobia, a weighted blanket can feel too heavy and restrictive. Please always check with a Dr first if you have any health conditions.

As it is heavy I would not recommend it for anyone who likes only a light covering. When I took it out of the box it was so heavy I thought I would not like it. However, in my experience, it does not feel anywhere near as heavy on the body as it does when carrying it or moving it.

Things To Bear In Mind About A Weighted Blanket

The way the beads are stitched into the covering is something to watch out for in any of these blankets. I have read that in some blankets the beads fall into uncomfortable clumps when the individual pockets are too large or too weak.

You do need to look for quality design so the beads are held in their separate individual pockets and remain comfortable. The stitching needs to be secure and strong.

Check if there is a washable cover or if the whole blanket is washable. Or do you need to handwash and is this practical for you? Some are dry clean or spot clean. You need to choose whichever suits you best.

If the whole blanket is washable check if it will fit into your washing machine.

Personally, I would use this blanket over a sheet so that it does not require washing so much, or use a cover. I wash our sheets and covers on at least a weekly basis and I would not want to be washing this blanket every week. However, used as a blanket over a sheet or with a washable cover it will need washing much less.

Check the size you need. You want it big enough to cover your chest to toe and some drape at the sides but not enough so it is falling off you onto the floor as that will be uncomfortable. Remember the bigger it is the heavier it will be to move around and also to wash. In hindsight, I would probably have gone for a single size as it is mainly me using it.

I would go for the smallest size you are comfortable with using. If you are using it for yourself only I think a single size may be better. Or if there are two of you then either a double or two single sizes to give more versatility.

Check if there is a trial period and returns policy if you do not get on with it as it is such a personal item.

Washing Weighted Blankets

I think the only concern I personally have is that my double bed sized one is so heavy my washing machine will not accommodate it.

However, being dark grey and using it over a sheet or quilt in bed hopefully, it will not need washing so often.

To improve it I feel a detachable cover I the same colour would have been most useful.

I have now found a quilt cover that will fit to sort this issue when using it for sleep purposes. So will treat the blanket as I do our quilts. When using it in the living room we use it without the cover.

Final Thoughts On A Weighted Blanket

You do importantly need to check if you have any health conditions if you are fine to use a weighted blanket.

If healthwise you are ok to use a weighted blanket and you like the feeling of a heavier cover you may find this type of blanket very relaxing. If you enjoy a light covering in bed you may not like this but if you like the feel of a comforting hug and the feeling of a heavier cover on your body you may well take to it.

I cannot recall the last time I slept so well and so soundly since we had this blanket.

Do your research and make sure you can return and refund if you do not get on with it. Give it a week or so to get used to it. I took to it immediately but some people have said it takes them a while.

A good night's sleep is extremely important to me I do not function well on a disturbed sleep so this has made a huge difference to me.

Before buying a weighted blanket do your own research and see if it will be right for you. This is a very personal choice and requires some thought.

Weighted blankets will not suit everyone. However, if they do suit you they can make a big difference to the way you relax and sleep. I am very glad I got mine and as I am getting a much sounder sleep I am feeling much better these days.