Pregnancy comes with body aches, which make it hard to fall asleep. That is why we try anything that can help us achieve some shut-eye, like an electric blanket to keep warm. However, it is important to ensure it does not cause harm to us or the baby.
Electrically heated blankets give off a very low frequency electromagnetic field (EMF). The same is true of some other household appliances, power lines, computers, TVs, cellphones, and other electronics.
What is an electric blanket?
An electric blanket is a blanket that contains electrical wires, which allow it to heat up. You can use one to keep warm and help you have a more comfortable sleep.
Electric blankets emit a very low frequency electromagnetic field or EMF. Other things that emit EMF include electronics, cellphones, household appliances, computers, and power lines.
Is it safe to use an electric blanket when you’re pregnant?
It is generally safe to use a heat blanket while you are pregnant. However, there are some things you need to remember.
The foremost of which is to avoid overheating. No evidence has been found that using electric blankets is dangerous for pregnant women.
But increasing your core body temperature to more than 38.3 degrees Celsius can be risky for your baby. This is why pregnant women are advised to stay away from hot tubs and saunas.
While electric blankets emit EMF, the World Health Organisation (WHO) found overall evidence showing that normal exposure to electromagnetic fields does not cause problems in pregnancy.
On the other hand, a study found that using an electric blanket during 8 to 16 weeks of pregnancy.
To be safe, avoid the use of a heated blanket during conception and the early weeks of your pregnancy.
Best electric blanket to keep warm when pregnant
Now that you know it’s safe to use a heated blanket while pregnant, here is the list of the best electric blankets you can get online.
Product
|
Category
|
Cuddle Electric Heating Blanket
|
Most Durable Blanket
|
Heated Blanket Electric Throw
|
Most Luxurious Heat Blanket
|
USB Heated Scarf Shawl
|
Best Multi-Purpose Heat Blanket
|
Winter Electric Blanket
|
Best Waterproof Blanket
|
NANJIREN Electric Warm Blanket
|
Best Reversible Heat Blanket
|
[product-comparison-table title="Best Electric Blankets in Singapore"]
Most Durable Blanket
This electric heating blanket is made from high-quality bamboo fiber, making it comfortable to use. The space grey color is compatible with any of your beddings, and the blanket is easy to fold once you are done using it.
It has various sizes for kids, super single, queen, and king.
- Kids 104x152cm: 2.3kg / 4kg
- Super Single 150x200cm : 5kg / 6kg / 7kg / 9kg (Recommended For 1 Person Usage)
- Queen 180x220cm : 7kg / 9kg / 11kg (Ideal For 2 Person Sharing)
- King 200x230cm: 7kg / 9Kg/ 11kg (Ideal For 2 Person Sharing)
Most Luxurious Heat Blanket
You’re sure to get a good night’s sleep with this blanket with plush flannel fabric, making it comfortable to use even when the heater is not turned on.
The blanket heats evenly and has four heating levels, which you can adjust with the controller. Best of all, it has an auto-shut-off function. This not only avoids overheating but saves on power too.
You can choose from four different sizes.
Best Multi-Purpose Heat Blanket
This USB heated scarf shawl is portable, so you can use it beyond the bedroom. You can bring it to the car, or drape over your legs when sitting on the couch. You can also use it as a shawl to keep warm.
It uses imported nano carbon fiber for heating, making it safe and environmentally friendly.
This product is machine-washable. Just pull the zipper open and take out the heat inner sleeve.
Best Waterproof Blanket
This flannel electric blanket will ensure you get a full night’s sleep. It features an automatic shut-off protection, so it is guaranteed safe to use. In addition, there is no leakage of electricity when used.
It comes in two sizes and has an adjustable temperature controller. Best of all, this product is waterproof too!
Best Reversible Heat Blanket
This reversible heat blanket is made with two different types of fabric. The front is made from flannel, while the back is made with imitation lamb plush. Both sides are soft and won’t irritate the skin.
The product has a washable design, and features a three-stage temperature adjustable controller. In addition, it has safety features like short circuit and overvoltage protection to avoid overheating.
It comes in two sizes, which are both perfect to use in bed or the couch.
Price Comparison
To further help you with your purchase, here’s a quick look at the prices of the best electric blankets in Singapore.
Product
|
Price (in SGD)
|
Electric Heating Blanket
|
$34.70
|
Heated Blanket Electric Throw
|
$62.00
|
USB Heated Scarf Shawl
|
$16.99
|
Winter Electric Blanket
|
$14.45
|
Electric Warm Blanket
|
$38.60
|
Note: Each item and price is up to date as of publication, however, an item may be sold out or the price may be different at a later date.
How to use your electric blanket safely while pregnant
As we mentioned earlier, it is vital to avoid overheating when using a heated blanket. To achieve this, make sure you do not use your heated blanket for too long. Also, use the low or medium setting.
In addition, ensure not to fall asleep with the heated blanket on. This way, you will avoid using it for too long and overheating.
To be safe, turn it on before you sleep to get the bed warm and ready. Turn it off once it’s time to hit the sheets.
How to wash electric blankets
Make sure to read the manual carefully to know whether your heated blanket is machine-washable and machine-dryable. As for how to wash electric blankets, here are a few tips.
Give the blanket a good shake to get rid of loose debris.
- Double-check that you’ve removed all cords and controls before putting the blanket in the washing machine.
- Use cool to warm water with a regular detergent.
- Do not add fabric softener or bleach to avoid weakening the interior parts of the blanket.
- Use the gentle cycle or shortest setting.
- Let the machine wash for three to four minutes, then switch to the rinse cycle.
- After rinsing, remove the blanket and use the cool setting on your dryer.
- It is best to remove the blanket while still damp, then hang it to air-dry.
If you're struggling with body aches while pregnant, these massage devices may help! Read: Pregnant Massage Devices in Singapore: Be Pain-Free, Mommy!