Electric heated blanket vs. hot water bottle: what’s the difference?

When temperatures drop, we all look for ways to stay warm. Two popular options are the classic hot water bottle and the modern electric heated blanket. But what are the differences between these two heat sources? We look at comfort, safety, heat distribution, energy consumption, and cost.

1. Comfort

• Electric heated blanket
  An electric heated blanket provides consistent, adjustable warmth. You can often choose from multiple heat settings, and some blankets have separate heating zones. Ideal for longer periods of use, such as on the couch or in bed.

• Hot water bottle
  A hot water bottle initially provides a lot of heat but cools down slowly. It’s useful for short-term use or for warming a specific part of your body, such as your feet.

2. Safety

• Electric heated blanket
  Modern models have overheat protection, automatic shut-off, and often a timer function. However, it’s important to use them according to the instructions and not fold or wet them.

• Hot water bottles
  Hot water bottles can leak or burn from overheating. A good cover and careful filling are essential to prevent accidents.

3. Heat distribution

• Electric heated blanket
  Provides even heat across the entire surface and maintains its temperature for a long time. Ideal for making an entire sleeping or sitting area comfortable.

• Hot water bottle
  Heat is concentrated around the spot where the hot water bottle is placed. This makes it less suitable for heating an entire room or large surface area.

4. Energy use and costs

Energy consumption varies considerably. A hot water bottle is often filled with water heated on a stove or in a kettle, while an electric blanket uses direct electricity.

Here you can see a comparison of the cost of heating 1 liter of water for a hot water bottle, versus using an electric heating blanket for 1 hour: