10 Reasons why you should sleep with your electric blanket off

Its cold this winter and many people have resorted to electric blankets to help them sleep in this cold. An electric blanket is a blanket with an integrated electrical heating device usually placed above the top bed sheet. In the UK and Commonwealth, electric blanket commonly refers to an electric underblanket (electric mattress pad) which is placed below the bottom bed sheet. Electric blankets usually have a control unit which adjusts the amount of heat the blanket produces. Blankets for larger sized beds often have separate controls for each side of the bed. The electric blanket may be used to pre-heat the bed before use or to keep the occupant warm while in bed.

People have developed the tendency of sleeping with it in, missing its main function. Its function is to heat the bed before you can sleep. Sleeping with your electric blanket on has its own dangers.

Electromagnetic fields

according to Joseph Mercola, D.O. Appliances such as electric blankets typically produce extremely low frequency, or ELF, fields. There is disagreement about the effects of ELF fields, but Mercola suggests that the extended exposure to these fields that accompany the use of electric blankets may cause negative health effects.

Overheating

Overheating the body with an electric blanket is a risk of electric blanket use, particularly for those with diabetes and other medical conditions. A person with diabetes may have an insensitivity to heat that makes it difficult to tell that the blanket is too warm.

Fire Hazards

The electric cord connected to an electric blanket can present a fire or shock hazard if it becomes damaged. The Electric Blanket Institute recommends against placing the cord between the mattress and box springs. The friction may cause the cord to fray, increasing the risk of a fire. Heat generated from the cord when covered by the mattress or other items also increases fire risks

Misuse

Improper use of an electric blanket may make it a dangerous addition to your bed. Follow the washing instructions of the manufacturer exactly to avoid damage to the blanket. Avoid ironing an electric blanket, which may melt the wires inside

Miscarriage

Using an electric blanket during pregnancy may increase your risk of miscarriage. A 1998 Yale University study found that using an electric blanket during early pregnancy was associated with a slightly increased risk of miscarriage. If you must use your electric blanket while pregnant, play it safe and use it to warm the bed, then remove the blanket from the bed when you’re ready to go to sleep.

Cancer

Electric blankets generate a low-level electromagnetic field, which some studies suggest could increase the risk of certain cancers

Addiction

Once you get used to sleeping with your electric blanket on you will find it very difficult sleeping with it off. Simply because you are so used to sleeping with it on.

They are a threat to your pets and children

Don’t use an electric blanket if you sleep with a pet. Clawing and chewing can damage the wires and cause an accident. They’re also not recommended for children, incapacitated people, or people who are insensitive to heat.

They use up energy    

Energy savings only occur with an electric blanket if you turn down the heat at night. Otherwise, you’re using more energy than you would with a regular blanket. You will find yourself with a higher electricity bill if you leave it on the entire night.

Electric blankets are a bigger threat than any other house appliances

Researchers have concluded that you should not only be aware of the potential harm of low-level magnetic fields, you should also limit your exposure as much as possible. This is especially true for appliances held close to the body, as would be the case with electric blankets.

These numbers represent the field strength to which you’re exposed when sleeping under an electric blanket. The current is balanced at the center of the blanket, but unbalanced at the outer edges. It is the imbalance that causes a significant magnetic field to be generated.