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Ever since the clocks went back, we have seen darker nights, shorter days and much colder weather. Many UK households are now switching their heating on to keep warm, but with energy bills rising, some people are turning to other appliances and hacks to keep costs down. From heaters to hot water bottles and electric blankets, there are cheaper and more convenient ways to stay warm this autumn and winter without flicking the heating on. But one expert as issued a warning over the latter, stating that electric blankets could cause illnesses this winter. Join the Manchester Evening News WhatsApp group HERE Cleaning and hygiene expert Sara Aparcio at Homeaglow has warned that the popular heated blankets could be harbouring millions of germs, from bacteria to dust mites. A study from Ohio State University estimated that a typical mattress can host between 100,000 and 10 million dust mites, and heated bedding creates the perfect breeding conditions. Furthermore, the University of Manchester revealed people’s pillows and bedding typically harbour 4 to 16 different types of fungal species, which can severely aggravate allergies and respiratory systems over time. To help people stay warm safely this winter, Sara has shared advice on how to keep heated blankets hygienic and avoid the health risks that come with them. "You may not realise how much sweat, body oils, and dead skin your heated blanket collects during winter. Because the warmth from an electric blanket creates a perfect environment for bacteria, regular washing is essential," Sara warns. "Most electric blankets are machine washable, but always check the care label first. "In general, wash your blanket every two weeks on a gentle wash (no hotter than 30 degrees) with a mild detergent. You should avoid fabric conditioners as they can leave residue on your carpet’s fibres. "Once washed, let it air dry completely before plugging it back in. Never use a tumble dryer or high heat, as this can damage your blanket's electrical components and shorten its lifespan, costing you more money over time." "When you switch your blanket off at bedtime, don’t fold it straight away. Warmth and moisture from your body can get stuck inside the fibres, creating a breeding ground for bacteria and mildew," says Sara. "Instead, unplug your blanket and let it cool before hanging it over a clothes airer or door for a few hours. This helps to release trapped heat and moisture, keeping your blanket fresher between washes and reducing that musty smell we all want to avoid." "It might seem cosy to add a hot water bottle or heated throw on top of your electric blanket, especially in those freezing autumnal nights, but doing so actually risks trapping moisture between the fabrics, not only damaging the blanket's internal wiring but creating an ideal environment for bacteria," Sara warns. "The combination of sustained heat and trapped humidity is exactly what dust mites love, and over time, this could lead to unpleasant odours on your blanket and increased flare-ups of allergies. "Layering heat sources also increases your bedroom's humidity, and previous research shows bedrooms with increased humidity harbour 64 percent more mites. If you want an extra layer of warmth, use a breathable cotton sheet or a lightweight duvet instead." "Bacteria isn’t the only issue; an FIA (Fire Industry Association) study in 2024 found that over 60 percent of electric blankets in Nottinghamshire were unsafe, so you must be vigilant," Sara adds. "Like any electrical item, your heated blanket won’t last forever, but small signs of damage can turn into serious safety or hygiene issues if ignored. Every couple of weeks, you should take a few minutes to inspect your blanket for any fraying fabric, exposed wires, damp patches, or discoloured areas. These could all indicate that the internal wiring in your blanket is wearing out or overheating. "Run your head gently over the surface to check for any lumps or uneven heating zones that could suggest that the internal parts have become damaged during washing or storage. If you notice anything unusual, stop the blanket immediately and contact the manufacturer for advice or replacement. "Even if it looks fine, most experts advise you to replace your electric blanket every five years, as older models can become less efficient and more prone to electrical faults or bacteria build-up within the fibres." "When the weather warms up, don’t just fold your heated blanket and shove it in a cupboard," Sara suggests. "Wash it one last time, ensure the blanket is completely dry, and roll it loosely rather than folding to prevent the wires from bending and breaking. Then, store it in a breathable cotton bag or even a clean pillowcase to give it breathing room during the warmer months. "It’s important to note that you should avoid plastic bags, which trap moisture and can even cause mould, leading to allergy and respiratory issues. Tuck your blanket away somewhere cool so it’s fresh and ready to go when the chill returns next autumn." Sign up to our Manchester property newsletter here
