You don't have to go on a coffee trip to come across the topic of electric blankets. It also happens when travelling through the Southern Ocean. Boris Herrmann recently reported in his blog that his electric blanket is a real comfort booster in the low latitudes. But do such blankets also work in our latitudes? We have tried it out.
Can be used anywhere thanks to the rechargeable battery
The Dutch company Stoov offers electric blankets and heating pads. What makes them special is that they do not require a power socket to operate. Stoov heats using an integrated rechargeable battery. We tried out the Big Hug XL model with its woolly surface. The blanket achieves its best heating performance when you are sitting or lying on it, similar to a seat heater in a car. Of course, it does not heat the entire cabin, but only the person on the blanket.
Up to six hours of heat
However, with a normal duvet or sleeping bag over it, it is pleasantly warm in the bunk even on cool nights without additional heating. The battery version with just under 50 watt hours can heat for up to six hours on a low setting and just under four hours on the highest setting. This is set at the touch of a button on the company logo on the side. The charging socket is also located underneath. The lithium battery is charged via a direct 230-volt connection or inverter from empty to 100 per cent within four hours.
Electric blanket is easy to clean
The test operation showed that the six-hour maximum heating duration is completely sufficient, as it is not necessary to heat all night. It is sufficient to switch on the blanket at night if you feel a little chilly. The electric blanket has automatic overheating protection. There is a zip on the back that provides access to the battery and the heating unit can be removed to wash the woolly cover. This is not real wool, the cover is made of polyester. In the 135 x 45 centimetre version we tested and the larger battery version, the Big Hug XL costs 170 euros.
The programme also includes heating pads especially for pets. For example, as a heated basket for your pet dog.
