How to get a free electric blanket this winter, and make the most of it

Winter is just around the corner and, once again, energy prices are on the rise. With colder weather ahead, many of us will be looking for ways to stay warm without turning up the heating and racking up huge bills.

One simple and cost-effective solution is an electric blanket.

Why use an electric blanket?

Electric blankets are a great way to stay warm without heating your whole home. They provide quick, targeted heat, so you can feel cosy in bed or on the sofa without cranking up the thermostat.

According to Uswitch, most electric blankets use no more than 300 watts on the highest setting. Some single-size blankets use as little as 40W. On the lowest setting, you can heat a bed for 7–8 hours a night for just 1p, around £3.66 a year.

If you’re concerned about rising energy costs this winter, an electric blanket could be a game-change, especially if you can get one for free.

Where to get a free electric blanket

OVO Energy

From 1 October, OVO Energy is giving away free electric blankets as part of its Extra Support Package to help customers cope with rising bills.

• OVO reports that 9m UK households are currently in fuel poverty, a 62% increase since 2020.
• Since 2022, OVO has provided £190m in support, including heated blankets, smart sockets and energy efficiency kits.
• In 2024 alone, they supported 42,000 customers.

This year’s £56m support package includes:

• free electric blankets
• energy-saving products like mattress toppers and home efficiency kits
• possible upgrades like new boilers or heat pumps
• financial help, such as direct debit reductions, emergency credit and repayment plans

Are you eligible?

To qualify:

• you must be an OVO Energy customer
• expect to struggle with your energy bills

You can check your eligibility on the OVO website. Be ready to provide:

• your account number and postcode
• your monthly disposable income, what’s left after essentials like rent, tax and utility bills

Octopus Energy

Octopus Energy is also giving free electric blankets to customers who are most in need, especially those with medical conditions or specific vulnerabilities.

To apply:

• you must be an Octopus Energy customer
• create a Paylink budget to find out what support is available and whether you qualify for financial assistance
• the team will review your account and needs

It’s one electric blanket per household, to help as many people as possible. Octopus says you should hear back within a week of applying.

Tips for making the most of your electric blanket

• preheat your bed before getting in
• use the lowest heat setting to save power
• only use it while you’re in bed or on the sofa
• layer with your usual bedding for extra warmth

Other ways to stay warm this winter

While an electric blanket is a great addition to your winter arsenal, there are other ways to stay warm and cut energy costs:

• Wear layers – heat escapes through your body. Wear thick socks, jumpers, and even a hat indoors.
• Seal drafts – check windows and doors for drafts and seal them to keep the warmth in.
• Use thick curtains – they can help to keep the heat in during the night.
• Consider a hot water bottle – they’re an old-fashioned but effective way to stay warm.
• Apply for a grant – most energy companies set money aside to help people who are really struggling. Read more about the additional support available in our guide.