Tips for Choosing a Heated Mattress Pad

If you live in a climate that's cool in the winter, then a heated mattress pad might be worth considering. They're an affordable way to stay warm and offer a number of advantages:

• These heated mattress pads can allow you to keep warm while forgoing heavy blankets
• They can allow you to decrease your thermostat settings and save money while staying warm at night
• They can help keep the peace between spouses who prefer a different sleeping temperature

Before you choose a heated mattress pad, there are a few things to consider:

• Size
  Clearly you need to think about the size of the pad first*. Heated mattress pads are available in twin, full, queen, king, and California king sizes. You should check the measurements of your mattress, particularly the depth, to assure the pad you're considering will fit properly. Some are adjustable, but most will state the depth of mattress they are designed to fit.
  
  
• Easy of Care and Use
  Most people prefer a mattress pad that is machine washable, you can check the manufacturer's information to find out if the pad you're considering is indeed washable.
  
  The controls are also important when considering ease of use. Many people prefer to set the control on a bedside table. If this is the case, you'll need a cord that can span the distance between the mattress pad and the table. Some higher end options offer wireless remotes which can reduce the number of cords and any placement problems. Of course, you'll also want to know the length of the power cord as compared to the distance from your bed and the nearest available outlet.
  
  In addition, you'll need an on/off switch and temperature control that is easy to operate with one hand. Certainly a control that is backlit can make it easier to adjust in the dark if you wake up.
  
  Some higher end pads offer sensors that automatically regulate temperature which provides even more convenience.
  
  
• Comfort
  Many of these pads offer a variety of heat settings. This allows you to turn the temperature up or down based upon your own comfort level. Many offer dual controls that allow each person in the bed to set the temperature for their side of the pad. Some even offer zone control that allows you to have a warmer or cooler setting for a particular area of the pad. For instance, you may want more heat for your feet than you do for your torso.
  
  Certainly, most people are also more comfortable if they can't feel the wires in the pad. Micro-wires are certainly less noticeable or additional padding can help.
  
  
• Safety
  A modern heated mattress pad should use a low voltage and provide safe heat. Having an auto dimmer and/or safety shut off can save energy and provide additional safety.
  
  
• Warranty
  Some of these pads offer a one year warranty, others 2 years, and some as long as 5 years.

*Although you'll find only queen sized heated mattress pads on this page, most of them are available in other sizes.