Can I Use an Electric Blanket With a Waterproof Mattress Protector?

The answer is simple:

Our advice is to put the electric blanket on the mattress, and put the waterproof mattress protector over the top. It will not alter the effectiveness of the electric blanket, as heat will transfer through the mattress protector to the sleeper, and at the same time, your electric blanket will be protected from any spills or stains.

To shop our range of mattress protectors click here. To shop our range of electric blankets click here.

What is the best way to layer an electric blanket and a waterproof mattress protector?

There are two common setups. Which one is best depends on what you are trying to protect (your mattress, your electric blanket, or both) and what your electric blanket manual allows.

Option 1: Protector over the electric blanket (protects the blanket from spills)

This is the setup we typically recommends:

1. Mattress
2. Electric blanket (underblanket) laid flat
3. Waterproof mattress protector
4. Fitted sheet

This can be a practical option if you want the waterproof layer to help protect your electric blanket from accidents and spills.

Option 2: Electric blanket over the protector (protects the mattress, keeps the waterproof layer away from the heating wires)

1. Mattress
2. Waterproof mattress protector
3. Electric blanket (underblanket) laid flat
4. Fitted sheet

Some bedding brands recommend placing the electric blanket between the mattress protector and the sheet. If your electric blanket’s instructions mention a specific order, follow that.

Important: whichever setup you choose, your electric blanket should lie flat with no bunching or creasing. Creases can damage heating elements over time.

Will a waterproof mattress protector reduce the warmth from an electric blanket?

Many modern waterproof mattress protectors use breathable waterproof membranes designed to stay comfortable and allow heat to pass through. For example, Protect-A-Bed describes its waterproof membrane as allowing body heat to pass through.

That said, if your protector is thicker or less breathable, you may notice:

• The bed takes slightly longer to warm
• You might be tempted to turn the setting up higher

If you do increase heat, do it gradually and stick to a moderate setting where possible.

Choosing a waterproof protector that works well with an electric blanket

If you plan to use an electric blanket regularly, look for a protector that is:

• Waterproof and breathable (more comfortable, less clammy)
• Quiet and flexible (does not feel like sleeping on plastic)
• Fitted with a good stretch skirt so it stays flat
• Easy-care (machine washable)

If you are using a waterproof protector over an electric blanket, it also helps to choose one designed for comfort and breathability. queenb’s Brolly waterproof quilted protectors, for example, note a breathable membrane and specifically mention they can be used with electric blankets (with practical precautions).

Safety first: NZ electric blanket checklist

Before you use an electric blanket (with or without a waterproof protector), follow these safety basics:

• Do not sleep with an electric blanket turned on. Warm the bed, then switch it off before getting in.Waterproof and breathable (more comfortable, less clammy)
• Check for hotspots at the start of the season (turn it on high briefly, then turn off and feel for uneven heat).
• Avoid heavy items on the bed while the blanket is on (this can contribute to overheating and damage).
• Keep cords straight and untwisted and make sure nothing is trapped or pinched.
• Never use an electric blanket if it is wet. Dry thoroughly according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
• Do not use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket. Safety guidance recommends using one or the other, not both, because the combination can increase the risk of overheating or damage.
• Consider replacing older blankets (Fire and Emergency NZ advises using electric blankets less than 5 years old).

If you are using a waterproof protector to manage spills or bedwetting, consider an electric blanket that is machine washable (where the manufacturer allows it), and always prioritise keeping the blanket dry and in good condition.

What if I also use a mattress topper?

A mattress topper changes how heat moves through the bed. Some toppers are designed to sit above an electric blanket. For example, a queenb wool mattress topper product suggests using it on top of an electric blanket to help retain warmth.

If you add a topper, keep an eye on:

• Whether the electric blanket still lies flat
• Whether you feel you need to increase the setting (avoid going straight to high)