UK Electric Blanket Recall 2025: What Every Shopper Must Know About Fire Risks and Refunds

Electric Blanket Recall in the UK: The Facts Behind the Fire Risk

As winter deepens across the UK, a chilling warning has swept through British homes: certain electric blankets, including popular models sold by major retailers like B&Q, are being urgently recalled. The reason? A serious risk of fire and electric shock, potentially threatening the safety of thousands of families relying on these devices to combat the cold and surging energy bills.

Which Products Are Affected and Why?

At the heart of the recall is the B&Q GoodHome Saturnia Electric Blanket, manufactured in China and sold nationwide between November 2024 and December 2025. The recall, overseen by the Office for Product Safety and Standards (OPSS), has identified critical faults: these blankets can overheat during use, fail to regulate temperature, and, in some cases, contain deteriorating internal wiring. The risks aren’t just theoretical. Faults like these can ignite the blanket itself or set surrounding furniture ablaze, especially if the product is left switched on overnight or used while damaged. The affected model, barcode 5059340980560, does not meet the requirements of the Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016 (Independent, SwikBlog, Ayr Advertiser).

The recall is not limited to just one brand or retailer. While B&Q’s Saturnia blanket is the focus, other electric blankets sold online and by UK retailers have also triggered safety alerts, as fire services and safety charities sound the alarm. The warnings come at the coldest part of the year, when electric blankets are a lifeline for many—especially older residents and those looking to save on heating costs.

Why Are Electric Blankets So Widely Used?

It’s not hard to see why electric blankets are flying off the shelves. With the cost of energy in the UK stubbornly high, families have sought more affordable ways to stay warm. Some estimates suggest using an electric blanket could save as much as £300 a year in heating bills, making them a popular choice for less mobile or older people who may struggle to heat their entire homes (Independent).

Major energy firms like Octopus Energy and OVO have even offered electric blankets as part of their winter support schemes. But this recall reminds us that saving money should never come at the expense of safety.

What Should Consumers Do Right Now?

If you own an electric blanket—especially the B&Q GoodHome Saturnia model—the advice is unequivocal:

• Stop using it immediately. Unplug it from the mains.
• Check the model name, batch number, and barcode against official recall notices from retailers and the UK government.
• Contact the retailer (such as B&Q Customer Services on 0300 303 4482) for a refund or replacement.
• Do not attempt to repair the blanket yourself.

Safety officials stress that even if your blanket seems fine, any product covered by a recall should not be used under any circumstances. Overheating, damaged wiring, or defective controls can all pose invisible risks until it’s too late.

Why Is This Recall So Urgent?

Electric blanket incidents most often occur at night. People are asleep, unaware of warning signs like overheating or strange smells. In older properties, electrical systems may already be under stress from winter usage, further raising the stakes. Fire services have repeatedly warned against leaving electric blankets switched on and unattended—advice that becomes critical when a product fault is identified (SwikBlog).

Charities and safety groups consistently recommend replacing older electric blankets every few years and checking them regularly for signs of wear. But a recall overrides any general advice: if your product is affected, it must be taken out of service immediately.

How to Find Official Recall Information

In an age of viral social media posts, misinformation can spread as fast as a faulty wire can spark. That’s why experts urge shoppers to rely on official sources. Retailers like B&Q have published detailed recall notices on their websites, including instructions for returns and contact information. The UK government’s product safety pages offer up-to-date guidance on recalled household items.

For the most accurate information, check:

• Retailer recall pages (e.g., B&Q website)
• Official UK product recall notices
• Contact customer services for direct assistance

The Broader Impact: Balancing Warmth and Safety

The recall arrives at a difficult moment for British households. With energy bills high and winter biting, electric blankets have become more than just a comfort—they’re a financial necessity for many. But the potential for fire and electric shock changes the equation. The recall highlights the delicate balance between staying warm and staying safe, and the importance of rigorous product standards.

It also prompts a broader question: How can consumers protect themselves from similar risks in the future? Experts advise registering new electrical products with manufacturers for safety updates, checking for recalls regularly, and never ignoring warning signs like overheating, unusual smells, or damaged wiring.

What Next for UK Shoppers?

Retailers and regulators are working to remove unsafe products from shelves and inform consumers. If you’re affected, the process for refunds or replacements is straightforward but requires vigilance. Don’t rely on social media rumors—go straight to the source.

Ultimately, the recall is a stark reminder that winter safety is about more than just warmth. It’s about ensuring the products we trust in our homes meet the highest standards, and acting quickly when those standards aren’t met.

In a year when household budgets are stretched and winter safety is paramount, the UK’s electric blanket recall is a powerful wake-up call. The facts show that product faults can have life-altering consequences, and consumer vigilance is not optional—it’s essential. This story is not just about one product, but about the responsibility we all share to stay informed, act swiftly, and demand safe solutions in our homes.