What Happens if My Electric Blanket Gets Wet?

Picture this: It’s a chilly winter evening, and you’ve just settled into bed, wrapped in the cozy warmth of your electric blanket. You’ve got a hot mug of cocoa perched precariously on your nightstand, maybe even a glass of water nearby. Then, in one clumsy moment, disaster strikes. A sudden jolt, a misplaced elbow, and that steaming mug tumbles, drenching a section of your beloved electric blanket. Your heart probably leaps into your throat, and one question immediately floods your mind: What happens if my electric blanket gets wet?

Let’s cut right to the chase, because when it comes to electricity and water, time is of the essence. If your electric blanket gets wet, especially while plugged in or in use, it immediately creates a serious electrical hazard, including a significant risk of electric shock, short circuits, potential fire, and permanent damage to the blanket’s internal components. Your absolute first and most critical action should be to immediately unplug the blanket from the wall outlet. Do not touch it with wet hands, and do not attempt to use it again until you’ve fully assessed the situation and, in most cases, decided to replace it.

As someone who has seen firsthand the aftermath of electrical mishaps – and has a healthy respect for the dangers of household electronics – I can tell you that a wet electric blanket is not something to take lightly. It’s a situation that demands immediate, decisive action and a clear understanding of the risks involved. Let’s delve deeper into why this seemingly innocent spill can be such a big deal and what you absolutely need to know to keep yourself and your home safe.

The Immediate Danger: Why Water and Electricity Don’t Mix (Especially in an Electric Blanket)

To truly grasp the gravity of the situation, it helps to understand a little about how your electric blanket actually works. Inside that soft fabric exterior lies a complex network of thin, insulated wires or heating elements, often made of carbon fiber or a similar resistive material. These wires are meticulously routed throughout the blanket, designed to distribute heat evenly. They’re connected to a control unit, which regulates temperature and often includes safety features like automatic shut-off and overheat protection. All of this is encased in layers of fabric and insulating material, specifically designed to keep the electricity safely contained.

Here’s where water enters the equation, turning a comforting appliance into a potential menace:

• Conductivity: Water, especially tap water with its dissolved minerals, is an excellent conductor of electricity. When water comes into contact with the live internal wiring of an electric blanket, it provides an immediate pathway for electricity to travel outside its intended circuit.
• Insulation Breakdown: The protective insulation around the heating wires is designed to keep the current contained. However, water can degrade or penetrate this insulation, especially if the blanket is older, has been creased excessively, or if the water reaches the internal connections. Once insulation is compromised, live electrical current can come into direct contact with the fabric, or worse, with you.
• Short Circuits: When water bridges two points of a circuit that aren’t meant to be connected, it creates a “short circuit.” This causes an excessive surge of current, leading to a rapid increase in heat, potential arcing (sparks), and can trip your circuit breaker or, in a worst-case scenario, start a fire if the safety mechanisms fail or are overloaded.
• Damage to the Control Unit: The control unit is the brain of your electric blanket. It contains delicate electronic components that are extremely vulnerable to water. Even a small amount of moisture can fry the internal circuits, making the unit malfunction dangerously or rendering it completely inoperable.

The risks are not just theoretical; they are very real. We’re talking about the potential for painful electric shocks, burns, electrocution, and devastating house fires. That’s why your response needs to be swift and uncompromising.

Oh No, It Got Wet! Your First Steps to Safety

Alright, so your electric blanket got wet. Don’t panic, but do act quickly and deliberately. Here’s a clear checklist of what you need to do immediately:

Immediate Action Checklist:

1. Unplug It. Seriously, Unplug It NOW! This is the single most important step. Cut off the power source immediately. If it’s plugged into a power strip, unplug the strip from the wall. If you have any doubt about reaching the plug safely (e.g., if the cord is wet, or your hands are wet), you might consider tripping the circuit breaker for that outlet from your home’s electrical panel. However, for most minor spills, unplugging the blanket directly and carefully is the primary action.
2. Do NOT Touch It with Wet Hands: Even if you’ve unplugged it, try to avoid direct contact with the wet area, especially if you suspect the internal wiring might still be energized or if there’s any lingering moisture on the plug or cord. Use a dry towel or a non-conductive object to handle it if necessary.
3. Assess the Situation: Once the power is disconnected, take a moment to evaluate.
   • How wet is it? Was it just a small splash, or is it thoroughly soaked?
   • Where did it get wet? Is the control unit affected? Is the plug or cord wet?
   • Was it plugged in or in use when it got wet? This drastically increases the risk of immediate damage and hazard.
   • Are there any visible signs of damage? Look for smoke, burning smells, scorch marks, or tripped breakers. If you see any of these, consider the blanket immediately compromised and dispose of it safely.
4. Remove from Bed/Sleeping Area: Carefully move the wet blanket away from your bed, other electronics, or anything flammable. If you suspect extensive water intrusion, do not simply ball it up. Lay it flat, if possible, on a non-conductive surface.

From my experience, people often underestimate the speed at which water can seep into the most unexpected places. Even a small coffee spill on the surface might quickly find its way to critical internal components. It’s better to err on the side of extreme caution.

The Science Behind the Shock: Understanding the Risks

Let’s dive a bit deeper into why water and electricity in an electric blanket present such a formidable threat. It’s not just about a simple short; it’s about a cascade of potential failures.

• Arcing and localized heating: When a short circuit occurs due to water, electricity doesn’t just flow; it can jump or “arc” across gaps. This arcing generates intense localized heat, sometimes reaching temperatures hot enough to ignite the blanket fabric or surrounding bedding. This is a primary cause of electric blanket fires related to water damage.
• Corrosion and long-term damage: Even if a blanket seems to dry out and doesn’t immediately cause an incident, water can lead to corrosion of the delicate copper wires and solder joints inside. Over time, this corrosion can increase electrical resistance, causing hot spots, intermittent failures, or creating new, unexpected short circuits that can manifest hours, days, or even weeks later. This is why a “dried out” blanket is rarely truly safe.
• Compromised Safety Systems: Modern electric blankets are typically equipped with sophisticated safety features, such as overheat protection circuits and automatic shut-off timers. These are designed to monitor the blanket’s temperature and power draw. However, when water directly impacts the internal wiring or the control unit itself, it can bypass, damage, or completely disable these safety systems. An electric blanket with a compromised safety system is far more dangerous than one without any at all, as it gives a false sense of security.
• The Human Body as a Conductor: Should live current escape the blanket’s confines due to water damage, anyone touching the blanket becomes a part of the circuit. The human body is a good conductor of electricity, and even a relatively low voltage can cause serious injury or death, depending on the current, duration of contact, and the path it takes through the body.

This isn’t to scare you unnecessarily, but to educate. Understanding the “why” behind the warnings empowers you to make informed decisions for your safety. From my professional standpoint, the potential for hidden, long-term damage from water ingress is the most insidious risk. What looks dry on the outside might be corroding on the inside.

Can You Salvage a Wet Electric Blanket? A Realistic Look

Here’s the tough truth: in most cases, if your electric blanket gets significantly wet, especially while plugged in, it’s considered permanently damaged and unsafe to use.

Manufacturers are very clear on this. Their warranties typically do not cover water damage, and for good reason. The intricate wiring and electronic components are simply not designed to withstand water intrusion. Trying to “fix” or “dry out” a compromised blanket is an extremely risky gamble with your safety and the safety of your home.

Why Replacement is Almost Always the Only Safe Option:

• Hidden Damage: As discussed, water can seep into the core of the wiring, causing corrosion that isn’t immediately visible. This can lead to hot spots, frayed wires, or intermittent shorts that might not manifest until the blanket is in use again.
• Compromised Safety Features: The delicate sensors and circuits that prevent overheating or automatically shut off the blanket are highly susceptible to water damage. Even if the blanket appears to work, these crucial safety nets might be disabled, leaving you vulnerable to fire or electrical hazards.
• Manufacturer Recommendations: Every reputable electric blanket manufacturer will advise against using a blanket that has been exposed to water. They prioritize your safety above all else, and the potential liabilities associated with a damaged product are too great.
• Your Peace of Mind: Can you truly relax and sleep soundly knowing your electric blanket might have unseen electrical damage? From a safety perspective, the cost of a new blanket pales in comparison to the potential cost of a house fire or electrical injury.

While a tiny, insignificant splash on a *completely unplugged* blanket that can be immediately blotted dry and then air-dried thoroughly for an extended period *might* theoretically be okay, I still strongly advise against taking that chance. The risk-reward ratio is simply not favorable.

Drying an Electric Blanket: The “Do Not” and “If You Must” Guide

Given my strong recommendation for replacement, this section comes with significant caveats. If, against professional advice, you decide to *attempt* to dry an electric blanket after a minor incident (and again, I must stress this is generally not recommended for safety reasons, especially if it was plugged in or heavily soaked), you must proceed with extreme caution and awareness of the risks.

Absolute DO NOTs When Drying an Electric Blanket:

• DO NOT Use a Tumble Dryer: The heat and tumbling action of a dryer can severely damage the internal wiring, break connections, and melt insulation. This is a surefire way to create a fire hazard.
• DO NOT Plug It Back In Prematurely: Never, ever plug in a damp electric blanket. Even if it feels dry to the touch, moisture can linger deep within the fabric and wiring, leading to immediate hazards.
• DO NOT Wring or Twist It: Aggressively manipulating the blanket can damage the internal heating elements and their insulation, creating weak points.
• DO NOT Use Direct Heat Sources: Avoid using hair dryers, space heaters, or placing the blanket directly on radiators. The concentrated heat can cause internal wires to overheat, melt insulation, or create hot spots.
• DO NOT Iron It: Ironing an electric blanket is incredibly dangerous, even if it’s dry, let alone wet. The heat of the iron can damage the internal components and insulation.

IF You Must Try to Air Dry (With Extreme Caveats):

This is for a very minor splash on an *unplugged* blanket only, and always with the understanding that you are proceeding at your own risk.

1. Blot, Don’t Rub: Gently blot the wet area with clean, dry towels to absorb as much surface moisture as possible.
2. Lay Flat: Lay the blanket completely flat on a clean, dry surface, such as a large towel spread on a bed or floor. Ensure there are no creases or folds that could trap moisture.
3. Well-Ventilated Area: Place it in a room with good air circulation. Open windows or use a fan (directed *near*, not *on*, the blanket at high speed) to help move air around it.
4. Flip Periodically: Gently flip the blanket every few hours to ensure even drying on both sides.
5. Extended Drying Time: Allow for a significantly long drying period – at least 48 to 72 hours, potentially longer depending on the extent of the wetting and humidity levels. It needs to be bone dry, both internally and externally.
6. Thorough Inspection (See Next Section): After it feels completely dry, you *must* perform a meticulous inspection before even considering plugging it in. Again, my advice remains: replace it.

I cannot stress enough that attempting to dry and reuse a wet electric blanket comes with inherent risks that are simply not worth taking. The peace of mind and safety of a new, undamaged blanket are invaluable.

Inspecting for Damage After Drying (The “Is It Truly Safe?” Question)

Let’s say, against better judgment, you’ve decided to air dry your wet electric blanket. Now comes the moment of truth: the inspection. This should be a rigorous, detailed process, and if you find even the slightest hint of trouble, you absolutely must dispose of the blanket.

Detailed Inspection Checklist:

1. Visual Inspection of the Fabric:
   • Scorched or Burn Marks: Look for any discoloration, browning, or singe marks on the fabric. These are clear signs of overheating and internal damage.
   • Melted Spots: Feel for any stiff, melted, or fused areas within the fabric. This indicates plastic insulation or wiring has overheated.
   • Frayed or Exposed Wires: Carefully run your hands over the blanket (with the blanket unplugged!) and look for any areas where wires might be poking through, or where the fabric looks worn thin, potentially exposing wiring.
   • Discoloration or Staining: While some discoloration might be from the spilled liquid itself, look for signs that suggest internal damage rather than just surface staining.
2. Odor Check:
   • Burning Smell: Take a deep sniff. Any lingering smell of burning plastic, rubber, or electrical components is a critical warning sign. This smell can persist even after the initial event.
   • Unusual Odors: Any other strange, chemical, or metallic smells could indicate internal corrosion or damage.
3. Cord and Plug Inspection:
   • Damage to the Cord: Check the entire length of the power cord for fraying, cuts, cracks, or stiff spots.
   • Plug Integrity: Inspect the plug for any signs of scorching, melting, or corrosion on the prongs.
4. Control Unit Examination:
   • Water Intrusion: Look for any signs of water inside the control unit – condensation, water marks, or discoloration around buttons or seams.
   • Physical Damage: Check for melted plastic, cracked casing, or buttons that stick or don’t respond correctly.
   • Auditory Cues: If you gently shake the *unplugged* control unit, do you hear any loose components rattling around? This could indicate internal damage.
5. “Feel” Test (Unplugged): Gently flex the blanket. Does it feel normal? Are there any stiff, brittle, or unusually lumpy areas where the heating elements might have been compromised?

The Ultimate Recommendation: When in doubt, throw it out. This isn’t just a catchy phrase; it’s a critical safety guideline. The potential consequences of reusing a damaged electric blanket – fire, shock, injury – far outweigh the cost of replacement. Your safety and peace of mind are simply not negotiable.

Prevention is Key: Keeping Your Electric Blanket Dry and Safe

The best way to deal with a wet electric blanket is to prevent it from happening in the first place! A little vigilance can save you a lot of headache (and potential danger).

Tips for Preventing Water Damage and Ensuring Safe Use:

• No Food or Drink in Bed: This might seem obvious, but it’s the most common culprit. Avoid consuming liquids, especially hot ones, while your electric blanket is in use. If you must have a drink, use a spill-proof mug and place it on a stable surface far from the blanket.
• Pet Safety: As much as we love our furry friends, accidents happen. Pets can knock over drinks, or in some unfortunate cases, have “accidents” on the blanket. If you share your bed with pets, consider placing a waterproof mattress protector over the electric blanket, or keep pets off the bed when the blanket is in use.
• Avoid Over-Wetting During Cleaning: Always, always follow the manufacturer’s specific cleaning instructions. Many electric blankets are machine washable, but this often involves specific settings and cautions. Never immerse the control unit or cords in water, and ensure the blanket is completely dry before plugging it back in after washing.
• Proper Storage: When not in use, store your electric blanket in a dry, safe place. Avoid damp basements or attics where moisture could seep into the blanket over time. Roll it loosely rather than folding or creasing tightly, which can damage internal wires.
• Use Waterproof Mattress Protectors: As mentioned, a good quality waterproof mattress protector can offer an extra layer of defense against accidental spills from drinks, pet accidents, or even human bedwetting. Place it over your electric blanket but under your fitted sheet.
• Never Use it as a Pad Under a Baby: Infants can wet the bed without warning, and an electric blanket is absolutely not suitable for use in a crib or under a baby due to both the risk of wetting and overheating.

These simple preventative measures can significantly reduce the chances of your electric blanket ever getting wet, allowing you to enjoy its warmth without worry.

When to Replace Your Electric Blanket (Beyond Getting Wet)

Even if your electric blanket never gets wet, it won’t last forever. Like all electrical appliances, it has a lifespan. Knowing when to replace it is crucial for ongoing safety.

Signs It’s Time to Retire Your Electric Blanket:

• Age: Most manufacturers recommend replacing electric blankets every 10 years, sometimes even sooner. The insulation and internal wiring can degrade over time, making older blankets more prone to faults.
• Visible Damage: This includes frayed cords, exposed wires, scorch marks on the fabric, or any signs of melting or discoloration on the plug or control unit.
• Malfunctioning Controller: If the control unit isn’t working correctly (e.g., numbers don’t light up, settings are unresponsive, it repeatedly shuts off prematurely without being programmed to), it’s a clear indicator of internal issues.
• Uneven Heating or Cold Spots: If sections of your blanket are no longer heating up, or you notice unusually hot spots, it suggests that the internal wiring has been damaged or is breaking down. This can be a precursor to a short circuit or fire.
• Frequent Tripping of Circuit Breaker: If your electric blanket regularly trips your home’s circuit breaker, it’s drawing too much power, which points to an electrical fault within the blanket. Unplug it immediately and replace it.
• Strange Odors: Any burning smell, even faint, from the blanket or its control unit is a critical warning sign that should not be ignored.
• Recalls: Stay informed about product recalls. Manufacturers will issue recalls if a safety defect is discovered.

From my perspective, it’s far better to be proactive than reactive when it comes to home safety. A few bucks saved on an old, potentially faulty electric blanket just isn’t worth the risk.

Understanding Your Electric Blanket’s Safety Features (And Their Limits)

Modern electric blankets come with an array of safety features designed to protect you. These advancements have made them significantly safer than the older models many of us remember. However, it’s crucial to understand what these features do and, more importantly, what their limits are, especially concerning water damage.

• Overheat Protection: This is arguably the most critical safety feature. Sensors embedded throughout the blanket constantly monitor the temperature. If any area gets too hot (perhaps due to being bunched up or a wiring fault), the blanket will automatically shut off to prevent scorching or fire.
• Automatic Shut-Off: Many blankets have a timer that automatically turns them off after a set number of hours (e.g., 10 hours). This prevents continuous operation if you forget to turn it off and saves energy.
• Low-Voltage Models: Some electric blankets operate on a much lower voltage (e.g., 12V or 24V DC, converted from standard household AC power via a power supply unit). While these still require the same care regarding water, the risk of severe electric shock is significantly reduced compared to full line-voltage blankets if a fault occurs. They are not, however, immune to short circuits or fire.
• Pre-Heat Settings: While not strictly a safety feature, this allows the blanket to warm up quickly and then settle into a lower, safer heat setting for prolonged use.

The Limit with Water: Here’s the critical caveat: these safety features are primarily designed to address *internal* issues – such as a component malfunction, a crimped wire, or the blanket becoming too bunched up. They are generally *not* designed to withstand or safely mitigate severe external water intrusion. Water can bypass the insulation, directly short circuit the heating elements, or flood the control unit, potentially disabling the very safety mechanisms meant to protect you. Therefore, relying on these features to save you from a water incident is a dangerous misconception.

The Environmental Aspect: Disposing of a Damaged Electric Blanket Responsibly

Once you’ve determined your electric blanket is beyond repair (which, as we’ve established, is often the case with water damage), don’t just toss it in the regular trash. Electric blankets, like many household electronics, contain components that can be harmful to the environment if not disposed of properly.

Responsible Disposal Steps:

1. Identify as E-Waste: Your electric blanket, with its internal wiring and electronic control unit, falls under the category of electronic waste, or “e-waste.”
2. Check Local Regulations: Disposal rules for e-waste vary widely by state and municipality. A quick search for “e-waste disposal [your city/county]” or “electronics recycling [your city/county]” should give you the necessary information.
3. Drop-Off Centers: Many communities have dedicated e-waste drop-off centers or hazardous waste facilities that accept old electronics.
4. Retailer Take-Back Programs: Some electronics retailers or appliance stores offer take-back programs for old electronics when you purchase new ones. It’s worth inquiring if this is an option.
5. Don’t Landfill It: Avoid putting it in your regular household trash if your local regulations prohibit e-waste in landfills. Components like copper, plastics, and circuit board materials can leach harmful substances into the soil and groundwater.

Taking the extra step to dispose of your electric blanket responsibly is a small effort that contributes to environmental protection and community health.

Frequently Asked Questions About Wet Electric Blankets

Q1: Can I wash my electric blanket if it gets wet?

This is a critical distinction. If your electric blanket got wet due to an accidental spill, pet accident, or similar incident that compromised its electrical components, the answer is a resounding “No,” you should not attempt to wash it as a remedy. The blanket is likely damaged and unsafe for any further use or cleaning.

However, if you’re referring to general cleaning of an otherwise undamaged electric blanket that hasn’t experienced a hazardous water incident, then yes, many modern electric blankets are designed to be machine washable. But you MUST follow the manufacturer’s specific instructions to the letter. These instructions often involve removing the control unit, washing on a gentle cycle with cold water, and often tumble drying on a very low or air-fluff setting, or line drying. Improper washing can damage the internal wiring even without a prior water incident. But to reiterate, using washing as a solution for an electric blanket that just got dangerously wet is not advisable; replacement is almost always the safest course of action.

Q2: What are the signs of an electric blanket being damaged by water?

The signs of water damage in an electric blanket can range from immediately obvious to subtle and insidious, often developing over time. Immediate signs might include the blanket or its control unit making popping sounds, emitting a burning smell, producing smoke, or instantly tripping your home’s circuit breaker when plugged in after the incident. If you see any of these, consider it severely compromised.

More subtle or delayed signs could include the blanket no longer heating up at all, or heating unevenly with noticeable cold spots. You might also observe visible scorch marks or discoloration on the fabric where the water made contact, or even a melted appearance on the plastic of the control unit or the power cord. Internally, water can cause corrosion, leading to increased resistance, hot spots, or intermittent functionality, which might not be apparent until days or weeks later. Any strange, chemical, or metallic odors coming from the blanket are also strong indicators of internal damage. If you notice any of these, even after the blanket appears to have dried, it’s a clear signal to discontinue use and dispose of it responsibly.

Q3: Is a small spill on an unplugged electric blanket still dangerous?

While a small spill on an unplugged electric blanket is certainly less immediately dangerous than one on a plugged-in, active blanket, it’s still cause for serious concern and requires extreme caution. Even a small amount of liquid, such as a splash of water or a few drops of coffee, can seep into the blanket’s internal structure. Once inside, this moisture can cause several issues.

Firstly, it can initiate corrosion of the delicate copper wiring and solder joints, compromising their integrity over time. This corrosion can lead to increased electrical resistance, creating future hot spots or short circuits when the blanket is eventually plugged back in. Secondly, the water could slowly degrade the insulation around the wires, making it brittle or porous, which could expose live wires later. Thirdly, the liquid might contain sugars or salts (like coffee or soda) that leave conductive residues once the water evaporates, effectively creating a permanent, invisible short circuit risk. Therefore, even a seemingly minor spill on an unplugged blanket should be treated with utmost seriousness. While a very light, blotted-dry splash might *theoretically* be okay after an extended, thorough air-dry, the safest and most recommended course of action for any significant liquid exposure is still to replace the blanket. The risk of unseen, long-term damage is too high to justify continued use.

Q4: Should I contact the manufacturer if my electric blanket gets wet?

Yes, contacting the manufacturer can be a good idea, though you should manage your expectations regarding the outcome. When you reach out, be prepared to explain the circumstances of how the blanket got wet. The manufacturer’s customer service or technical support department can provide specific guidance related to their product’s design and known vulnerabilities. They will likely be able to confirm their official stance on water damage, which, for liability and safety reasons, will almost certainly be to advise against further use and recommend replacement.

While they might not replace the blanket under warranty (as water damage is usually excluded), they can offer insights into proper disposal or confirm if any specific models have unique water resistance features (though this is rare for standard electric blankets). They might also be able to tell you if your model has any known issues that could exacerbate the problem. Their primary goal, however, will be to ensure your safety and protect themselves from liability, so expect a strong recommendation to dispose of the damaged blanket and purchase a new one. It’s always best to get information directly from the source, but prioritize your immediate safety by unplugging the blanket first, before making any calls.

Q5: Are newer electric blankets more resistant to water damage?

While newer electric blankets boast significant advancements in safety features, material quality, and energy efficiency, they are generally *not* inherently more resistant to severe water damage in a way that negates the inherent dangers of water and electricity mixing. The core principle remains: water is a conductor, and internal electrical components are vulnerable.

Some minor improvements might include better-sealed control units or more robust insulation around the wiring, but these are primarily designed to protect against dust, minor ambient humidity, or the rigors of occasional machine washing (where allowed by the manufacturer’s specific instructions). They are not designed to withstand being soaked by a spilled drink, a pet accident, or immersion in water. The fundamental risks of short circuits, corrosion, and the disabling of safety features due to water intrusion remain largely the same across generations of electric blankets. Therefore, regardless of whether your blanket is brand new or several years old, any significant water exposure should be treated with the same level of extreme caution and prompt action.

Q6: What about low-voltage electric blankets? Are they safer when wet?

Low-voltage electric blankets, which operate using a DC current (typically 12V or 24V) converted from your home’s standard AC power by an external power supply, are generally considered safer in terms of electric shock risk compared to traditional line-voltage blankets. This is because the much lower voltage significantly reduces the potential for a severe electric shock if you were to come into direct contact with a compromised wire. However, it’s a critical misconception to think that low-voltage blankets are “safe” when wet or immune to water damage.

Even at low voltages, water can still cause short circuits within the blanket’s internal wiring or the external power supply unit. A short circuit, regardless of voltage, can lead to excessive heat generation, arcing, and potentially a fire. The internal components, including the heating elements and their insulation, are still susceptible to corrosion and degradation from water. Furthermore, the external power supply unit itself operates at line voltage on the input side and is highly vulnerable to water damage, which could lead to fire or shock hazards right at the outlet. So, while the immediate risk of severe shock *from the blanket itself* might be reduced, the risks of fire, permanent damage, and the disabling of safety features due to water remain very real. You should still treat a wet low-voltage electric blanket with the same caution as a standard one: unplug it immediately and consider it compromised for safety reasons.