'Will save a fortune on heating'

With cold temperatures set to return as we head into late January and early February, people will be looking for cost-effective ways to stay warm at home.

Silentnight's Heat Genie Self-Heating Giant Blanket is a perfect alternative to an electric blanket - as it costs absolutely nothing to run.

After paying the initial price tag of €28.72 for extra large, self-heating blanket, you can use it whenever and wherever you want without paying running costs.

Described as 'comfortable and cosy', the blanket features a heat-reflecting foil layer that bounces body heat back onto the person, providing an extra layer of warmth without the need for electricity.

Available from Amazon in three colours, the plush fabric exterior and sherpa fleece interior ensure the foiled layer won't be felt, and its super-sized dimensions, measuring 180cm x 240cm, make it large enough for more than one person to snuggle under.

It doesn't need to be plugged-in and is ideal for curling up on the sofa, keeping warm in bed on cold nights, or draping over laps when working from home.

Plus the Silentnight blanket is fully machine washable, ensuring it stays fresh throughout the season.

The blanket has been tried and tested by hundreds of customers, who have given it an average rating of 4.6 stars on Amazon.

One customer said in their five star review that it's 'perfect for colder nights' adding: "I purchased this blanket on a whim, as I didn't want one with cables and wires. I used it for the first time last night, when the temperature dropped well into the minus. It was brilliant! 

"It is really good quality, it is lightweight (lighter than I expected) and easier to chuck on or carry around to use in your favourite places. Definitely will be purchasing a couple more and I wholly recommend."

Another said it 'will save a fortune on heating this winter', adding: "Lovely and warm and retains its heat. So easy to use either snuggled up on the sofa or as an extra topping on the bed."

While a third wrote: "Was looking for a blanket that was warm without needing to plug in and this one fits the bill. Gorgeous looking, really great quality.

"Perfect for snuggling on the sofa and also very large so good for putting on a king-size bed if you want to. Warms you up really quickly even if you're freezing and stays warm."

In a more mixed review a customer wrote: "Unfortunately it hasn't really kept me warm whilst watching TV but, popped it on the bed and it kept me well toasty through the night - best night sleep in ages."

To shop the Silentnight Self Heating Blanket which currently has a 14% discount head to Amazon here.