Electric Throw Blankets NZ: A Complete Guide to Goldair, Dimplex & Sunbeam

There is something especially inviting about settling into your favourite chair when the evening turns cool. Whether it is a winter movie night, a chilly morning at the bach or one of those New Zealand spring evenings that feels colder than expected, an electric throw adds a welcome layer of personal warmth.

At LX2001, our heated throw options include the Goldair Luxury Faux Fur Electric Throw in Cream, the Dimplex Heated Throw in Charcoal and the Sunbeam Feel Perfect Faux Fur Heated Throw Blanket. All three offer adjustable warmth and machine-washable fabrics, but their sizes, finishes and controls give each a different appeal.

This guide takes a closer look at those differences, explains what to check before buying and helps you decide whether a heated throw or a fitted electric blanket better suits your routine.

What is an electric throw blanket?

An electric throw is a blanket with integrated heating elements, designed to provide personal warmth when used as directed by its manufacturer. Rather than simply trapping the warmth your body produces, it lets you select a heat setting using a connected controller.

Think of it as an extra comfort layer for quiet time on the couch, reading in an armchair or relaxing after a busy day. It is not a room heater: its job is to warm the person using it, not bring the whole lounge to a comfortable temperature. You may still need room heating for the wider space.

Goldair Luxury Faux Fur Electric Throw: a plush cream option

If your idea of comfort starts with a luxurious fabric finish, the Goldair Luxury Faux Fur Electric Throw – Cream is a natural starting point. Its faux fur finish and cream colour make it an appealing choice for a lounge where you want your throw to feel like part of the furnishings.

Key features

• Faux fur finish in cream.
• Four heat settings.
• Auto-off timer.
• Detachable controller.
• Machine washable, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Dimensions: 160 × 120 cm.
• Listed weight: 1.65 kg.
• Listed power rating: 120 W.
• Two-year warranty.

The four heat settings offer a straightforward choice of warmth levels without a long list of controls to work through. At 160 × 120 cm, it has the same listed dimensions as the Sunbeam and is smaller than the Dimplex. Measure against your favourite seat and the coverage you prefer.

We would start with the Goldair if your priorities are a faux fur feel, a light neutral colour and simple heat adjustment. The cream finish also gives it a different styling direction from the darker Dimplex and Sunbeam, particularly if your lounge already uses pale upholstery or natural tones.

The product listing confirms an auto-off timer but does not specify its duration. Check the supplied instructions for the timer's operation rather than assuming it matches another model.

Dimplex Heated Throw: more coverage and finer heat adjustment

The Dimplex Heated Throw – Charcoal, model DHEBHTCG, combines a micro fleece finish with a larger 180 × 130 cm format. It is the option we would look at first if blanket coverage and a wider choice of heat settings matter most.

Key features

• Micro fleece fabric in charcoal.
• Nine heat settings.
• Slide controller with Braille markings.
• Easy-to-read power setting and LED timer indicator.
• Three-hour auto-off timer.
• Detachable controller.
• Machine washable, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Dimensions: 180 × 130 cm.
• Two-year domestic warranty.

Compared with the Goldair and Sunbeam, the Dimplex is 20 cm longer and 10 cm wider. That extra fabric may appeal if you like a more generous drape over your lap and legs, although the right fit still depends on your height, posture and chair.

Nine heat settings give you more adjustment steps than the Goldair's four or Sunbeam's six. That does not establish which throw gets hotter, but it does give you more settings to choose between as you find a comfortable level.

The charcoal finish suits a different look from the Goldair's cream faux fur, while the controller's Braille markings and LED timer indicator are useful details to consider when comparing how you will operate the throw. Check that the controls suit the intended user before purchasing.

Sunbeam Feel Perfect Faux Fur Heated Throw: plush comfort with flexible timers

The Sunbeam Feel Perfect Faux Fur Heated Throw Blanket, model TRF4300, brings another appealing combination to the range: dark grey faux fur, six heat settings and a choice of auto-off durations. If you like the idea of a plush finish but prefer a darker colour than cream, this is well worth a closer look.

Key features

• Dark grey faux fur made from 100% polyester, listed at 410 g/m².
• Six heat settings.
• One digital controller with illuminated display.
• Fast heat-up feature, listed as ready to use in 10 minutes.
• Selectable auto-off after 1, 3 or 9 hours.
• Feel Perfect Secure Sleep Protection, described as nine levels of safety protection.
• Elements and controls described as designed and engineered in Italy.
• Machine washable, following the manufacturer's instructions.
• Dimensions: 120 × 160 cm.
• Listed power rating: 150 W.
• Zipper storage bag included.
• Three-year / 36-month NZ warranty.

The Sunbeam has the same listed blanket dimensions as the Goldair, with a different colour and control setup. Its six heat settings sit between the Goldair's four and the Dimplex's nine, offering a middle ground in adjustment choices without implying a difference in maximum temperature.

The selectable timer is a particularly useful comparison point. Rather than a single specified duration, the Sunbeam offers 1-, 3- and 9-hour auto-off options. Choose and use these only as directed in the supplied manual. A longer timer, or the Secure Sleep product feature name, should not be taken as permission to sleep under the throw or leave it unattended.

For an evening reading session, the listed 10-minute heat-up feature may appeal if you prefer not to wait long before settling in. The illuminated digital controller is another reason to consider Sunbeam if you prefer a digital display over a slide controller. Check that its controls suit the intended user.

The included zipper storage bag is a practical extra for keeping the throw together between seasons. Let it cool and follow the manufacturer's folding and storage instructions before packing it away. Its listed three-year NZ warranty is also longer than the two-year warranties listed for the Goldair and Dimplex throws; consult the product's warranty terms for coverage details.

We would shortlist the Sunbeam for someone wanting dark grey faux fur, a digital controller and flexible auto-off choices in a 160 × 120 cm format. Browse the Sunbeam throw search results or visit the product page for current details and availability.

Goldair, Dimplex or Sunbeam: which should you choose?

Choose the Goldair if your first priorities are a plush faux fur finish, cream colouring and a simpler selection of four heat settings. Its 160 × 120 cm format may appeal if you prefer less blanket fabric around your seat.

Choose the Dimplex if you want the largest dimensions of these three, charcoal micro fleece, nine heat settings and a specified three-hour auto-off timer. Its slide controller with Braille markings is another point of difference worth considering.

Choose the Sunbeam if you want dark grey faux fur, six heat settings, an illuminated digital controller and selectable 1-, 3- or 9-hour auto-off. Its listed 10-minute heat-up feature, included storage bag and three-year NZ warranty add further reasons to put it on your shortlist.

All three are listed as machine washable. Goldair and Dimplex list two-year warranties, with the Dimplex warranty described as domestic; Sunbeam lists a three-year NZ warranty. Neither fabric preference nor the number of heat settings makes one universally better. The best choice is the one that matches your space, your preferred texture and the way you like to adjust your warmth.

Choosing an electric throw for your NZ home

Start with where you will use it

For the lounge, compare the throw's dimensions with your usual sitting position. If you tend to stretch out, the larger Dimplex may be appealing. If you want a smaller faux fur throw for an armchair, consider the cream Goldair or dark grey Sunbeam.

For a home-office break or a quiet evening at the bach, think about the practical setup as well as the fabric. You need a suitable indoor power supply and a way to keep the cord clear of walkways, chair mechanisms and anything that could pinch it. Follow the product's instructions for positioning and use.

Consider the person using the controls

More settings are useful only if the controls are comfortable to use. Some people prefer a small number of choices; others appreciate finer adjustment or an illuminated digital display. Consider visibility, dexterity and the user's ability to respond to heat, and check the manufacturer's suitability guidance before buying for someone else.

Think beyond the coldest month

A heated throw can be appealing during cooler shoulder-season evenings as well as winter. Adjustable settings let you select a level that suits the moment. Start with a comfortable setting in accordance with the instructions, rather than assuming you need maximum heat every time.

Electric throw versus fitted electric blanket

Our search results also include Dimplex fitted electric blankets. These are a different category from the lounge throws above. A fitted electric blanket is designed for the bed and must be installed and used according to its own instructions; a heated throw should not be treated as an interchangeable mattress underblanket.

If your main goal is bed warmth rather than couch comfort, explore these options:

• Dimplex Single Fitted Electric Blanket – White: listed dimensions 91 × 193 × 40 cm.
• Dimplex Queen Fitted Electric Blanket – White: listed dimensions 152 × 203 × 40 cm.
• Dimplex King Fitted Electric Blanket – White: listed dimensions 182 × 203 × 40 cm.

These fitted models list non-woven polyester fabric, three heat settings, detachable controls, machine washability, overheat protection and an eight-hour auto-off timer. Match the size and fit to your mattress, and check the instructions for mattress compatibility and permitted use. The presence of a timer is not, by itself, permission to use any heated blanket while sleeping.

What about electricity use?

It helps to distinguish personal heating from room heating. An electric throw delivers warmth close to you, while a room heater serves the wider space. Whether a throw reduces your total electricity use depends on how you use it and whether it changes your other heating habits.

The Goldair listing gives a 120 W power rating, while the Sunbeam lists 150 W. As an illustration, an appliance drawing a constant 120 W for one hour uses 0.12 kWh; at a constant 150 W, it would use 0.15 kWh. Multiply the energy used by your own electricity rate to estimate the cost. These are calculation examples, not measured hourly running costs for the throws: actual use can vary with control operation and selected setting.

The Dimplex throw listing does not specify wattage, so we would not make a numerical running-cost comparison across all three. A power rating alone also does not establish comparative warmth or efficiency. Check the rating labels or manufacturer documentation if power consumption is central to your decision.

Care, cleaning and sensible everyday use

All three throws are listed as machine washable, but machine washable does not mean that every component can go into the wash. Read the care label and manual for the exact disconnection, washing, drying and reconnection procedure. Do not wash the controller or reconnect the throw before it is fully dry as directed.

Before use, check the blanket, cable, connector and controller for damage. Do not use a damaged product. Avoid trapping cords in furniture or using the throw tightly folded, bunched or under pressure contrary to its instructions. Keep liquids away from electrical components, and follow the manual for switching off, unplugging and storage.

Do not assume a heated throw is suitable for overnight use, outdoor exposure, children, pets or anyone unable to respond independently to excessive warmth. Confirm the intended user's suitability and the permitted setting with the manufacturer. An auto-off timer is a helpful feature, not a substitute for following the operating instructions.

Frequently asked questions

Which throw is bigger?

The Dimplex measures 180 × 130 cm, compared with 160 × 120 cm for both the Goldair and Sunbeam. That makes the Dimplex 20 cm longer and 10 cm wider.

Which has more heat settings?

The Dimplex has nine, the Sunbeam has six and the Goldair has four. The number of settings describes adjustment choices, not a verified comparison of maximum temperature.

Do all three have an auto-off timer?

Yes. The Dimplex listing specifies three hours, while the Sunbeam offers selectable 1-, 3- or 9-hour auto-off. The Goldair listing confirms an auto-off timer without specifying its duration. Follow each model's operating instructions.

What makes the Sunbeam different?

Its combination of dark grey faux fur, six heat settings, an illuminated digital controller, selectable auto-off durations and a listed 10-minute heat-up feature sets it apart. It also includes a zipper storage bag and lists a three-year NZ warranty.

Can I wash them?

All three are listed as machine washable. Follow the individual care instructions, including the requirements for disconnecting electrical components and drying before reuse.

Can a throw replace a fitted electric blanket?

Do not substitute one for the other unless the manufacturer expressly permits that use. Choose a heated throw for its intended personal-comfort role, or a fitted electric blanket designed for your bed and mattress.

Find your next cosy favourite at LX2001

For cream faux fur and straightforward heat adjustment, explore the Goldair Luxury Faux Fur Electric Throw. For a larger charcoal micro fleece throw with nine settings and a three-hour timer, take a closer look at the Dimplex Heated Throw. For dark grey faux fur, digital controls and flexible timer choices, consider the Sunbeam Feel Perfect Faux Fur Heated Throw Blanket.

Browse LX2001's electric throw and blanket search results to view current product information and availability. Whether you are choosing for the lounge or looking for a fitted option for the bedroom, start with the right product type, then match the size, fabric and controls to the way you like to get comfortable.