With autumn nights drawing in and temperature starting to drop, Britons looking to stay warm might want to avoid turning on the central heating. That’s because billpayers will face up to a 10% increase in gas and electricity prices after the energy price cap was increased across England, Scotland, and Wales.
That could see typical household fuel bills jump by £149 to £1,717. Roughly 28 million homes across the UK will be impacted by the change in energy bills, which took effect on October 1, 2024.
Those who want to avoid relying on the radiators to stay warm — and save money in the process have recommended an usual new method. Enter, the Oodie.
This wearable blanket was launched in Australia, but has gone on to become a worldwide phenomenon. Fans of the cosy poncho-like garment is now a go-to recommendation for fans in the forum on Martin Lewis’ website.
One satisfied customer shared on the Martin Lewis’ Money Saving Expert website claimed, “Invested in an oversized hoodie blanket to snuggle up in, not used heating since.” A mother-of-two agreed, “When you want to avoid putting the heating on these are fab. The kids love theirs and never complain about being cold.”
Others have reported forgetting to switch on their heating because of the warmth from the Oodie.
Savings on your central heating bill isn’t something that Oodie itself lists as one of the perks of its wearable blankets, which feature featuring a plush fleece lining and kangaroo pocket. The comfortable loungewear surged in populartity during lockdown in 2020 as millions were told to work from home.
And with energy prices soaring to record levels, the appeal of Oodies shows no signs of waning.
The Australian brand offers a wide range of designs to suit various tastes. The latest clearance sale includes popular themed options incorporating characters from franchises like Pokémon, Harry Potter, Star Wars, and Barbie, with prices starting from £39 for adults. For children, prices start from £24.
For those seeking extra warmth, Oodie offers bundles combining their signature hoodie with a weighted blanket, currently reduced from £160 to £84. The weighted blankets, available in different weights to suit all body types, are said to enhance sleep quality.
While Oodie remains a popular choice, budget-conscious shoppers have alternatives.
Dunelm offers a range of oversized hoodies, including a new sausage dog design for £16. Their Teddy Oversized Blanket Hoodie, available in 11 colours, is priced at £16 and has received positive reviews for its warmth and comfort. Of course, you can also travel to a Dunelm store and check the sizing, materials, and design in-person before you decide to buy — something that isn’t easily done with the Oodie.
Following the runaway success of the Oodie, a swathe of other companies have launched competitors to the wearable blanket, including high street store Dunelm (pictured), Mountain Warehouse, and Amazon, to name just a few
DUNELM PRESS OFFICE
For those seeking a more versatile option, Mountain Warehouse offers a coat-style blanket for £34.99, suitable for outdoor wear. Oodie has also expanded into outer layers, with the same cosy lining.
As you might expect, Amazon has its (digital) shelves stocked with a range of Oodie dupes and lookalikes that offer the same wearable design, kangaroo-style pocket, and cosy lining. For those with a Prime membership, you’ll enjoy next-day delivery on this popular loungewear at no extra cost.
