I purchased this item after spending time researching similar products online, reading reviews, etc. I also looked at what was available in area stores and didn't like anything I found. When this item became available again through Amazon I decided to take a chance and try it. The blanket is so plush and soft! The wires are detectable inside if you feel for them but using the blanket you do not notice them at all. Both sides are very soft to the touch and the blanket provides warmth without making you hot, even on the high setting, unlike regular "heating pads." The size is just right to curl up under in a chair, which is where I use it most. I like the blanket so much I have just ordered a 2nd one to give to my elderly father, who is always complaining about being cold. The only negative thing I would mention is the cord, which is constructed with a plug at the bottom of the blanket and the controller about halfway up the length of the cord. I think it would be better if the length of cord between the plug and the controller was longer so that you could reach it more easily when sitting or lying down. The controller has a clip on the rear so you can attach it to the side of the blanket, which is how I am using it, but it is just awkward at the position it is in. This seems to be pretty universal with this type of product based on other user reviews that I have read, so it's not an issue that is unique to this particular product.