Space heaters are a winter staple, but they come with risks if used incorrectly. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, heating is one of the leading causes of home fires, and space heaters are a big part of why those fires can spread quickly.
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That doesn’t mean you can’t use one safely. It just means they require a little extra attention: keeping them away from anything that can burn, plugging them directly into the wall, and turning them off when you leave the room. When used properly, space heaters can be helpful for boosting warmth without running your whole heating system nonstop.
In this article: Dreo Space Heate with Thermostat, Remote Control and 12-hour timer, Vornado AVH10 (2025) Space Heater for Home and Dreo 25-inch Space Heater with Remote and Thermostat
If you’re considering buying one — or already have one — here’s what you need to know about staying safe, followed by top-rated models shoppers are buying right now.
According to Consumer Reports, here are the most important ways to use a space heater safely:
Following these steps can dramatically reduce the risk of heating-related fires.
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Dreo Space Heater with Thermostat, Remote Control and 12-hour timer
With more than 90,000 purchased in the past month, this 1,500-watt ceramic heater offers the best bang for your buck, according to our testers. It has five heating modes, a digital display, a 12-hour timer and a remote. Reviews say it's easy to use and heats up quickly. "This thing heats up almost instantly so it warms up the space very fast, which is also impressive. I like that it has a thermostat," one wrote.
Vornado AVH10 (2025) Space Heater for Home
Buyers bought 5,000 in the past month. This whole-room heater uses Vornado’s signature vortex airflow, plus auto climate control for even heating. It includes advanced safety features and a digital thermostat. Its reputation for consistent, comfortable heating is why it’s our Best of the Best.
Dreo 25-inch Indoor Space Heater with Remote and Thermostat
There were more than 10,000 bought in the past month. This tall, 1,500-watt heater delivers quick airflow for fast heating. It includes three modes, a remote control, thermostat and tip-over and overheat protection.
Amazon Basics Ceramic Space Heater
Customers purchased over 30,000 in the past month. This compact 1,500-watt ceramic heater features a tip-over switch, overheat protection and adjustable thermostat. It’s a simple, budget-friendly option for small rooms or office spaces with a straightforward design that’s easy to operate.
GiveBest Portable Electric Space Heater with Thermostat
With more than 50,000 bought in the past month, this popular heater offers two heat levels, a fan-only mode, a thermostat and ceramic heating. It’s safe for desks or bedrooms thanks to tip-over and overheat protection.
Lasko 1500W Ceramic Tower Space Heater with Remote
With more than 40,000 purchased in the past month, this tower heater oscillates and has a timer, remote control and adjustable thermostat. It’s designed for bedrooms and living rooms, providing consistent heat in larger spaces.
Dreo Space Heater, 1500W Portable Electric Heater with 70-degree Oscillation, for Indoor Use
With more than 40,000 sold in the past month, this model features 70-degree oscillation, five heating modes, a remote, thermostat, 12-hour timer and safety protections. It’s designed for quiet heating in bedrooms or offices, with fast ceramic warmth and a stable base.
Prices listed reflect time and date of publication and are subject to change.
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