Types of Blankets to Try for a Cozier Home
Curl up in the perfect blanket.
There's no better feeling than curling up under a warm blanket when you're ready to relax after a long day. Choosing the right blanket requires more than just picking a color and pattern that matches your aesthetic – you’ve got to think about how a blanket’s size, material, and stitch will affect your overall comfort level. Whether you're looking for a cozy throw to drape on your sofa or in need of an extra warm layer for your bed, we've got a complete guide on types of blankets to help you find your perfect match.
Blanket Types
Blankets come in a range of knit and weave patterns that each have their own pros and cons. Find the right blanket type for your comfort, purpose, and style preferences.
Knitted
A knitted blanket style is created by looping yarn to create an interlocked pattern. Knitted blankets are incredibly cozy and offer a little more stretch, thanks to the weave pattern. Bonus: Knits are wrinkle-resistant.
Woven
The woven blanket style is created by criss-crossing vertical and horizontal yarns, creating a blanket that holds its shape well thanks to the tight weave. We love draping this type of blanket over a sofa or accent chair because of its ability to stay crisp and fresh.
Waffle
The waffle-knit blanket style is created by weaving small square grids. This pattern is breathable – its design creates an insulation that keeps you warm but not overheated, making it perfect for year-round use.
Because blankets are used for different purposes and on different-sized surfaces, it’s important to get your measurements right. Here are the standard blanket sizes based on the space or bed size you are styling.
Decorative Blanket Sizes
Decorative blankets are more commonly called throw blankets. A standard throw blanket is around 52" x 75" and works best in living rooms or studies with cozy furniture.These types of throw blankets are perfect for draping over accent chairs or storing by your sofa for days where you need an extra layer to keep warm while reading a good book or watching TV.
Bed Blanket Sizes
These types of blankets are designed to fit different-sized beds. They're great for using during a midday nap or in the colder months when you need an extra layer. They can also be draped across the end of a bed to add color, texture, and decor to your bedding. A standard twin or full blanket is 60" x 80", a queen requires a blanket at least 90" x 90", and blankets for a king size bed are around 102" x 90".
The right blanket material for you depends on your fabric and warmth preferences. Some blankets are better for keeping warm on a chilly night, while others will help you stay cool and comfy in the heat – keep reading to learn which one is right for you.
Cotton
We love how soft and breathable cotton blankets are – they're perfect for warmer months because they can keep you cool and comfy at the same time. Cotton is also hypoallergenic, so it's great for sensitive skin or anyone with allergies.
Linen
Linen is the thicker, stronger, and more durable version of cotton. This material is incredibly breathable, so it keeps you cooler in warm temperatures. Plus, it gets softer with every wash! Bonus: Linen is made from the all-natural fibers found in flax plants, making it hypoallergenic and eco-friendly.
Wool
Wool is one of the warmer blanket materials, so it's perfect for chillier days. Swap out your linen or light cotton summer blankets for a warm wool throw or blanket once the colder seasons set in. But don't worry about overheating: Wool absorbs moisture,so it wicks away perspiration for a dry warmth.
Acrylic
Acrylic is a lightweight, synthetic material that mimics the look and feel of wool and cotton. Acrylic is an affordable option and washes easily, making it a popular choice. We love how durable acrylic is, you won't have to worry about it losing its shape over time. This blanket material is warm, hypoallergenic, and machine-washable, making it a great alternative to wool, angora, and cashmere.
Additional Features
Along with material and sizes, there are a few extra features worth considering.
Weighted Blankets
Whether you're looking to relax or need a little help going to sleep, weighted blankets can make you feel at ease. The light pressure of weighted blankets have a variety of proven benefits, including stress relief and sleep quality. For the best results, choose a weighted blanket that is about 10% of your body weight.
Reversible
Get the most out of your blanket with a reversible style. These blankets feature a different pattern on each side – making a style refresh that much easier and more affordable.
Outdoor Use
If you enjoy spending cool nights out on the porch or patio, make sure you have a cozy blanket you can bring outside to keep warm. Outdoor blankets are easy to clean, so you don't have to worry about any outdoor materials getting stuck in-between the threads or staining your blanket.
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