9 Different Types of Blankets for Your Comfort and Style

Do you ever get that sudden rush of joy when you snuggle under your warm blanket on a cold night? That's one of the best feelings in the world. Like many, I had my favorite childhood "blankie" that I couldn't go anywhere without.

Sadly, part of growing up means letting go of that precious fabric of comfort. On the bright side, I found out that there is a whole world of blankets to explore, each offering its own unique blend of coziness and comfort.

If you experience the same, don't be overwhelmed. Let me walk you through the many different types of blankets, their materials, and how to choose the best one for yourself.

Comforter

Let's kick things off with the comforter, one of the popular types of blankets and is a staple in many bedrooms. With its resemblance to a fluffy cloud, the comforter is more than just a bed covering – it's a symbol of warmth and coziness.

This plush blanket is filled with a soft, insulating material such as down or synthetic fibers that are evenly distributed throughout the material, ensuring that it envelops you in a cocoon of comfort and provides a welcoming retreat on chilly nights.

Pros

• Offers excellent insulation, keeping you snug and warm even on the coldest of nights, making it a perfect companion for those who seek comfort and warmth during the winter months.

Cons

• Its voluminous nature can be a drawback in warmer climates, where its insulating properties may be excessive, leading to discomfort for some individuals.

Duvet

Moving on to the duvet, it's like having a thick, giant, huggable pillow for your bed. This blanket is filled luxurious materials like down or feathers, providing an unparalleled level of softness and warmth. What's more, they often come with a removable cover, making them easy to clean and allowing you to switch up the look whenever you fancy.

Pros

• Duvets are synonymous with luxury and plushness, providing a cocoon of comfort that can be easily customized with a variety of covers to match your ever-changing décor and design preferences.

Cons

• They may require periodic fluffing to maintain their lofty appearance.
• Their initial cost may be a consideration for those on a budget.

Quilt

Take a stroll down memory lane with the timeless allure of quilts. These handcrafted comfortable blankets, stitched with care and steeped in tradition, bring a heartwarming touch of nostalgia to any space. Comprised of layers of fabric intricately sewn together, quilts not only provide warmth and comfort but also infuse a room with a sense of old-world charm that's hard to resist.

Pros

• The handmade quality of quilts exudes a unique charm and adds a cozy, nostalgic ambiance to any room.

Cons

• While quilts offer a delightful visual and tactile experience, they may not provide sufficient warmth on colder nights.
• Their intricate construction can make them challenging to clean, as many require dry cleaning, which may not be ideal for everyday use.

Coverlet

If you're looking for a blanket with a lighter touch, the coverlet is your go-to companion. It strikes the perfect balance, delivering just the right amount of warmth without the added bulk. These thin, stylish blankets are meant to elegantly cover the top of your bed, offering a practical solution for layering or for those residing in warmer climates.

Pros

• This breathable and lightweight blanket ensures a comfortable and cozy experience while adding a refined and polished look to your bedding.
• Its versatility makes it a breeze to layer with other blankets, allowing you to tailor your sleeping environment to your exact preferences.

Cons

• However, it's important to note that while the coverlet excels in breathability and style, it may not effectively keep you warm on colder nights.
• Its limited size options may not cater to all preferences.

Throw Blankets

Nothing says cozy like a throw blanket draped over your favorite chair or sofa. It's like the Swiss Army knives of home decor – versatile, practical, and oh-so-stylish. These small blankets are great for adding a pop of color or texture to any room, whether artfully draped over a sofa or neatly folded at the foot of your bed.

Pros

• The throw blanket is a surefire way to infuse instant coziness into any space, offering a quick and easy solution to refresh the ambiance of your room with a simple swap for a fresh look.
• Perfect for snuggling up on the couch, it's a versatile and indispensable companion for those relaxing evenings at home.

Cons

• While the throw blanket excels in its decorative and snuggle-worthy qualities, it's important to note that it may not provide sufficient warmth for sleeping.
• Its compact size may not fully accommodate taller individuals, so it's best suited for leisurely lounging rather than for use as a primary bedding option.

Weighted Blankets

Indulge in the soothing embrace of a weighted blanket – it's like receiving a gentle, comforting hug that helps you unwind and relax. As the name suggests, weighted blanket is made to provide a comforting pressure through the use of heavy materials, such as plastic pellets or glass beads, which can help reduce tossing and turning, promoting a sense of calm and relaxation.

These blankets are usually used by occupational therapists to alleviate a range of conditions, including anxiety, depression, autism, and sensory processing disorders.

Pros

• The benefits of using a weighted blanket are numerous, as they have been shown to improve sleep quality and reduce stress and anxiety by providing a reassuring and calming pressure, allowing for a more restful and rejuvenating sleep experience.

Cons

• These blankets can be relatively expensive.
• Their weight and insulating properties may not be suitable for hot-sleepers or for young children.
• Due to the nature of their filling, weighted blankets can be challenging to clean, and their substantial weight makes them less practical for travel or for easily moving from one location to another.

Knitted Blanket

Bring a touch of handmade charm to your home with a knitted blanket. These cozy creations are crafted from soft, chunky yarns, creating a warm and inviting texture that's perfect for snuggling up on cold nights.

Pros

• The handmade quality of knitted blankets exudes a charming rustic appeal, adding a cozy and inviting ambiance to any room.
• They are relatively easy to care for, making them a practical and enduring addition to your home decor.

Cons

• Knitted blankets may be prone to stretching or losing their shape over time.
• While they offer a delightful tactile experience, they may not provide sufficient warmth on colder nights, so it's essential to consider your specific comfort needs when incorporating a knitted blanket into your living space.

Electric Blanket

Keep snug and cozy throughout the winter season with an electric blanket – the latest innovation in the world of blankets. Crafted from a substantial material, these blankets conceal a sophisticated wiring system with coils that generate heat in the underlying layers. By incorporating built-in heating elements, electric blankets offer customizable warmth at the simple touch of a button, making them an ideal companion for chilly nights.

To ensure safety, these blankets are typically constructed from polyester and acrylic materials to prevent any risk of burns, and they often come equipped with a remote control for effortless regulation of the heat levels within the blanket. Believe me, this is a winter essential. I remember using this back in my days in Korea, and it's simply the best!

Pros

• The adjustable heat settings of electric blankets allow for personalized warmth, catering to individual comfort preferences and making them the best blanket for cold climates.
• The targeted warmth provided by these blankets can help alleviate minor aches and pains, offering a soothing and therapeutic experience.

Cons

• The use of electric blankets necessitates access to an electrical outlet, which may not always be convenient.
• Individuals with may need to exercise caution when using electric blankets.

Emergency Blanket

Compact, lightweight, and incredibly versatile, the emergency blanket stands as an essential addition to any outdoor excursion or emergency preparedness kit.

Also referred to as space blankets or heat sheets, these innovative blankets are fashioned from thin plastic sheeting enhanced with heat-reflective properties, meticulously engineered to effectively retain body heat and offer crucial protection against the elements during unforeseen emergencies.

Pros

• The emergency blanket's compact and lightweight design makes it remarkably portable and easy to carry, ensuring that it's always within reach when needed.
• In emergency situations, these blankets are often used for insulation and protection, offering a cost-effective and practical solution for safeguarding against the elements.

Cons

• Emergency blankets may not possess the same level of durability as traditional blankets and may be susceptible to tearing, particularly in rugged conditions.
• While they excel in providing essential protection, their functionality is primarily geared towards emergency use, and they may not offer the same level of comfort and longevity as standard blankets.

Things to consider when buying a blanket

Before you dive headfirst into purchasing a blanket, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. Let's explore the essential factors that will guide you in finding the best type of blanket for your needs.

Type of Blanket Material

One thing you should know: blankets come in different materials, but surely, you'll find one that speaks to your comfort and style preferences.

Each fabric, from the plush warmth of fleece to the silky smoothness of satin, brings its own unique texture and feel to the bed. Whether you prefer the snuggly embrace of wool or the lightweight comfort of microfiber, rest assured that there's a fabric out there to suit every taste and preference.

Now, let's get to know the different blanket materials:

Cotton

Cotton blankets boasts the softest fabric, breathability, and all-around comfort. Crafted from natural cotton fibers, these blankets are a versatile choice for every season, providing a hypoallergenic and lightweight warmth during the summer months and cozy comfort when the winter chill sets in.

Fleece

Fleece blankets are the easiest to find in the market and are crafted from polyester or a blend of synthetic fabrics. These single-layer blankets are soft, lightweight, and exceptionally warm, making them an ideal choice for cozying up on chilly nights. Similar to cotton, fleece blankets are also hypoallergenic, offering a comforting option for those with allergies. If you desire the warming properties of a wool blanket but have allergies, a fleece blanket could be the perfect alternative for you.

Silk

Among all the materials, silk stands out as the softest and most luxurious choice for crafting blankets. The breathability of silk makes it an excellent option for warmer climates or homes with air conditioning, as it offers a lightweight level of warmth. Additionally, silk blankets effectively wick moisture away from the body, making them highly recommended for individuals who tend to sweat during the night.

Wool

Indulge in the enduring warmth and durability of a wool blanket – a timeless staple in the world of bedding. This fabric material is celebrated for its remarkable insulation and moisture-wicking qualities, ensuring that you stay snug and dry in any weather conditions. However, it's worth noting that wool may feel scratchy or itchy to some individuals.

On the plus side, wool is naturally fire-resistant, adding an extra layer of safety. The biodegradable nature of the material makes wool blankets sustainable and eco-friendly. Moreover, wool is naturally antibacterial, reducing the need for frequent washing.

Velvet

Elevate the luxury with a velvet blanket – the pinnacle of opulence and indulgence. These blankets are renowned for their soft, smooth, and incredibly luxurious texture, providing a sumptuous feel against the skin and infusing a touch of glamour into any room. What's more, they excel at retaining warmth without feeling heavy, making them a delightful addition to your bedding ensemble.

Microfiber

Microfiber blankets are a fantastic choice for daily use, thanks to their softness, lightweight feel, and impressive durability. Crafted from synthetic fibers like polyester and nylon, they boast exceptional strength, resistance to wrinkles, and a soft texture against the skin. What's more, these blankets are hypoallergenic, making them a gentle and soothing option for those with sensitive skin.

Polyester

It's quite common to come across blankets made from polyester since polyester is also incorporated in the composition of other materials. In fact, one of the key benefits of a blanket predominantly crafted from polyester is its remarkable ability to withstand multiple washes and drying cycles without losing its color or shape. Polyester and cotton blends are a favored option for blankets as they combine the primary advantages of both materials – durability and softness. Polyester blankets are ideal for people on a budget.

Size

When it comes to blankets, size matters! Think about the dimensions of your bed and your sleeping habits when picking the perfect size blanket. Are you a solo sleeper like me, or do you prefer to share your blanket with a partner? Choose a twin, queen, or king-size blanket accordingly, making sure you have enough coverage for a good night's sleep. And don't forget to factor in some extra length or width for those unexpected midnight snuggles!

Season

Blankets aren't just for staying warm in the winter – they're a year-round essential for bringing comfort and style to your bedroom. When choosing the right blanket for each season, consider the climate and temperature fluctuations in your area.

Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton or linen for summer, and snuggle up with plush fleece or wool blends when the temperature drops. You can also look for versatile options like reversible blankets or layering pieces that can adapt to your changing comfort needs throughout the year.

Budget

Ah, the age-old question: how much should you spend on a blanket? Well, there's no one-size-fits-all answer, but it's important to establish a budget that aligns with your comfort and quality preferences. Whether you're considering budget-friendly options or indulging in a luxury purchase, there's a blanket available for every price point.

When determining the value of a blanket, take into account factors such as fabric quality, brand reputation, and durability. Keep in mind that investing in a high-quality blanket can pay off in the long run, providing years of comfort and coziness for a restful night's sleep.

Types of Blanket FAQs:

Are weighted blankets suitable for everyone?

Weighted blankets can provide comfort for many people, but they may not be suitable for everyone, particularly those with certain medical conditions or sensory sensitivities. It's best to consult with a healthcare professional if you have concerns about using a weighted blanket.

How do I clean and maintain my electric blanket?

It's essential to follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning and maintaining your electric blanket. Typically, electric blankets should be unplugged before washing, and most can be safely machine washed on a gentle cycle. Always ensure that the blanket is completely dry before reconnecting it to the power source.

Can I use an emergency blanket for everyday purposes?

Emergency blankets, also known as space blankets, are designed for short-term use in emergency situations, such as outdoor survival scenarios or first aid situations. While they can provide temporary warmth, they are not intended for everyday use and may not be as comfortable or durable as traditional blankets.