Many people do not even realize that there are endless options available to pick from when it comes to choosing a blanket for your bedroom. The local climate of your home as well as your sleeping preferences can actually change the type of blanket that you may need. All the different types of blankets, based on their sizes, usage, as well as material that are available in the market been listed below for your reference. You can go through all the advantages as well as disadvantages of each blanket and pick the one that fits all your requirements and would provide you with added comfort while sleeping at night.
Types of Blankets based on Usage
1. Comforter
These are the most commonly used types of blankets in day-to-day lives. They are made by sewing two pieces of fabrics together, with a warm filling in between, like cotton or feather. The fabric used for the outer layers is usually cotton or polyester blends, which make the surface soft and smooth. They are best to be used during moderate winters as they retain a good amount of heat, without being really heavy.
Pros:
- The multiple layers of fabric and filling make it quite warm
- They provide a cloudy look to your bedding
Cons:
- Most of them are not machine washable and need to be dry-cleaned frequently.
- Comforters are to be used with a top sheet, which many don’t prefer.
2. Duvet
Duvets have a similar mechanism to a comforter. However, the only difference is that they are to be used with duvet covers, that fit them perfectly and can be easily removed and washed. A duvet is basically a white comforter with ties on either 4 sides to attach to the cover. Duvets are filled with warm materials like down, feather, or cotton.
Pros:
- Easily washable and can be used without a flat sheet
- Easy to transform your room looks by changing the duvet cover
Cons:
- If the duvet gets loosened from the cover, it might become lumpy and uncomfortable
3. Weighted Blanket
These blankets are heavy in weight and can provide a really cuddly and calming effect to the users. They use either extra layers of fabric to make them heavier or are filled with either glass beads or plastic pellets. These blankets are usually helpful for people with sleep or nervous disorders.
Pros:
- Helpful for people suffering from anxiety, autism, and nervous disorders
- Can improve your sleep quality and keep you warm
Cons:
- Highly expensive
- May get claustrophobic for some
4. Electric Blanket
Electric blankets are fitted with heating coils that are connected to the power supply to control the heating effect. They can be highly effective in regions with unbearable winters. They come in 2 different categories, “Under Blankets” and “Over Blankets” as mentioned below.
Pros:
- Can be highly effective in extremely cold climates
- The heating temperature can be moderated as required
Cons:
- May induce fire risk
- Not washable
- Not effective in places without power backup
- Under Blanket: Under blankets are basically electrically fitted sheets that are placed over your mattress. Therefore, you sleep over an “under blanket” to keep you warm throughout the night.
- Over Blanket: These blankets are to be used similar to any other blanket by placing them over your body. However, it is highly recommended to have another layer of fabric between the “over blanket” and your body to prevent you from the effects of heated coils.
5. Cooling Blanket
Cooling blankets are made for the hot sleeper type. By using advanced cooling technology and special moisture-wicking fabrics, cooling blankets provide the chill you need to break the sweat of summer. When we sleep, our bodies release heat into our mattresses and bedding, considerably warming the area around us. Cooling blankets use special fabrics to wick away the moisture. And thermal conduction takes care of the natural body heat that may get trapped.
Pros: Improved Sleep Quality, Reducing Night Sweats, Lower Air Conditioning Bill
Cons: Costs more, May not be warm enough for cool climates.
6. Throw Blanket
A throw blanket is smaller than most blankets and also more versatile. The main difference is that a throw blanket is not sized for mattresses like bedspreads, quilts and duvet covers are. This is because throw blankets aren’t just for beds. They’re meant to accessorize — and keep you warm — in any room.
Pros: Washable, easy to carry in any part of the house, low-cost low maintenance
Cons: It is not meant for chilly places or very low temperatures
7. Heated Blanket
A heated blanket may not necessarily be an electric blanket. There are options that don’t involve electricity at all. Likewise, some models are battery-operated and don’t use electricity from the power outlet, thus posing a much lower risk. These blankets and throws use air-activated body warmers. They are typically used to treat injuries and their formula allows them to provide heat for up to 24 hours simply by shaking them once. Such blankets have pockets that can be filled with as many body warmers as necessary.
Pros:
- Come in many shapes and designs (throw or blanket.)
- Don’t use electricity
- Much safer
- Cheaper to use
Cons:
- They aren’t as efficient and have a limited time span of being warm enough
- Not washable
Types of Blankets based on Material
- Polyester Blanket
- Cotton Blanket
- Wool Blanket
- Fleece Blanket
- Silk Blanket
- Linen Blanket
- Nylon Blanket
- Acrylic Blanket
- Bamboo Blanket
- Sherpa’s Blanket
- Mink Fur Blanket
- Chenille Blanket
- Microfiber Blanket
- Down Blanket
- Vellux Blanket
- Waffle Blanket
- Knitted Blanket
- Quilted Blanket
1. Polyester Blanket
One of the most common knitting materials used for blankets, polyester blankets are quite warm, however, made with synthetic material which may be allergic to some.
- Pros: Easily washable, long-lasting, do not lose their shape and color
- Cons: Highly unbreathable, may induce smell after continuous use
2. Cotton Blanket
Cotton blankets are some of the most commonly used blankets due to their amazing property of switching their temperature as per the season. They can be easily used during the summers as well as the winters.
- Pros: Hypoallergic, can be used for all the seasons
- Cons: shorter life span, expensive, may shrink with use
3. Wool Blanket
Wool is known to be used for some of the warmest blankets in the world. Wool is extracted from the body of animals like sheep and goats, which may be allergic to a few skin types. They are also quite heavy, however; may get softer with usage and wash.
- Pros: Eco-friendly/biodegradable, fire-resistant
- Cons: Highly expensive, difficult to wash and dry
4. Fleece Blanket
Fleece is a perfect alternative for those who are allergic to animal fur. It is a combination of synthetic materials which are extremely lightweight as well as warming. They are perfect to be used for small kids who cannot handle more weight.
- Pros: Lightweight, easy to wash, sun dryable
- Cons: Requires frequent cleaning
5. Silk Blanket
Silk is undoubtedly one of the most luxurious as well as softest materials that are used to make warm blankets. They are perfect to be used for people who sweat a lot while sleeping as silk is moisture resistant. Also, silk blankets are highly comfortable as well as breathable.
- Pros: Lightweight, luxurious looking, hypoallergic
- Cons: Highly expensive, needs dedicated care
6. Linen Blanket
Linen is a naturally extracted material and has the capability of adjusting to an individual’s body temperature as well as the climate. Therefore, they can be used for warm as well as cold climates. Linen blankets are usually made with a really thick linen fabric and can last for quite a long period of time.
- Pros: Eco-friendly, easy to clean, highly breathable
- Cons: Expensive, prone to wrinkles, may induce pilling with use
7. Nylon Blanket
Nylon is a synthetic material that can withstand really low temperatures. Blankets made with this material are quite durable as well as strong. However, they might seem a bit artificial and plastic-looking.
- Pros: Washable with cold water, Durable
- Cons: Blankets can pill, may feel rough during initial use
8. Acrylic Blanket
Woven acrylic is a synthetic material that is used to make blankets. Acrylic blankets are very lightweight, yet provide you with great warmth. Also, these blankets are moth resistant and can survive for a long period of time without any maintenance. Acrylic blankets have the texture and feel of a woolen blanket.
- Pros: Heat retaining, long-lasting, easily washable
- Cons: Not quite breathable, manufacturing process harmful for nature, might wear with extreme temperatures
9. Bamboo Blanket
Bamboo blankets have been designed to keep you warm all throughout the night and absorb all the moisture from your body, keeping you dry and warm at night. They are perfect for people who sweat a lot or are prone to any kind of allergies as bamboo blankets are anti-bacterial as well as anti-microbial in nature.
- Pros: Hypoallergic, odor resistant, eco-friendly, easy to clean
- Cons: prone to wrinkling, may shrink slightly with use
10. Sherpa’s Blanket
Sherpa’s blankets have two distinct sides, both of which are made of two different synthetic materials. One side is usually made with flannel that provides you with a smooth and soft feel. The second size is made with fuzzy fleece. These blankets are quite warm and will help you sleep comfortably even on the chilliest days of snow-clad mountains. They draw their name from Sherpas, who live on higher altitudes of the chilling atmosphere.
- Pros: Lightweight, natural fur-like feeling
- Cons: Shorter life span
11. Mink Fur Blanket
Mink is an animal whose skin, along with the fur is used to manufacture highly warm and rich-looking winter clothes as well as blankets. The traditional mink blankets are made with the actual skin of the mink. However, there is also an alternative material, that looks and feels exactly like the real mink fur, known as Mink-Fur only. These blankets are quite luxurious and can help keep you warm during moderate temperatures.
- Pros: Prevents sweating, highly durable, breathable
- Cons: May induce allergies, original mink fur blankets might be unethically sourced
12. Chenille Blanket
Chenille literally translates to “Caterpillar” in French. Surprisingly, chenille blankets are actually made with either rayon, cotton, or acrylic. However, they have added smoothness and softness. They generally have a really thick surface that may feature raised designs. They are more of a decorative blanket and can be used during moderate climates and provide a rich vintage look to your bedroom.
- Pros: Budget-friendly, comes in a variety of designs and colors
- Cons: Highly delicate, not machine washable, stretch easily, may induce allergies
13. Microfiber Blanket
Microfiber actually refers to a fiber that is thinner than a single strand of human hair. Microfiber blankets are generally made with synthetic material and are used with other blankets. This ensures the warmth of a traditional blanket and the rich feel and looks of a microfiber blanket. Microfiber blankets come in a variety of colors and can be used to create a rich antique or rustic look in your room.
- Pros: Machine washable, highly affordable, have a luxurious touch and look, highly durable
- Cons: Not effectively breathable, might not be effective with change in temperature, may catch fire easily, and melt at high temperatures
14. Down Blanket
A blanket that has been made with the feathers of different birds is known as a down blanket. These types of blankets are quite thin and lightweight, yet provide you with great warmth as well as comfort. They are one of the most popular and commonly used blankets throughout the world. However, you may need to be really careful while picking a blanket if you are allergic to any kind of fur or down material.
- Pros: Lightweight, easy to wash, more breathable
- Cons: Highly expensive, may trigger allergies, may use unethically sourced feathers
15. Vellux Blanket
These types of blankets are extensively used in the hospitality sector and are made of polyurethane foam. These synthetic blankets are highly durable. They can be washed multiple times without any kind of wear or tear. They are highly soft in nature, lightweight, as well as provide a really rich look to the room. Also, they can easily protect you from cold weather. However, these types of blankets are not suitable for those who sweat a lot while sleeping.
- Pros: Easy to clean, soothing touch, highly durable
- Cons: Not very breathable, not eco-friendly
16. Waffle Blanket
Waffle weave blankets are essentially made of 100% cotton and are good to be used all throughout the year. They are made with only a single layer of fabric that has a texture similar to a breakfast waffle. The waffle-like structure of the blanket allows the body heat to get trapped within the blanket, keeping you warm, instead of its thin fabric. They can be used alone during the summers and act as an add-on with your comforter during the colder season.
- Pros: Highly breathable yet warm, effective for round the year usage, lightweight, durable, easy to wash, budget-friendly
- Cons: They are effective during the colder days only with an additional layer of blanket
17. Knitted Blanket
Knitted blankets are available in various styles and designs. Generally, they are made out of one layer of textured and high-quality knitted fabric. This type of blanket is normally composed of various materials such as acrylic, wool, or cotton.
Knitted blankets can either be large-sized so they can cover a king-size bed, but some are small-sized which is only enough to cover sofas.
- Pros: This type of blanket comes in a vast variety of designs. Great for decorative purposes
- Cons: Can easily tear; not recommended if you have dogs or cats in your house
18. Quilted Blanket
Quilts are either machine stitched or needle stitched with a patchwork of old fabric or new fabric. Comforters are made of cloth bags and of feathers wool, silk, cotton, filled with down and synthetic fibers. Quilt serves the same purpose as both give warmth and add comfort to your room.
- Pros: Lighter in weight, Used in summer months, Good decorative items for the room, Regulates airflow, Maintenance-free
- Cons: Quilts are expensive, Visual versatility cannot meet the expectation
Tips to buy a Perfect Bed Blanket
Verify the Size That You Require:
The size of a blanket is one of the most important factors that might impact your comfort during the night while sleeping. You need a blanket big enough to cover your entire body effectively. However, the size must also not go beyond manageable and slip off while you sleep at night.
Finalize the Fabric Suitable for You:
You need to pay more attention to this category if you are allergic to anything. Many people might be allergic to fur or synthetic material, therefore; they need to pick a fabric that is hypoallergic in nature. The choice of material may also depend on the amount of warmth that you may require. Some of the blanket materials are usable in warm as well as cold temperatures. However, some may only be effective for cold weather. Also, if you are prone to sweating or feel claustrophobic at night, pick a blanket fabric that is lightweight as well as highly breathable.
Consider the Climate That You Need it For:
Some of the blankets like comforters, chenille, and linen, have been designed to deal with only moderate temperatures. However, if you reside in a place with extremely low temperatures, you may need to go in with blankets that provide you with a good amount of insulation throughout the night and keep you warm and comforted.
Pick the Right Color & Pattern:
Once you have finalized the size, type, and material of your bed blanket, it’s time for you to pick a design and color that may seem flattering to you. If you are more of a person who likes to keep switching the look and feel of their bedroom, you must go in with blankets like a duvet that can be used with interchangeable covers.
Fix a Budget:
Blankets really do not have a certain range of prices. A blanket might be one of the cheapest or even one of the most expensive bedding items in your room. Before you start your search for a befitting blanket, do not forget to have a tentative number in your mind.
Check the Washing/Cleaning Instructions:
The cleaning and washing instructions of a blanket can actually make a whole lot of difference. Some of the blankets can be easily washed in your machine and dried under the sun. However, many particular blankets need added care while cleaning. Moreover, some of the blankets might only be dry cleanable. Therefore, pick the item carefully after checking the complete cleaning instruction.
The right kind of blanket can surely promise you warming and comfortable night’s sleep even during the coldest temperatures. However, most of the people out there end up picking the wrong kind of blanket as per their needs. We hope that all the above-mentioned information will help you understand the usage and advantages of different types of material that are available in the market. After going through all the different types of blankets mentioned above, you would surely be able to pick the perfect blanket to provide you with the best possible comfort.
Jennifer Taylor
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