Blankets and throws are available in a wide variety of fabrics, so picking the best material for blankets depends on what benefits you are looking for. The best blanket for a baby might be made from different material than a blanket for cold weather camping. To help you decide on the best blanket for you, here are some common blanket materials and their benefits.
A blanket made with 100 percent cotton fabric has a number of desirable attributes. Cotton blankets are soft and hypoallergenic, which makes them perfect for allergy sufferers, babies, or people with sensitive skin. Cotton blankets are also great for summer because of their breathability, which helps regulate your temperature and keep you cool on a hot night.
When the weather cools down and you need some extra insulation at night, a wool blanket will provide plenty of warmth. However, a wool blanket will also adapt as the temperature changes. The breathability of wool and its moisture-wicking properties will draw perspiration away and promote a comfortable, dry temperature. As an added benefit, wool is naturally fire resistant, which makes wool blankets safer to use around heat sources than some synthetic fibers that can melt.
Some people are sensitive or allergic to wool but want a blanket with comparable softness and warmth, which makes fleece a suitable alternative. Fleece is made from synthetic materials but has many of the same qualities as wool. It helps wick moisture away from your body and provides warmth on a cold night, but it is more lightweight than wool. Fleece blankets can be washed and dried at home for convenient cleaning.
Often used as another alternative to wool or cashmere, acrylic is warm, lightweight, and hypoallergenic. Acrylic can imitate the feeling of natural fibers, but it is much easier to care for. Acrylic blankets are machine washable for easy cleaning at home, and their colors won’t fade after consistent washing. Acrylic’s synthetic construction is also resistant to being moth eaten after being in storage.
If you want an affordable blanket made from long-lasting material, polyester is the perfect option. Polyester will stand up to washing and drying for years without losing its color or shape, and it generally costs less than natural fabrics. A blanket made with a blend of polyester and cotton or other natural materials is a good way to get the sturdiness of polyester without sacrificing the softness and breathability of natural fibers.
Now that you've learned about blanket materials, check out our guides on Bed Sheet Fabrics and our 5 Tips for Better Sleep.
