Blankets are a staple of any home. From bedroom to sofa, they're the go-to option for adding extra warmth when you need it. You might think a blanket is just a blanket, but there are actually a variety of different types – each with their own unique characteristics. In this blog, we explore the different types of blankets, from the ever-popular fleece blanket to more specialist options.
Fleece blanket
Fleece blankets are one of the most popular types of blanket, known for their soft, cosy feel and warmth. They're typically made from polyester, with the material brushed to give a nap-like surface.
Types of fleece include polar fleece (popular for outdoor activities), micro fleece (lighter and thinner), and anti-pill fleece (more resilient). They're easy to care for and dry quickly, making them a practical choice for everyday use.
Knit blanket
Knit blankets are created by interlocking loops of yarn, resulting in a flexible, stretchy fabric. They have a slightly different texture to fleece blankets, with a more visible pattern and varying weights and densities depending on the type of knit used.
Chunky knit blankets have become particularly popular in recent years, lauded for their cosy appearance and comfort. Knit blankets can be made from a variety of materials, including cotton, wool, acrylic, and synthetic fibres.
Woven blanket
Woven blankets are made by interlacing threads on a loom, creating a sturdy and durable fabric. They often feature intricate patterns and come in various materials, from cotton to wool.
Types of woven blankets include jacquard (which features complex, multi-colour patterns), tapestry (which are particularly decorative and often feature historical or artistic designs), and plain weave (a versatile and simple pattern).
Electric blanket
Electric blankets contain embedded heating elements, making them great for people who struggle to stay warm in bed or those in very cold climates. They're usually made from polyester, which is a good insulator, and come in several sizes.
It's important to use electric blankets safely. Always check for signs of damage before use and avoid using them with pets, children, or people who are unable to feel temperature changes.
Throw blanket
Throw blankets are smaller than regular blankets and are used for warmth or decoration. They can be draped over sofas or chairs or used to keep warm when sitting or lying down. They often come in decorative patterns and are made from various materials like cotton, wool, polyester, or acrylic.
Weighted blanket
Weighted blankets contain a filling (often glass beads or pellets) that gives them extra weight. This extra weight creates a sensation known as deep pressure stimulation, which can have calming and therapeutic effects. Weighted blankets are often used to help with anxiety, autism, ADHD, and insomnia.
Duvet
Duvets, also known as comforters in the US, are soft, flat bags filled with insulating material. They typically contain feathers, down, wool, or synthetic fibres. Duvets are usually covered with a removable duvet cover which makes them easy to wash.
Duvets come in a range of warmth levels, often referred to by season (e.g. summer, all-seasons, winter). Choosing the right tog (a measure of warmth) is important for a comfortable night's sleep.
Sherpa blanket
Sherpa blankets have a distinctive two-sided construction: one side is made from a smooth fabric (often polyester or microfibre), while the other side is made from a fleece with a pile that resembles wool or sheep's fleece.
They're incredibly warm and soft, making them a popular choice for cold weather. The sherpa side is the warmer of the two, making it ideal for laying against your skin for maximum warmth.
Cotton blanket
Cotton blankets are made from natural cotton fibres, which makes them breathable and suitable for warmer weather or for people who tend to get too warm under blankets. They're also hypoallergenic and easy to care for.
Cotton blankets can be woven in various ways, including thermal (also known as waffle weave), which provides more insulation while remaining lightweight, or jersey, which is soft and stretchy.
Velvet blanket
Velvet blankets are known for their plush, luxurious feel. They're typically made from silk, nylon, or polyester and have a distinct smooth, soft texture due to the cut-pile fabric used.
Velvet blankets are typically heavier than fleece or cotton blankets and provide excellent warmth. However, they can require more careful maintenance than other blanket types.
