The Ultimate Blanket Buying Guide

Discover how to choose the perfect blanket to fit your needs.

Winter’s almost here, and that means it’s time to pull out your blankets! There’s nothing like curling up on your couch under a soft, cozy blanket when it’s cold outside. And adding an extra layer to your bed in the winter is just the thing you need to get a good night’s sleep.

If your blankets are looking a little old or aren’t as soft as they used to be, it’s time to get a new one. There are plenty of quality blanket options to choose from. That’s why Blain’s Farm & Fleet is here to help you find the best one!

Fabric/Material

Arguably the most important factor to consider when choosing a blanket is the material its made of. The type of fabric a blanket uses will affect how it feels, how warm it is, and how durable it is. Below are some of the most common types of blankets.

• Cotton Blankets: lightweight, breathable, soft
• Wool Blankets: very warm, moisture-wicking, soft
• Fleece Blankets: warm, soft
• Sherpa Blankets: very warm, plush, soft
• Down Blankets: extra warm, thick, fluffy
• Synthetic Blankets (polyester, acrylic, microfiber, etc.): warm, soft—depending on the material

Each blanket material has its own benefits. Choose one that will best meet your needs. One of the most important features of the material is its warmth.

If you live in a colder climate and you want a blanket to keep you extra warm, go with a heavier material like wool or down.

If you’re going to be using your blanket in warmer climates, choose a light, breathable material, such as cotton.

Size

The next thing you need to consider is how big you want your blanket to be. If you’re planning on using it on your bed, refer to the list below to find the best blanket size.

• Twin: 90″ x 66″
• Full: 90″ x 85″
• Queen: 90″ x 100″
• King: 100″ x 110″

If you just plan on using it while sitting on the couch and such, you should be safe to get any labeled as a “throw blanket.”

Otherwise, a twin-sized blanket is a good size for one person. For two people, go with either a full or queen. And for a group of people, your best bet is either a king or oversized blanket.

Special Features

There are also some blankets that come with special features to make them extra cozy. Two of the most popular kinds are weighted blankets and electric blankets.

• Electric Blankets: Generate heat to keep you extra warm. You can also adjust them to the perfect temperature.
• Weighted Blankets: Heavier than your average blanket. Can provide many benefits, such as reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality.

Décor

Another thing to think about is what you plan on doing with your blanket when you’re not using it. If you intend on storing it away, the looks of the blanket don’t matter all that much.

However, many people keep their blankets draped over their bed or couch. If this is the case for you, make sure you get one that comes in a color that will match your space.

If you intend to use the blanket as a sort of décor piece, consider getting one with a unique texture or bold pattern.

You can also get blankets that show your personality. For example, you could get one that’s printed or embroidered with your favorite sport team’s logo.

Budget/Price

Before shopping for blankets, decide what your budget will be. They come in a wide range of different prices.

When it comes to blankets, you often get what you pay for. If you want a quality, durable blanket that’s going to last you a long time, it’s likely also going to be more expensive.

Think about how often the blanket will get used, and by who. Many people use their blankets everyday. If that’s the case for you, it might be worth investing a little more money into.

However, if the blanket is primarily going to be used by children or pets, then go with a more affordable option that can easily be replaced.

Care & Maintenance

Some blankets require more special care than others. For example, some can go in the dryer, while others can’t.

Blankets made of polyester or cotton are typically easy to clean. This makes them a good choice if you have kids or pets.

If you want an low-maintenance blanket, make sure you read the care label before purchasing.

Look in Person

We recommend that you look at blankets in person before choosing one. This way, you’re able to feel them yourself and determine how soft/warm the material truly is.

This will also give you a chance to examine the stitching and see how durable the blanket is. Plus, you’ll be able to read the care instructions.

Head to your local Blain’s Farm & Fleet to check out a wide variety of different blanket options.

For more buying guides like this one, visit our Home & Family Blog.