A Guide To Buying Knitted Throw Blankets
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Nothing is more comforting than snuggling up under a super soft, large throw!
Not only are these throws the perfect things to cuddle up with during movie night, or nap time, but they are also the easiest way to add warmth, color, and texture to your space. In fact, throws are the most versatile and practical investments for the home, it can be bundled into your chair or proudly spread as a duvet-substitute and your personal bedroom feature. Or, you easily can take these warm throws from your private den to a cozy couch in the hall and beyond— preferably wrapped around you.
But, when it comes to buying a throw blanket, there are so many options available it can become overwhelming — so how do you get it right? Apart from ensuring an appropriate style, the weave — conventional or knitted throws, fabric, and size of the throw also matters.
Here is a simple guide on how to ensure you get the right throw blanket for yourself:
Find the Fabric that Works for You
Usually, throw blankets are made from polar fleece (which is excellent for insulation and comfortable against your skin) or microfiber (a breathable alternative to cotton) because these fabrics are light and perfect travel companions.
In case, you come across a fiber combination option, then nothing like it. Not only will your throw blanket stay fresher longer — ultimately requiring much less lint rolling — and will instantly appear more luxurious. You can try knitted throws with sherpa backing or sherpa fleece/polyester mash-up, which is ideal for evaporating moisture, or if it’s your style, add luxury to your home with a rich faux fur throw ( perfect for making your den or living room more cushy and comfortable). These will make your common throw blanket into something that packs much more of a punch than those heavy comforters that are stashed into your closet. You can opt for natural fibers— they are great options, though generally heavier, and while vellux might also tempt you, it is more common in the hotels than the home.
Here are some common throw blanket fabrics — each has its own benefits and use, so choose the one that best suits your needs and style.
- Wool
It provides excellent insulation while allowing moisture to evaporate, but is quite heavy. However, it is a great choice if you want a very heavy, warm throw blanket for yourself—but make sure to check beforehand if you are allergic or sensitive to wool.
- Fleece
These are super soft, lightweight yet cozy and extra warm, making it a perfect fabric for the entire year. Created usually from polyester, fleece is hydrophobic and good at wicking away moisture, hence, these blankets are popular with children. The fleece throw along with a sherpa backing will add an extra dimension of comfort and warmth.
- Cotton
These fibers are made from the cotton plant and offer soft, breathable, comfortable, and long-lasting fabric. Throw blanket made of cotton hold up well to multiple washing, making them a good choice for those who suffer from allergies. Depending on the weave, cotton can be lightweight enough for use in summers, or heavy enough for winter warmth. Providing ample, cozy insulation, cotton is durable and easy to maintain.
- Down
This fabric is filled with a layer of feathers (goose or duck feathers) to make the blanket thick, fluffy, and light. It is the most effective insulator and is also breathable, will keep you cool in summer and very warm in winter. If you want a high-quality fabric that is very insulated, consider going with a down throw blanket. However, it is not a good option for people with allergies as this fabric is typically made of goose feathers.
- Synthetics
Many types of synthetic fabrics are also used for blankets such as acrylic, polyester, and microfiber. Though synthetic throw blankets are warm, they often attract a good deal of static electricity and tend to hold onto hair, dust. Generally, inexpensive, synthetic throws are a good option if you have a stricter budget, but remember that they are more likely to have issues of pilling and wear.
- Vellux
Popularly known as ‘hotel blankets,’ vellux blankets are perfect for every season of the year. It contains a thin foam core surrounded by a soft nylon plush with a velvety texture. Warm and soft, vellux throws can stand up to repeated washings even at high temperatures. As it is hypoallergenic fabric, it is a great choice for you if you have allergies.
- Cashmere
This is one of the most sought-after fibers in the world. Sumptuous and extremely soft, cashmere throw blankets are warm, light, and silky, but they are also very expensive. It has fantastic insulation, and if you can afford it, it can be a great addition to your bedding during chilling colder nights.
Know the Weave
The weave of the fabric presents another array of options to choose from, so don’t end up confusing yourself more.
Basically, warmth and weight are the indicators of weave, with each representing different benefits. Conventional is a close weave, making them for excellent insulation of body heat, but if you need something hot and heavy for the chillier months, a knitted throw is perfect for you — extra-warm for the chillier months. But, if you are more interested in enhancing the aesthetics than practicality, don’t go for knits.
For a better understanding of the weave, read on:
- Conventional: This is the typical blanket weave, and is very tight and close, thereby, creating excellent insulation for body heat.
- Thermal: This is generally found in cotton blankets and is lightweight. It is loose, letting air circulate easily and are good for the summer months.
- Knit: Cozy knit throw blankets are heavy and warm. These are usually made from wool or synthetic materials.
- Quilted: Traditionally, it is composed of three layers of fiber sewn together to make a thicker padded material. Down blankets are typically quilted to prevent the down from shifting inside the blanket.
Understand the Size
Beds don’t always adhere to standard size measurements, but don’t you worry.
Here are some general rules that you can follow when purchasing a throw blanket for your bedroom:
- A full/queen will need a throw measuring 68 by 80 inches.
- Go for a 88 by 104 inches spread for a king-size bed.
- If you are having a twin bed, ideally 51 by 60 inches should do the trick.
- If shopping for a couch, the same principle applies. If your sofa is on the smaller side, opt for the full-sized blanket, and work up from there.
Sum Up
A throw blanket is a chance to showcase your taste and personality. These cozy pieces present much more freedom than other room decor additions and if chosen wisely, it can be a vibrant finishing touch to a minimalist bedroom. If your home’s color palette is more muted, a throw with a brighter design might tempt you, or you can also add more neutrals or ethereal shades with different fabrics. Whatever kind of throw you opt for, you are guaranteed to be warm and snug!