What Is a Throw Blanket?
A throw blanket is a smaller fabric compared to a regular blanket, and you will often see it draped over chairs, sofas, or at the foot of a bed. Unlike full-size blankets that are large enough to cover the entire body, a throw blanket is designed to be more compact. It can be used as a shawl draped over your shoulders to keep warm or placed over your lap for extra coziness.
Because of its smaller size, a throw blanket usually cannot cover the whole body like a standard blanket. However, it works perfectly as an extra layer of warmth, placed on top of your bedding or a larger blanket. Beyond functionality, a decorative throw blanket can also add style, color, and texture to a room, making it both practical and aesthetic.
The Difference Between Throw Blanket and Blanket Materials
Natural fiber throw blankets, made from plant-based and animal-based fibers, are known for their breathability and skin-friendly qualities. However, some materials can be more difficult to maintain or come with a higher price tag.
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Cotton and Linen Throw Blanket:
A cotton or linen throw blanket offers excellent breathability and strong moisture absorption. It feels cool to the touch, resists static electricity, and is durable enough to withstand frequent washing. This type of throw blanket is ideal for summer use or in hot, humid climates. Comfortable and skin-friendly, it provides great value for money.The main drawback is its weaker heat retention, which means it is less suitable for cold winter months compared to warmer fabrics like wool or fleece. -
Wool Throw Blanket:
A wool throw blanket offers excellent warmth, softness, and comfort. Containing natural proteins, it can even promote circulation, making it ideal for winter and cold climates. However, wool throw blankets are prone to pilling and are usually more expensive. -
Silk Throw Blanket:
A silk throw blanket is smooth, delicate, breathable, and moisture-absorbing. Naturally antibacterial and hypoallergenic, it’s gentle on the skin and ideal for summer or sensitive users such as babies. Luxurious and skin-friendly, silk throw blankets offer great comfort, but they provide less warmth and the fabric can snag easily. -
Bamboo Fiber Throw Blanket:
A bamboo fiber throw blanket has a hollow structure that makes it more breathable and absorbent than cotton or linen. It is naturally antibacterial, UV-resistant, and static-free. Cool and lightweight, it’s perfect for summer and hot climates, offering anti-mite and anti-odor benefits. However, bamboo throw blankets are generally less durable than cotton or linen.
Common Blanket Materials
Blankets are one of the most common bedding essentials, and they come in a wide variety of materials. Each type of blanket has unique features and is suitable for different needs. Below are some of the most common blanket materials:
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Wool Blanket:
A wool blanket is well-known for its excellent warmth and comfort. It has good breathability, helping to create a stable temperature while you sleep. In addition, wool naturally resists static, mites, bacteria, and moisture, making it a healthy and durable option. However, wool blankets have relatively poor wrinkle resistance and require extra care to avoid friction that could leave marks on the surface. -
Cotton Blanket:
A cotton blanket is soft, comfortable, breathable, and easy to clean and maintain. This type of blanket is well-suited for spring and summer use, offering light comfort and freshness. However, its heat retention is moderate, making it less effective for cold winter months. -
Linen Blanket:
A linen blanket features a unique texture with excellent breathability and moisture absorption. Durable and long-lasting, it is best suited for warm environments or summer use. However, its heat retention is relatively low compared to other blanket materials. -
Faux Fur Blanket:
A faux fur blanket provides excellent warmth while mimicking the luxurious look and feel of real animal fur. Highly decorative, it is a popular choice for consumers seeking style and a fashionable touch in their home décor. -
Polyester Blanket:
A polyester blanket is strong, elastic, durable, wrinkle-resistant, heat-resistant, and highly wear-resistant. It does not attract moths or mold, and it dries quickly after washing without losing its shape. However, polyester blankets are harder to dye, have poor moisture absorption, and can generate static electricity. They also tend to attract dust and hair, and may feel less breathable, sometimes causing a stuffy sensation. -
Coral Fleece Blanket:
A coral fleece blanket is made from one of the latest textile fabrics, offering strong absorbency, breathability, warmth, and softness. However, it may shed fibers, and people with sensitive skin or asthma are advised to avoid using it. -
Raschel Blanket:
A Raschel blanket is considered one of the highest-quality blankets, made with the Raschel weaving technique. It offers excellent comfort, breathability, and warmth. Known for its smooth and delicate texture, vibrant colors, and durability, a Raschel blanket does not shed or fade and maintains its shape over time.
Throw Blanket vs. Regular Blanket Sizes
The sizes of throw blankets and regular blankets differ, and understanding their dimensions can help you choose the right one for your needs. Below is a quick comparison of common blanket sizes:
Baby Size[in inches]
preemie 18x18
stroller 30x36
recieving 36x36
toddler 40x60
Adult Sizes[in inches]
lap/wheelchair 36x48
throw 48x60
throw xl 50x70
twin bed 69x90
full bed 84x90
queen bed 90x90
king bed 110x110
Conclusion
Now that you understand what a throw blanket is and how it differs from a regular blanket, you can choose the type that best fits your needs. You can also contact Leis to create a custom throw blanket or custom blanket in the size and material that works perfectly for you.
We hope this guide has helped clear up your questions and made it easier for you to find the right blanket for comfort, warmth, and style.
