What Are the Different Types of Blanket Material?

You’re at home — either you just got in after a busy day, the weather outside is frightful or it’s just a lazy weekend — and your body wants to relax. Regardless, once you are resting upon a soft surface with your feet up, there is only one true way to top it off — and that’s with the perfect blanket. But sometimes it can feel overwhelming trying to buy something as simple as a new blanket with all the different types of blanket material available.

Now, you can’t just snuggle up underneath any ol’ blanket if you want to do it right. It all starts with what your blanket is made of. The right kind of material must be seriously considered in order to optimize the kind of relaxed comfort you deserve. We will get down to the nitty gritty of how different types of blanket materials can work to bring about different desired comfort results. Let’s get started.

What Types of Blanket Material Are There?

types of blanket material

There are many different types of blanket material to choose from. You could go with a type of blanket that gives high insulation or one that is a little lighter and more breathable. Here’s a rundown of on the attributes of the most popular types of blanket materials:

Cotton 

Cotton is a very soft material that wicks away moisture for better breathability. Plus, 100% cotton is hypoallergenic, which is perfect for allergy sufferers, babies or those with sensitive skin.  

Polyester

This type of synthetic material features a high thread count, which makes it very strong and durable. You can throw it in the washing machine over and over without losing its color or shape. It is also a more affordable fabric.

Fleece 

This is also a synthetic material made from blended polyester. It’s a bit heavier than microfiber so the warmth factor is quite high. It’s also very breathable and does a great job at wicking away moisture.

Wool 

This material is one of the heaviest and warmest available. It offers excellent thermal regulation, wicks moisture, and, because it is a natural fiber, breathes easily.

Down 

A down blanket is similar to that of down comforters, only thinner and lighter. It is constructed with a feathery layer that is sandwiched in between two other layers of cotton-like fabric. It is also a good conductor of moisture which can provide you with a dry environment.

Acrylic

Acrylic is a synthetic fabric that is lightweight, warm, and durable. It is also hypoallergenic and very easy to maintain.

What About a Fabric’s Weave?

When selecting the blanket fabric that is best for you, it is important to also take into consideration how the fabric is woven. Whether you are looking for warm or lightweight, it is all in the weave. The most common types are as follows:

Knit 

A knit weave offers a heavier feel for extra cozy warmth. It is usually made from wool or synthetic materials. 

Thermal

A thermal weave is more loose, which allows air to circulate easily. Despite the term “thermal” normally being associated with heat, it is actually lightweight and provides less warmth than other weaves. 

Conventional

The conventional is a very tight and close weave, which provides outstanding insulation for your body’s heat.

Quilted

A quilted weave packs in plushy down or down substitute inside a blanket that acts as a warm extra layer of insulation.

What Blanket Fabric Should You Pick?

types of blanket material

Okay, now that we have discussed the different types of fabrics a blanket can be made of and in what type of weave, what blanket should you select? That all depends on how your blanket is going to be used. We will go over what blankets can be used in what ways to help you make the right decision.

Style

If all you’re looking for is to add some flair to your bed or living room couch, then you don’t really have to worry about the type of material it is made out of. However, if you are prone to allergies, we would recommend going with cotton or acrylic because of their hypoallergenic properties.

Thick Warmth

If you want a blanket that will keep you nice and toasty, there are several great options to choose from. Wool is one of the heaviest and warmest options available and is also breathable and moisture-wicking. Fleece is also very similar to wool in terms of warmth and breathability, but just a little bit less heavy. 

Light Warmth

If you prefer your blanket to provide warmth, but be less bulky, we have you covered. Cotton is lightweight, wicks moisture, and because of the microscopic spaces between its fibers, traps heat to keep you warm. Down is a thinner material, but retains heat thanks to its cotton-like inner layers. Lastly, synthetic acrylic is the most lightweight material available, yet because it is not breathable, really locks in the heat.

Bottom Line

Hopefully, you are now confident enough in the different types of blanket fabrics to decide which one works best for you. We don’t want you to feel overwhelmed by all the information. A blanket is supposed to provide you with comfort, not stress. We simply want to equip you with enough helpful facts to be aware of when starting your search. Facts such as:

  • Know and understand the properties of the materials a blanket is made from. Cotton, polyester, acrylic and more all have distinct features that should help narrow down your decision. Also, stay aware of what weave the fabric has been fashioned in.
  • Always remember that a fabric’s thickness plays a big role in the type of warmth a blanket provides. Just don’t assume that a particularly thin blanket is not a warm one. It all depends on the fabric. 
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