How to pick the right blanket for your bed
Finding the right blanket for your bed in both summer and winter can be difficult.
For one, you might be hyperallergic to specific fabrics, and two, the most affordable option might not keep you cosy and cool when you need it most.
This decision is highly dependant on your personal preferences and your budget.
Decorating your bed with new bedding is an exciting process. If you’re looking to spruce things up and give your bedroom a modern spin, you need to look at the latest trends and purchase something that is in fashion, feels soft and comfortable on your skin, and gives your bedroom that much-needed pop.
Buying a blanket takes time, research and consideration. Higher quality blankets are usually more expensive, therefore you will need to budget for your pocket and your newly decorated bedroom. It might seem like colour and size are the two most important elements, but what about the fabric source?
Here are a few tips and considerations to think about when choosing the right blanket:
Choose the right size
When it comes to blankets, size certainly does matter. Depending on your bed size, you will need to invest in one large enough to cover the mattress and hang off the sides. If you want to be able to tuck the blanket in on the sides, you will need to ensure that it’s a size bigger than your actual bed size. The usual blanket sizes go according to bed lengths and widths. For example, single, three quarter, double, queen and king. Many beds also come with an extra length addition, which extends the length of the bed for taller people who want to be able to sleep comfortably. So, based on your bed size and blanket needs, it’s recommended that you choose a blanket the size, or bigger, of your bed to ensure coverage.
Choose the right fabric
Many of the common blanket fabrics are made from cotton or fleece material, but there are plenty of other choices such a wool, cashmere, synthetics, down and electric blankets. Each type of fabric is used in different weather conditions and for various reasons, however, it all comes down to your needs.
Take a look at the following types of popular types:
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Cotton: This type of fabric is used for blankets and clothing because of its durability. Standard cotton blankets feel soft on your skin, and depending on the weave and development process, warm and heavy in the winter months and light in the summer months. It’s ideal for people who suffer from common skin allergies, as the fibres are designed to be non-itchy. If you are looking for a more sustainable option, you can also source organic cotton blankets.
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Wool: This type of material can be extremely soft, but it tends to be scratchy on skin that is sensitive and allergic to the fabric. If you are not sensitive to wool, choosing this fabric would be ideal as a blanket source because it provides you with incredibly warm insulation.
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Down: A down blanket has feathers inside or a synthetic substitute to ensure you keep warm at all times. It is ideal for summer and winter nights, as the material comforts you according to the temperature. Again, if you are allergic to feathers, you will not be able to purchase the traditional down blanket so opt for the synthetic substitute. These feather-filled blankets are costly investments but worth it if you appreciate a high-quality blanket for the winter.
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Fleece: Fleece blankets are the incredibly soft and fluffy blankets that become popular in home stores over the colder months. This type of fabric is popular with younger children and adults alike as they are light, easy to transport and extra cosy.
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Synthetics: This type of material can be split into three common categories, namely, acrylic, polyester and microfibre. All of these are affordable, warm options for children and adults. However, the only downside to these blankets is their ability to hold dirt and bacteria easily.
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Electric: These blankets are made from synthetic fabric, combined with electric heating elements to bring heat to the bed. The beauty of these blankets are the programmable abilities. For example, if you are sleeping next to someone in a double bed, you can choose to switch your side on without affecting them. While these blankets are valuable for colder months, be sure to read the instructions carefully and monitor your bed while in usage.
Final thoughts
Based on the above, choosing a fabric to suit your needs can be tricky. If you have specific needs, you will be able to weigh up your options carefully and simply go the extra mile to make an effort. Be sure to also choose the right weave to complement your room. For example, quilted bedspreads in South Africa are trending at the moment, so take a look at the different styles and patterns to add that extra luxurious touch to your bed. Weave styles such as knits are also good options for comfort and warmth. A soft, comfortable blanket can bring you plenty of joy when you jump into bed, so choose your blanket wisely.