Types of blankets
Depending on the material, there are three types of products:
- natural (wool, cotton, fur, down);
- artificial (acrylic, microfiber, polyester, faux fur, fleece);
- mixed (natural with the addition of artificial ones or vice versa).
According to the size chart, the following are distinguished:
- adults;
- teenage;
- children's.
According to the method of making blankets there are:
- knitted;
- woven;
- sewn from a single piece of material;
- patchwork.
Which blanket is better to choose?
When purchasing a blanket, you need to consider the following points:
- dimensions of the furniture for which the product is intended;
- characteristics of the material. For summer you should choose a light blanket, for winter - a warm, thick one. If a person suffers from allergies, preference should be given to artificial materials;
- color spectrum. If the blanket will serve as a bedspread, it is worth choosing a shade that can complement the interior or become a good accent.
A blanket is a universal item needed by both adults and children. The variety of models available for sale today allows you to choose a bedspread to suit every taste and color. Everything depends only on the imagination of the consumer and the available budget.
Pros and cons of blankets
Material
The most important selection criterion is the material of manufacture.
Acrylic blankets
The material is similar to natural wool. The fabric is soft, lightweight, made from synthetic fibers.
Pros:
- retains heat-insulating properties and attractive appearance for a long time;
- unpretentious care, machine washable;
- hypoallergenic, suitable for people with hypersensitivity and children;
- no static electricity;
- durability of the original color due to color fastness;
- low price;
- impressive assortment.
Minuses:
- air is retained;
- foreign odors are absorbed;
- tendency to form pellets;
- loses softness from bright light;
- It absorbs greasy stains well that are difficult to remove.
Microfiber blankets
New generation synthetic fabric consisting of polyamide or polyester. A special feature is the thickness of the thread, which is an interwoven fiber with a thickness of 1 Dan.
Pros:
- easy care (regular washing is allowed);
- durable, wear-resistant fabric;
- the color lasts a long time;
- no pellets are formed;
- absorbs moisture well, but dries quickly.
Minuses:
- a static charge is formed;
- The product cannot be ironed or dried at high temperatures (for example, on a radiator).
Microfiber blankets are used as bedspreads or blankets as they are very warm.
Polyester blankets
The fabric consists of polyester fibers. The appearance depends on the shape of the fiber and its processing.
Pros:
- pleasant to the touch;
- products are durable, resistant to stretching and friction;
- light weight;
- easy and simple to wash, dries quickly, does not wrinkle;
- low price;
- does not absorb odors.
Minuses:
- electrified;
- at elevated temperatures it changes shape (shrinks).
Faux fur blankets
The base is a primed fabric onto which synthetic pile is attached. Popular due to its thermal insulation qualities and low cost.
Pros:
- durable and wear-resistant;
- moisture resistant;
- large selection of colors;
- retains heat well;
- not of interest to moths;
- Easy to clean, washing machine can be used.
Minuses:
- produces static electricity;
- prone to the formation of pellets;
- attracts dust.
Fleece blankets
Pros:
- resistant to mechanical influence and high temperatures;
- does not fade in the sun;
- absence of allergic reactions;
- resistance to mechanical stress;
- very easy care (does not wrinkle, washes perfectly);
- may be dry cleaned or ironed;
- moths and mold do not grow;
- light weight.
Minuses:
- Over time, static tension accumulates, which is eliminated by rinsing with an antistatic agent.
Cotton blankets
Natural material of plant origin.
Pros:
- environmentally friendly;
- a light weight;
- soft, pleasant to the body;
- the appearance is preserved after a large number of washes;
- hypoallergenic.
Minuses:
- wrinkles easily;
- takes a long time to dry;
- does not retain sufficient heat, more suitable for cool summers.
Wool blankets
Wool products are distinguished by their beauty, warmth, and health benefits.
Pros:
- medicinal properties for diseases of the musculoskeletal system, colds;
- blood circulation is activated;
- moisture is absorbed well, but the blanket remains dry;
- rarely washed due to wool’s unique self-cleaning ability;
- long service life;
- pleasant to the body.
Minuses:
- cause an allergic reaction;
- some models are prickly;
- high price;
- limited range of colors.
The composition of natural products is cashmere, camel, sheep wool.
Camel wool blankets
The material has amazing properties. It protects from cold, saves from heat and humidity.
Pros:
- the amount of absorbed moisture is equal to 30% of the total weight of the product, while maintaining dryness;
- has a beneficial effect in the treatment of arthritis, arthrosis, radiculitis, colds;
- The wax contained in the composition creates softness and has a positive effect on the skin, absorbing into it. Lanolin (wax) is preserved after numerous washes;
- antistatic material;
- does not electrify, relieves static voltage, which is especially important in a house with electronics and plastic;
- light, warm;
- durable (average service life - 9 years).
Minuses:
- Mite waste products cause allergies. Regular cleaning will help get rid of them;
- hairs tingle a person's skin - this is useful, but unpleasant.
Blanket sizes
The size determines the purpose of the product:
- Large: 180×220, 200×200, 200×220, 220×240, 240×260 cm - options for double beds, large sofas;
- 170x240 cm is suitable for a small sofa;
- 130x170, 140x200, 150x200 cm - chair options.
Children's blankets:
- 75x75, 75x90 cm - for newborns;
- 100×120, 110×140 cm – for small children;
- 130×160, 140×205 cm – for primary school age.
Make sure that the blanket covers the sides of the furniture, but does not touch the floor. A comfortable overhang length is 20 cm on one side.
Blanket shape
Common shapes are rectangular and square models. Children's products often have rounded corners. Each manufacturer has original versions. Some companies make any shapes to order.
Equipment
There are models that come complete with bed linen. This allows you not to disturb the design of the bedroom and create an overall composition.
Children's models are sometimes complemented by a soft toy that matches the blanket in color or pattern.
Polyester blankets
pros | Minuses |
softness | electrified |
strength | sits in hot water |
does not stretch | |
ease | |
doesn't wrinkle | |
simple wash | |
dries quickly | |
low price | |
does not absorb odors |
Flaws
- Wearability. Since the product does not have a duvet cover, the appearance becomes worse with constant use. Scuffs appear, the color changes, especially on the side where it sits, if it is used as a bedspread. And if they are wrapped and covered with it, the color of the material changes from the inside. At the same time, the operational properties are preserved.
- Dust. Since almost any blanket consists of fibers of various lengths, the products collect dust very well. Therefore, regular cleaning is necessary.
- Allergens. We are talking about natural materials. Animal fur sometimes causes allergic reactions, but artificial fabrics are hypoallergenic.
- High price. The most expensive models will be natural bedspreads.
- A common problem with blankets is the formation of static electricity.
Wool blankets
pros | Minuses |
has medicinal properties | allergic |
has a self-cleaning function | prickly |
moisture resistance | high price |
durability | limited colors |
How to choose a blanket
To choose a suitable blanket, determine for what purpose you need it:
- If it will cover a sofa or bed, you should be guided by the criteria of size and composition. The material for a sofa where people will constantly sit, for example, in front of the TV, should be easy to wash. Also be wear-resistant so that there are no marks.
- If you need a blanket for cool summer days, it is better to give preference to cotton. For greater warmth, natural or artificial wool is suitable. Pay attention to the thickness of the bedspread.
- To choose the best product, pay attention to the condition of the folds. If the pile is matted or completely worn out, such a blanket will not last long.
- Pay attention to the finish. The edge is stitched, folded, and treated with ribbon, braid or fringe. The stitching should be smooth, without elongated loops or threads.
- Consider the pattern so that it is symmetrical, without dropped loops.
- Examine the surface - the texture should be smooth, even, uniform.
Choosing a blanket
Most often, a blanket is purchased as a bedspread for a bed or sofa.
The determining factor when choosing a product should be the size corresponding to the dimensions of the furniture for which it is intended. Today it is not difficult to choose a bedspread for a bed or sofa thanks to a grid of standard sizes. The problem of choice can only be faced when you need a blanket for a corner sofa. In this situation, you can either sew the product to order, or purchase a European model with an elastic band. The last option is very convenient, because the elasticated blanket takes the desired shape and size, tightly covering the parts of the corner sofa.
Care
The care requirements for different materials differ. The washing conditions for each model are indicated on the label.
Regularly clean the blanket from dust using a clothes brush. Wash cotton items using an automatic machine. After washing, do not wring out the bedspread so that it retains its shape. It is better to dry it horizontally to preserve the structure.
Wool models are washed exclusively by hand. The water is cool, mild detergents are used. You can’t unscrew it, let the water drain on its own. Dry on a flat surface. Camel wool loves airing in the warm season and snow baths in winter. Do not wash using detergents. To clean, just shake the blanket.
Products should be stored in a cardboard box or simply rolled up. Should not be wrapped in plastic wrap.
Features and Benefits
Fluffy faux fur blankets have many useful benefits. This material, although not natural, accumulates heat well. A person who is wrapped in a blanket will feel comfortable.
A bedspread with a long pile has increased wear resistance. It is ensured thanks to modern textile manufacturing technologies. The blanket lasts a long time and does not lose its brightness, especially if the owner follows the basic rules of care.
The material from which shaggy blankets are made quickly evaporates moisture. The item always remains soft and dry.
Unlike a blanket or bed linen, a coverlet does not need to be replaced frequently. It is purchased once, for a long period of time.
Today, blankets are sold everywhere, and their price attracts buyers. There are a huge number of options on the textile market. Many products have unusual colors or are created using a unique type of knit. The materials used differ. Often, buyers find handmade products that are completely original.
The only disadvantage of a fluffy blanket is the rapid accumulation of dust.
The item has a long pile of heterogeneous structure. On such a surface, dust particles settle immediately, in large quantities.
The problem can be easily solved. To ensure that the fluffy blanket remains beautiful and does not harm the owner’s health, the standard cleaning procedure should be carried out more often.
Guarantee
There are two reasons for returning a purchased blanket:
- The product turned out to be of inadequate quality, a manufacturing defect was discovered, it fell apart, broke through, or deteriorated through no fault of yours.
- The product did not match in color, dimensions, size, or design.
Typically the warranty is issued for 7 days. If you wish to exchange or return an item, this can be done within 2 weeks from the date of purchase, provided you have the packaging, label and receipt. The blanket must retain its presentation.
No warranty is provided if the product:
- damaged due to unforeseen situations - natural disasters, fire, everyday occurrences;
- damaged due to improper handling, storage, transportation;
- dirty.
Standard sizes of blankets
When purchasing a blanket, you should focus on the dimensions of the bed, sofa or chair for which it is intended. If you plan to take the product with you on a trip or on a picnic, you should not choose a large size bedspread. Blankets usually have standard sizes:
- euro size. A bedspread designed for a bed with dimensions of 180x200 cm. The product for such furniture has a size of 200x220 cm;
- euro maxi size (king size) – 220x240 cm, 240x260 cm;
- double size (for a double bed) – 180x210 cm;
- single size – 150x200 cm;
- The size of a children's blanket is 110x140 cm or 100x150 cm. A children's blanket can also be used as a play mat;
- for newborns - 80x100 cm. This is a standard suitable for a crib. Some manufacturers reduce the width of the product by 5 cm, but such blankets are no less popular than standard ones.
The most suitable models for covering are those with a width of 140 or 150 cm and a length of 200 cm. Such products are convenient to take with you on a trip or to the country.{banner_serefs}{banner_ondes}
Blanket manufacturers
Tango
Chinese brand. Quite popular, as the blankets stand out for their appearance and quality. The products are made from modern materials, so they do not cause allergic reactions and are suitable for small children.
They absorb moisture but dry quickly. Weight is usually light. The colors are bright, saturated, and remain that way for a long time.
Tango blankets are distinguished by a wide range of design solutions. The products are distinguished by the traditional high quality of tailoring, safety of the composition and dye for people, and highly artistic design.
Paters
A company that combines classics and modern trends in textile fashion.
A popular manufacturing material is natural yarn (pure New Zealand wool). It is distinguished by thin hairs that trap large amounts of air. Acrylic models are recognized as the most functional products, characterized by softness and lightness. They are very popular due to their affordable price.
Children's collections have a lot of advantages: lightweight, hypoallergenic, breathable, and retain heat.
Caring for New Zealand wool requires gentle hand washing using a mild detergent.
Website of company representatives: https://pled-spb.ru/catalog/pledy/
Arya
Well-known Turkish company. Manufacturers combine oriental style and European quality.
The product has an excellent composition and high-quality painting.
Models are made from microfiber, fleece, calico, faux fur, polyester. The appearance of the products is represented by checkered, monochromatic, multi-colored, pronounced zigzag patterns, images of animals or flowers.
The embossing effect, beautiful piping, imitation leopard skin, oriental patterns, marine themes, and city images represent the variety of products.
Children's products consist of microfiber on one side, polyester on the other. Used as a crib cover or a light blanket.
A wide selection is presented on the website: https://www.aryahome.ru/
Biederlack
A German company engaged in the production of blankets from various materials:
- delicate cashmere;
- warm sheep's wool;
- light cotton;
- hydroscopic acrylic, polyacrylic;
- Durable polyester, microfizer.
Blankets made from natural or artificial materials have a wonderful design.
The company produces products in sizes from 130x170 to 220x240 cm.
Artificial fiber makes it possible to produce bedspreads in a wide variety of colors. After numerous washes, the original appearance remains. They have hypoallergenic properties, allow air to circulate freely and provide excellent warmth.
Kazanova
Kazanova brand are considered the standard of quality, as they contain innovative materials (acrylic, polyester) with the addition of natural fibers. The products are equipped with supersoft material, which ensures durability. It looks like velor with long pile.
Blankets do not attract dust and dirt and do not cause allergic reactions. The color is stable even in direct sunlight. The bedspreads are warm, soft, light. Artificial materials are similar in their characteristics to natural wool.
Le Vele
Le Vele brand represents a huge range of high-quality original products.
Blankets are made using modern technologies. They meet global standards of convenience and safety. Strong, durable, various colors, unusual texture. Comfortable, high quality, natural.
All products are certified and environmentally friendly.
Favorite home
Fleece is characterized by strength and wear resistance. This is a soft, pleasant material that retains heat and allows air to pass through. The blanket holds its shape and is not susceptible to pilling, as it is treated with a special anti-pilling compound. Traditional flower patterns, geometric and abstract shapes, and classic checks will help create coziness in your home.
Fleece blankets are especially popular because they are versatile. Used as a travel blanket, a warm cape for relaxing in the garden or at home.
Pantex
Russian brand, famous for the production of cotton blankets. Acrylic is added for fluffiness and softness.
Products are manufactured in three sizes: 200×220, 180×220, 150×200. By choosing the right size, you will complement your interior with classic or travel models, large bedspreads on bedroom furniture. Quality certificates are provided on the site.
In addition to the classic series, the company has created special lines. “Elite” stands out for its high-density products and the use of cutting technology. The drawing becomes textured and voluminous.
Large selection of children's blankets. Bright cheerful colors, high-quality, environmentally friendly raw materials. Pleasant to the touch, soft for delicate baby skin thanks to high quality. The sizes of children's models are 90x120, 100x0140.
Made from camel hair
pros | Minuses |
absorbs moisture well | allergic |
has medicinal properties | prickly |
retains heat for a long time | |
antistatic | |
softness | |
ease | |
durability | |
not electrified |
Blankets made from mixed fabrics are made by combining artificial (synthetic) and natural threads in order to improve the quality of a particular material, for example, wool and cotton will be warmer than cotton blankets, but will not be prickly.
By adding synthetic fibers to natural fibers, greater durability of the product, its color fastness, and wear resistance can be achieved. Whereas the addition of natural materials to synthetic ones makes the product more pleasant to the touch and reduces the electrification of the product.
What are the best blankets made from?
Wool: sheep, camel, goat
Sheep wool blanket
Which material is better to choose? Natural wool blankets are considered the warmest. They are made from sheep, goat and camel wool. Animal wool is a unique material that protects not only from cold, but also from overheating. A camel wool cape will not only keep you warm in cold weather, but will also protect you from the heat and also absorb excess moisture. Even in ancient times, people noticed the unusual ability of camels to easily tolerate sudden temperature fluctuations - from almost minus at night to plus forty during the day.
This is explained by the special structure of the animal’s fur: the hairs are hollow inside, while the inner surface of the hair absorbs moisture, and the outer surface does not give it away. Natural wool contains natural wax (lanolin), which gives the product special softness and has a beneficial effect on human skin. Natural material is not electrified and is environmentally friendly. However, blankets made from natural wool can cause allergic reactions; over time, dust mites appear in the fibers and moths may appear. The average service life of wool blankets is 7–8 years.
Soft and lightweight fleece
Fleece blanket
Fleece is a type of polyester. Fleece products are very light and soft, pleasant to the body. Despite the thinness of the material, they are quite warm and have high breathability. Fleece blankets are the most compact, making them convenient for travel. You can take them for a walk with your baby. This thing will come in handy on a hike, at the dacha, in the car and on the train. Easy to wash and dry instantly, no ironing required. The only drawback is the ability to accumulate static electricity, that is, become electrified.
Acrylic, polyester, viscose
Acrylic blanket
Acrylic, polyester and viscose are widely used among artificial and synthetic materials. Acrylic is the cheapest material with high wear resistance. It is hypoallergenic and has antibacterial properties. Most often they come in bright colors that do not fade when washed. Over time, pellets may appear on the acrylic blanket.
Polyester fabric does not wrinkle and is highly wear-resistant. Pure polyester is rare and is usually combined with polyamide, spandex and viscose. Viscose is obtained by processing cellulose. Viscose blankets are distinguished by their special shine and bright colors. Viscose, unlike synthetic materials, practically does not electrify. The fabric wrinkles easily, so it is not recommended to regularly use this blanket as a blanket. Products made from viscose are better suited for use as room decoration elements than as bedding items.
Jacquard products
Jacquard blanket
Jacquard is a large-patterned fabric made of cotton or linen with the addition of synthetics. The main feature of good jacquard blankets is the original woven pattern that will decorate any room. Modern technologies make it possible to produce single-sided and double-sided patterns. The fabric is expensive, but practical to use. The advantages of jacquard: strength and durability, the material is not subject to temperature changes and does not deform when washed.
Artificial fur
Faux fur blanket
Today, faux fur blankets are becoming increasingly popular, symbolizing style and comfort in a modern home. Artificial pile is glued to fabric and subjected to thermal fixation, and then fashionable blankets are sewn from the fabric. Faux fur can be easily dyed in any color: the blanket can be plain, with a geometric pattern, or with imitation animal colors. The products are soft and wear-resistant, but they tend to quickly accumulate dust and become electrified.
How to care
Knowing how to restore the fluffiness and softness of a thing, you need to apply proper care techniques as quickly as possible.
A fluffy blanket needs to be cleaned regularly. It is not always permissible to wash rugs with long pile in a machine. Before you start washing, you should carefully study the labels on the product so as not to spoil it.
Do not wring out a wet blanket. It will stretch and completely lose its elasticity.
For washing, a conditioner is used, which gives additional softness to delicate materials, wool.
Products containing chlorine are prohibited.
Dry the bedspreads in a horizontal position.
A good way to maintain the quality of an item is regular airing. This is especially true for textiles that are stored rolled up in the closet most of the time.
What is the blanket for?
The history of plaids began in Scotland. The ancestor of the plaid is considered to be a checkered shawl with large tassels - an integral part of the Scottish national costume. Today, all over the world, a plaid is considered a symbol of home comfort and warmth. How is it different from a bedspread and blanket? The bedspread performs a protective function: it protects bed linen from dust and accidental contamination. A blanket is needed to keep you warm while sleeping. It is customary to tuck a classic blanket into a duvet cover so that it does not get dirty.
The blanket is convenient for camping and picnics: warm and compact, it will not only serve as a bedding, but also protect against mosquitoes and keep you warm in the tent on a cool night. Parents are happy to buy bright blankets for their kids. Children's products are soft and environmentally friendly, and bright designs attract children's attention for a long time and give them positive emotions.