Blankets: Bedroom Essential Or Unnecessary Comfort?

Blankets are an essential part of bedding, providing comfort and warmth, especially during chilly winters. They come in various materials, from lightweight knit layers to insulating fleece options and weighted blankets. The right blanket depends on personal preference, climate, and usage. Synthetic fibres like polyester are usually ultra-soft, fluffy, and insulating, while natural fibres such as bamboo, linen, and cotton offer breathability and temperature regulation. When choosing a blanket, consider factors such as fabric weight, size, ease of care, and softness.

Blankets for warmth

Blankets are essential for a good night's sleep, and there are many options to choose from. When selecting a blanket for warmth, consider the following:

Material

The material of your blanket will significantly impact how warm it feels. Natural fibres such as cotton and wool are excellent choices for breathability and temperature regulation. Wool, in particular, is a great insulator and can provide warmth without feeling too heavy. Synthetic fibres like polyester and fleece are also good options for warmth and can often be more affordable. However, they may not be as breathable as natural fibres.

Weight and Thickness

The weight and thickness of a blanket are essential factors in determining how warm it will be. A heavier blanket will generally provide more warmth, and a thicker blanket will trap more heat. Look for blankets with higher GSM (grams per square meter) for colder months, as this indicates a denser and warmer fabric.

Size

When choosing a blanket for warmth, make sure to select the correct size. A larger blanket will provide more coverage and help retain body heat. If you share a bed, opt for an oversized blanket to ensure both you and your partner stay cosy.

Electric Blankets

For those who struggle with cold nights, electric blankets can be a great solution. They come with heating capabilities and temperature settings to provide extra warmth. Just be sure to follow safety instructions when using electric blankets.

Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets are another option for those seeking warmth and comfort. These blankets are filled with glass beads or pellets to provide a soothing weight that can help you feel relaxed and cosy.

• Bedsure Soft King Size Blanket: This fluffy and fuzzy blanket is made of soft plush Sherpa fleece and faux fur, providing excellent warmth and comfort.
• KAWAHOME Sherpa Fleece Queen Size Blanket: A heavy and thick blanket made of super soft plush fabric, perfect for cold winter nights.
• Bedsure Fleece Bed Blankets: Available in various sizes, these lightweight and plush blankets are made of soft microfiber, providing warmth and comfort.
• Arcturus Military Wool Blanket: A large and thick washable wool blanket perfect for outdoor use and camping. It provides excellent warmth and protection from the elements.
• Bedsure Sherpa Queen Size Blanket: This blanket offers a soft and cosy feel with a fuzzy Sherpa side and a fluffy fleece side, ideal for winter.
• Bedsure Sherpa Fleece Throw Blanket: A soft and thick blanket made of fuzzy Sherpa fleece, perfect for snuggling up on the couch or bed during chilly nights.
• Utopia Bedding Sherpa Blanket: A reversible blanket with a soft and plush Sherpa side and a smooth fleece side, providing warmth and comfort.

Blanket placement for optimal heat retention

The placement of a blanket can play a crucial role in optimising heat retention and ensuring a comfortable sleep. Here are some tips and tricks for blanket placement to maximise warmth:

• Layering: Blankets can be layered to create more warmth, making them ideal for colder weather. Layering also allows you to adjust your bedding according to the temperature.
• Blanket Type: Opt for blankets made from natural fibres such as wool or cotton, which have superior moisture-wicking, temperature-regulating, and hypoallergenic properties.
• Blanket Size: Ensure your blanket is large enough to cover your entire body and tuck it in under the mattress to prevent heat loss and create a cosy cocoon.
• Blanket Material: Consider the material of your blanket; some materials, like fleece, are designed to be highly efficient at retaining heat and can provide extra warmth.
• Bedding Arrangement: Use a combination of sheets and blankets. A flat sheet between your body and the blanket can enhance comfort and reduce the transfer of dead skin cells and oils into the blanket.
• Duvet Alternative: If you prefer a duvet, look for one with excellent insulation properties, such as those filled with down or synthetic fibres. A duvet cover can also add a decorative touch and protect your duvet from stains.
• Weighted Blankets: Weighted blankets are designed to apply gentle pressure and provide a soothing, hugging sensation. They can improve sleep quality, but ensure you choose one that suits your weight and comfort preferences.
• Electric Blankets: Electric blankets are an effective way to add extra warmth to your bed. Place them beneath your fitted sheet, and remember to unplug them when not in use for safety.
• Bedroom Temperature: Maintain a slightly cooler bedroom temperature to promote better sleep. A blanket will help you stay warm in a cooler room, and you can always add or remove layers as needed.
• Blanket Care: Regularly wash your blankets and bedding to ensure optimal hygiene and a fresh, inviting sleep environment. Sunlight and wind are natural disinfectants, so consider air-drying your blankets outdoors.

Blanket weight and layering

The weight of a blanket is an important factor in its ability to provide comfort and improve sleep quality. Weighted blankets, for instance, are heavy blankets that typically weigh between 5 and 25 lbs. They are designed to exert gentle pressure on the body, providing a hug-like sensation that helps reduce anxiety and improve sleep. When choosing a weighted blanket, it is recommended to select one that is approximately 10% of your body weight. This ensures that you receive the optimal amount of therapeutic benefits. Additionally, it is important to allow your body time to adjust to the weight, as some people may require a few days to get used to the sensation.

Layering blankets is a common practice that can enhance both the aesthetics and functionality of your bed. Here are some tips for layering blankets like a designer:

• Start with a set of white or cream-coloured sheets. This classic choice provides a fresh and clean look while serving as a neutral base for adding colour or pattern with subsequent layers.
• Add a bed blanket, also known as a lightweight cotton blanket, for extra warmth and comfort. Look for one with texture to add interest to your bed. Layer it over the sheets and fold the top down to showcase the layers.
• Introduce a comforter or duvet. A duvet is a soft, flat bag filled with down, feathers, wool, or synthetic material. It provides warmth and comfort while sleeping. You can opt for a duvet insert with a removable cover, which makes it easier to clean and allows for style changes.
• Drape a Kantha quilt over the comforter for a pop of pattern and additional texture. Kantha quilts are patchwork quilts that originated in Bangladesh and eastern India. Fold the duvet cover down to reveal the bed blanket beneath.
• Finish with a throw blanket at the foot of the bed. Throw blankets are typically smaller, thinner, and lighter than conventional blankets. They add a decorative touch and can be draped or folded to create a stylish, inviting look.

It is important to note that the number of layers and the specific types of blankets you choose will depend on your personal preferences, the climate you live in, and the time of year. Experiment with different combinations to find what works best for you. Additionally, remember to wash your bedding regularly to maintain a hygienic sleep environment.

Blanket materials

Blankets are made from a variety of materials, each with its own unique properties and benefits. Here are some of the most common and best materials for blankets:

• Cotton is a natural, soft, breathable, and hypoallergenic fibre that is often used for summer blankets and baby blankets. It is highly absorbent, making it ideal for keeping the user cool and dry. Cotton is also durable and easy to care for, as it can be machine washed and dried.
• Wool is a warm, soft, and durable natural fibre often used for winter blankets. It has excellent insulating properties and moisture-wicking capabilities, making it ideal for cold and damp conditions. Wool is also naturally flame-resistant, bacteria-resistant, and odour-resistant.
• Polyester is a lightweight, soft, and easy-to-care-for synthetic fibre. It is commonly used for travel blankets as it is strong, durable, wrinkle-resistant, and moisture-resistant. Polyester is also versatile and can be used to create various textures and finishes.
• Microfibre is a synthetic fabric made from extremely fine polyester or nylon fibres, giving it a unique texture and feel. It is soft, lightweight, absorbent, and durable, making it ideal for various applications, including sports products and towels.
• Fleece is a warm, soft, and easy-to-care-for synthetic fabric similar in look and feel to sheep's wool. It is often used as an alternative to natural fibres like wool, as it is more affordable and requires less maintenance. Fleece is also highly versatile and can retain warmth even when wet, making it ideal for outdoor use.
• Cashmere is a luxurious, soft, and warm natural fibre made from the downy undercoat of cashmere goats. It is incredibly soft, lightweight, and warm, making it ideal for high-end clothing and blankets. However, cashmere is relatively expensive due to the labour-intensive process of obtaining the fibres.
• Linen is a natural, breathable, cool, and hypoallergenic fibre made from the stems of the flax plant. It has a distinctive crisp and slightly rough texture, making it ideal for summer clothing and bedding. Linen is also highly absorbent, quick-drying, and naturally resistant to bacteria, mould, and mildew. Additionally, it is environmentally friendly, as the flax plant requires minimal water and simple processing methods.

Other notable materials for blankets include:

• Silk, which is one of the strongest natural fibres and highly moisture-absorbent. It is soft, lightweight, and versatile but relatively expensive.
• Rayon, a soft material made from natural wood cellulose fibres. It mimics the softness of silk while being lightweight.
• Acrylic, which mimics the warmth and softness of wool and has good elasticity and texture.
• Bamboo fibre, an eco-friendly, soft, lightweight, and breathable option suitable for spring, summer, and autumn.
• Minky fleece, a luxurious, soft, and plush fabric made from 100% polyester. It is durable, machine washable, and available in various pile heights and weights.

Blanket care

Washing

Blankets should be washed at least once a month, and ideally as often as you wash your sheets. If you use a top sheet, you can get away with washing your blanket every other week or once a month.

Before washing your blanket, always check the care label for specific instructions. Some blankets need to be hand-washed or spot-cleaned, while others can be placed directly into the washing machine.

When washing your blanket in the machine, use cold or warm water and a mild detergent. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener, as these can damage the fibres of your blanket.

If hand-washing, fill a plastic bin with cold water and add liquid detergent. Submerge the blanket and knead the fabric one section at a time. Repeat this process with clean water until there is no trace of soap. Press the water out of the blanket and place it between two dry towels to draw out the remaining water. Finally, hang the blanket to dry.

Some blankets, such as those made from wool, only need to be washed a few times a year. In between washes, you can refresh these blankets by shaking them out and brushing them with a soft-bristled brush.

Drying

After washing your blanket, you can dry it in the dryer or hang it up to air-dry. If using the dryer, set it to low or no heat to avoid damaging the fibres. For heavier blankets, a commercial-sized washing machine at a laundromat may be required.

Preventing Damage

To prevent damage to your blanket, avoid washing it in hot water, as this can cause certain fabrics to shrink. Additionally, avoid using fabric softener, as this can give your blanket a scratchy feel.

To reduce the risk of pilling, hang your blanket up to dry instead of placing it in the dryer.

Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets should not be machine-washed, as the protective cover can rip, damaging the machine. Instead, spot-clean your weighted blanket with a wet cloth and mild detergent on a weekly basis. If your weighted blanket has a detachable cover, this can be washed in the machine.

Frequently asked questions