When it comes to keeping warm, there are many types of blankets on the market to choose from. Whether you are looking to get snug on the couch, curl up in your reading chair, bundle up before heading outdoors, or just add an extra layer to your bed, there are blanket styles to suit any of your needs. To discover more about throw blankets read Best Throw Blankets.

Types of Blankets

The different types of blankets can be broken down predominantly by their design and then often their fabric as well.

Knitted: These blankets comprise one layer of thin to medium knitted fabric that is usually made from a wool or acrylic material. The knits create a variety of patterns and designs and have a soft and fluffy texture. These types of blankets come in a range of sizes from small enough to cuddle under, to large enough to fit on a bed. Most often they will feature some sort of tassel or fringe detail on the edges for a more traditional and stylish look.

Chunky Knit: If you like the look of a knitted blanket but are looking for something a little more luxurious or dense, chunky knits are for you. They are similar to regular knits but comprise a much thicker wool or acrylic woven together with much larger stitches. These types of blankets are often handmade and commonly don't have a trim. They are soft, and full, and usually require only hand- or spot-washing.

Cable Knit: The only way a cable knit differs from a normal knitted blanket is the technique used to produce the stitches, otherwise they are the same. Cable knitting refers to a specific knitting technique that results in crossed layers of raised rope-like patterns. These types of blankets offer a classic cabin look that encourages curling up and getting comfortable.

Woven: Woven blankets are also fairly similar to knitted blankets, although they are made from thin and soft acrylic material that can be wrapped around your shoulders with ease. Woven blankets also often feature tassels and can be easily taken outdoors to keep you warm on a chilly evening. These types of blankets provide warmth without weight and can be used year round.

Plush: If you love bundling up under mountains of thick fabric, a plush blanket will give you all you need. These types of blankets are made from high quality fleece that is brushed to produce a smooth and velvety texture. Although they are heavier than some, plush blankets are still fairly lightweight while providing ample warmth and coziness.

Sherpa: Sherpa blankets are made from two types of materials, each with its own distinct side. The first side will be smooth flannel, often with a pattern of sorts, while the other is a fuzzy fleece that creates a fur-like feeling. These types of blankets are great for keeping warm in colder weather.

Thermal: When it comes to thermal blankets, the name refers more to the properties rather than the type of blanket. Thermal blankets are designed to trap your body heat in and keep you warm in winter but also keep you cool during the summer. They are commonly made from cotton which is an extremely breathable fabric and are great on the couch or on the bed as an additional layer.

Wearable: For something a little more fun and personal, a wearable blanket is just that – designed to be worn. These types of blankets are usually made from fleece and come in a range of designs that allow them to be worn as hoodies, as throws, or pulled over your front with your arms through specially designed holes. They are great to wear while watching TV, sitting outside around a fire, or camping.

Quilted: A quilted blanket comprises three layers of fabric – the top and bottom fabrics are the same (usually cotton), while the middle layer is a filling or batting. These layers are then all sewn together with distinctive stitching in patterns, boxes, or designs that quilts are known for. These types of blankets are lightweight and are best used when they are layered.

Down-Filled: Down refers to the feathers from ducks and geese that do not have any quills in them. They are soft and light and used as a filling to make plush and bulky blankets that trap heat close to your body and keep you warm in the colder months. Down is also breathable so it will not make you overly hot. These types of blankets cannot be machine washed or require special washing instructions.

Waffle: Waffle blankets have a design and texture that looks like waffles. These little pockets of fabric work to trap air and keep you warm, even those the blankets themselves are commonly lightweight cotton. These types of blankets can be used year-round but work best under another more heavier blanket.

No matter what type of blanket you are looking for, we have enough options to keep you snug and toasty wherever you are.