7 Different Types of Blankets

Let us understand the different types of blankets in this section, with their advantages and disadvantages.

1. Comforter

Comforter is perhaps one of the most popular types of blankets in the market. It is made from two fabrics stitched together and filled with a warm material. The materials used are polyfill, down, feathers, latex, or cotton. The outer surface of the blanket is mixed with cotton or polyester for additional softness. 

Comforters are known for their heat retention properties and are suitable for sleepers who love to sleep warm. Also, comforters are very light in weight. The cloud-like and fluffy patterns you see in the hotels are due to these soft and smooth comforters. 

Pros:

• Comforters are light in weight
• Excellent heat resistant properties
• A good option for warm sleepers
• You can use it with a duvet cover to improve the look of your bedroom

Cons:

• Some comforters may require regular maintenance
• It may be uncomfortable for sleepers in a hot climate

2. Duvet

There is very little difference between duvets and comforters. Duvets are used with duvet covers. These covers are fabric covers that drape the duvet comfortably. When placed on the mattress, a duvet looks like a white comforter. Duvet has laces on the corners to bind it to the duvet cover. The fillings inside a duvet usually consist of down, polyester, or cotton.

Pros:

• You can use it without a top sheet
• You can change the looks of the bedroom by changing a duvet cover

Cons:

• It is expensive than a comforter
• It May get lumpy at times
• Changing covers can be tough

3. Quilt

Quilts have been used as blankets from ancient times. The quilt consists of three layers: a top, bottom, and middle layer of insulating material. The top layer is made from multiple fabrics stitched together. The middle layer is filled using cotton, down, or wool. The bottom layer is made from a single piece of cloth.  

The quilt’s weight is less than other blanket types like comforters. They are an excellent option for sleepers who love to sleep in a warm climate. Quilts offer a smooth and sleek look to your bed.

Pros:

• It gives a structured look to your bed
• It keeps you cooler than a comforter or a duvet
• Takes less space

Cons:

• Slightly heavier
• More expensive as more materials are used
• Some quilts may restrict your movement

4. Throw Blanket

Throws are primarily used for decoration. You can use a throw blanket on a bed or a sofa to improve the aesthetics. The size of these blankets is very small. Throws are made from a single layer of fabric.

Throw blankets have a multi-season use; you can use a throw on a comforter during winters; meanwhile, you can also cover your feet during reading or relaxing during summers. Throws are weaved, woven from an insulating material or wool in some cases. 

Pros:

• Improves the look of your bedroom
• You can use it as decor or cover depending on the season

Cons:

• It cannot be used as a primary blanket
• Difficult to wash

5. Coverlet 

Coverlet is a thin layered blanket made from light materials such as cotton or silk. You can use a coverlet between the sheet and a duvet cover to provide extra comfort. Coverlet can also be used as decor to improve the aesthetics of your sleeping space.

Pros:

• Extremely lightweight and thin
• Easy to wash and maintain
• Less expensive than throw

Cons:

• It cannot be used as a primary blanket
• Not as warm as other blankets

6. Weighted Blanket

A weighted blanket gives you the perfect feel of a blanket, thanks to the extra cushion it provides to your body while sleeping. Weighted blankets are filled using plastic pellets which makes them unique. These plastic pellet fillings add up a considerable weight of around 20 pounds that helps it wrap comfortably around your body and gives the desired warm feeling.

It helps in reducing the heart rate before sleeping that enables you to fall asleep quicker. According to a study from Penn medicine, pressure therapies like these also help in reducing symptoms of depression, stress, anxiety, ADHD, and autism. 

Pros:

• Improves sleep considerably
• It induces calmness and relaxes your mind
• Reduces stress, anxiety, and depression

Cons:

• Challenging to move because of their weight
• Expensive than other blankets
• It can be uncomfortable for hot sleepers
• It may not be easy to wash because of their weight

7. Electric Blanket

Electric blankets are the new trend in the blanket market. It is made from a heavy material, and the underlying layers consist of a wiring system with coils that produce heat. The material used is polyester and acrylic to avoid any burns in the blanket. It also consists of remote control to maintain the level of heat within the blanket.

Pros:

• Extra heat reduces minor aches and pain in the body
• Creates a warm and cozy bed

Cons:

• Risk of fire due to internal wiring
• May lead to miscarriage in pregnant women
• May overheat in summers.