UNWRAPPING THE WORLD OF BLANKETS
A Guide to Choosing the Perfect Blanket for Styles, Materials & More
Blanket is a “blanket term”. From keeping us cozy on cold winter nights to adding a touch of decor to our living spaces, blankets come in a variety of styles.
If you’ve ever felt lost choosing the right blanket, you’re not alone! Let’s dive into the different styles of blankets, unravel their unique qualities and get all covered on this essential home and outdoor accessory. The hint is in the names.
If you already know what you’re looking for, don’t miss Woolly Mammoth’s hybrid Merino wool blankets, designed to deliver warmth, comfort and timeless style.
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1. Comforters & Duvets: The Cozy Classic
Comforters, true to their name, are designed to provide comfort and are the essential bedroom blanket. Duvets, their European twin, are often thicker and come with a removable cover for added protection. Interestingly, the word "duvet" comes from the French term for down feathers, which are sourced from the soft underbelly of ducks and geese.
Both comforters and duvets are filled with either synthetic fibers or down. They are usually stitched to keep the filling evenly distributed, providing consistent warmth.
Practical Tip:
To extend the life of your comforter or duvet, use a protective cover to shield it from stains and wear. For year-round comfort, the National Sleep Foundation recommends selecting a comforter with a fill power* of 500-750.
*Fill power measures the fluffiness and warmth capacity of down.
2. Throws: Style Meets Function
As the name suggests, throws are blankets you can easily 'throw' over a couch, chair, or bed for added style and comfort. While primarily decorative, they’re also perfect for quick naps or curling up with a book. Available in materials ranging from fleece to cashmere, throws are usually lightweight and often feature tassels, adding a touch of style.
Practical Tip:
Use brightly colored throws to add a pop of color to neutral-toned furniture.
Looking for a decorative throw for your bedroom, fireplace, living room, porch, patio or garden? Woolly Mammoth’s blankets are designed to provide warmth on outdoor adventures while also bringing warmth and adding charm to every corner of your home.
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3. Quilts: A Stitch in Time
Quilts may not have the most straightforward name, but chances are you know them from your grandma's collection of blankets. Quilts are timeless classics, traditionally handmade, featuring intricate stitching and patterns. They are multi-layered, often multi-colored and made of wool or cotton.
Practical Tip:
Modern quilts can be machine-made or hand-stitched. If you're choosing one for your home go for a hand-stitched quilt for a more personal touch. Or ask your grandma if she has an extra quilt to spare.
Did You Know?
The Great American Quilt Revival reintroduced quilting as both an art form and a functional craft. Read more about it in the link below.
The Great American Quilt Revival
4. Weighted Blankets: Stress Relief in Every Stitch
Weighted blankets are designed with evenly distributed beads or pellets of steel, microfiber glass, even grains, to provide a calming, therapeutic effect. Often used for anxiety or sleeplessness, these blankets feel like a gentle hug. Weighted blankets too could be made with a variety of materials like cotton, linen and more.
Practical Tip:
Choose a weighted blanket that’s about 10% of your body weight for the best results.
Did You Know?
Studies show that 63% of people report improved sleep after using a weighted blanket, thanks to its calming effect.
5. Electric Blankets: Warmth at the Flip of a Switch
Electric blankets come with a built-in heating mechanism, perfect for chilly winter nights. With adjustable settings, they allow you to customize your level of warmth. Electric blankets are made of a specially woven fabric called the shell.
Safety Tip:
Always unplug your electric blanket when not in use and avoid folding it to protect the wiring.
Did You Know?
Modern electric blankets often feature dual controls, making them perfect for couples with different temperature preferences. How cool is that? Rather, how warm is that? 😆
6. Afghans: Handmade Comfort
Afghans are crocheted or knitted blankets, often passed down through generations. Chances are, your grandma owns these too, in addition to quilts. Afghans are usually lightweight, made of wool or acrylic materials.
Practical Tip:
When not in use, store your Afghan away safely, to prevent damage from moisture or pests.
Did You Know?
The name "Afghan" can be traced back to Thomas Carlyle’s Sartor Resartus and is likely related to the Kuchi peoples of Afghanistan. The Kuchis are a tribe of self-sufficient wandering nomads who make their own clothes, blankets and pillows using bright-coloured fabrics.
7. Sherpa Blankets: Fluffy and Fabulous
Sherpa blankets mimic the texture of sheep’s wool but are typically made from synthetic materials like polyester-based fleece. When someone says fleece blanket, they may be referring to a bunch of styles including sherpa blankets made of fleece. They’re soft, fluffy, and excellent for cold weather. Sherpa blankets are a popular choice for outdoor enthusiasts who need a warm, heavyweight option for camping trips.
Practical Tip:
Dry-cleaning your sherpa blanket can prolong its lifespan. Sherpa blankets are usually heavy and not very compact, however. For hard-core adventures, where a compact blanket that fits snugly into your sleeping bag is key, the Woolly Mammoth Adventurer is a must-have.
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Did You Know?
The name Sherpa derives from a tribe of Himalayan guides who assist mountaineers and trekkers in their missions.
Conclusion: Blankets for Every Occasion
As you can see, there are countless styles of blankets, each with its own unique purpose and charm. From the humble quilt to the high-tech electric blanket, there’s a perfect match for everyone. Whether you’re seeking warmth, a pop of style, or therapeutic comfort, the right blanket can transform your home and your sleep.
Explore Woolly Mammoth’s collection of hybrid Merino wool blankets and throws, designed to bring warmth and charm to both your home and outdoor adventures.
Browse Woolly Mammoth Blankets
Happy Lounging & Exciting Adventures,
Team GoNorth
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