Best Blankets for Winter

When winter rolls around, cozy mode is turned on! The colder weather makes you want to cuddle up with your favorite blanket, watch holiday movies in bed, drink a cup of hot chocolate, and put on your warmest, fuzzy socks!

Even though most of us have the heat turned up during the wintertime, there’s something about the cold that just inspires a cuddle with a great blanket. Of course, it’s also about keeping toasty warm in bed too!

We’re going to tell you all about shopping for a winter blanket online. Other than good looks, there are also other things to keep in mind. Most people like a thicker, heavier winter blanket, while those who are always warm will be on the lookout for breathability. The blanket’s knit and material will affect all these things. It will also depend on whether you plan to use the blanket as a throw on the couch or as a layer in bed. Then you also want a blanket that’s easy to care for.

We’ve listed some of our favorite winter blankets along with some tips here to help you get started!

Quick Look at Our Top 5 Picks

IMAGE PRODUCT  
  • Double layer
  • Available in bright colors
  • Very soft
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  • Heavy Blanket
  • Very plush
  • Warm
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  • Budget friendly
  • Light and warm
  • Great for traveling
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  • 100% cotton
  • Lightweight and breathable
  • Good for all seasons
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  • Classic plaid in different color options
  • Light fleece blanket
  • Soft and warm
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Product Reviews

Bedsure Sherpa Throw Blanket

This microfiber blanket from Bedsure is a reversible throw, which is great when you’re looking for a soft blanket to cuddle up with. It’s double layered, with a fuzzy Sherpa fleece on one side, and then a sharp, plain color on the other. This makes the blanket extra plush and the option to switch to whichever side you’d like.

The blanket is available in twin, queen and king sizes if you plan to use it in bed, as well as in a special 50” x 60” throw size that’s perfect for lounging on the couch. It’s also available in 14 different colors, making sure you can find a blanket in a color that matches your winter décor!

The blanket dries fast and stays wrinkle free. It holds its color so you will always have the same fabulously sharp blanket, just like on day one. It’s best to machine wash in cold water and then air dry.

Pros:

  • Double layered
  • Very plush and soft
  • Affordable
  • Does not shed

Cons:

  • Some find Sherpa fleece side thin
  • Threading may come loose in some areas

Lavish Home Wolf Mink Blanket

Whether you’re a big fan of wolves, or just looking for heavy blanket to keep you warm, this winter blanket will do it. Made out of 100% polyester, this blanket is sure to be your go-to winter blanket when you want to cozy up on your couch or want an added layer of warmth on your bed. This is a thick, plush blanket that leans on the heavier side. At 7.5 pounds, this is perfect if you enjoy a little bit more weight to your blankets.

This blanket measures 74 by 91 inches, fitting a queen sized bed. It has self-hemmed edging to prevent fraying. It is recommended to wash this on machine wash cold, on a gentle cycle, and to tumble dry low.

Pros:

  • Heavy blanket
  • Plush & smooth
  • Great quality – lasts for many years

Cons:

  • Some found the wolves were not realistic enough
  • Some feel blanket could be softer

Utopia Bedding Polar Fleece Blanket

This is a great basic blanket for winter. Especially if you have a family that is constantly on the move or could use an extra blanket around, this one is perfect!

Made out of 100% polyester polar fleece, this blanket is warm and toasty. It is double sided with brushed fabric, meaning it will feel even softer against your skin.

The queen size measures 90 by 90 inches, but it is also available in twin or king size.

Especially for the price, this is a great staple blanket for winter that could also be used for travel, to keep in your car, or on your bed. It is recommended to wash on a cold and gentle cycle, and tumble dry gentle on low.

Pros:

  • Available in 4 different colors
  • Available in 3 different sizes
  • 100% polyester fleece
  • Very affordable
  • Warm & cozy
  • Does not pill

Cons:

  • Some think it’s too thin
  • Some experienced shedding

Martex 100-Percent Cotton

If you’re looking for a natural cotton blanket for winter, look no further! This 100% cotton blanket by Martex is great to use as a blanket or as another layer to your bed for extra warmth. Not only will this blanket bring an added layer of warmth that you need during winter, but it has a chevron texture to it, giving this blanket a timeless style. Since it’s a pure cotton blanket, it’s also very breathable and is perfect all year round. This is an excellent choice if you live in warmer states.

The chevron weave is a slightly looser knit, making this blanket softer but this does mean that it can snag more easily. This blanket comes in a soothing light blue and is available in queen size.

Pros:

  • Timeless chevron pattern
  • 100% cotton
  • Very breathable and light

Cons:

  • Can snag easily

Tache Tartan Plaid Throw Blanket

Looking for a cute blanket to gift for the holidays? This plaid blanket from Tache Home is not only a warm cuddle during the cold winter nights, but can be used as a prop for a photo shoot or even a great travel blanket. Made out of polyester fleece, this soft, plaid throw blanket is the cozy you’re looking for.

Not only is a great blanket to wrap in on the couch or in bed, it can be a great blanket to travel with since it’s very lightweight. It comes in 3 different sizes, so you have the luxury to pick which option would best fit your purpose. The lovely plaid pattern is also available in 6 different colors so you can easily find one that matches the color of your accents.

It is recommended to wash this blanket on machine wash cold and to tumble dry on low. This blanket will even be long enough for those that are taller.

Pros:

  • Cute plaid pattern in 6 color options
  • Warm
  • Light fleece

Cons:

  • Colors may not match photos exactly
  • Some find it a bit thin

Additional Winter Blankets We Reviewed

1. Arcturus Military Wool Blanket

This is a very affordable, outdoor winter blanket. Since it’s wool, it’ll still be warm when wet. Great for camping or as an emergency blanket to keep in the car.

Key features:

  • 80% Wool
  • Great for Outdoors
  • Warm even when wet

2. SOFTCARE Soft Fuzzy Microplush Blanket

A super soft, plush and fuzzy microfiber blanket. One side has longer hair for extra warmth, while the other side has shorter hair if you want more smoothness. Washes well with minimal shedding.

Key features:

  • Very soft and cozy
  • Washes well
  • One side with longer hair for extra warmth

3. EMME Plush Sherpa Blanket

This is a fuzzy and soft blanket made out of microfiber fleece. It’s incredibly soft and is a great choice if you’re looking for something cozy. Both adults and children love the fuzziness.

Key features:

  • Very soft and cozy
  • No piling
  • Comes in Baby and Queen size

4. LUXEAR Warm Fleece Blanket

This is a 100% flannel blanket that retains heat well while wicking away moisture to keep you at the perfect temperature. It’s very soft and washes well with no pilling. Extra points for its elegant design too!

Key Features:

  • Warm and soft
  • Moisture wicking for temperature regulations
  • No pilling

5. Connecticut Home Company Shag with Sherpa Reversible Throw Blanket

A silky soft and comfortable blanket with a Sherpa fleece side for extra warmth. This blanket doesn’t shed or pill and still looks great after wash. Available in over a dozen colors so you can easily find the one to style your living room or bed.

Key Features

  • Warm and soft
  • Faux fur look
  • No pilling

6. LOMAO Sherpa Fleece Blanket

Made of high grade microfiber polyvester, this fluffy warm blanket comes with a gorgeous coral inspired design. One side is Jacquard and the other is Sherpa fleece. Easy to care for and does not shed.

Key Features

  • Very soft and warm
  • Pretty coral design
  • No pilling

7. Kingole Flannel Fleece Luxury Throw Blanket

This is a lightweight blanket made of microfiber fleece. It’s soft and warm, and the Jacquard weave keeps the blanket breathable. It doesn’t pill and is anti-static, which is always a plus for those who have pets.

Key Features:

  • Soft and light
  • Breathable
  • Anti-pill and anti-static

8. Yagaga Fleece Cashmere Blanket

This plump, quilted blanket will keep you warm in bed through the coldest winter. It’s made of a mix of cashmere fiber and polyester and is very breathable. Available in different colors to match your bedroom décor.

Key Features

  • Plump quilt
  • Soft and warm
  • Excellent for bedroom

9. Ektos Wool Blanket

 

If you’re looking for an affordable wool blanket for outdoor use, or an emergency blanket, the Ektos Wool Blanket will fit the bill. Price is very affordable for a wool blanket. Do note that it is normal for wool blankets to shed in the first few washes.

Key Features

  • 90% wool
  • Very affordable wool blanket
  • Great for outdoors or as survival blanket

10. Pavilia Fleece Throw Blanket

Made from 100% virgin wool from alpaca and sheep in the Andes Mountains, this blanket is pricier but it’s well worth it. The wool has been brushed for extra softness so it’s not scratchy like regular wool blankets. Made in Peru.

Key Features

  • 50% alpaca wool; 50% sheep wool
  • Thick, soft, warm and breathable
  • Made in Peru.

11. Desert Breeze Alpaca and Sheep Wool Blanket

Made from 100% virgin wool from alpaca and sheep in the Andes Mountains, this blanket is pricier but it’s well worth it. The wool has been brushed for extra softness so it’s not scratchy like regular wool blankets. Made in Peru.

Key Features:

  • 50% alpaca wool; 50% sheep wool
  • Thick, soft, warm and breathable
  • Made in Peru.

12. Poyet Motte Antibes 100% Wool Medium Oversized Blanket

This blanket is made from virgin wool and will keep you warm. Much more breathable than synthetic blankets. Excellent French craftsmanship.

Key Features:

  • 100% virgin wool
  • Warm and breathable
  • Made in France

13. Green Orange Fleece Blanket

A very soft and cozy fleece blanket made from premium materials. This blanket works well as a throw and comes in different colors. It has a ribbed pattern for a touch of an accent.

Key features:

  • Soft and warm
  • Ribbed pattern
  • Hypoallergenic

14. Graced Soft Luxuries Sherpa Fleece Throw Blanket

This is a soft, reversible blanket with Sherpa fleece on one side, and Minky microfiber on the other. It’s a large, oversized blanket that’s perfect for snuggling up on the couch. Available in several chic designs.

Key features:

  • Reversible Sherpa fleece and Minky blanket
  • Oversized throw
  • Available in several designs

15. Winthome Luxury Extra Soft Wool Blanket

Made from 50% wool and 50% acrylic, this blanket is both warm and durable. It also has a nice understated, Scandinavian inspired design that will look great in a living room. As with wool blankets, this blanket should be air dryed.

Key Features:

  • Warm and durable
  • Elegant design
  • Also good for outdoor use

16. DISSA Sherpa Throw Blanket

Soft and fluffy, this Sherpa fleece blanket will keep you warm. It sports a subtly striped pattern on the outside that looks great with any décor. Available in 3 sizes.

Key Features:

  • Very fluffy and soft
  • Striped, ribbed design
  • Warm Sherpa fleece

How to Choose a Winter Blanket

Blankets can make a big difference to your comfort! From how it looks, to how it feels and how warm it is, winter blankets come with all sorts of options. We tell you the important things you should consider when shopping for the perfect winter blanket online.

Which Fabrics to Look For

Fabric can greatly control the temperature of material and choosing a winter blanket with the right fabric is important. Here’s a list of common winter blanket fabrics you can consider:

Wool: Wool sweaters are a winter classic, so it’s no surprise that they are also available as blankets! The main advantage wool has is that it’s warm even when wet, which is why they are a top choice for outdoor use.  However, it does shed more in the wash, and do remember that many people find wool to feel scratchy on the skin, which might be more noticeable with a blanket than a sweater because you’re not as clothed in bed. If you’re buying a blanket for regular home use, wool may not always be the best choice.

Cotton: Cotton is known for being breathable and moisture wicking so cotton blankets are especially suitable for hot sleepers. Some cotton blankets are thick and warm enough to use on their own in winter.  Cotton is also great for those with allergies because it can be washed in hot water.

Microfiber: You will probably find a lot of blankets that are made out microfibers and synthetic fibers like polyester and acrylic because they tend to render an extremely soft blanket. These blankets can vary from light to heavy weight, so there are lots of options depending on your preferences.

Other Factors to Consider

While the fabric of blankets for winter is extremely important, there are still other factors to consider that may help you find a new cuddling blanket. When on your shopping hunt, keep these factors in mind.

Weight: If you are buying one for sleeping, the weight of a blanket can make a great blanket into the best blanket for winter. A heavier blanket can both improve warmth and helps many people feel more secure, relax and sleep better.

Use: Are you planning to use this winter blanket as a throw on the couch, or will it be for the bed? If you’re looking for something for the living room, then maybe the blanket doesn’t need to be as big or as warm. Are you planning to travel with the blanket? If yes, you probably want a lighter blanket that is easy to wash, just in case something happens to it! Is it a winter blanket for outdoor use? Then you should probably choose a wool blanket that is still warm even when it gets wet.

Layers: Some blankets come in either one single layer, or with double layers. If you’re especially cold all the time, or looking for an extremely warm blanket, then look for a double layered blanket. Plus, it usually has 2 different fabrics, offering more versatility.

Size: Blankets for the winter don’t just come in one size. Where do you want to cuddle up with your winter blanket? Blankets can come in throw, twin, queen, or even king sizes. If you’re just looking for a throw on the couch, then a blanket that is sized for a queen size bed might end up being too much of a drag.

Frequently Answered Questions

Is a heavy blanket always best?

A heavy quilt, duvet or comforter will keep you warm in bed, but sometimes this can get too warm and then you’re stuck between overheating and freezing. If that’s your case, layering blankets is often a good option.

How should I wash my winter blanket?

Generally speaking, you can machine wash winter blankets in cold water. Microfiber blankets can usually go through tumble dry on low, although some should be hung to dry. We would however avoid putting bleach in the wash as it can harden some of the fibers.

My wool blanket sheds so much! How can I care for it?

Wool blankets are known to shed more during the first couple of washes. This is normal. You may try spot cleaning the blanket with water and soap instead, and it’s best to air dry wool blankets. Avoid using fabric softener as these may harden the wool.

Are wool blankets best for winter?

Wool is a natural fiber that’s famous for being warm, even when it gets wet. This makes them ideal for outdoor use, or as an emergency survival blanket. However, if it’s for regular home use, a microfiber fleece blanket will feel much softer and smoother against the skin.

Which winter blankets are best for pets?

If you have a dog or a cat, you will want to consider a microfiber blanket. These tend to be anti-static and hold up well in wash. Even if your furry friend doesn’t climb in bed with you, you want to make sure that all the dog hair and cat hair will wash off easily!

Final Thoughts

A good winter blanket will keep you warm, and an excellent blanket will also be comfortable and help you relax.

Blankets come in different materials for different needs. Whether you’re looking for a blanket to bring with you to sports outings while it’s cold outside, or a fluffy blanket to cuddle up with while watching a movie, or a blanket to keep you warm in bed during those harsh, cold winter months, there are lots to choose from.

Which blanket you choose will ultimately depend on what you plan to use the blanket for. When shopping for a winter blanket online, there are lots of different styles available in a variety of colors and patterns, suitable for different budgets.

There’s no need to sacrifice style for function when it comes to staying warm, and with all these tips and suggestions you’ll find the perfect blanket for winter soon!

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About Kelsey Woodbridge Kelsey is a lover of anything comfy, especially her bed. In fact, you will most likely find her in her bed drafting a new article, watching New Girl, or just lounging in fuzzy socks.