Comforters, blankets, and duvets are the three best household alternatives available that can provide the warmth and the coziness you want while sleeping.
If you are looking to buy your ideal blanket, there are a variety of options to choose from. You might choose comforters instead if you don’t know the difference between a blanket and a comforter.
Let’s check out the discussion below to understand the difference between these two and know about the varieties before you buy your ideal blanket.
Difference Between a Blanket and a Comforter
Though blankets and comforters use for the same purpose, they are different in construction, filling, and thickness.
A blanket is made of a single layer. Wool is the most popular material uses to make it because the material makes the blanket thicker and warmer.
You can find other materials like synthetic, fleece, down, cotton, polyester, knitted, and cashmere used too. You can also use luxurious blankets made of silk.
Comforters are made of thick covering. Polyester, feathers, and down uses for the filling of the comforters. They are sewed together on the four sides to ensure that the inner filling stays in place correctly. You will find it in a wide variety of designs, prints, and colors.
Types of Blankets
You will find plenty of options to buy your ideal blanket for different purposes. Let’s have a quick glance:
- Quilt: The cover and the interior layer of a quilt blanket are generally stitched together. It is well-known for the decorative pattern on the exterior.
- Throw: It is used in bed as well as around the house. It can be a good decorative piece for your living room too.
- Weighted Blanket: This blanket has an extra weight of around 5 to 20 pounds. It provides additional pressure that helps some people feel more relaxed while they are in bed. This blanket is often used for therapy for balanced mental health.
- Electric Blanket: These blankets have an internal electric mechanism, and you feel the warmth when it is turned on.
Fabrics for Blankets
When buying your blanket, ensure the quality and effectiveness. The fabric used for the blankets can help you determine these factors as it is directly related to the warmth, breathability, and feel. The most common materials used for the blankets are:
1. Cotton
Fibers obtained from the cotton plant are usually long-lasting as well as highly breathable. For this reason, you will find it used in a variety of bedding products. India, America, and Africa are well-known for growing cotton plants. Cotton is soft, smooth, and absorbs sweat well.
2. Cashmere
As the name states, this material comes from the cashmere goats. It is softer comparing other fabrics. That is why it is the most preferred material. It is popular for its extra insulation that provides you the perfect warmth during cold nights. It does not weigh down easily as the fibers are strong and light.
3. Wool
As we all know, wool collects from sheep. It is well-known for its antibacterial properties. It might not be as soft as the other materials but it offers significant warmth while being highly breathable. This makes it suitable for all seasons. It is less costly than cashmere.
4. Fleece
Fleece is perfect for any season as it is lightweight and extremely soft material. You will find it thinner than many fabrics while providing as much comfort and warmth as others.
It is made out of acrylic fibers that gives it a unique feature. This material is machine washable and you will find it less expensive too.
5. Berber Fleece
It is like an upgraded version of fleece. Synthetic fibers are used to make it. It is soft with a curly texture. The fabric is lightweight and has great insulation characteristics that provide sufficient warmth. It is water repellent that makes it absorb sweat that keeps you comfortable throughout the night.
6. Down
This fabric collects from the feathers of ducks and geese. It is extremely lightweight, soft, and provides strong insulation. You can use it for warmth during cold days as well as can be used in other seasons with lighter filling. You might find it costlier than most of the other types.
7. Down Alternative
You will find it a good alternative to the real down fabric. It is made from synthetic fibers, so it is hypoallergenic and cruelty-free. It can be a great choice if you are looking for a less expensive blanket to regulate your body temperature.
If you suffer from any kind of allergies, it can be a favorable option to choose. Though it has many similarities with the real down, you might find a few downsides too, like it is heavier in weight, and might not be as well insulated as the genuine one.
8. Polyester
Polyester is a good choice if you are looking for something inexpensive. To give multiple textures and properties, it is made by using different processes. Though you will find it affordable, it is not as breathable as cotton.
9. Alternative Mink
Alternative Mink is a super soft fur-like fabric. It is made of synthetic fibers. You will experience the coziness and warmth that you could get from an animal fur blanket but at half price.
While buying your blanket make sure you look into the instructions to know about its cleaning methods and maintenance.
Check out the sizes carefully to buy the right one. Keep the layout of the bedroom and bedding in mind when you are buying so that you can choose the color and print that goes well with the style of your bedroom.
The weaving and the material of the blankets have a huge impact on their durability. So, make sure you buy after checking out these facts.
Best of luck!
