We spoke with Jeffrey Silberman, former professor and chairperson of the Textile Development and Marketing at the Fashion Institute of Technology about the different factors that go into finding the best throw blanket for you. “Your variables are fiber content, yarn type and size, weave type, finish, hand (how it feels) texture, and luster,” he says. To further help with your search, we researched and tested dozens of throw blankets, evaluating fabric type, softness, durability, and value. Our favorite is the Sunday Citizen Casablanca Throw, a wonderfully warm option that looks as good as it feels and is machine-washable. Here are the best throw blankets. Available in eight different colors, this blanket has an elegant, jacquard-inspired pattern that’s meant to show off. It’s also reversible, so you can choose between two patterns daily. This throw uses the brand’s signature double-knit microfiber fabric, sure to keep you warm and comfy as you lounge with family or curl up with a book. The microfiber is hypoallergenic, so it’s perfect for everyone. Plus, it’s thermoregulation, so you won’t overheat or feel too cold. Oh, and did we mention it’s machine-washable? Price at time of publish: $170 Plus, it’s fully machine-washable, and it won’t lose its color or softness over time. However, you may notice some fabric pilling with continued use. Still, the classic fleece texture looks cozy and comfortable in any living space, combining a cozy, attractive look and feel for an overall great value. Price at time of publish: $25 Even when not in use, we love how this pick looks draped over a couch or armchair. If you don’t love it right away, you can return it for up to 90 days. One downside is this pick is not machine-washable, so you’ll have to keep spills and stains to a minimum. Price at time of publish: $150 The classic black and white colorway can easily fit with other colors in your living space, but the busy pattern may be too much for some styles. However, a fun patterned throw blanket like this one can add interest to an otherwise simple or minimalistic space. Price at time of publish: $135 Plus, each shearling is completely one-of-a-kind and ethically sourced, so you can be confident in your purchase. We also love the size of this throw. Because each blanket is unique, the exact size may vary, but its sizably larger than other fur throws we’ve seen on the market. Price at time of publish: $299 This particular blanket is available in three versions, all equally eye-catching. The blanket features a twisted fringe on two sides that adds to its cozy appearance. Note that because of the materials, this pick is not washer- or dryer-friendly, so be careful to avoid stains and spills. Price at time of publish: $325 It’s lightweight enough to use in the warmer months, and you can choose from two different sizes to further customize this blanket to your needs. What’s more, if this pick gets dirty, you can throw it in the washing machine for an easy clean. Price at time of publish: $50 Note that this is a fairly lightweight throw, so it’s best reserved for warmer months (or layering over thicker blankets or bedspreads). Price at time of publish: $125 Despite being made from wool, it doesn’t have that scratchy feeling that sometimes accompanies that material. Instead, it’s soft to the touch. This blanket is both stylish and functional, and while it makes for a great gift (especially to a National Park Lover) the luxe throw is also ideal for your own home. Price at time of publish: $329 The blanket comes in both 50-inch-by-60-inch and 60-inch-by-80-inch sizes. The extra-large size is helpful for taller people or cuddled-up couples who don’t want a single toe exposed. Price at time of publish: $50 In addition to being snuggly and warm, it’s also easy to care for—lint doesn’t stick to it, and when you need to clean this electric blanket, you can throw it in the washer and dryer. This electric blanket will help keep you cozy and toasty warm, whether you use it in the bedroom at night as an extra layer or keep it in the living room. However, our tester did note that it has a short power code, so be sure to curl up next to an outlet for the best results. Price at time of publish: $189 Proponents of weighted blankets say they’ll help you relax—leading to better rest, whether you’re out for the night or getting a Sunday snooze on the couch. Our tester loved how the weight was easily disbursed, leaving her comfortable and warm without overheating. Aside from the throw size, this pick also comes in mini, queen, and king sizes. We do wish, however, that it came in more colors. Price at time of publish: $199 Available in multiple neutral and fun colors, this throw is easily machine-washable, and its plushness speaks for itself. While some customers reported seeing loose threads over time, we love this pick for its softness that doesn’t fade in the washing machine. The faux leather UGG label on each blanket also adds a touch of luxury. Price at time of publish: $98 The best-selling blanket features temperature-regulating polyester that won’t keep you too hot or too cold, with spandex being stretchy enough to spread across couches and beds. If you’re worried about making the splurge, Big Blanket Co offers a 100-night trial so you can confirm you love it before committing. It’s important to know that at 11 pounds, this is not a lightweight blanket, but we love it for an oversized, thick blanket for the winter. Price at time of publish: $169 Made from thick Tibetan lamb fur, this incredibly soft blanket proves thick and warm in colder months while doubling as an interesting decor piece all year long. At such an expensive price tag, you’ll want to be sure to keep this pick clean. The company recommends taking your throw to a fur expert to clean it properly if spills occur. Price at time of publish: $595 For a less expensive throw, opt for a synthetic fiber. “Polyester owns the dominant market share of world fiber consumption in most textile products, largely because it is cheap and performs well throughout the supply chain,” says Silberman. Acrylic is another option that’s affordable and machine washable, but may not be as soft. For the best of both worlds, combine synthetic and natural materials like cotton and polyester or wool and acrylic.
Size
When choosing a blanket size, consider where you’re planning to use it. If it’s just going to warm up your feet on the couch, a smaller blanket will do just fine. However, if you want to cuddle up with a partner or use it on your bed, you’ll probably need a larger option.
Warmth
When shopping for a throw blanket, think about how warm you want it to be. Heavier blankets provide more warmth and are great for winter and colder climates. Lightweight blankets aren’t as warm and are ideal for fall or spring use.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was researched and written by Lily Sperry, a lifestyle writer and commerce editor at The Spruce. A self-identified homebody, she knows the importance of blankets and other home linens in creating the perfect cozy atmosphere. She’s a huge fan of HAY’s product line and is eyeing their crinkled throw for her next homeware purchase. A standard throw blanket is something warm that you can pull onto your lap or wrap around your shoulders to get cozy while reading in your favorite armchair or marathon-watching your favorite TV series on the couch. If you are looking for a throw blanket for the foot of the bed, be sure that your throw blanket is a couple of feet wider than your mattress so that it can drape over the sides. According to Silberman, wool and cashmere are the least washable and may need to be taken to a specialist. Incorrect care can lead to pilling and shrinkage, but certain blends of wool are washable. “Wool is a very durable fiber, more durable than most give it credit for,” says Silberman. However, blankets are finished either chemically or mechanically to make the product softer. An example of a type of finish is flannel or silicone. Therefore, it may be helpful to look into the finish of your fabric to determine the softness, but cotton and wool are great options for those looking for a soft blanket. Additional reporting was done by Julia Fields, a lifestyle writer for The Spruce covering all things surrounding toys, gifts, and the holidays. She’s also covered similar topics in other roles, including toy reviews, product round-ups, expert interviews, and more. Expert advice was provided by Jeffrey Silberman, former professor and chairperson of the Textile Development and Marketing at the Fashion Institute of Technology.
