Blankets come in many types, cotton, wool, fleece, and blended throws, each suited for different seasons, surfaces, and styles. A cotton blanket works well for year-round layering, while a wool blanket offers warmth and insulation in colder months. Fleece throws add softness for casual use, and decorative blankets bring color and texture to living spaces.
This guide breaks down the most common blanket types so you can choose the right fit for comfort, function, and interior style.
1. Fleece Blankets
Fleece blankets can give you that instant comfort. They're soft, warm, and light enough to use in all seasons. Because they’re made from synthetic fibers, they hold onto heat really well without feeling bulky. Plus, they’re super easy to care for, just toss them in the wash and they’re dry in no time. If you're after a blanket that feels cozy the second you pull it over you, fleece is a solid go-to.
Pros: Warm, lightweight, easy to clean, and perfect for everyday coziness.
Cons: Not as breathable as natural fibers and can pill over time.
2. Wool Blankets (Merino, Alpaca, Cashmere)
Wool blankets are a timeless favorite for a reason. They’re naturally warm, breathable, and great at keeping moisture away, which makes them just as useful in winter as they are on chilly summer nights. The fibers adjust to your body temperature, so you stay cozy without overheating. Wool also has a dense, durable feel that adds weight in a comforting way.
Pros: Warm, breathable, moisture-wicking, and built to last.
Cons: Heavier than other options and may need special care.
3. Cotton Blankets
Cotton blankets are soft, breathable, and gentle on the skin, which makes them perfect for everyday use. Cotton lets air circulate freely, helping you stay cool and comfortable, especially in warmer weather. It's also naturally absorbent, so it keeps you dry through the night.
Pros: Soft, breathable, hypoallergenic, and easy to wash.
Cons: Less insulating in cold weather and may shrink or fade with time, depending on the weave.
4. Down Blankets
Down blankets are a lightweight luxury. Filled with the soft clusters beneath duck or goose feathers, they offer warmth without the weight. The loft traps heat efficiently, so you stay cozy even in cold climates without feeling buried. If you love that cloud-like feel and don’t mind a little extra care, a down blanket is a great choice.
Pros: Incredibly warm, ultra-light, and luxuriously soft.
Cons: May require professional cleaning and isn’t ideal for those sensitive to goose feathers.
5. Weighted Blankets
Weighted blankets are like a gentle hug you can sleep under. Filled with tiny glass beads or pellets, they apply even pressure across the body to help you feel grounded and relaxed. This calming effect can ease stress and make it easier to fall asleep. Once used mainly in therapy, they’re now a go-to for anyone craving better rest.
Pros: Helps reduce anxiety, improves sleep, and offers a soothing, comforting feel.
Cons: Can feel too warm for hot sleepers and may be tricky to wash due to their weight.
6. Throw Blankets
Throw blankets are equal parts comfort and decor. Smaller than bed blankets, they’re often draped over a chair, folded at the foot of the bed, or casually tossed on the sofa. They add texture, color, and warmth to a room without much effort. Whether in soft cotton, cozy wool, or plush fleece, throws are a simple way to make any space feel more inviting.
Pros: Stylish, portable, and perfect for adding a cozy touch anywhere.
Cons: Usually too small for full-body warmth, so best as a light layer or accent piece.
7. Quilts & Coverlets
Quilts and coverlets bring comfort and decorative charm to any room. A quilt has three stitched layers that offer soft warmth and a cozy feel. Coverlets are thinner, often with woven textures, and work best as a finishing touch on the bed. Both bring pattern, texture, and a touch of tradition into the room without feeling heavy.
Pros: Great for layering, easy to care for, and full of visual character.
Cons: Not the warmest option on their own, mostly used for style or light coverage.
8. Knit Blankets
Knit blankets bring instant texture and comfort. Made by looping yarn instead of weaving, they have a soft, stretchy feel and a relaxed, cozy look. From chunky to fine-knit styles, they add warmth and character to any room. They're breathable too, making them perfect for layering or tossing over your favorite chair when you want a little extra comfort.
Pros: Cozy, breathable, and full of texture. Aesthetic and soft to the touch.
Cons: Best for mild temperatures and benefits from a little extra care.
Comparison Table Between Blanket Types
Not sure which blanket is right for you? This table breaks it down simply, so you can see what each type does best and where it shines.
| Blanket Type | Weight | Warmth | Care Level | Best Use |
| Fleece Blankets | Lightweight | Moderate to High | Easy (Machine washable) |
- Everyday use |
| Wool Blankets | Medium to Heavy | High (Thermore-gulating) | More Care Needed (Hand wash or dry clean) |
- All-season comfort |
| Cotton Blankets | Light to Medium | Low to Moderate (Breathable) | Easy (Machine washable) |
- Warm climates |
| Down Blankets | Very Lightweight | Very High |
Extra Care (Best with professional cleaning) |
- Maximum warmth - Lightweight insulation - Cold bedrooms |
| Weighted Blankets | Very Heavy | Low to Moderate | Extra Care (Spot clean or use a large machine) | - Anxiety relief - Sleep support - Deep relaxation |
| Throw Blankets | Light to Medium | Low to Moderate | Some Care (Varies by Material) | - Decorative accent - Light wrap - Sofa or chair styling |
| Quilts & Coverlets | Light to Medium | Low to Moderate | Easy (Machine washable) | - Decorative bedding - Light layering - Spring or summer nights |
| Knit Blankets | Medium | Moderate |
Some Care (Gentle wash recommended) |
- Textured decor - Cozy layering - Relaxed lounge spaces |
How to Choose the Right Blanket
Choosing the right blanket is about finding what fits your lifestyle. Here is a three-step guide to choosing the perfect blanket for you:
1. Start With the Basics
Your climate, how warm you like to sleep, and where the blanket will be. For hot sleepers or warmer seasons, cotton or quilts are a safe choice. If you need extra warmth, look to wool, down, or layered options like knit and fleece.
2. Next, Think About the Function
A durable cotton knit might be best for everyday use, while a heavier wool throw adds weight and comfort to colder nights. Size matters too; throws are great for draping, but for full coverage, go for standard bed sizes.
3. Finally, Choose What You Love
Texture, color, and pattern shape how a space feels. Maybe it's a soft knit that makes your sofa more inviting or a bold print that gives the room some personality. A good blanket should feel right to you and reflect your style without trying too hard.
What Types of Blankets Speak to You?
Some blankets are about warmth. Others are about feeling at home. Maybe you reach for light, breathable cotton or crave the weight of wool on winter nights. You might want something soft and textured or a bold throw that changes the mood of a room.
If you’re looking for blankets that bring both comfort and character, ZigZagZurich’s wool blanket and cotton collections offer just that. Designed by artists, crafted with care, and made to live with. Our collection pairs premium materials with bold, artist-led designs that bring a distinctive voice to your space.
Shop now at ZigZagZurich, free shipping available!
