Cuddling up on the couch with a soft and cosy covering is a universal comfort. But when it comes to choosing the perfect companion for a chilly night in, you might find yourself wondering: throw vs blankets, what’s the difference?
Size Matters
One of the most significant distinctions between throws and blankets is their size. Blankets are designed to envelop you entirely, providing warmth and comfort throughout the night. They typically come in standard bed sizes, such as single, double, queen and king, ensuring they fit snugly on your mattress.
Throws, on the other hand, are much smaller and more versatile. They usually range from 50 x 60 inches to 72 x 90 inches, making them ideal for draping over your lap, shoulders or a chair. This compact size allows you to easily carry them around the house, adding a touch of warmth and comfort wherever you choose to relax.
Function First
The primary function of throws leans towards aesthetics. They come in various colours, patterns and textures, allowing you to inject personality and style into your living space. Throws can be used to add a pop of colour to a neutral sofa, complement a specific design theme in your room, or simply provide a layer of visual interest.
Blankets, however, prioritise warmth and comfort. They are typically constructed from thicker and more insulating materials like wool, fleece or down. These materials effectively trap heat, keeping you cosy on chilly nights. While some blankets may have a simple design, their primary focus is thermal comfort.
Material Musings
Throws often boast a more comprehensive range of fabric choices, catering to aesthetics and comfort. You’ll find throws made from lightweight materials like cotton or linen, perfect for adding a touch of texture during warmer months. Plush fabrics like faux fur or fleece are popular choices for throws, offering a luxurious and inviting feel.
Blankets typically prioritise practicality and warmth over sheer variety. While you can find cotton or fleece blankets, many are made from materials like wool or down. These materials are renowned for their exceptional insulating properties, ideal for trapping heat and keeping you warm during colder seasons.
Beyond the Basics
While throws and blankets have distinct purposes, they can both offer surprising versatility. Throws, beyond their decorative appeal, can be used for additional warmth. Drape them over your legs while reading a book or watching television or layer them on your bedspread for extra cosiness.
Although blankets are primarily designed for bedtime use, they can also add a layer of warmth and comfort on chilly evenings spent relaxing on the couch. Furthermore, some oversized blankets can be folded and used as throws, offering the best of both worlds.
Choosing the Right One: Throws vs Blankets
The ideal choice between throws and blankets depends on your specific needs. Here’s a quick guide to help you decide:
- For warmth – Blankets are the clear winner. Their larger size and focus on heat retention make them perfect for keeping you cosy on cold nights.
- For style – Throws take the crown. With their diverse range of colours, patterns and textures, throws can elevate the aesthetic appeal of your living space.
- For portability – Throws reign supreme again. Their compact size makes them easy to carry around the house, providing warmth and comfort wherever you go.
- For layering – Both throws and blankets can be used. Layer a throw over your blanket for added warmth and visual interest, or use a folded blanket as a makeshift throw for extra comfort.
Throws or Blankets: Which One to Use?
Ultimately, throws and blankets aren’t rivals but complementary pieces in your comfort arsenal. Throws add a touch of style and cosy warmth, while blankets provide essential warmth for a good night’s sleep. Understanding the distinction allows you to choose the right option for the occasion, ensuring you have the perfect companion for every situation.
