Blanket Sizes: A Guide To Choosing The Right One - Wilson & Dorset

What are standard blanket sizes?

There's not an industry standard for blanket sizes per se, not in the same way there is with beds, mattresses and bed linen sizes. However, typically a blanket size will be similar to sheets and duvets in size and at least large enough to cover a bed, and drape over the sides. A general rule for 'standard' blanket dimensions and measurements will look like this:

• Crib or Cot: 45 x 60 inches / 114 x 152 centimetres
• Twin or Single: 65 x 90 inches / 127 x 165 centimetres
• Double: 85 x 90 inches / 216 x 229 centimetres
• Queen: 90 x 90-100 inches / 229 x 229-254 centimetres
• King: 108 x 90-100 inches / 274 x 229-254 centimetres
• Throw blanket: 50 x 60 inches / 127 x 152 centimetres

It's important to remember that blanket sizes are really very broad and the ones listed here, generally pertain to bed linen. This is a typical guide for most blanket sizes available. Mattress sizes can also vary and this needs to be considered as well.

How do I find the right sized blanket for my bed?

Blanket sizes vary and choosing the right size is dependent on several factors, such as the size and height of your bed and also what the intended use for your blanket is. Do you want it to act like a bedspread and drape right over the edges to lightly touch the floor? Or, is it a wool underlay style blanket that will go over your mattress for added insulation while you sleep?

For the most part you'll want your blankets to cover the bed, fall over the sides and provide warmth, or be light enough to make a difference, but not really know they're there. (Unless of course it's a weighted blanket).

Note; with the sides of the bed adequately covered by your blanket, there'll be less draught and fewer cold spots.

What are the best fabrics for blankets?

There are some practical considerations to think about when choosing the type of fabric for your blankets, such as:

• Will it be used for additional warmth on a bed?
• Is it going to be used in summer only, or winter only, or all year round?
• Do you have allergies to factor in?
• Is it likely to leave the home for sleepovers or camping – a 'one blanket to do it all' type of investment?

Fabric options are really quite endless. Cotton, wool, faux fur, fleece, mohair, sheepskin and more. We like merino and sheepskin wool for blankets. With its wonderful qualities, wool really can't be beat. This incredible material is hypoallergenic, has the ability to resist moisture, is soft and warm with unsurmountable insulation and is easy to care for.

Can I make a blanket myself?

Absolutely! If you're creative and have the skills to knit or sew a blanket then by all means do. A quilted patchwork handmade blanket is often a work of art and is the kind of heirloom piece, that may be handed down through generations.

If you're clever at knitting and have the time, a knitted or crocheted blanket is something you can customise to achieve the perfect blanket size for you. An afghan blanket is essentially a knitted or crochet style blanket and is a popular throw style.

The same can be said for sewing, if you like to sew and have a specific idea in mind, there is no reason why you can't get creative and make your own blankets.