Whether you want to snuggle up to read a book or add a pop of color to your couch, nothing beats a stylish, cozy throw blanket.
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.
Best Overall
Goosebumps Adult Swaddles
Exceptionally cozy
Easy to clean
Durable
Lots of colors and patterns available
May lose its shape without some upkeep
When shopping for a blanket, you certainly don't have to sacrifice coziness for looks—just take Goosebumps’ Adult Swaddles. Available in over 130 different styles, there’s an abundance of options to choose from. Opt for a bold solid color, a unique pattern, or an ultra-chic ruffled blanket, depending on your preference. The materials used to make each swaddle varies based on the style, but we’ve found that the blankets closely resemble jersey material.
This throw is exceptionally soft and comfortable, sure to keep you comfy as you lounge with family or curl up with a book. And while it definitely warmed us up, it didn’t cause us to overheat or get uncomfortably hot. We also love that it’s machine washable and easy to clean, but make sure you wash it separately from the rest of your laundry.
If you need to take it on the go, these swaddles are compact and easy to travel with. And although it can lose a bit of shape over time, we’ve found that you can quickly refresh the blanket by having two people pull on either side. After years of use, we’re happy to report that they still hold up great.
Price at time of publish: $58 for a large
Dimension: 57 x 57, 58 x 72, or 58 x 95 inches | Material: Varies by style | Care: Wash separately on gentle, tumble dry low
Best Budget
The Big One Oversized Supersoft Plush Throw
Exceptionally cozy
Affordable
Oversized form
Not all pattern options are stylish
There's no need to splurge on a luxury blanket to enjoy the comforts of a snuggly throw blanket. This affordable Oversized Supersoft Plush Throw from The Big One is available in 16 eclectic styles without sacrificing comfort. While not all styles are our cup of tea design-wise, you’ll find neutral tones, classic plaids, and even a stylish ribbed option that are all effortlessly chic.
The fluffy polyester material and large size make this blanket incredibly cozy and high-quality despite the low price tag. Plus, it’s fully machine washable and won’t lose its softness over time. However, we’ve noticed a few loose threads and slight color fading with continued use. Still, the ultra-soft texture looks cozy and comfortable in any living space, combining a relaxed, attractive look and feel for an overall great value. What’s more, it’s even Standard 100 by OEKO-TEX certified, meaning it’s been tested for potentially harmful substances.
Price at time of publish: $20
Dimension: 60 x 72 inches | Material: Polyester | Care: Machine washable
Best Splurge
Cozy Earth Cashmere Tassel Throw
Exceptionally plush texture
Luxurious cashmere
Easy care instructions
Elegant look
Expensive
Limited colors
If you have a flexible budget, you might consider an extremely luxurious throw blanket like the Cozy Earth Cashmere Tassel Throw. While this throw is expensive, its price point is actually pretty comparable to other blankets made from 100 percent cashmere. You’ll want to note that it’s only available in two colors, but both are neutral, timeless, and should match most decor styles.
What’s more, it’s luxuriously soft and exceptionally plush. The ultra-warm blanket doesn’t just keep you warm in the colder months, but it also doubles as an elegant piece all year long. We also appreciate its easy care instructions, as you can both machine wash and tumble dry this blanket. It’s held up well over the span of a few months, with no signs of wear and tear.
While 60 x 50 inches is a pretty standard size for a throw blanket, you can also opt to purchase their oversized cashmere pick, which measures 91 x 74 inches. However, we think the standard size reigns supreme. While some throw blankets are almost too large and unmanageable, this one is the perfect size to snuggle up with on the couch and toss around when you want to layer up.
Price at time of publish: $600
Dimension: 60 x 50 inches | Material: Cashmere | Care: Machine wash cold, machine dry normal
Coziest
Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Throw
Soft and fluffy texture
Design-forward color options
Easy to clean
Expensive
Soft, warm, and exceptionally fluffy, Barefoot Dreams’ CozyChic Throw is the ultimate cozy companion. Measuring 54 x 72 inches, the oversized polyester blanket is the perfect size for draping on the couch or across your lap while working.
It’s available in 10 design-forward hues that have an elegant look and will complement a variety of different aesthetics. Even when not in use, we love how this pick looks draped over a couch or armchair. Plus, it’s machine washable for easy maintenance. And although it’s expensive, we think its high-quality construction and top-notch texture make it a worthy investment for your space.
Price at time of publish: $147
Dimension: 54 x 72 inches | Material: Polyester microfiber | Care: Machine wash cold and gently, air dry or tumble dry low
Best Plush
Better Homes & Gardens Embossed Velvet Plush Reverse Sherpa Throw
Reversible
Exceptionally soft
Affordable
Minimal solid hues
Air dry only
Featuring a velvet plush fabric on one side and a warm Sherpa on the other, this Embossed Velvet Plush Reverse Sherpa Throw is exceptionally cozy and stylish to boot (Better Homes & Gardens is owned by The Spruce's parent company, Dotdash Meredith). It’s available in eight different styles, including a few seasonal options if you like to cuddle up in the winter. We do, however, wish there were a few more neutral tones available on the website.
We love just how soft and cozy this blanket feels, as it definitely keeps us warm during those colder months. The blanket is machine washable, but you’ll want to note that it can’t be put in the dryer. But considering its luxurious texture and unmatched value, we think this is a very minor caveat. Plus, it’s held up very well in the span of a few months, with very minimal wear and tear despite consistent use.
Price at time of publish: $17
Dimension: 50 x 72 inches | Material: Polyester | Care: Machine wash gentle, air dry
Best Lightweight
Brooklinen Lightweight Textured Throw Blanket
Oversized design
Lightweight yet cozy
Design-forward yet subtle look
Dry cleaning recommended
If you tend to overheat easily or just like to snuggle up all year round, a lightweight throw blanket may just be for you. We like Brooklinen’s Lightweight Textured Throw Blanket, which feels more comparable to a textured quilt than your average fleecy throw.
Made with 100 percent long-staple cotton, we love just how soft and comfortable this blanket is without being overly warm. In fact, we’ve found that this blanket has enough heft to provide enough comfort, but won’t cause you to overheat underneath. It’s a great blanket to keep on your couch either year-round or just during the warmer months.
You’ll want to note that this blanket is dry-clean only, which may be a deal breaker for those who are expecting daily wear and tear. And while it’s only available in three colors, we appreciate its design-forward look and elegant construction.
Price at time of publish: $149
Dimension: 70 x 50 inches | Material: Long-staple cotton | Care: Dry cleaning recommended
Best Organic
Coyuchi Topanga Organic Matelasse Throw
Lightweight construction
Easy care instructions
Textured, lived-in look
Limited color options
Expensive
If you prefer to shop organic, you can’t go wrong with Coyuchi’s Topanga Organic Matelasse Throw. Made with 100 percent GOTS-certified organic cotton, this textured blanket boasts a lived-in look that adds an effortlessly refined touch to any space. Note that it’s only available in two colors, but they’re both neutral enough to match with most decor styles.
This blanket definitely has a more airy and lightweight construction compared to other options we’ve tested, making it an especially great pick for those who like to have a throw on hand year-round. It’s exceptionally soft and comfortable, and when you’re ready to clean it, simply throw it in the washing machine. And even after two years, this blanket looks as good as new with no signs of wear. So while this throw is definitely on the pricey side, it’s an investment that you can rely on for quite some time.
Price at time of publish: $148
Dimension: 50 x 70 inches | Material: Organic cotton | Care: Machine washable
Best Pattern Options
Vera Bradley Plush Fleece Throw Blanket
Lots of design-forward pattern options
Soft yet relatively lightweight
Warm and cozy texture
Customizable
No solid color options
Make a statement in your space with a bright and bold pick, like the Vera Bradley Plush Throw Blanket. Available in 21 unique and design-forward patterns, there’s no shortage of options to choose from. However, you’ll want to note that this blanket isn’t available in any solid colors, so be ready to purchase something eye-catching. You can even choose to customize your blanket on the Vera Bradley website if you want. Embroider your throw with a monogram, image, or text for an additional fee.
This blanket is made from a fleecy polyester material that’s both unbelievably soft and relatively lightweight. We appreciate its warm and cozy texture, which is perfect for snuggling up with. We also love its oversized construction, which makes it the perfect blanket to cocoon in. Plus, it’s exceptionally easy to launder, as it’s both machine washable and dryer-friendly. And after over a year of consistent use, we’ve noticed no signs of wear.
Price at time of publish: $60
Dimension: 50 x 80 inches | Material: Polyester | Care: Machine wash separately on gentle with cold water. Tumble dry low.
Best Fleece
L.L.Bean Wicked Plush Sherpa Throw
Neutral colorways
Two sizes available
Easy to clean
Monogram available
May be too warm for year-round use
LL Bean's Wicked Plus Sherpa Throw is a classic blanket from a classic retailer. It's available in two sizes and five solid colors in a comfortable, super-soft design. You'll find fleece on one side of the blanket and Sherpa on the other, both of which are unbelievably cozy. Your biggest conflict when you snuggle will be which side to have closest to your skin.
The blanket comes in both 50 x 60-inch and 60 x 80-inch sizes. The extra-large size is helpful for taller people or cuddled-up couples who don't want a single toe exposed. However, the standard large size should be suitable for most people. We also love how easy it is to clean, as it can stand up to everyday messes and can simply be thrown in the washer and dryer. After over a year of use, this blanket has held up exceptionally well, with no signs of wear throughout.
Price at time of publish: $50 for large
Dimensions: 50 x 60 or 60 x 80 inches | Material: Polyester | Care: Machine-wash, dry on no-heat setting
Best Ribbed
Parachute Oversized Rib Knit Throw
Elegant look
Easy care instructions
Oversized design
Suitable for year-round use
Slight wear over time
Not the softest
A ribbed throw can add subtle yet design-forward depth to any space, and of this category, we especially love the Oversized Rib Knit Throw from Parachute. It’s knit from a blend of 92 percent Turkish cotton and 9 percent polyester, giving it a snuggly but not overly-warm texture. We love the elegant design of this blanket, as it makes for a timeless addition to any space. It’s available in four neutral colors and one seasonal color, all of which are subdued and classic.
It’s also one of the largest options we’ve tested at 60 x 80 inches, but it’s still relatively lighter weight. This makes it suitable for those who like to cozy up year-round without having to worry about overheating. While it may not be as soft and cozy as a typical fleece or sherpa, we think it’s a great option to have on hand, especially during the warmer months. Additionally, we appreciate its simple care instructions, as it’s machine washable for an easy refresh. And while it’s generally held up well over several months, we did notice minimal color fading and thinning over time.
Price at time of publish: $99
Dimension: 60 x 80 inches | Material: 92% Turkish cotton, 9% polyester | Care: Machine washable
Best Wool
Pendleton Agate Beach Blanket
Bold and unique design
Oversized construction
High-quality materials
Holds up well over time
Pricey
Dry clean only
Pendleton is a family-owned business that's been operating for well over a century and is known for its wool blankets. This colorful blanket is ornamented with a unique and bold design featuring a Western-inspired pattern sure to make a statement in your home. Pendleton makes each of these wool blankets in the United States, which means it's more of an investment piece than some throws. However, the blanket is high-quality enough to become an heirloom for generations. We especially love the colorful stripes and geometric patterns on this wool/cotton blend blanket.
Despite mostly being made from wool, it doesn't have that scratchy feeling that sometimes accompanies that material. Instead, it's soft and smooth to the touch. This blanket is both stylish and functional, and while it makes for a great gift, the luxe throw is also ideal for your own home. Note that the manufacturer recommends dry cleaning this blanket, so you may have to put in a bit more effort to care for it regularly. However, glad to report that after over a year of use, there has been very little wear and tear on this high-end blanket
Price at time of publish: $299
Dimension: 64 x 54 inches | Material: 82% pure virgin wool, 18% cotton | Care: Dry clean
Best Faux Fur
Ugg Adalee Faux Fur Throw
Soft and fluffy texture
Classic and chic look
Holds up well over time
Dry clean only
If you love the chic look of faux fur blankets, we recommend UGG’s Adalee Faux Fur Throw. Made with a soft and fluffy polyester material, we love just how cozy this throw feels while lounging on the couch. And at 70 x 50 inches, you’ll have plenty of fabric to snuggle up with.
Although the blanket is dry clean only, it’s held up very well over the course of several months. So if you’re willing to put in a bit of effort to care for this throw, we think it’s a timeless investment you’ll keep for years to come.
Price at time of publish: $98
Dimension: 70 x 50 inches | Material: Polyester | Care: Dry clean
Compare
Texture | Temperature Regulation | Ease of Cleaning | Durability | ||
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall:
Goosebumps Adult Swaddles
|
Shopgoosebumps.com | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Best Budget:
The Big One Oversized Plush Throw
|
Kohls.com | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Best Splurge:
Cozy Earth Cashmere Tassel Throw
|
Cozy Earth | 5 | 5 | 3 | 4 |
Coziest:
Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Throw
|
Amazon | 5 | 4 | 3 | 5 |
Best Plush:
Better Homes & Gardens Embossed Plush Throw
|
Walmart | 5 | 4 | 5 | 5 |
Best Lightweight:
Brooklinen Lightweight Throw Blanket
|
Brooklinen | 5 | 5 | 3 | 4 |
Best Organic:
Coyuchi Topanga Matelasse Throw
|
Wayfair | 5 | 5 | 5 | 5 |
Best Pattern Options:
Vera Bradley Plush Throw Blanket
|
Amazon | 5 | 5 | 5 | 4 |
Best Fleece:
L.L.Bean Wicked Plush Throw
|
L.L.Bean | 5 | 4 | 5 | 4 |
Best Ribbed:
Parachute Oversized Knit Throw
|
Parachute | 3 | 4 | 4 | 5 |
Best Wool:
Pendleton Agate Beach Blanket
|
Amazon | 5 | 5 | 4 | 5 |
Best Faux Fur:
Ugg Adalee Faux Fur Throw
|
Amazon | 5 | 4 | 5 | 4.6 |
Our best overall pick, the Goosebumps Adult Swaddle, is an exceptionally cozy and durable blanket with lots of color and pattern options. If you’re looking for something a bit more budget-friendly, check out The Big One Oversized Supersoft Plush Throw. It’s affordable, plush, and oversized, making it ideal for snuggling on the couch.
What to Look for in a Throw Blanket
Material
Throw blankets are made from a variety of materials; each has its own benefits. For instance, wool blankets are some of the warmest, but they can be a bit scratchy and must be washed carefully. Those with allergies may also not be able to use wool. Cotton blankets, on the other hand, are lightweight and easy to care for. For a lightweight throw that's suitable for the summer, Jeffrey Silberman, former professor and chairperson of the Textile Development and Marketing at the Fashion Institute of Technology, also recommends cotton. "Cotton has a naturally soft hand but won't be oppressively warm," he says. We love Brooklinen’s Lightweight Textured Throw Blanket, which has an airy construction and is suitable for year-round use.
For a less expensive throw, opt for 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. One of our favorite synthetic/natural fiber blend blankets is the Parachute Oversized Rib Knit Throw, which feels cozy but not overly warm.
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. If you prefer a larger blanket, check out the Parachute Oversized Rib Knit Throw, which measures a whopping 60 x 80 inches.
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. Soft and plush, we love the Barefoot Dreams CozyChic Throw for an extra-cozy pick.
Care
It's important to review the care instructions when searching for a new blanket to purchase. Luckily, most throw blankets come clean easily in the washing machine. In general, you should take care to wash your throw blanket separately from other linens on a cold gentle cycle in the washing machine with mild detergent, and to air or tumble dry on a gentle cycle if the fabric is dryer safe. Or take your dry-clean-only throw blanket to the dry cleaner.
Look for fabrics like cotton or polyester for easy-to-clean durable options that you won't have to worry about fading drastically over time. These will be lower-maintenance, so they make a great option for households with kids or pets. If you’re looking for something that’ll hold up well over time with low maintenance, the Coyuchi Topanga Organic Matelasse Throw boasts exceptionally easy care instructions.
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. These fabrics look and feel beautiful, but may take a bit of extra care to remain in quality condition. If you don't mind the extra maintenance and are looking for that luxe feel and look, then wool and cashmere remain great options.
-
How big is a throw blanket?
Standard throw blankets tend to be 50 x 60 inches, but there is no single official standard size for a throw blanket. The size you choose will depend on the size of your bed, armchair, or sofa, as well as your personal preferences and the look that you are trying to achieve.
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.
-
How should you put a throw blanket on a bed?
The way you place a throw blanket is a matter of personal taste and style. Some people prefer a formal aesthetic, with a throw blanket folded neatly in two and carefully placed at the end of the bed with equal sides hanging on either side of the mattress. Others prefer a slightly undone look with the throw blanket left open and draped over the bottom end of the bed with the throw blanket just scraping the floor. Draping this way is a good solution if you want to hide bed legs or prefer a more casual look.
-
What makes for the softest blanket?
Silberman shares that the fiber type and finish will contribute to a blanket being the softest. "Cotton's hand is soft and smooth and has a 'dry' (natural) hand. Wool has scales on the fiber, so it might be a little scratchy, however, there are breeds of sheep that are bred for fewer scales, which yields a smoother hand (less scratchy)."
However, blankets are finished either chemically or mechanically to make the product softer. One 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.
Why Trust The Spruce?
This article was written by Bianca Pineda, a commerce writer who specializes in bedding, bath, and home decor at The Spruce. To compile this list, she consulted testing insights, assessed numerous customer reviews, and conducted supplemental research about the topic.
Additional reporting was done by Lily Sperry, a lifestyle writer and commerce editor at The Spruce, and 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.