Choosing the best type of baby blanket is crucial simply because picking the wrong type for your newborn may not give the right protection; or worse, it could cause unwanted things like baby rash, irritation, and the like. So how do you choose the best type of baby blanket? Here&#;s a helpful guide.
Where Do You Live?
The Place where you live will have a massive impact on the kind of blankets you can choose from. If you live in a very hot place then it is likely that you will need a cooler blanket. Equally if the place you live in is cold, then you should consider a warmer blanket.
It might be that you require different blankets for different seasons or one for a midday nap and one for overnight. It makes perfect sense to choose more than one blanket, based on the requirements you have at the time.
Where Do You Go?
Do bear in mind however, the temperature of the places you are going to. After all, the likelihood is that if you live in a cooler place that the inside of your home will be much warmer than taking a stroll outside. Going into malls or stores is going to be much warmer than taking a country walk will be.
Think practically about what will work for you and your special one. It might be quite different to a friend or relative living elsewhere. If they give you plenty of advice, no matter how well meaning, it may not be quite right for you.
If you are unsure, choose both a light and a heavier, warmer blanket to suit a wide range of occasions.
The Right Color For You
The color of blankets varies widely and it will be up to you to pick colors that suit your family. You will find a huge range of neutral colors available that work well for any baby. They might be white, beige, yellow, green or brown and offer you plenty of flexibility.
This category will give you the most choice. They are also quite easy on the eye and tend to look great with a wide variety of clothing and other accessories. Neutrals add great depth and look good with everything.
If you may consider using the items for any further children or plan pass them on nieces and nephews, then this guarantees they will be reusable no matter what. There are many neutral motifs such as teddy bears that you might find go well with these neutral colors.
Gender Based Colors
You may prefer traditional gender based colors, which might be pinks and purples for girls and blues for boys. This may be the look you like best, and therefore you will find a huge amount of choice in these options too. After all, you could also be coordinating with nursery decorations.
If the blanket is going to be the one that goes to bed at night, then ensuring it matches may add a lovely additional accent to the room. It can match by theme as well as color, so if the scheme is pink elephants then it may well be possible to personalize it the same way.
Choose A Blanket That You Like
One vital consideration for choosing the best type of baby blanket in the visual part of it is simply choosing something that you like. You are going to be looking at that blanket so often, every day for weeks and months as well as in the countless photos that you took of your special little one.
For example, if it is bright yellow and that is not a color you like, then it will not be fully enjoyed the way it should. Choose something that you love and you will love seeing it with them too.
Age And Size Of The Baby Matter For Your Blanket
The age and size of your baby is an essential consideration, as before they come along it is hard to imagine just how quickly they grow. What might start out in your mind as a blanket for their baby and kindergarten years, might only be suitable for them up to a year old.
Equally, it might be quite large and need lots of folding when they are small. So much so, that it doubles the thickness and turns a light and cool blanket into a thicker and warmer one that is no longer practical. Think about what will work best for you over the time you hope to use it.
There are also lots of different types of blankets that are best to use at different times. There is plenty of advice and guidance available, but the most important thing is to make an informed choice. This can avoid choosing something impractical or that seemed like a good idea at the time.
We have all done this before and sometimes it can be a costly endeavor. We all went to get something at a store only to find out it was not what you needed or it doesn&#;t do quite what you hoped. Mitigate that problem with our guide to the types of blanket you may require.
The Different Types Of Blanket
The type of blanket you choose has to meet your needs. There are different types, which may be best at different times:
Swaddling Blanket
Your baby has been developing at an impressive rate inside your body. In fact, so much so that their world is a tight and nurturing space that bends precisely to their needs. This is what they have gotten used to and being born can be quite a traumatic experience for them.
Protect them a little longer with a swaddling blanket. A blanket that wraps fully around their body without being restrictive thanks to plenty of stretch. This feels more like their natural nurturing space and offers a supremely safe and secure feeling.
Babies also naturally jerk with their startle reflex, which can wake them up. A swaddling blanket lessens this effect and so encourages longer and deeper sleep. A fantastic item to support your baby&#;s first weeks.
Receiving Blanket
A receiving blanket is usually the first thing to cover your baby. Generally it is a small blanket to fit the size of a newly born baby and you might well find that you receive some of these as gifts. However, it is important to have one at the very beginning to comfort and secure your baby in their first days and weeks.
They have so many practical uses beyond that initial slice of time. For example, as a swap out for a changing mat or in lieu of burp cloths. They will be ever practical and become indispensable. A lovely blanket for welcoming baby into the world.
Standard Flat Blanket
This is the kind of blanket that might most traditionally come to mind; a large square or rectangle. A standard blanket is pretty essential for your little one as they grow from tiny baby to crawler, toddler and beyond. Whether it is for a nap in the stroller, a cuddle on the sofa or to warm and soothe at bedtime, this is one piece you will want to get.
Blankets make lovely bed clothes, however do note that blankets should always to tucked in tightly to cribs and nursery beds for the ultimate in safety. You may need a couple of these in different fabrics for a variety of different times. A truly personal item for bringing up baby.
Sleeping Bags
A baby sleeping bag is an easy way to ensure your little one is warm and comfortable overnight. Cleverly you can put them in their normal pajamas and add the sleeping bag on top where it acts like a quilt. They come in a variety of thicknesses too, just like quilts.
It is quite important to choose the right thickness to make sure that your baby will not be too warm or cold. This is where the season or temperature outside may affect what this will be. Keep an eye on the length of the bag to ensure your baby will have enough legroom to kick around.
They also have the additional feature of being very safe. As they attach around the baby, usually by poppers at the shoulder, it cannot ride up or go near their face. A very bright sleeping solution for your tiny one.
Quilts
Quilts make a perfect next step for when your baby is getting a little older. They are exactly what they will be having on their beds for the future, after all. More than other items, it is possible to get quilts in a wide variety of designs that really offer something special.
Whether it is something wonderfully fun for your little one or one in a fabulous pattern, there is so much choice. Whatever you wish to get, you will be able to find it. A great way to coordinate with their room while keeping them highly snug, they are perfect.
Security Lovies
During the day, or when they get older, it may not work for your little (but getting bigger!) one to have their big blanket. A security lovie is a small piece of blanket that babies can easily carry round or use for a feeling of security. It is a little piece of comfort yet flexible enough to be taken anywhere.
In a wide variety of fabrics, colors and designs it will not be difficult finding one that your little one adores. Dragging around a big blanket can hold back their explorations and slow them down. With a hand held security lovie they can keep going all day and fulfill every dream and aspiration.
Another very important thing to consider when choosing the best type of baby blanket is the fabric.
What Fabric To Choose For Your Blanket?
The fabric of the blanket you choose will have a high impact on the suitability of it at a particular time. Here are some fabric types and some of their features, to help you in picking the right one:
Fleece Blankets
Fleece is a lovely fabric that is extra soft and warm. It can be made both thick and thin, so you can still get a light blanket made from fleece. Baby Fleece Blankets are made in a wide variety of colors and in a huge range of patterns.
Fleece is often trimmed with different fabrics to give it a little more depth and variety, and is so easy to wash and more importantly dry. Even in cool and damp places it dries very quickly and is ready to use again. Useful in cooler places and in those scenarios where your blanket might need repeated washing.
Despite the possibility for extra washing, it does stay looking good for a long time too.
Bamboo Blanket
It is a relatively new fabric that is becoming so popular. Bamboo Blankets are light and hygienic thanks to its antibacterial qualities. The bamboo plant grows so much faster than other plants such as cotton, so is great for making items as it is ecologically friendly and sustainable.
Additionally bamboo is extremely soft and moisture wicking for the ultimate in comfort. Bamboo is created in a similar way to cotton, so that the production of colors and patterns are on a par. There is plenty of choice and its lovely qualities will impress you.
Cotton
Probably the most recognized fabric in the world, cotton remains highly popular. It is natural, looks great and is kind to skin. Cotton is found in a great number of blankets either on its own or as a mixed fiber.
Mixing cotton with other fibers works extremely well and offers different feels and sheens. Cotton is easy to dye and pattern so there are plenty of these in available in a wide range of different colors types.
It is also easy to embroider you may like to have it personalized. It washes easily with other garments and can be washed at very high temperatures. Therefore it is easy to keep clean and sanitary.
Flannel Blanket
Flannel is the fabric people often associate as being used for plaid shirts. It is typically made from cotton, which has a finishing process called napping applied to it, that raises the fibers. That is why it is often called brushed cotton.
This napping adds an additional layer of warmth and makes it extra soft and snug. Blankets from flannel are very similar to those in cotton but have a slight fleecy feel about them. They wash well and can be washed at high temperatures, but may take additional time to dry. However they also feel very warm and snuggly.
Organic Blanket
Organic blankets are made from natural fibers that have had no modification, so are highly natural. This makes them environmentally sound and pure for baby&#;s skin.
They are more likely to be cotton but can be other fibers too. Thanks to their neutral production, they are suitable for even the most sensitive skin and are very popular for newborns. They are likely to use natural dyes for purity and therefore the colors might be more limited.
Wool Blanket
Wool is an ancient yarn and has been used for centuries to create garments. There is a false presumption that all wool is itchy and this is definitely not the case. It depends upon the type of animal used and its breed.
For example, some sheep&#;s wool is very coarse and itchy, but lambswool tends to be soft and comfortable. The best thing about wool is its undeniable warmth.
It is so, so warm that even in the coolest country or months, your baby will still be super warm. It is also completely natural. Wool is dyed in a huge range of colors and can be machine or hand knitted into a fabulous variety of lovely patterns.
Knitted Blanket
Knitted blankets tend to be made from cotton or wool. The effect of knitting offers a thicker product and the result tends to be very snuggly and warm. Knitted blankets offer a gorgeous, traditional look that is so attractive.
This would make a lovely piece for your baby or as a gift for a loved one with a little one. Featuring either in a single color or knitted into a pattern, they are delightful.
The blanket you buy offers you a great many factors to consider. From the fabric or fibre used, to the size, type and color there is so much choice. However the decision is yours and you know exactly what your little one needs.
This might be different things at different times depending on the season or location you are in. What you need to remember most is that like it or not, your baby is going to grow up.
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That does not have to mean that they won&#;t love their blanket any more. Choose something they can treasure across their years and even as heirlooms for their own children.
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If you are expecting a baby or caring for a little one, you may be wondering how to choose the perfect baby blanket. A baby blanket is more than just a piece of fabric; it is a source of comfort, warmth, and security for your baby. Therefore, choosing the right baby blanket is an important decision that requires some thought and consideration.
There are many factors to consider when choosing a baby blanket, such as the type, the material, the design, the size, the safety, and the quality. You also need to consider your baby&#;s age, stage, and preferences, as well as your budget, availability, and style. To help you make the best choice, we have prepared this comprehensive guide that will cover everything you need to know about baby blankets and answer some of the most frequently asked questions.
Different types of baby blankets serve different purposes and functions. Here are some of the most common types of baby blankets and their uses and benefits:
Swaddle blankets are used to wrap your baby snugly, leaving only their head exposed. These blankets can help your baby feel cosy and secure and prevent them from being startled by their own reflexes. Swaddling can help your baby sleep better and longer and cope with colic or overstimulation.
This type of blanket is usually made of thin and breathable fabrics, such as cotton or muslin, and they should be large enough to cover your baby&#;s body but not too large to pose a suffocation risk.
Swaddle blankets are one of the best baby blankets for newborns, as they can mimic the womb environment and provide your baby with a sense of security and comfort.
However, swaddle blankets should be used with caution, and you should follow the safety guidelines, such as swaddling your baby loosely enough to allow them to breathe and move their hips and legs and stopping swaddling when your baby shows signs of rolling over or escaping from the swaddle.
Receiving blankets are versatile and multipurpose blankets that can be used for various functions, such as covering your baby during feeding, changing, or sleeping, laying your baby on the floor or the crib, or wiping your baby&#;s spit-up or drool.
Receiving blankets are usually made of soft and durable fabrics, such as flannel or fleece, and they should be medium-sized and medium-thick to provide your baby with comfort and warmth but not too much to cause overheating or irritation.
Receiving blankets are one of the most useful types of baby blankets, as they can serve many purposes, and they can be easily washed and stored.
However, receiving blankets should not be confused with crib blankets, as they are not designed to cover your baby when they sleep in their crib, and they may pose a safety hazard if they are too large or too thick.
Security blankets are special blankets that provide your baby with comfort and attachment and can help them self-soothe and relax.
These blankets are usually made of plush or fuzzy fabrics, such as chenille or sherpa, and they may have a stuffed animal or a toy attached to them to make them more appealing and cuddly.
Security blankets are significant for infants, as they can help them cope with separation anxiety or with transitions or changes in their environment.
Security blankets are one of the most cherished types of baby blankets, as they can become your baby&#;s best friend and provide them with emotional support and comfort. Security blankets can also help your baby develop self-regulation and self-soothing skills and enhance their social and cognitive development.
However, security blankets should be introduced with care, and you should monitor your baby&#;s attachment and dependence on them and ensure that they are not interfering with their sleep or development.
Crib blankets are used to cover your baby when they sleep in their crib and to decorate their nursery. These blankets are usually made of cosy and warm fabrics, such as wool or acrylic, and they may have different colours, patterns, or themes to match your baby&#;s personality and style.
Crib blankets are suitable for babies who are older than one year and who can regulate their temperature and movement, and they should be large enough to cover your baby&#;s body but not too large to hang over the crib&#;s edges.
Crib blankets are one of the most stylish types of baby blankets, as they can add some flair and charm to your baby&#;s nursery and reflect your baby&#;s individuality and taste. They can also provide your baby with warmth and comfort and help them sleep better and longer.
However, crib blankets should not be used for babies who are younger than one year or who cannot roll over or move on their own, as they can pose a safety risk and cause overheating or suffocation.
The material of the baby blanket is one of the most important factors to consider, as it can affect your baby&#;s comfort, health, and safety. Different materials can be used for baby blankets, such as natural or synthetic fabrics, and each material has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common materials for baby blankets and their characteristics and considerations:
Cotton blankets are one of the best fabrics for baby blankets, as they can suit different weather conditions and provide your baby with comfort and breathability. Cotton blankets are also hypoallergenic and non-toxic, and they can prevent skin irritation or allergic reactions. However, cotton blankets should be chosen carefully, and you should look for organic or certified cotton that is free of harmful chemicals or dyes and that meets the regulatory requirements.
Wool blankets are one of the best baby blankets for winter, as they can keep your baby warm and snug and protect them from the cold and wind. Being natural and eco-friendly, they can prevent mould and dust mites. However, wool blankets should be used with caution, and you should check your baby&#;s skin sensitivity and allergy before using them. You should also look for soft and fine wool, such as merino or cashmere, and that is treated or blended with other fabrics to make it more comfortable and gentle.
Synthetic fabrics are one of the most common materials for baby blankets, as they are widely available and inexpensive, and they can provide your baby with warmth and comfort. Synthetic fabrics are also durable and long-lasting and can resist stains and odours. However, synthetic fabrics should be chosen carefully, and you should look for synthetic fabrics that are certified or tested, free of harmful chemicals or dyes, and meet the regulatory requirements.
The design and style of the baby blanket are other factors to consider, as they can affect your baby&#;s appearance and personality, as well as your preferences and tastes. There are different designs and styles that can be used for baby blankets, such as gender-neutral options, personalized or monogrammed blankets, or popular themes and patterns. Here are some of the most popular designs and styles for baby blankets and their features and considerations:
Gender-neutral options are designs and styles that can suit both boys and girls. This option is ideal for parents who do not know or do not want to reveal their baby&#;s gender or who want to have more flexibility and versatility in their choices. Some examples of gender-neutral options are:
Solid colours, such as white, grey, yellow, or green, can match any nursery or outfit and that can create a simple and elegant look
Animal prints, such as elephants, giraffes, or owls, can add some fun and charm and that can stimulate your baby&#;s curiosity and imagination.
Geometric patterns, such as stripes, dots, or chevrons, can create a modern and stylish look that can enhance your baby&#;s visual and cognitive development.
Personalized or monogrammed blankets are designs and styles that can include your baby&#;s name, initials, birth date, or any other text or message that you want to add to make the blanket more unique and special. Personalized blankets are ideal for parents who want to celebrate their baby&#;s identity and personality or who want to create a memorable and meaningful gift. These blankets are also great for parents who want to make their baby stand out or who want to express their love and affection. Some examples of personalized or monogrammed blankets are:
Embroidered blankets that can have your baby&#;s name, initials, birth date, or any other text or message stitched on the blanket in different fonts, colours, or styles to create a customized and elegant look
Printed blankets that can have your baby&#;s name, initials, birth date, or any other text or message printed on the blanket in different fonts, colours, or styles to create a personalized and trendy look
Photo blankets that can have your baby&#;s photo or any other photo that you want to include printed on the blanket in different sizes, shapes, or effects to create a unique and sentimental look
The safety of the baby blanket is another factor to consider, as it can affect your baby&#;s health and well-being. Different safety standards can be applied to baby blankets, such as meeting regulatory requirements, using non-toxic materials, or considering SIDS prevention. Here are some of the most important safety standards for baby blankets and their features and considerations:
Meeting regulatory requirements means that the baby blanket has been tested and certified by the relevant authorities, such as the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC), the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM), or the International Organization for Standardization (ISO), to ensure that it meets the minimum safety and quality criteria, such as flammability, toxicity, or durability. Meeting regulatory requirements is essential for ensuring that the baby blanket is safe and reliable and that it does not pose any potential hazards or risks to your baby. To check if the baby blanket meets the regulatory requirements, you should look for the labels, tags, or certificates that indicate the compliance and accreditation of the product and that provide the relevant information and instructions.
Using non-toxic materials means that the baby blanket is made of natural or organic fabrics or synthetic fabrics that are free of harmful chemicals or dyes that can affect your baby&#;s health or safety. Using non-toxic materials is important for preventing skin irritation or allergic reactions and for reducing the exposure to carcinogens or endocrine disruptors, that can cause serious or long-term health problems. To check if the baby blanket is made of non-toxic materials, you should look for labels, tags, or certificates that indicate the fabric's origin and composition and provide the relevant information and instructions.
The size of the baby blanket is another factor to consider, as it can affect your baby&#;s comfort, mobility, and safety. There are different sizes that can be used for baby blankets, such as small, medium, or large, and each size has its own advantages and disadvantages. Here are some of the most common sizes for baby blankets and their features and considerations:
Small baby blankets are usually between 18 and 24 inches and ideal for swaddling, receiving, or security purposes. These baby blankets are easy to use and carry, and they can provide your baby with snugness and security.
However, small baby blankets may not be warm or cosy and may not cover your baby&#;s body completely. Small baby blankets may also become too small or too tight as your baby grows and changes.
Medium baby blankets are usually between 30 and 40 inches, and they are ideal for crib, stroller, or car seat purposes. These blankets are versatile and practical, and they can provide your baby with comfort and warmth.
However, medium baby blankets may not be very snug or secure, and they may not fit your baby&#;s body perfectly. Medium baby blankets may also become too large or too loose as your baby moves and rolls.
Large baby blankets are usually between 40 and 60 inches and ideal for toddler, bed, or floor purposes. Large-size Baby blankets are cosy and generous, and they can provide your baby with protection and style. However, large baby blankets may not be very easy or convenient, and they may not suit your baby&#;s needs or preferences. If they are too large or thick and hang over the crib&#;s edges or cover your baby&#;s head, large baby blankets may also pose a safety hazard.
To choose the right size for your baby blanket, you should consider the following factors:
The purpose and function of the baby blanket, such as swaddling, receiving, security, crib, stroller, car seat, toddler, bed, or floor
The age and stage of your baby, such as newborn, infant, or toddler
The preference and comfort of your baby, such as snug or loose, warm or cool, soft or firm
The safety and quality of the baby blanket, such as fitted or tucked, breathable or insulating, natural or synthetic
The durability and longevity of the baby blanket is another factor to consider, as it can affect your baby&#;s comfort, safety, and style. There are different factors that can affect the durability and longevity of the baby blanket, such as the quality of the stitching and construction or the factors that can affect the blanket&#;s lifespan, such as the frequency and intensity of use or the washing and maintenance methods. Here are some of the most important factors for the durability and longevity of baby blankets and their features and considerations:
Quality stitching and construction are essential for ensuring that the baby blanket is durable and long-lasting and that it does not pose any potential hazards or risks to your baby, such as loose threads, holes, or gaps.
To check the quality of the stitching and construction, you should look for the following features:
Even consistent stitches that are not too tight or too loose and that do not have any knots, loops, or snags
Secure and reinforced seams that are not too thick or too thin and that do not have any gaps, holes, or tears
Smooth and finished edges that are not too sharp or too rough and that do not have any frays, curls, or pilling
Factors affecting blanket lifespan are the factors that can influence how long the baby blanket can last and how well it can retain its shape, colour, and quality, such as the frequency and intensity of use or the washing and maintenance methods. Some examples of factors affecting blanket lifespan are
Frequency and intensity of use, such as how often and how long you use the baby blanket and how much wear and tear it undergoes, which can affect its durability and longevity
Washing and maintenance methods, such as how often and how well you wash and dry the baby blanket and what products or techniques you use, which can affect its quality and appearance
Selecting the perfect baby blanket isn't just about personal preference; it holds significant importance for your baby's comfort, safety, and development. Let's explore why it matters and how it benefits both you and your baby:
Comfort and Sleep Quality
Choosing the right baby blanket ensures your baby is comfortable and happy, promoting better and longer sleep. This is crucial for their growth and overall development.
Safety and Well-being
The right baby blanket guarantees your baby's safety and health, allowing them to breathe and move freely. This is vital for their well-being and survival.
Style and Expression
Opting for the right baby blanket lets your baby be stylish and trendy, allowing them to express their personality and taste. This is important for their individuality and confidence.
Satisfaction and Pride
Selecting the right baby blanket brings satisfaction and pride, enhancing your joy in cherishing your baby. This is essential for your overall happiness and
fulfilment.
Connection and Bonding
The right baby blanket fosters a connection between you and your baby, creating a bond where you can share passions and preferences. This is beneficial for your relationship and attachment.
Choosing the right baby blanket can be a challenging and confusing task, and you may have many questions and doubts about it. To help you make the best decision, we have compiled some of the most frequently asked questions about baby blankets and their answers that may clear some of your queries and concerns:
No, you cannot use any blanket for your baby, as some blankets may not be suitable or safe for your baby, depending on their type, material, size, or design. You should always choose a baby blanket that is specifically designed for babies and meets safety and quality standards, such as the ones mentioned in this guide. You should also choose a baby blanket that suits your baby&#;s age, stage, and preference and that provides them with comfort, warmth, and security.
There is no definitive answer to how many blankets you need for your newborn, as it may depend on various factors, such as the weather, the temperature, the purpose, or the availability. However, a general rule of thumb is to have at least two or three blankets for your newborn that can serve different functions, such as swaddling, receiving, or security.
Personalized blankets can be safe for infants as long as they are made of non-toxic materials and do not have any loose or sharp parts that can pose a choking or suffocation risk.
However, personalized blankets should be used with caution, and you should always check the quality and safety of the personalized blanket before using it or giving it to your baby.
The ideal size for a crib blanket is between 40 and 60 inches, and it should be large enough to cover your baby&#;s body but not too large to hang over the crib&#;s edges. The crib blanket should also be fitted and tucked under the mattress, leaving no loose or excess fabric and keeping your baby&#;s head uncovered.
Choosing the perfect baby blanket is not an easy task, but it is a rewarding and enjoyable one, as it can make a big difference in your baby&#;s comfort, safety, and development. We hope this guide has helped you understand and practice choosing the perfect baby blanket and that it has answered some of your questions and doubts. If you have any more questions or comments, please feel free to leave them below or contact us directly. We would love to hear from you and help you with your baby blanket needs and goals.
If you are looking for a high-quality and easy-to-use baby blanket, we recommend you check out our Baby Blankets, which are made of 100% organic cotton and have a unique and patented design that allows you to swaddle your baby in seconds with no hassle or fuss.
To learn more about our Baby Blankets or to order yours today, please visit our website or follow us on social media. We look forward to hearing from you and providing you with the best baby blanket experience possible. Thank you for reading, and happy choosing! &#;
For more information, please visit Personalized Swaddle Blanket.