Cozy Essentials: The Best Throw Blankets

TL;DR:

• Throw blankets are versatile and essential for adding comfort and style to any space.
• Consider factors like material, color, and size when choosing a throw blanket.
• Different materials like wool, cashmere, cotton, chenille, fleece, and acrylic offer unique benefits.
• Choose a throw blanket that suits your style, budget, and practical needs for the ultimate cozy addition to your home.

From the living room blanket, you’ll reach for on movie nights to the throw that adds color and texture to your guest bedroom chaise, there’s a throw blanket for every space and occasion.

In my 850-square-foot condo, I have no less than four throws—an ivory faux fur that looks like freshly fallen snow in my bedroom, a stately wool herringbone that holds court on the sofa in my office, a cozy chenille ready for binge-watching Friday night, and airy cotton that makes its debut each spring. Each throw is a thoughtful idea for adding comfort and style to different areas of my home.

Does four throws in one home make me an expert in throw blankets? I like to think so, but just in case, we’ve brought in some experts to help you choose the right throw for your space and the best throw blankets to curl up with.

Throw Blankets 101: What to Look for in a Throw Blanket for Your Couch or Bed

Where You Want to Use the Throw

Location, location, location (and users!) should be at the top of your mind when choosing the right throw blanket for your space, and practicality is key.

“I always consider where it is going to be used and by whom,” says Jill Shelvin, Founder of Jill Shelvin Design. Does it need to be washed frequently? Is it more decorative? Shelvin explains that if you have children or pets, you should look for something easily washable, like cotton or man-made fibers. Silk, wool, and cashmere look beautiful but must often be dry-cleaned.

Meanwhile, blankets with tassels, poms, and fringe look beautiful, but those decorative accents may not wash and wear well. If the blanket is likely to be used a lot, you also want to look for materials that will avoid shedding or pilling and provide a super soft feel. For first-time buyers, consider something that offers durability and is easy to clean.

“In high traffic spaces, you should select a more durable material, like cotton, to prevent your throw blanket from wearing down.”

Jessica Harris, Manager of Production Design at Living Spaces, adds, “In high-traffic spaces, you should select a more durable material, like cotton, to prevent your throw blanket from wearing down.”

Color and Your Design Style

Here comes the fun part. What does your space need visually? Shelvin says, “A throw on a sofa is always great as an accent to break up the color or pattern of the sofa. It softens and adds a feeling of comfort.” Coordinate with the colors and accessories already in the room, such as throw pillows, add a pop of color, or choose a neutral for a goes-with-anything look.

“You can never go wrong with a neutral throw that can travel from room to room and can easily be used long-term,” says Jennifer Walter, Owner and Principal Designer of Folding Chair Design Co.

When you opt for color, look for shades that complement each other or add something that contrasts the existing palette. A neutral room practically begs for a rich accent, especially when you have a subtly upholstered sofa or a bed draped in calming, neutral linens. “We do like to go outside the box on color in bedrooms. We’ll contrast neutral bedding with a burnt umber throw or even a deep burgundy,” adds Walter.

“If you have a highly patterned rug, avoid this on your throw. If you have chunky knit pillows or textures happening within your space, I would go for a more lightweight throw."

But don’t forget that design is all about balance. Look around your room and consider the color, texture, and patterned elements you already have in your space. Amber Dunford says,

“Avoid this on your throw if you have a highly patterned rug. If you have chunky knit pillows or textures happening within your space, I would go for a more lightweight throw. If you have a leather sofa, I like the contrast of a throw with heft to offset the sleekness of the leather.”

And, If you have a sofa or chair in your space that looks a little tired, a soft throw blanket can be like a new coat that adds a style shot. Adding a blanket over the middle of an old chair or sofa is an amazing way to breathe new life into your living room. Consider experimenting with throws that contrast with the fabrics and textures of your furniture to make the throw blanket truly stand out,” explains Harris.

Time of Year

Consider whether the throw needs to keep you warm or simply there to add an accent. If you are going to curl up with a cup of tea on a chilly winter day, opt for a fleece or faux fur throw. A breezy, airy cotton or linen throw works when it’s there for softness and comfort rather than warmth.

"A throw blanket that keeps you warm and cozy is a living room staple. Look for a chubby knit material to bring extra-soft warmth, perfect for those chilly days."

As Harris explains, “During a hot summer day, you don’t necessarily want to get warmer – but you may want to curl up on the sofa and just chill.” Once the temperature drops, however, she says, “A throw blanket that keeps you warm and cozy is a living room staple. Look for a chubby knit material to bring extra-soft warmth, perfect for those chilly days. Another option is a cashmere throw, which insulates heat and keeps you nice and warm.”

Beyond texture and material, this also impacts the size of the throw blanket. “The size of your throw blanket might depend on the season, as I like to use larger, chunkier knit throws for colder months and smaller lightweight throws for spring and summer,” says Dunford. She is only half joking and adds, “If you are always fighting over who gets to keep their feet under a blanket, size up!”

Cost

You can find throws at all price points, from an inexpensive throw from a big box store to a chic, boho cashmere blanket from a high-end boutique. Think about the everyday use of your throw blanket. If it’s used daily, you do want to spring for a high-quality throw, but it will see a lot of wear and tear. It may need to be replaced occasionally, so you don’t want to break the bank.

Katie Simpson, Interior Designer at Mackenzie Collier Interiors, says, “Unless you plan to drape your throw over a sofa that is strictly used for decoration, the cost is another thing to consider when purchasing a throw blanket. Sofas tend to get a lot of traffic, so choose something that you wouldn’t mind getting heavily used.”

What Materials Work Best for Throw Blankets?

Wool

Imagine a roaring fire, a mug of hot chocolate, and wrapping yourself in a warm, cozy blanket. If this sounds like your dream scenario, a pure wool throw blanket is in your future. However, wool comes in many forms, and each is right for a different application. A merino wool throw has the finest and most delicate wool. An alpaca throw is the most lightweight. And Angora has an almost felt-like texture.

Erin Banta, co-founder of Pepper, enjoys baby Alpaca wool. She explains that it’s softer than cashmere yet lighter than other wools, making it the perfect material for a luxury throw with unparalleled softness. “When you're relaxing on the couch and want to wrap yourself in a cuddly blanket, you want to be sure your throw is soft and silky. Baby alpaca wool is a good choice as it is perfect for insulation and snuggling,” says Banta.

Cashmere

Cashmere has a well-deserved reputation as one of the most luxurious luxury fabrics. It’s a different type of wool, but it comes from a specific goat in the Gobi Desert. This super soft fabric feels indulgent and is perfect for a touch of high-end sophistication in any room.

Its soft feel and fine texture make it a standout choice for adding elegance to your decor. If Coastal Grandmother were a throw blanket, it would be cashmere.

“Cashmere is the perfect combination of soft, warm, and hypoallergenic. There’s something about the soft, smooth texture makes you want to snuggle up inside of it or drape it over the end of the bed for a neat, tailored look,” says Walter.

Cotton

Are you looking for a seasonless, lightweight throw blanket? A cotton blanket is breathable and soft, making it ideal for both summer nights when you want something to snuggle with while watching a movie and cooler days when you want to get cozy. “Cotton blankets are great for summer because of their breathability, which helps regulate your temperature and keep you cool on a hot night,” explains Dunford.

100% cotton is hypoallergenic and won’t agitate allergies or sensitive skin. Due to its very soft feel, it’s also a great addition to baby blankets. Additionally, it's effortless to clean.

Chenille

“Soft and warm, chenille is the perfect fabric for luxurious throws,” says Dunford. She explains that chenille’s signature plush, raised texture results from a yarn with short pieces of fiber twisted around the yarn core. “The fiber then stands away from the yarn, which gives chenille that soft texture,” notes Dunford.

With its unique texture and unparalleled softness, chenille is the perfect throw blanket for a fireside nap, movie night on the sofa, or settling in with a good book.

Fleece

Fleece throw blankets may bring back memories of your freshman dorm room, but they're a great alternative, especially for those with sensitivities or allergies to natural fibers. “Fleece is made from synthetic materials but has many of the same qualities as wool. It helps wick moisture away from your body and provides warmth on a cold night, but it is more lightweight than wool,” says Dunford.

Plus, fleece blankets are often less expensive than their natural fiber counterparts. That makes them an excellent choice for throw blankets in indoor-outdoor spaces. Grab a fleece blanket to sit on the front porch on a chilly October day, or wrap yourself up by the backyard fire pit with a cup of hot cider.

Acrylic

Machine washable and hypoallergenic is always a plus, and acrylic fits the bill while mimicking the softness of wool or cashmere. “Acrylic can imitate the feeling of a natural fiber throw, but it is much easier to care for. Acrylic blankets are machine washable for easy cleaning at home, and their colors won’t fade after consistent washing,” says Dunford.

It’s a warm, lightweight synthetic fiber, and there’s one more big bonus: moths won’t eat acrylic like they might munch through wool and cashmere while in storage.

10 Best Throw Blankets According to Interior Designers

1. Playa Fade

• ‎Brand: Rumpl
• Price: $112,50

The Playa Fade is made from 100% sustainably sourced organic fibers, offering a soft and heavyweight feel. It’s machine washable for easy care, making it suitable for indoor and outdoor lounging.

This blanket features a comforting design with premium heavy-weight ribbed binding. The printed artwork on the topside is complemented by a brushed natural color on the back side, providing a cozy and inviting aesthetic. This piece comes in just one size and is perfect for those who appreciate a blend of comfort and sustainability.

Specs

• Listed size: 50” x 70"
• Materials: 21% Organic Hemp, 79% Organic Cotton

2. Somerset Cotton Throw

• ‎Brand: Serena and Lily
• Price: $248

The Somerset Cotton Throw is a classic knit piece made from soft cotton, designed for comfort and warmth. It has received STANDARD 100 by OEKO-TEX® certification, ensuring it has been tested and is free from harmful chemicals.

The throw features a rib-knit finish and is easy to care for. It can be machine-washed in cold water on a gentle cycle and tumble-dried on low. This imported product serves as a cozy addition to any space.

Specs

• Listed size: 50" x 70"
• Materials: 100% cotton
• Colors: Sky, white, vintage indigo, pistachio

3. Woven Cotton Throw

• ‎Brand: Burrow
• Price: $69

The Woven Cotton Throw from Burrow is a classic touch for any living room. It's made of pure cotton, totally washable, and handwoven for ultimate coziness and comfort. Plus, it comes in three elegant natural tones.

Katrina C., a satisfied customer says: ''It has a great weight to it for the colder months, and has a nice weave to be durable.''

Specs

• Listed size: 70" L x 50" W
• Materials: 100% Cotton
• Colors: Oat, fog, smoke

4. Organic Channel Gauze Throw

• Brand: Parachute Home
• Price: $179

Parachute’s cloud linen has cult classic status among home decor fans, and this effortlessly casual throw blanket is your chance to envelope yourself in the softest, dare we say, cloudlike, linen-cotton blend.

Soft, stretchy cotton is crafted into tonal gauze, creating a rippled lake effect. The quilted channels are filled with organic cotton yarns, providing a comforting weight. Both fluffy and lightweight, this waffle-style piece is a good size to throw around with you from the bedroom to the sofa and back.

Specs

• Listed size: 50” x 70”
• Materials: 100% organic cotton
• Colors: Natural and Ivory, Agave and Spa

5. Bauble Knit Throw Blanket

• ‎Brand: Anthropologie
• Price: $138

The Bauble Knit Throw Blanket is a sophisticated accent piece, adding both style and comfort to any room with its rich texture. Made from 100% heavy-weight polyester, this throw not only enhances the ambiance of your space but also provides a cozy touch.

Its elegant design makes it perfect for draping over a sectional or sofa, whether you're settling in for a movie night or simply relaxing with a good book. Plus, its easy spot-clean care ensures that it remains a beautiful part of your decor for years to come.

Specs

• Listed size: 50” x 69”
• Materials: 100% polyester
• Colors: Ivory

6. Snug Throw

• ‎Brand: Lulu & Georgia
• Price: $98

Add a layer of luxury to your space with this faux mohair throw, perfect for cozy nights. The soft texture and tassels make it an inviting piece, designed as part of our exclusive Sarah Sherman Samuel collaboration, showcasing her warm, curated style.

Crafted from 100% acrylic, this throw mimics the look and feel of mohair while being easy to care for. Ready to ship in 5 to 7 business days, it's a chic and practical addition to any room.

Specs

• Listed size: 50” x 70”
• Materials: 100% Acrylic
• Colors: Goldenrod and cream

7. Cashmere & Wool Equestrian Throw

• Brand: Williams Sonoma
• Price: $399

With timeless stripes and a hand-edged border, this luxe throw blanket is one you’ll treasure for years. Shelvin recommended this elegant throw blanket in a super soft wool and cashmere blend, and we can see it styled in modern or traditional living spaces.

This throw blanket is a stylish addition to your home and is made from high quality materials, making it incredibly comfy. This textile marvel is the perfect addition for cozying up during winter weather, bringing warmth and elegance to your space.

Specs

• Listed size: 50” x 70”
• Materials: 50% cashmere, 50% wool
• Colors: Sand, Grey, Navy, Black, Orange

8. Cozy Faux Shearling Throw

• Brand: West Elm
• Price: $54.99

Looking for a super plush throw? This faux shearling, hypoallergenic option is ideal for cuddling up with your favorites. It comes in two sizes, is incredibly low-priced, and is made from recycled materials, which is always a bonus.

“This is the perfect throw to cozy up for movie night! It’s extra soft and adds a layer of texture to your sofa,” adds Simpson.

It’s also easy to wash, so maintenance is a breeze—toss it in the washing machine! Polyester hardly shrinks, so you don't need to worry. Just ensure that you use cold water.

Specs

• Listed size: 47” x 60” or 60” x 80”
• Materials: 100% recycled polyester
• Colors: Sable, Alabaster, Silver

9. Ruched Faux Fur Throw Blanket

• Brand: Madison Park
• Price: $24.49

“Having owned a number of these over the years, I can honestly say that I'm not embarrassed to call it my 'comfort blanket'. It's ultra-soft, and as a busy mom, the fact that it is machine washable means I'm never without it for too long,” says Chloe Hughes from Foter. This affordable, easy-to-wash faux-fur throw is a great choice for high-traffic areas.

Specs

• Listed size: 50” x 60”
• Materials: 100% polyester
• Colors: Gray, Ivory, Teal, Aqua, Blush, Lavender

10. Alpaca Boucle Throw

• ‎Brand: Arhaus
• Price: $219

Wrap yourself in the cozy luxury of our Alpaca Boucle Throw, handwoven in Peru from a premium blend of alpaca and polyamide fibers. The soft fringe detailing adds a touch of elegance, making this throw a perfect accent for any room.

Whether draped over a sofa in the living room, layered on your bed, or adding warmth to your outdoor patio, its rich color tones effortlessly complement any decor. Lightweight yet incredibly warm, this throw invites a welcoming texture into your space. Just remember, it's dry clean only to keep it looking its best.

Specs

• Listed size: 60” x 80”
• Materials: 89% alpaca, 11% polyamide fibers
• Colors: Fog, Cocoa, Oat