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  • Blanket Sizes and Dimension Buying Guide

    9 min read

    Blanket Sizes and Dimension Buying Guide

    How to make the right blanket size choice... the first time.

    Blankets are functional items, and although they are mostly purchased with a single-use in mind like bedcovering or couch snuggle buddy, they tend to become multi-purpose items as you become more attached to them (remember your "blankie" from when you were a kid?)


    We find a lot of our community are looking for specific size throws and blankets. Below we have a guide to helping you choose the right size blanket for your needs. 

    dog lying on bed with mali mudloth

    The American Blankets size chart

    To help make sense of the blanket sizes compared to the bed size you use below is a full chart of the American bed sizes. 


    If you would like to learn more about mattress sizes and bed dimension we have your comprehensive guide here. 


    This should give you a good idea on sizing of your blanket

    Mattress and bed sizing guide  

    Why choosing the perfect blanket size is so important

    Blankets and throws bring warmth, color, and texture into the home and are often used beyond what you intended them for, I know in our house our blankets are routinely used to build pillow forts, something we hadn't thought of as a use case scenario for our expensive throws. 


    Everyone knows snuggling up on a couch in winter with a good book or watching your favorite Netflix show is with a soft, cozy blanket wrapped around your legs or pulled up over your shoulders is the perfect end to a hard day.


    When buying a blanket for a bed it's wise to do some research first before committing to a certain size blanket as beds come in different sizes with different mattress thicknesses. However, this is not the only criteria to consider when purchasing a blanket. Also worth keeping in mind:

    1. Height of the bed from the ground. 
    2. Do you plan on tucking the blanket in or leaving it draped over the edge of the bed?

    Let's take a look at bed sizes versus blanket sizes. This guide is based on the intended function of covering your bed or mattress for an aesthetic bedroom look, but we also thought about what contributes to a good night's rest. 

    mother and child under a Basotho heritage blanket

    Factors to Consider when choosing a blanket size

    Blankets and throws vary here is the ultimate guide to the difference between blankets and throws


    When you're out shopping for blankets or throws, ( you'll have a pretty good idea of what you need, but we all tend to get spoiled for choice with all the different colors, designs, fabric types, textures, weight, sizes, and brand names out there. Here are a few things to keep in mind when blanket shopping:

    • What are you going to use the blanket for? If you want to use it on your bed, you will know whether you want a snug fit or an oversized blanket that doubles up as a bedspread. An oversized blanket works well, especially if you sleep with a partner because there is room for movement without getting the blanket pulled off you when your partner turns during the night. Ultimately the size of the blanket will affect the intended function, more to suit your current circumstances than to be prepared for future changes. 
    • Consider the thickness of your mattress as well as your bed frame. If you have a base and mattress set, then the base can be covered with a bed skirt to protect it and prevent dust from accumulating under your bed. Your blanket should cover your mattress with enough left over to cover the sides and be tucked in under the mattress. Some people prefer not to have the blanket tucked in at the bottom of the bed because of the pressure it places on your feet when lying on your back. To remedy this, simply untuck the blanket before you jump into bed. A thinner mattress means there will be more blanket that has to be tucked in if you've opted for an oversized one. The standard mattress thickness varies between 9 and 12 inches (22 to 30 cm), whereas thin mattresses vary between 6 and 8 inches (15 to 20 cm).
    • As mentioned, bed skirts are a functional item, but they also add an aesthetic value to your bed and bedroom. You can have a bedspread slightly overlay your bed skirt if the design and texture compliment the look. Generally, if you use a bed skirt, it was probably intentional due to the height of your base mattress set. This does pose some bedding restrictions, but it shouldn't interfere with your choice of bedding that will give you a peaceful night's sleep.
    • Think about where and when you will be using the blanket. If it is specifically for your bed during the summer or cold winter months, you will look at the size of your bed to determine what size blanket to purchase. However, if you want a dual-purpose blanket for your bed as extra warmth at night and to snuggle up on the couch on cold days, then consider a throw as the better alternative.
    • The fabric and weight of a blanket are also important. Different fabric types offer different temperature control benefits. Some fabrics like cotton and wool are breathable and regulate temperature much better than synthetic blankets. Lightweight blankets are great for summer, and people who suffer from night sweats will benefit more from lightweight, breathable blankets.
    • Washing blankets are necessary, so you should read the care instructions on the label to make sure that you wash the blanket correctly. Excessive heat during washing can cause the blanket to shrink, and certain detergents may not be recommended for some blanket types as bleaching and weakening of the fabric may occur. 

    Standard Blanket Sizes

    Unlike mattress and fitted sheet sizes, which are standardized, there is a lot more flexibility with blanket sizes. 


    Blankets are woven to fit a range of mattress sizes that depend on the look you are after. For example, a queen-sized blanket can be used on a normal double bed, a queen-size bed, and a king-size bed. 


    The difference will be the amount of blanket that spills over the edges of the bed. Here are four of the most popular blanket sizes:

    Basotho heritage blanket on a bed
    • Twin or single bed: 65” x 90” or 127 cm x 165 cm.
    • Double bed: 85” x 90” or 216 cm x 229 cm.
    • Queen: 90” x 90-100” or 229 cm x 229-254 cm.
    • King: 108” x 90-100” or 274 cm x 229-254 cm.

    As you can see, the range of sizes is greatly reduced compared to mattress sizes


    The blanket size you choose is a personal choice, and although you have the latitude in deciding on the size that best suits you, more emphasis should be placed on the quality of the blanket and how the fabric will contribute to improving comfort and overall quality of sleep.


    As a general guideline to get an idea of what size blanket is best for standard bedding requirements, simply measure the width of your mattress plus the thickness (side) of the mattress (X2) and add 15 to 20 cm extra for tuck-in (about 10 cm on each side). 


    Next, measure the length from your pillow line to the foot of the mattress and add the thickness plus about 10cm for tuck-in. This will give you a basic guide on what size blanket to purchase for your bed.


    Some people may prefer to keep their feet exposed while they sleep to better control their core body temperature, and if you fall into this category, you will only measure the length from your pillow line to the bottom of your mattress. 

    This also creates a different but pleasing look when your bed is made.


    Weighted blankets are constantly being mentioned in bedding choices, so, in keeping with the trend, we will share an interesting fact about the size of weighted blankets. 


    They are not made to fit mattress sizes at all but rather to fit the person who will be using them pretty cool, right?


    Unlike regular unweighted blankets, weighted blankets are not a shared item. A weighted blanket is a medical device, and the weight is specifically selected for a person to help them better cope with underlying conditions like autism, anxiety, stress, and depression. They are also used to aid recovery from serious injuries.

    women sitting on bed wrapped in mali blanket

    Baby Blanket Sizes

    Baby blankets come in a variety of sizes where the size or type is designed for a specific purpose. 


    A newborn baby will be wrapped up in a receiving blanket that mimics the warmth and security of a mom's womb. 


    This is the beginning of our dependency and affiliation to blankets as a means of warmth, comfort, and a sense of security. Here are the different types of baby blankets:

    mali mudcloth blanket
    • Lovey blanket. Usually 10" x 10" or 25 x 25 cm. Very soft and lightweight.
    • Security or cuddle blanket. 14" to 17" or 35 to 46 cm. It is a larger version of the lovey blanket.
    • Stroller or baby blanket. 30” x 35” or 76 x 88 cm.
    • Receiving blanket. 40” x 40” or 101 x 101 cm.
    • Toddler blanket. 42” x 52” or 106 x 132 cm.
    • Swaddle blanket. 47” x 47” or 119 x 119 cm.
    • Crib blanket. 45” x 60” or 114 x 152 cm.

    Yes, there is a baby blanket for every growth phase a baby goes through, and each phase requires its own blanket type and size. 


    The main reason for the attention on size is because until babies gain head control and enough dexterity to remove bedding items away from their face, there is a real-time risk of suffocation.


    Fortunately, infants do not move as much as older children and adults while they are sleeping, but once their motor skills are developed, size becomes less important but is naturally still a consideration.

    Baby blankets help to regulate core body temperature and are essential for good health from day one. 


    What all baby blankets have in common is the softness and the use of lightweight, breathable fabrics.

    Baby under mudloth blanket

    Blanket sizes: A Personal Choice

    Blanket size is a personal choice that caters to individual household needs. There are too many variables to consider as far as correct size is concerned, and people vary in their creativity and style. 


    This all comes down to what is more comfortable and which blanket will keep me warm when I need warmth.


    Because blankets used primarily as a bed covering become very personal, it is less stressful in a family setting to have a few throws in the living room for the couch hours under the covers. 


    Throws are also great as travel companions because they are usually lightweight and a bit smaller than conventional blankets


    In a way, the blankets we use define us as people, and much more consideration should be given to the benefits of different blanket types on our health and wellbeing. The Basotho pay great attention to the blanketsthey wear and use maybe, you should try doing the same :)

    Blanket sizes 51 X 71 in

    Blanket sizes 61 x 65 Inches

    FAQ - The Questions You want Answered

    What is the size of double blanket?

    The size of a double blanket can vary depending on the region and manufacturer.


    Still, generally, a double-size blanket measures approximately 80 inches (203 cm) in length and 60 inches (152 cm) in width.


    However, checking the product specifications before purchasing a double blanket to ensure it meets your specific size requirements is always a good idea.

    What size is a double blanket in CM?

    A double blanket usually measures approximately 203 cm in length and 152 cm in width.

    What size is a single bed blanket?

    The size of a single bed blanket can vary depending on the region and manufacturer.


    Still, generally, a single bed blanket measures approximately 60 inches (152 cm) in length and 90 inches (229 cm) in width.


    A single bed blanket measures approximately 152 cm long and 229 cm wide in the metric system.


    It's always a good idea to check the product specifications before purchasing a single bed blanket to ensure it meets your specific size requirements.



    What are standard blanket sizes?

    Common standard blanket sizes:

    1. Crib Blanket: 30 x 40 inches (76 x 102 cm)
    2. Twin Size Blanket: 66 x 90 inches (168 x 229 cm)
    3. Double/Full Size Blanket: 80 x 90 inches (203 x 229 cm)
    4. Queen Size Blanket: 90 x 90 inches (229 x 229 cm)
    5. King Size Blanket: 108 x 90 inches (274 x 229 cm)

    Again, these are just general sizes and may vary depending on the manufacturer or region.


    It's always a good idea to check the product specifications before purchasing a blanket to ensure it meets your specific size requirements.

    How do you measure a blanket?

    To measure a blanket, you will need a tape measure or a ruler:

    1. Lay the blanket flat on a smooth surface like a bed or table.
    2. Measure the blanket length from one end to the other, including any fringe or tassels, if there are any. This will give you the length measurement.
    3. Measure the width of the blanket from one side to the other, including any fringe or tassels, if there are any. This will give you the width measurement.
    4. If the blanket has a thickness or depth, you can measure it by folding it in half along the length or width and measuring the thickness at the fold.

    Make sure to measure in inches or centimeters, depending on your preference, and double-check your measurements to ensure accuracy.


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