Throw Blanket Size: How Big is a Throw Blanket?

September 23, 2021 | Casper Editorial Team

A standard throw blanket is 50 inches wide by 60 inches tall, slightly smaller than your typical bed blanket.


Sometimes, you just need a light cover for that afternoon nap—enter the throw blanket. But compared to a regular blanket or afghan, how big is a throw blanket? And how big should yours be?

The average throw blanket is a few inches smaller than a typical bed blanket, about 50 inches by 60 inches.1 But for different homes and people, these versatile layers come in a range of sizes. To learn more about throw blanket sizes and uses, keep reading.

Whether you desire a sweater-soft feel or a stylish, cozy look, Casper has a throw blanket that’s sure to be just right for you.

What is a Throw Blanket?

Part decor, part cover, a throw blanket is a versatile and lightweight bedding layer (even though they’re not strictly bedding). Many people confuse them with afghans or standard bedding blankets. However, there are a few important differences that define a throw blanket. 

Let’s break down their core qualities:

  • Function – Throw blankets serve two main purposes, style, and comfort. If your bed were an outfit, a throw blanket would be the finishing accessory that completes the look. With eye-catching colors and patterns, throw blankets make excellent decorative blankets across your home. Just drape your throw over your bed or couch for a pop of style. However, a quality throw blanket should also be usable. During a nap or movie, snuggle under one for extra warmth.
  • Setting – Unlike bedding blankets, throw blankets can roam outside the bedroom—in fact, it’s encouraged. You can place a throw blanket anywhere you rest, including armchairs, benches, beds, and the couch. Some homeowners even hang them on the wall as decorative statements.
  • Material – Throw blankets come in a variety of materials and textiles. Cotton and wool are popular options since they provide breathable warmth (we love the snuggly feel of our 100% cotton Striped Throw). For a more luxurious feel, you can find uber-soft throws in cashmere, faux fur, or velvet. Synthetic fabrics, like polyester or fleece, offer more affordable options.

What Size is a Throw Blanket?

Another important distinction between a bedding blanket and a throw blanket? Size.

Bedding blankets (or blankets intended as layers on your bed) usually match your bed’s dimensions. A queen size bed will need a larger blanket than a full size bed. However, throw blankets do not have to match your bed’s size.

A typical throw is smaller than your bedding blanket since it is only meant for decor or versatile coverage. The standard throw blanket dimensions are 50 inches by 60 inches (about 1.25 meters by 1.5 meters). Compared to a queen bed coverlet blanket (like Casper’s oh-so-cozy Crinkle Coverlet) that measures 92 inches by 96 inches, that’s a big difference.2 

Blanket Types & Sizes

For most blanket users, the standard throw blanket size works just fine. But for certain situations—tall sleepers, babies, small armchairs—those dimensions might not work. In that case, it’s time to explore other blanket sizes that match your needs. Let’s review the most common blanket dimension and labels.

Baby Sizes 

For newborns, toddlers, and small children, your typical throw blanket will feel more overwhelming than comforting. Give a young child snuggly support with infant-friendly blanket sizes.3 Depending on the child’s age and needs, consider these types of blankets:

  • Lovey – Unlike a typical blanket cover, a lovey blanket is meant for a baby to cuddle or hold while sleeping. They’re usually 12 inches by 12 inches and extra soft for tiny hands. 
  • Baby or Security – Consider these “baby’s first blanket.” Security blankets are around 14 inches by 16 inches, and they often become keepsakes for the family. 
  • Cradle – Once a baby turns twelve months old, it’s time for a cradle blanket. Measuring 14 inches by 30 inches, they cover infants while sleeping or resting in the cradle.
  • Stroller – Whether you’re on the road, pushing a stroller, or even laying a baby on the ground, a 30-inch by 36-inch stroller blanket is the perfect covering. 
  • Receiving – Thin and soft, receiving blankets are the catch-all cover for new infants. These 40-inch by 40-inch cloths can help with swaddling, burping, or comfort.

Lapghans & Afghans

An afghan blanket is a decorative blanket named after its origin country of Afghanistan. While similar to a throw, they differ in design and material—afghans are always crocheted or knitted with wool yarn, usually in striped patterns.1 

Another major difference? For afghan blankets, there’s no standardized size! Their dimensions vary based on your bed size or needs. Commonly, you’ll find afghans at 50 inches by 65 inches, or miniature versions called “lapghans” at 36 inches by 48 inches.4

Throw Blankets

We know the average throw blanket comes out to 50 inches by 60 inches. But that’s not a definite rule. Our Casper Throw Blanket comes in at 50 inches by 70 inches—that way, everyone’s toes stay warm. You might see throw blankets in these sizes, as well:

  • 36 x 50 inches
  • 40 x 60 inches
  • 45 x 55 inches
  • 45 x 60 inches

However—a general rule is that throw blankets are never big enough to cover your entire body for sleep. They are meant for partial coverage or decorative purposes.

Standard Bed Sizes

If using a blanket exclusively on your bed or for sleep, consider sizing it to your bed’s dimensions. It then can function as both a layer and a separate piece—two birds, one standardized size.

Here are the common blanket dimensions for each standard bed size:6

  • Twin – 66 x 90 inches
  • Twin XL – 66 x 95 inches
  • Full – 80 x 90 inches
  • Queen – 90 x 100 inches
  • King – 108 x 100 inches
  • California King – 104 x 108 inches

For the best of both worlds, Casper’s Crinkle Coverlet is large enough for snuggly sleeping, but still stylish enough to lay over your bed. Our two sizes (92 x 96 inches and 108 x 96 inches) are sure to provide full coverage for a restful night.

What Size Throw Blanket is Right for Me?

In most cases, you can’t go wrong with a throw blanket’s size. Since they’re not meant to cover your entire body or bed, almost all throw blankets can fit any person or home.

However—there are a few exceptions and considerations. When shopping for a throw blanket, check if these sizing factors might apply to your needs:

  • Height – Sure, most people can comfortably use a standard 50 x 60 inch throw blanket. But if you are particularly short or tall, adjust for your height. You shouldn’t feel as if you’re drowning in cloth or wearing a napkin. 
  • Furniture Size – Own a petite, cozy armchair? Perhaps a smaller blanket (36 x 50 inches) would better fit on its arms. Or adding flair to your California King bed? A larger throw blanket (50 x 70 inches) will properly span the bed’s footer. Dimensionally, your throw should fit the furniture piece where it will rest.
  • Style and Design – At the end of the day, a throw blanket should look as inviting as it feels. So pick a size that matches the feel of your home. Expansive rooms will want more dramatic or thick throws, while intimate rooms often fit lighter and smaller throws.

Do I Need a Throw Blanket?

Sure, you could survive without a throw blanket. But your home (and especially your bedroom) should be a place of comfort, not the bare basics. The more bedding options you have, the better you can optimize your sleep. 

So, what can a throw blanket provide? To start, throws hold benefits like:

  • Versatility – Unlike bedding blankets, a throw blanket isn’t just for the bedroom. Drape your throw over the bed footer one day, and then shift it to your couch on the next. With the right throw, you have a blanket for the entire home. Additionally, throws offer way more material options than afghans, which are purely yarn-made.
  • Style – When unused, throw blankets don’t need a storage closet or cubbyhole. Their elevated style makes them excellent decor for all furniture. A subtle yet sophisticated design (like a fringed crinkled cotton throw) can boost the coziness of any room.
  • Warmth – Just like any blanket, a throw functions as a warming cover. When the temperature falls at night or the season turns, simply grab your throw blanket for instant comfort. The small size and lightweight texture made it an easy addition or subtraction from your bedding.

Sleep in Style with Casper

Picking the right size bed can be a painstaking choice. But with a throw blanket? You don’t have to stress. These versatile, snuggly layers are easy additions for all to use. With an elegant cotton throw blanket, like Casper’s Striped Cotton design, you can instantly elevate your home.

For more cozy flair, Casper has the accessories to transform your bedroom from par to paradise. Lightweight layers, like our Crinkle Coverlet, make staying warm look stylish. Complete the look with a modern throw pillow, and you’ll create a bed that looks as good as it should feel. 

Quilts, Blankets, and Throws

Made with elevated materials for a cozy snuggle

Sources:

  1. Burch, J. The Difference Between Throws, Blankets and Afghans. https://www.hunker.com/12003407/the-difference-between-throws-blankets-and-afghans
  2. Inspirations Quilt Shop. Measurements for Beds, Comforter, Coverlet, and Bedspreads. https://www.inspired2quilt.com/standard-quilt-sizes.htm
  3. The Snugglery. Blanket Sizing. https://thesnugglery.net/free-printable-blanket-size-chart/
  4. Rexroat, T. How to Modify Afghan Crochet Patterns to Any Size. https://www.interweave.com/article/crochet/customizing-crochet-afghan-patterns/
  5. Burch, J. What Are Standard Bed Blanket Sizes? https://www.ehow.com/facts_6371214_standard-bed-blanket-sizes_.html