Fact checked by Jonathan Eilenberg, CPE
Jonathan Eilenberg, CPE
Jonathan Eilenberg is a Certified Professional Ergonomist who is a Senior Ergonomics Engineer at Casper with over 6 years of experience in occupational injury prevention.
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 blanket, 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.
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:
Though the standard throw blanket is 50 inches by 60 inches, these types of blankets do come in different sizes, too. Below is a handy chart to help you choose the right throw blanket size.
| Throw Blanket Size | Dimensions (in.) |
|---|---|
| Small Throw Blankets | 50” x 40” |
| Standard Throw Blankets | 60” x 50” |
| Large Throw Blankets | 70” x 60” |
| Oversized Throw Blankets | 80” x 70” |
Use this chart to find the ideal throw blanket size to keep you cozy and comfortable. Keep in mind these are general guidelines, and you might find throw blankets with dimensions plus or minus a couple of inches.
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, but large 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
For most blanket users, the standard throw blanket size works just fine. But for certain situations—tall sleepers, babies, small armchairs—those blanket 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.
For newborns, toddlers, and small children, your typical throw blanket will feel more overwhelming than comforting. Give a young child snuggly support with the right baby blanket size.3 Depending on the child’s age and needs, consider these types of blankets:
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
We know the average throw blanket comes out to 50 inches by 60 inches. But that’s not a definite rule. Our Casper Wool Plaid Throw Blanket comes in at 50 inches by 70 inches—that way, everyone’s toes stay warm. You might see standard throw blankets in these sizes, as well:
However—a general rule is that throw blankets are never big enough to cover your entire body for sleep. They are meant to be the perfect size for partial coverage or decorative purposes.
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
For the best of both worlds, Casper’s Matelasse Coverlet is large enough for snuggly sleeping, but still stylish enough to lay over your bed. Made from 100% cotton, it’s light, soft, and airy, adding a fluffy, elevated look to any bed.
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:
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:
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 wool plaid throw, like Casper’s Bold Plaid Throw in Autumn Multi, 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 Matelasse 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.
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