What is the Difference Between a Throw and Blanket?

Blankets, throws, afghans, coverlets—they all keep your body warm and snuggly. So what makes one layer a throw rather than a blanket?

The main difference between throw and blanket layers is purpose. Blankets are designed for bed warmth and are laid atop other bedding layers. In contrast, throws are a type of blanket and are more decorative—a human-sized layer for cozy afternoons or furniture accents. 

Whether you need added warmth for your bed or a cozy cover to snuggle up to on the couch, Casper has a variety of blankets for you to choose from.

In this guide, we’ll uncover the facts in the throw vs. blanket debate so that you can find your next cuddly companion.

Throw Blankets: What and Why?

That chic knit fabric laid over your mom’s sofa arm? That’s likely a throw blanket. 

Consider a throw your “casual friend” blanket. From naps to decor, these small covers are best used outside sleep time. If you want to add a little style to your home, then pull over a throw blanket.

Materials

Since throws don’t have to fit between bedding layers, the material options are endless. Typically, people prefer a snuggly and soft fabric for their throws or coverlets (that’s why they’re such great napping partners). Look out for these common and cuddly throw blanket materials:¹

• Wool – Cozy yet breathable, this hypoallergenic fabric offers added warmth and durability, lasting for years with proper care. That’s why both of Casper’s throws are 100% wool—and the chic plaid and pinstripe designs also make a fantastic home decor.

• Fleece – A synthetic option, fleece is a polyester blanket fabric that feels fuzzy yet silky-smooth. However, fleece blankets can have less airflow than other materials, so use them in colder environments.

• Cashmere – Luscious luxury is cashmere’s name. Few fabrics compared to this material’s soft touch or heat-protective powers. Just be careful with this pricey fabric—it requires detailed washing and care. 

Size

In short (and long), throws are for covering your body—not your bed. 

While there are a variety of throw blanket sizes, the standard throw blanket is sized around 50 inches x 60 inches. To keep everyone’s toes warm, we give an extra 10 inches to the length of our Casper throws. It’s the perfect versatile size for an afternoon siesta or armchair accent piece. 

Function

Sure, you don’t need a throw blanket. But these versatile and stylish layers are a cozy addition to anyone’s home. Even if you can’t sleep under a throw, these covers have plenty of benefits:

• Versatility – Shifting that couch nap to the bed? Bring your snuggly cover. Thanks to their smaller size, throws or coverlets are incredibly mobile. You can place your favorite fleece throw blanket in the living room one day, and then move it to your bedroom the next!

• Home decor – Above all, a throw is pleasing to the eye. These fashionable blankets make great accents on large furniture, from beds to patio benches. Go for a unique color, a textured material, or a fun pattern.

• Light warmth – Can a throw be used in bed as a blanket? Typically, no. Throws alone won’t keep you warm on a winter night, and they don’t fit easily between bedding layers. But for a light nap, they provide the perfect level of coziness. 

Blankets: What and Why?

When we say “blanket”, we don’t mean your kiddie blankie. Thin and light, a standard blanket adds a layer of warmth to your bed. And for most sleepers, it’s a year round necessity. 

Curious as to whether a blanket is the missing piece to your bed puzzle? Let’s dive into what makes a bedding blanket so useful.

Materials

Unlike throws, regular blankets often have a smooth and uniform texture—i.e., no chunky knits or plush fuzz. That narrows your material options down to thinner fabrics, such as:³

• Cotton – Soft, breathable, yet warm, cotton gives the most bang for your buck. For an extra dose of snuggliness, try a brushed organic cotton blanket like Casper’s Cozy Woven Blanket.

• Down – Need a blanket that stops cold in its tracks? Down is the soft underbelly feathers of ducks and geese, perfect for wintertime. However, some sleepers might not like the added warmth or lack of airflow.

• Synthetics – If you’re looking for a durable and affordable blanket option, synthetic fabrics like polyester and acrylic are great options. On the flip side, artificial fibers usually feel rougher and almost “squeaky.” 

Size

Bedding blankets are meant to cover an entire bed. So each bed size has its standardized match.⁴ Depending on your bed model, these blanket sizes are considered the best fit: 

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

Function

Standard blankets usually stay in just one place—the bed. 

Bedding blankets add a boost of warmth to your sleep, stacked between sheets and any duvets, quilts, or comforters.

Another reason to use a blanket? A little pop of style—blankets can provide fun patterns or colors. And during warmer months, the blanket can even be the top-layer star of the bed.

Stay Cozy with Casper

No matter the season or room, every home needs plenty of snuggly covers. From sofa throws to bed covers, Casper’s blankets will keep you cozy in every situation. Our 100% natural designs are equally soft and chic, keeping you warm in style. And for peak cuddliness, pair our blankets with all the must-have layers in our bedding collection.

Sources:

1. Home Decor Bliss. What Is The Best Material For A Throw Blanket? https://homedecorbliss.com/best-material-for-throw-blanket/
2. The Spruce. How to Choose Blankets for the Bedroom. https://www.thespruce.com/guide-to-buying-blankets-350480
3. EHow. What are Standard Bed Blanket Sizes? https://www.ehow.com/facts_6371214_standard-bed-blanket-sizes_.html