Unlike their larger comrades — the duvet, the comforter and the sleeping blanket — throw blankets are made to wrap around your body like a snuggly burrito, hang from your shoulders like a superhero, adorn a couch or add on top of comforters for an extra layer of warmth.
Throw blankets are practical as well: they provide a protective barrier on couches against shedding pets and prevent soggy bums on picnics. In fact, I have a throw blanket on me right now while writing this story.
Not all throws are made equally, however. Here’s what you need to know before buying your next throw, along with recommendations in case you are: lazy, paralyzed upon being presented with too many choices or on the hunt for a good gift.
Throws typically measure 60-by-70 inches. If you’re looking for more cozy real estate, or if you’re tall, you might want to go for a larger blanket.
Pay Attention to Washing Instructions
Throws and blankets are, in my experience of not paying attention to wash labels, the rare exception to my lazy ethos. Not following the washing instructions can lead to a crusty looking, de-plushed blanket. I tend to go light on the detergent and nix the fabric softener while following the instructions.
Note the Fuzz Factor
Read the comments to see if the throw has a tendency to shed, which equals more fuzzies lingering in your home and on your person. No one wants to get distracted by a rogue fluff.
Know the Throw’s Intended Function
Is this a throw for decoration? For comfort? Knowing the throw’s use can help you determine what kind of throw to get. You can get away with something thinner for decoration, but might want to go for something thicker if you’re using the throw to watch hours of Ozark.
Find the GSM
GSM, or grams per square meter, indicates the throw’s thickness. The higher the GSM, the thicker the blanket. This is important if you are typically on the warm side, temperature wise: too thick of a blanket could leave you sweating. But, if you run cold, too thin of a blanket will leave you shivering.
This throw is a god-tier blanket. You can take it from me: I own it. The faux fur and Sherpa is soft and luxurious, and it feels more expensive than it is. One Amazon reviewer said that this throw is like “sleeping in the pellets of 50 rabbits but [without] the guilt of all those rabbit lives.” However, pay extra attention to the washing instructions and lay off the fabric softener, heavy detergents and high heat, which could cause the faux fur and Sherpa to clump, ruining the fluff’s effectiveness.
This throw is made out of 100 percent baby alpaca wool. Let me repeat: this throw is made out of 100 percent baby alpaca fur. Sadly, “baby alpaca” refers to the fine, soft hairs of the animal, not the age of the animal. Regardless, if this all doesn’t convince you this blanket is soft, I don’t know what will. Baby alpaca fur is effective too: it’s exceptionally warm and close to fineness in cashmere, but more sustainable. From elegantly draped over a chair or worn around the shoulders like a cape, this throw is modern luxury incarnate.
Best Budget Throw Blanket
Mainstays Extra Plush Lightweight Sherpa Throw Blanket
Walmart has been putting its whole Walmussy into its product offerings (just ask TikTok or the many Facebook groups promoting the fire finds at Wallyworld). This blanket is no exception. Made in 13 different colorways out of cozy Sherpa, it’s perfect for any season and occasion. “I have other blankets that are always nice to snuggle up with at first, but then you wake up pouring with sweat half way through the night,” a reviewer says. “With this blanket, I stay warm and cozy all night, but I do not melt!”
“Caticorns,” “Dogs With Bones” and “Hedgehogs” are just a sampling of the 38 patterns available. Does this blanket say, “I am a mature adult who is serious about interior design?” No, but who cares when “Dinosaur Space” is an option (although there are solid colors available). Additionally, you can purchase two blankets for $45. Nothing beats a deal.
“We have two and ordered a third! Perfect for a cozy evening on the couch with some hot cocoa,” says a reviewer. Featuring soft flannel and plush sherpa, this blanket combines two cozy favorites into one throw. Even better, this throw washes easily and is made to last.
Coming in five sizes and 26 color options, this throw is the Goldilocks of throws: there’s something perfect for you. In the latest iteration of Bedsure’s flannel blankets, the GSM in this blanket has been increased by 40 GSM. This subtle change brings you ultimate comfort and warmth year-round.
Want a weighted blanket that’s smaller than what’s on the market? This weighted throw is perfect for you. It comes in at 160 GSM and a quilted interior layer of tiny glass beads (better for the environment) that makes you feel like you’re getting a hug from your grandma. The 99-percent cotton composition makes it breathable, too.
This throw is fade-proof, making it perfect for picnicking or cozying up on a crisp summer night. It’s also made from recycled cotton fiber and sustainably made in the U.S., giving your carbon-consciousness peace of mind. Even better, it’s machine washable.
If you buy this throw, you'll have at least one thing in common with Chrissy Teigan, the Kardashians, Hailey Bieber, Sarah Jessica Parker and Kate Hudson, all of whom are fans of this specific throw. The pill-free, machine-washable throw is made of an easy-to-care-for polyester that's warm and cozy. Because of its star appeal, it's constantly coming in and out of stock, so grab it while you can.
Talk smack on the Snuggie concept all you want: the course of the world changed when it was introduced, and the world was made worse when everyone started speaking ill of it. This blanket, with a 15-year warranty and 400 GSM of soft polyester, will hopefully change your mind.
Double-sided; one side is velour, the other fleece
Expensive because of brand name
One color
Have you ever looked at a pair of Uggs and gone, “I wish I could have that all over”? Congrats, we found the blanket for you. This blanket flips from a plush velour to a lush fleece and is easy to care for.
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Amanda ReedAmanda Reed is Gear Patrol’s cannabis lifestyle writer.
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