Guardian

BEAUTIFUL blankets are fun to own because they can add beauty to your home, and make for comfy snuggling all through the season of cold weather.

Blankets are made in all kinds of fabrics, which means that it is easy to find one that perfectly suits an individual’s bedding preferences. When shopping for the right blanket, consider warmth, texture and your personal tastes. There is no one type of blanket that satisfies everyone. A look at some the best materials used for blankets will serve as a good guide.

Wool blankets: Wool blankets are perfect for snuggling up in cold weather. These blankets are breathable and insulating. Even thin, lightweight wool blankets hold in more heat than most other blankets of comparable weights. Blended wool blankets make some of the best combinations of strength and softness.

Cotton blankets: Cotton blankets are remarkably versatile. Cotton is sometimes mixed with synthetic materials such as polyester and acrylic to make blankets that are less prone to wrinkle or something that can stand up to frequent washings. Of course, 100 percent organic cotton blankets also have advantages, especially for people who have sensitive skin and allergies.

Silk blankets: Silk blankets and blended silk blankets blends are highly in demand for baby bedding. Silk is also used in small doses to make other blanket fabrics soft and add strength without weighing them down.

Note that blankets are not meant to be used alone. They are intended to serve as a warm layer between a quilt, coverlet, or bedspread and the bed.