There are many ways to layer up during winter. With more than 80% of Aussie households not meeting the insulation standard needed for winter temperatures, it’s imperative that we’ve got the right tools to keep us warm, because our homes certainly won’t.
While heaters and air-conditioning systems do work wonders during chilly weather, blankets, throws, and quilts are what keep us from shivering from head to toe while we rest. Here’s how to choose between all of the different blanket options and decide what you’ll need to stay cosy this winter.
If you’re after something simpler and more versatile for everyday use, a classic throw rug might be just right. Typically light in fabric and weight, and often placed at the end of a bed or sofa, throw rugs are large enough to cover you on the couch. They’re also an easy and inexpensive way to add colour and warmth.
A heated blanket is a modern essential for anyone trying to save on their energy bills and stay warm while doing it! Heated blankets are cost-effective, as instead of heating a whole room, you’re heating a small area.
According to Energy Australia, using a heated blanket costs about four cents per hour on average, far less than a space heater costs to run. From under-blankets for your bed to portable heated throws, there’s a huge range of options priced from $35 through to more than $400.
A doona, duvet or quilt is an insulated insert that goes inside a quilt cover, designed to trap heat. Choosing the perfect quilt can make a huge difference to your sleep as they’re not all created equal.
Weighted blankets are a wellness staple. Either filled with plastic pellets, glass microbeads or made from a heavy woven knit, the weighted blanket is designed to mimic the experience of being held or hugged. This sensation can ease tension and reduce stress, helping those with anxiety and sleep disorders sleep through the night.
Coverlets
Typically lightweight and textured, a coverlet is perfect year round. Larger than a throw rug, but smaller than a quilt, their size makes them ideal for layering – especially if you like your bedding to look as good as it feels.
Traditionally, coverlets were adorned with intricate patterns and textures that mimicked quilting, using a French weaving technique called matelassé. This technique produced a lighter and airier blanket.
These days, coverlets are commonly made from cotton and linen, as both are breathable fabrics. If you’re trying to ramp up warmth, don’t rely on a coverlet, as they’re only made from one layer. But if you want to add a new look to your bedspread, they could be the ideal blanket for you.
Wearable blankets
Afraid to leave the cosy comfort of the couch to make a cuppa? Then you might be in the market for a wearable blanket. Born from the concept of ‘blankets with sleeves’, wearable blanket brands such as Snuggie and Oodie have taken the internet and homes by storm.
The Snuggie is a blanket with sleeves made from an ultra-soft fleece material. The oversized sleeves give you the freedom to eat, read and remote work while never removing your arms from the blanket.
The thicker cousin of the Snuggie is the Oodie; an oversized blanket hoodie available in a huge range of patterns, from pandas to Pokémon. The inner lining is made of polyester sherpa fleece and the outer of flannel fleece. The Oodie can be more comfortably worn on the go as it sits on your shoulders and doesn’t drag on the floor.
Because it’s so warm, an Oodie is quite bulky! This means it also takes a little longer to dry. If you’re willing to sacrifice elegance for some unbeatable cosiness, then it’s time to hop on the wearable blanket train.
What is the best type of blanket for sleeping?
The best type of blanket for sleeping is one that is made of natural materials. Cotton and wool are top choices because they are light and breathable, but can also retain heat very well. For colder nights, fleece blankets and down quilts will keep your body temperature as warm as it needs to be.
How can you tell a good quality blanket?
A good quality blanket will be soft, comfortable, and most importantly, warm. Natural materials like cotton and wool are the best materials for blankets, as they retain heat well while still being breathable.
