The Best Editor-Tested Throw Blankets

Despite the name, throw blankets are not something to just toss in your shopping cart carelessly. They can be pricey, sometimes even investment-worthy, based on what they’re made from, how they’re made, and who made them. In addition to the material — there’s everything from faux fur to gauzy linen to choose from — texture, design, and weight have to be taken into consideration. You have to carefully think about the kind of coziness you’re looking for depending on the season and your space.

Once you figure that out, it’ll be fairly smooth sailing — but still, finding the “perfect” throw might take a little trial and error, especially if you’re ordering online. That’s where we come in! Thanks to the many blankets AT staffers have owned and tested over the past year, the hard work has already been done for you. If you’re on a fast hunt for the best throw blanket out there that’s already been put through its paces, you’ve come to the right place. Below, you’ll find the best throws for decorating and cuddling.

• Best Overall: Seek & Swoon Envie Throw
• Best Budget-Friendly: Bedsure Fleece Throw Blanket
• Best Luxury: Cozy Earth Cuddle Blanket
• Best Lightweight: Brooklinen Lightweight Textured Throw
• Best Plush: Luxome Ultra Plush Throw
• Best Knit: Verloop Chunky Checkerboard Knit Throw
• Best Faux Fur: Pottery Barn Faux Fur Ruched Throw
• Best Chunky: Bearaby Velvet Napper 
• Best Heated: Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth 2-in-1 Heated Weighted Blanket

Material has everything to do with a blanket’s texture, quality, and appearance. Natural materials are reflections of the environments in which they’re produced. The production of synthetics, however, has come so impressively far that a few can even beat their wool, cashmere, and fur counterparts in weight, feel, look, and performance. Before settling on a throw’s material, though, think about where you’d want it to go, if there’s a color or design scheme you have in mind, and what size it should be. Does a lack of storage space mean your Netflix blanket also has to look good? Does a surplus of space call for the added coziness of a few intentionally placed throws? We’ve broken down the biggest things to consider when shopping for a throw blanket so you get what you expect the first time and don’t overspend on replacements.

While attractive synthetic blankets do exist, they’re few and far between — and many tend to sacrifice softness or durability to achieve it. While this isn’t the case for all polyester, nylon, or other synthetic-blend blankets, it’s worth keeping in mind if you’re on the hunt for a throw that is cozy, worth displaying, and can stand the test of time. Blends of cotton, wool, cashmere, and even polyester or nylon have developed over the years and, somewhat surprisingly, yield some of the softest and most durable blankets we’ve ever tested.

If you’d rather opt for a throw that’s all-natural, how do you know which wool is best? Is cashmere really always the softest option? We’ve broken down the different types of natural materials you’ll see on blanket labels to give you a better idea.

Wool: Sheep’s wool is usually what can be expected when a label simply reads “wool.” Its fibers are more porous than alpaca, and are filled with pockets of air rather than being hollow, yielding wool that’s thicker and usually heavier than alpaca but just as soft (if the quality is high). It’s great for cold weather or, in the case of finer knits, year-round use.

Alpaca: Alpaca hairs are hollow, unlike other wool fibers, giving them even strength throughout each strand. It yields a tighter, finer knit and a lighter weight than other wool fibers. It’s hypoallergenic, water resistant, and self-extinguishing if it catches fire. Alpaca is excellent for warmer weather but also suitable for year-round use.

Merino: Named for the pelt of the merino sheep from which it is sourced, merino wool has a unique ability to absorb and eliminate odor-causing bacteria, even more than other wools, making it a great textile option for households in warm or humid climates, prone to drafts, or with furry family members.

Cashmere: Produced from the hair of goats in Mongolia, Iran, and South American countries (to name a few), cashmere is known as a fiber that yields some of the finest and softest knits in the world and still works when blended with cotton or wool.

Pro tip: As it turns out, that “pokey” feeling often associated with wool blankets and garments is directly tied to the diameter of the hair fibers that make up the wool. The wider the diameter (or thicker the hairs), the more uncomfortable a wool will be, especially over time. Different animals produce hairs with different thicknesses, which is why certain wools create some of the coziest textiles in the world while others with nearly the same name make up the itchy wool sweaters of yesteryear.

It’s important to keep in mind that untreated natural fiber textiles like cashmere and wool will shrink, mat, or otherwise distort if not washed and dried properly. The best practice is to follow the brand’s specific instructions, but when in doubt, get your blanket dry cleaned or, in a pinch, hand wash in cold water with mild, natural detergent and air dry. Synthetics are usually machine washable, but check care instructions before purchasing to make sure your lifestyle aligns with the throw blanket’s washing needs.

There are a few material and textile certifications we mention that are worth looking out for when shopping for anything from mattresses to bedding and other textile decor like napkins and even table runners.

• OEKO-TEX Standard 100 certified: Ensures every component of a product has been tested and is free of harmful chemicals.
• GREENGUARD certified: Ensures the materials have low chemical emissions.
• GOTS (Global Organic Textile Standard) certified: Confirms the ecological and social responsibility with which textile products are made.
• Made Safe certified: Ensures everyday products are non-toxic, made with safe ingredients and materials, and are family safe.
• FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) certified: Ensures that products come from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social, and economic benefits. 

A throw blanket is usually 50″ x 60″, since its purpose is not as a bedding staple but more as a decorative addition to a room, even if you choose to drape it along your bed or cozy up with it from time to time. Because this is often the case, especially for those who work or learn from home, brands have been releasing longer, wider, or generally larger throws. While they still may not make the Queen-sized cut, larger throws are ideal if wrapping up in one is as important to you as displaying it. Keep in mind where you think you may drape (and store!) your throw — even a few extra inches of blanket can end up being simply too much for a space.

Throw blankets made from more natural materials like wool, cashmere, cotton, and hemp, among others, tend to have a higher price than those made from synthetics. As expected, cashmere blankets can cost a pretty penny, but may also be more than worth it if they’re intelligently crafted and well taken care of. Opting for a cashmere blend — perhaps with cotton or wool — can be less expensive and still provide the supple softness you’re seeking. Sometimes a little goes a long way.

What about that wool or cashmere blanket that’s a few hundred dollars, even thousands? First of all, there’s a market for everything. Second, the environment in which the animals are raised and live, including the nutrition it offers, determines the strength and thickness of each natural fiber. Remember how a fiber’s diameter determines its softness? Where your wool comes from matters a lot, not only from the standpoint of environmental awareness but also because it can literally determine the feel, warmth, durability, and even design of your wool or cashmere blanket.

We tested a range of throw blankets, from wool to linen and heated to weighted, judging them on the following criteria:

• Quality: What is it made of? Where is the material produced and in what environment? Does it shed or pill?
• Look: Is it inviting? Is it big or small? Does it drape, fold, or otherwise display well?
• Feel: Is it soft? Is it thin or on the thicker side? Is it heavy or lightweight? Is it heated?

The best blankets are ones that are just as beautiful as they are cozy, and Seek & Swoon’s Envie Throw definitely hits the mark. The Oregon-based brand’s designs are inspired by destinations “we’ve visited, dream about, and called home,” using recycled yarn to bring them to life. With its gold, black, and white geometric pattern, the Envie Throw, in particular, embodies the charm and sophistication of Paris, and it feels just as glamorous, according to commerce editor Britt.

“The Envie throw blanket looks and feels like a luxury!” she says. “It’s a gorgeous throw blanket, and it has a surprisingly good weight to it considering it’s not thick. I can easily use it as an extra layer on my bed, but this is a blanket that’s meant to be seen so I prefer to use it while lounging on the sofa. A lot of its reviews also mention using this blanket in an office, which makes sense because it looks and feels so nice!”

Specifications:

•  75% recycled cotton, 25% recycled polyester
• Available in 3 colors and 2 sizes
• Machine wash on cold/cool, tumble dry on low/delicate

Who It’s Best For: Those who love to travel; those who want a versatile throw with an eye-catching pattern.

Good to Know: The pattern is featured on one side, while a birdseye stitch is on the other.

For a bed blanket that’s warm, soft, easy to care for, and super affordable, allow us to introduce the Bedsure Fleece Blanket. “Trust me when I say that the phrase ‘You get what you pay for’ doesn’t apply to Bedsure’s Fleece Blanket,” says Britt, whose entire family, from Louisiana to California, owns and adores this Amazon find. And they’re not the only ones; this baby has nearly 125,000 five-star reviews. Although the cozy microfleece blanket is lightweight, it’s warm enough for tons of users (including Britt) to use all year round. And it’s available in a whopping 32 colors!

Bedsure’s buttery-soft blanket comes in 10 sizes, including standard bed sizes, a kids’ size, and an oversized throw that’s perfect for sharing. “I’ve used it as an additional bedding layer on chilly nights, and even draped it over a section of the couch to prevent my dog’s hair from getting all over the furniture,” Britt says. Don’t worry, it’s machine washable, so the hair-covered blanket was as good as new on laundry day.

Read our full review of the Bedsure Fleece Throw Blanket.

Specifications:

• 100% polyester fleece
• 300 GSM
• Available in 32 colors and 10 sizes
• Made in Green by OEKO-TEX-certified
• Machine washable

Who It’s Best For: Those looking for a good quality throw blanket that’s under $15; those who want a throw with lots of color options.

Good to Know: Though you might see some slight shedding at first, that effect goes away after a few washes.

Cozy Earth has been a go-to for bedding among our editors for years — the Oprah Winfrey-approved bamboo sheets and silk pillow are just a few favorites — and the high level of quality never fails to impress us. The brand’s Cuddle Blanket is no exception to the trend. The higher price point is worth it: The warm, ultra-plush pile and weightiness make it stand out from others on the market. True to form, the material is buttery soft, and you’ll quickly realize that it’s “the type of faux fur blanket you’d dream about having at home,” says Britt. Its high-end feel carries over to its looks, instantly elevating the room from wherever it’s draped.

“This is the best faux fur blanket I’ve ever had in my life,” she continues. “It’s weighty without being too heavy, it doesn’t shed, it’s super soft, plush, and the variations in the fibers really look like fur.”

Specifications:

• 100% polyester
• Available in 4 colors and 2 sizes
• Dry clean recommended or machine wash on cold/gentle and line dry
• 100-night sleep trial

Who It’s Best For: Those who want a throw that looks as glamorous as it feels; those who like a warmer, more substantial blanket that’ll last.

Good to Know: You can opt for the oversized version, which measures 80″ by 60″, for sharing.

*Honorable Mention: Britt adds that the Pretty Rugged TS Luxe Blanket doesn’t disappoint either. It even has a corner pocket and comes with a waterproof duffel for storage. “The faux fur layer is ultra soft and I love the satin-esque backing that adds a level of durability and versatility to the blanket since it’s reversible,” she says. “Thick throws can get uncomfortable after a while, but Pretty Rugged’s blanket has features that keep it comfortable for hours on end.”

As one of Brooklinen’s newer blankets, the airy and woven Lightweight Textured Throw is another home run for the editor-favorite home brand. It’s made from 100% long-staple cotton, which helps give it a soft and smooth appearance, and it has a stylish texture that sets it apart from the bunch. The throw is available in a delicately rich tone of Sand, which makes it just as decorative as it is useful.

“This Brooklinen throw is my idea of a perfect blanket. It’s lightweight without feeling near threadbare, the texture gives it a subtle pattern that keeps it from looking too plain, and it feels great to wrap it around yourself,” Britt says. “The blanket also has a surprising weight to it while maintaining comfort and breathability, and you can tell how durable it is as soon as you put your hands on it. I’ve lent the blanket to family a few times but made sure it always came back to me!”

Specifications:

• 100% cotton
• Available in 1 color
• OEKO-TEX-certified
• Dry clean recommended

Who It’s Best For: Those who want a throw blanket that doubles as decor; those who want a lightweight blanket that doesn’t feel paper thin.

Good to Know: While this throw is considered lightweight, it’s good to use all year round.

When it comes to high-quality and luxurious home goods, AT editors can’t get enough of Luxome. The brand has designed some of our favorite bed sheets and bath towels, and now it’s made a mark with the Ultra Plush Throw. Made with a soft and cooling blend of polyester and viscose from bamboo, this fuzzy blanket has a plush ribbed knit that gives it an overall ultra-cozy feel and appearance. It’s available in 10 calming hues, ranging from a bright white to a cool midnight blue, and can be purchased in a snuggly 50″ by 70″ size or a shareable 75″ by 100″.

“I’ve never loved a throw blanket as much as I love this Luxome one, and I’ve tested a lot of throw blankets over the years,” says commerce SEO editor Sarah. “It’s quite literally the softest throw I’ve ever had that somehow doesn’t lose any of that softness after a wash. It’s also the perfect size for truly wrapping up in and is perfect for year-round use, whether it’s as a bed blanket in the winter or as the occasional wrap on slightly chilly days (as well as summer ones when I accidentally put the air conditioner too low). If you’re looking for the Rolls Royce of blankets, you’ve found it — and I personally can’t wait to get my hands on every chic color.”

Specifications:

• 78% polyester, 22% viscose from bamboo
• Available in 10 colors and 2 sizes
• Machine wash on cold/gentle; lay flat to dry or tumble dry on low

Who It’s Best For: Those who prefer a soft and plush throw; those who want a plush throw blanket that’s not chunky.

Good to Know: While air drying this throw is recommended, if you must use a dryer, do not use dryer sheets as they will diminish the quality of the blanket.

*Honorable Mention:  If you want to save a bit more on your plush throw, then the $30 Cozy Bliss Blanket is a fantastic option, with its faux fur top and a smooth and plush underside that makes it snuggly all over. “This has been the best blanket to keep cozy with as the seasons changed,” says social media manager Sam. “It’s not only comfy but it also looks great on a bed.”

In case you missed it, the knitwear pros at Verloop have a line of home goods that instantly elevates your space in dynamic color. Plants have been upgraded with the brand’s colorful planter sleeves and one of Verloop’s mini rugs provided colorblock flair to one staffer’s kitchen. Throw blankets were naturally what the team at AT had to try out next. The Chunky Checkerboard Knit Throw is one of 13 blanket designs from Verloop, and it alone has three color options. Oh, and it’s reversible. The 50″ by 60″ throw is made with soft acrylic fabric that’s machine washable and low maintenance.

“Visually, it’s absolutely stunning. The woven texture is so interesting up close and from a distance, and it really elevates the checkerboard print,” says commerce assistant editor Morgan. “It’s also so versatile with its weight — I’ve been using it as a bed blanket on top of my comforter and it’s surprisingly warm during the winter, but I snuggle up with it during the summer, too.”

Specifications:

• 100% soft acrylic
• Reversible
• Available in 3 colors
• Machine wash cold on gentle cycle; then lay flat to dry

Who It’s Best For: Those who love colorful throws; those looking for a breathable knit throw.

Good to Know: If you love to coordinate, matching 18″ Chunky Checkerboard throw pillow covers are also available.

Some throw blankets are worth the splurge, and the Faux Fur Ruched Throw from Pottery Barn is one of them. According to deputy commerce editor Alicia, the throw’s “faux fur” blend of acrylic, polyester, and spandex feels almost deceivingly real. Combined with the weight of the blanket, “it feels like there is a small animal keeping me warm on my couch,” she confesses. “I have never been cozier in my life — and it doesn’t hurt that it looks great on my couch.”

The two-sided Faux Fur Ruched Throw is ultra-plush, reversible, and has a velvet binding to pull together its luxuriously cozy appearance. It’s available in both solid and ombre color options as well as two sizes, in case you want one all to yourself or one to share. “More than two years later, this is still our go-to winter throw blanket,” Alicia says. “Whether we need an extra layer on the bed or just want to be cozy on the couch, this is always what we grab. It’s by far the best throw blanket I’ve owned (and I have several in my small apartment right now!)”

Read our full review of the Pottery Barn Faux Fur Ruched Throw.

Specifications:

• 85% acrylic, 13% polyester, and 2% spandex front and 100% polyester back
• 750 GSM
• Reversible
• Available in 11 colors and 2 sizes
• OEKO-TEX Standard 100-certified
• Dry clean recommended

Who It’s Best For: Those who love the look of luxuriously soft throws; those who prefer faux fur blankets; those who want a throw blanket with matching pillows.

Good to Know: If you must wash this throw at home, machine wash cold on gentle cycle and line dry.

*Honorable Mention:  AT editors love Quince, and we’d be remiss not to spotlight the brand’s Textured Faux Fur Throw. “It’s pretty low-maintenance,” says shopping writer Nikol, adding that after the second wash, its shedding decreased a lot. She also notes that it’s a tad short, but it works perfectly as an accent or supplemental covering. “After about three months of using it, I really like the blanket. It achieves the exact look I wanted and makes my room look so cozy.”

Chunky, open-knit designs are equal parts gorgeous to look at and cozy. The fact that the Bearaby Napper comes in a luxe velvet material ups the comfort even more, giving it a softer and smoother feel. The velvet already makes it winter-ready visually, but it also comes in a stunning jewel tone, Rose Quartz, that’ll stand out wherever you place it. It’s also ideal for the colder season because it’s weighted: 20 and 25-pound options are available, each making the blanket feel like a hug when you wrap yourself in it. Bearaby explains that the weight “stimulates the production of serotonin (the happy hormone), reduces cortisol (the stress hormone), and increases melatonin, which helps you fall (and stay) asleep.”

“It’s also super breathable because of its chunky-knit style, and doesn’t get unbearably warm,” Britt says. “Sometimes I need some extra pressure to get a good night’s sleep and will layer it with my bedsheets, and I haven’t overheated. As a hot sleeper, that was a pleasant surprise!”

Read our full review of the Bearaby Velvet Napper.

Specifications:

• Eco-velvet made from ocean-bound plastic
• Available in 1 colors and 2 weights
• OEKO-TEX Standard 100, GRS-, and Fairtrade International-certified
• Dry clean recommended

Who It’s Best For: Those who want a weighted throw that’s not overwhelming; those who love the gorgeous look of a chunky knit blanket.

Good to Know: Your napper should be roughly 10% of your body weight, according to the brand.

Who couldn’t use a little extra comfort this time of year? Pure Enrichment’s  2-in-1 WeightedWarmth Blanket provides just that. Made of a soft combination of micromink and sherpa, this 13-pound weighted and heated throw is conveniently reversible. Adding to its versatility is the fact that its heat element is also optional, because the controller can be detached at will. However, if you want the added temperature, there are four settings in total that allow the throw blanket to reach up to 105℉. For safety, a built-in timer even automatically shuts off the heater after two hours of consistent use. Lastly, the glass beads that add pounds to the blanket are sewn in strategically to provide an even distribution of weight throughout.

“After trying out each of the settings, I found that medium heat was my sweet spot,” says Britt. “I turn my A/C low at night to cool the apartment down before I go to sleep, and nearly dozed off on my sofa from how soothing the blanket felt!” She adds, “Without the heat, this weighted throw is so comfortable. Though the material seems like it would only be suitable for fall and winter, it’s not unbearably warm, making it just as cozy in the summer and spring.”

Read our full review of the Pure Enrichment WeightedWarmth 2-in-1 Heated Weighted Blanket.

Specifications:

• Micromink and sherpa; glass bead fill
• 13.3 pounds
• Reversible
• Features 4 heat settings and auto shut-off
• Spot clean with a mix of mild detergent and water
• 5-year warranty

Who It’s Best For: Those who want a heated blanket or a weighted blanket that’s good for the cold months.

Good to Know: The temperature of this blanket ranges from 90-105℉.