Splurge or Save: Should You Buy Parachute’s $230 Lightweight Blanket or Quince’s $100 Alternative?
If there’s one product category I test more of than any other as a shopping writer here at AT, it’s bedding. To specify even further, I’ve tested so many bed blankets over the past couple of years, it’s hard to keep track of them all. That being said, I still have my standouts, and even though it sometimes feels like my closet is bursting at the seams from all the muslin, linen, cotton, and microfiber, I still keep opting to try more. That’s because a home can never have too many airy coverings, regardless of what season it is.
Whether you find yourself wishing you had a throw to drape over yourself while lounging on the sofa or you’re ready to stash away your comforter amid the sweltering heat, it’s always better to have too many blankets to choose from than not enough. If you were to ask me what my favorite year-round blanket is, I’d say Parachute’s Cloud Linen Gauze Bed Blanket is high on the list. But at $229 full retail, it’s definitely not the most affordable option. It’s a good thing my colleagues are also constantly testing new bedding and can point to a number of budget-friendly alternatives that are comparable to some of the pricier picks.
If you hadn’t guessed it yet, in this edition of our Splurge or Save series, we’ll be focusing on lightweight bed blankets. As always, we’ll compare two editor-tested and -loved products and try to answer the question of whether you should splurge on the pricey option or go with the cheaper alternative. We’ll be comparing the aforementioned Parachute blanket to Quince’s Organic Lofty Waffle Blanket, which retails for $99.90, so stick around to learn whether you should splurge or save.
Parachute vs. Quince
Our staffers have tested numerous products from both Parachute and Quince, especially when it comes to bedding. Although I personally prefer the former regardless of its high price tags, I have coworkers who will tell you they prefer Quince’s quality, even if its products don’t cost as much. Both of the blankets have won a spot on our Best List, but it’ll be interesting to directly compare and contrast them.
Overview of Parachute’s Cloud Linen Gauze Blanket
Parachute’s gauzy bed blanket was actually one of the first blankets I ever tested for work, and it set the bar high. I remember when I first unpacked it, I immediately felt a satisfying heft even though it’s made of very thin layers of fabric. It’s specifically made of a linen and cotton blend. I’ve tested linen blankets in the past, and even though I’m a sucker for a good linen sheet set, I find that throws made entirely of that material are too scratchy for my taste. But this one has just enough linen to give it that earthy look without taking away from its softness. And it is very soft! The gauze blanket isn’t fuzzy like some of my microfiber or fleece blankets; instead, it has an airy quality that makes it amazing to sleep under during summer.
Although Parachute’s blanket is lightweight, it still drapes beautifully. Its corners almost feel weighed down, which means I’m never not covered. Additionally, it’s big. I used to have a Queen size mattress, and although I got this product in the Full/Queen size, there was plenty of material hanging over my bed. This makes it a bit hard to style if you’re after a neat and tidy look, but I like it because no matter how much I toss and turn, I never run out of blanket.
When I moved out of my parents’ house, I left my Parachute blanket with them. Although I loved it, I simply didn’t have space in my suitcase for it when I moved states. The good news is, my parents seem to love it even more than I do. The throw is a mainstay on their bed during the warmer months; I frequently see it on their mattress when we FaceTime. So I can assure you, this blanket would also make a fabulous gift.
Maintenance-wise, the gauze blanket is a dream. It’s machine-washable, and it air-dries in just a few hours because of its fluffy texture. It’s currently available in two neutral colors and looks incredibly stylish, like pretty much all of Parachute’s offerings. If you happen to see it on sale, consider it your sign to snag a Cloud Linen Gauze Bed Blanket for yourself.
Overview of Quince’s Organic Lofty Waffle Blanket
Among the hundreds of blankets our staffers have tested, there are those that promise to keep us cool and comfortable for a small cost. Sometimes, those claims turn out to be true. But other times, when the blanket in question is poorly made or uses synthetic materials, we end up overheating anyway. For $100, however, Quince offers a 100% long-staple organic cotton that both our editors and readers can’t get enough of. Although it’s certainly not the most budget-friendly blanket out there, it is a great deal considering the quality you’re getting, as well as the fact that a lot of other blankets made from natural materials will cost you much more.
This pick won the “Best Overall” category on our Best List for other reasons, too. For one, it’s free of harmful dyes, chemicals, and toxins often used in the textile manufacturing process. The blanket is also plush and cozy, so it’ll keep you warm if you use it as an extra layer in the cooler months. Come spring and summer, though, its breathable waffle texture will help promote airflow and sweat-free sleeps. The waffle feature also just makes the blanket look cute and trendy, no matter which of the five neutral colors you opt for.
“I like the waffle-weave texture and have found it to be warmer than I expected,” said contributor Nic after testing the blanket. “I used this blanket to replace a similar model I had from a more expensive brand. This blanket seems a little sturdier, which is surprising because of how light it feels overall. I’ve been using it as my primary blanket during the winter — it’s that warm!”
In essence, Quince’s blanket is a great price for an ethically produced, well-made bed covering that you can use during most, if not all, of the year. It makes a solid blanket for those awkward transitional periods between seasons. If you’re not sure what to use on a chilly spring night or surprisingly warm fall evening, look no further.
The Verdict
We’re confident you’ll be satisfied with your purchase no matter which blanket you choose, as they’re both made from natural materials and designed to last, even after endless washes. Parachute’s blanket, however, is made of organic materials only, and we would recommend it more to hot sleepers or those looking for a throw more suitable for the warmer months. You can swaddle yourself inside Parachute’s gauzy covering like a burrito and still not feel overheated, which is a unique quality we’ll never tire of.
On the other hand, if you lean cold or you’re searching for bedding for the upcoming fall months, we think you’ll prefer Quince’s waffle blanket. It’s not as drapey as the Parachute covering, but it is a touch thicker. What’s more, it can work as its own covering in any season; with the other blanket, you’d have to layer it in winter.
Still on the fence? Honestly, get both. As we asserted from the very beginning, you can never have too many lightweight blankets, especially quality ones. You’re bound to forget one at a relative’s house or need a separate throw for your sofa than the one you use on your bed, so we say stock your linen closet and never look back.