Keep Your Newborn Safe and Comfy in the Best Baby Blankets
Babies are super high-maintenance, and since you’re reading this article, we’re guessing you’ve realized that already. Aside from timely feeding, they also need to be kept comfortable, warm, and clean. One way to do so is to swaddle them in one of those snug and soft baby blankets. They’re specially made to keep your little bean safe, thanks in part to the gentle fabric used in them. The materials are all “baby-safe”, which means the blanket won’t aggravate or irritate their highly sensitive skin.
Baby blankets are built to follow very strict guidelines and offer just the ideal amount of heat to protect and comfort your baby. But, you can only expect these characteristics from a high-quality product that’s made without cutting costs. We’re here to help you find just that! To that end, here’s a list of our favorite baby blankets in 2024!
Buying Guide: Baby Blankets
Baby blankets are some of the most common gifts known to parents. But, if you haven’t received one yet for the upcoming winter (or an upcoming baby), it’s time to go shopping! They come in many different shapes and sizes, and we’re not just talking about aesthetic differences. Depending on where you live and how cold (or hot) it gets over there, you’ll have to make your purchase decisions very carefully.
In this buyer’s guide, we’ll tell you all you need to know to choose the right baby blanket for your precious little one!
Size Differences
When it comes to baby blankets, size doesn’t only “matter” but it’s crucial because getting it wrong can be dangerous for the baby. A blanket that’s too small to offer sufficient coverage might lead to your baby’s feet hanging out in the open at night, which isn’t ideal. On the other hand, blankets that are too big or too thick can also be unsafe for infants.
Additionally, anything that can potentially cover your baby’s mouth without sufficient breathability has inherent suffocation risks, which is why baby blanket size is an imperative consideration.
Sizes vary from brand to brand, but here are a few examples to give you a general idea.
Receiving blankets
Receiving blankets are square in shape and measure around 18 x 18 inches to 36 x 36 inches.
Multi-use blankets
These baby blankets are the most common size, measuring between 30 to 40 inches.
Crib blankets
This style is designed to fit cribs with dimensions of 40 x 60 inches.
Swaddle blankets
These blankets are meant for swaddling babies and toddlers. They often range between 40 x 40 inches to 48 x 48 inches.
Feel free to pick any of the above sizes or types of blankets depending on what you plan on doing with them!
Fabric Types in Baby Blankets
Baby blankets can be made out of many different types of fabric, and the market is filled with choices. They each have their pros and cons, so let’s quickly go over their descriptions.
Bamboo rayon
Made using bamboo, this one’s ultra-soft. It’s the ideal material choice for baby blankets, and won’t irritate even the most sensitive skin. The fabric is very newborn-friendly and quickly adjusts to their body temperature, so this one’s a green flag.
Cotton
One of the most common types of fabric seen in baby blankets is cotton, and rightfully so. It’s naturally soft and comfy, and won’t chafe your baby’s ultra-sensitive skin.
Muslin
Also known as gauze, muslin material is made out of cotton and is ideal for swaddling babies thanks to its high breathability and light density.
Fleece
Lastly, there’s fleece, which is the ideal fabric type for colder climates as it’s naturally warmer than most alternatives. Thanks to its moisture-wicking capabilities, the material dries quickly and resists stains well — and that’s a huge plus since it’s for babies!
Ease of Use
Aside from granular details like the thickness, size, and material of your baby’s blanket, there’s one simple thing most buyers forget to pay attention to — and that’s the ease of use.
If you’re a new parent, here’s a pro tip for consumer decisions overall; everything has to be as easy as possible to use! That’s because babies are difficult enough by themselves, so you don’t need accessories that are a nightmare to work with.
If you’re fumbling in the dark to swaddle your baby without waking up your partner, you need a convenient design that’s easy to handle. The market even has some zippered swaddling blankets that allow you to take them on and off effortlessly, so keep an eye out for these nifty features. They can make a huge impact on your quality of life as parents overall!
Longevity
Be sure to take your baby blanket’s longevity into account when you go shopping. What seems perfect now might not be as practical a few months (or even weeks) down the line, because remember, babies grow fast. We’re not saying you should shop for a size up, as that’s unsafe, but consider looking for blankets that are stretchy and designed for both babies and toddlers.
Reviewing the Premier Baby Blanket in 2024
Natemia Muslin Baby Blanket – Most Convenient
The Natemia Baby Blanket is the perfect addition to any nursery or baby’s room. This versatile blanket is designed to provide the utmost comfort and convenience for parents and children alike. Crafted with ultra-soft bamboo and pure cotton, this lightweight blanket is perfect for keeping your little one warm and cozy all night long.
This multi-use blanket is made to be incredibly absorbent, able to soak up to three times its weight in water! Whether used as a stroller cover, receiving blanket, nursing cover, play mat, or a baby towel, this six-layer muslin blanket is both durable enough to withstand everyday use and soft enough for a newborn’s delicate skin. Not only is this an incredibly practical item for any parent or caregiver, it also makes a great gift! Natemia’s muslin baby blankets come in attractive packaging that will help make any occasion special.
Pros
- Extremely soft and silky texture
- Lightweight, yet warm and cozy
- Vibrant colors that don’t fade after washing
Cons
- Can be too thick for some users
Natemia Knitted Baby Blanket – Best Organic Option
The Natemia Knitted Baby Blanket is an ultra-soft, organic cotton blanket that stands out in a class of its own. With an impressive size, this blanket is perfect for multiple purposes, such as a stroller blanket, receiving blanket, or even a play mat for your baby’s delicate skin. The organic cotton material is lightweight yet warm, making it suitable for all seasons, and the dense knit design adds an extra layer of breathability without sacrificing quality.
The blanket’s craftsmanship is of the highest standards, with its durable construction lasting through your child’s infancy and beyond. Best of all, it is machine washable for effortless cleaning and maintenance. The Natemia Baby Blanket also makes an excellent baby shower gift. Its stylish design and natural softness make it an unforgettable present that will be admired for years to come.
Pros
- Easy to set up and use
- Very affordable price point
- Compact design fits easily into small spaces
Cons
- Lack of customization options
WONDER MIRACLE Baby Blanket – Most Popular
The WONDER MIRACLE Baby Blanket is a popular choice, and for good reason. This pick is fleece-knit, so it’s much softer than most alternatives on the market. It feels smooth and gentle against the skin, making it the perfect way to cover your baby at bedtime. Additionally, it’s great for all-season use and promises to maintain a comfy sleeping temperature for your newborn or toddler throughout the night.
Since you can choose from a variety of sizes for this baby blanket, you’ll be able to pick one that best suits your little one’s needs. Plus, it’s also much easier to fold and put away when not in use. You can use this synthetic microfiber blanket in the bed, car seat, stroller, and much more. Feel free to throw it in the washer and reuse it as many times as you want!
Pros
- Very soft and comfy
- Provides excellent coverage and safety
- Available in many colors
Cons
- Slightly thin for winters
Kleitung Baby Blanket – Most Lightweight
The Kleitung Baby Blanket is the only polyester blanket on our list, making it one of the lightest-weight options, but that’s not all. The 100% premium plush polyester fabric also gives it immense durability, as well as sufficient warmth to keep your baby cozy when it’s freezing outside. Not only is the fabric long-lasting, but also the color on it as it won’t fade — even with frequent machine washes.
Even better, you can get this baby blanket in five adorable designs, so feel free to get any design that seems to match your baby. And, since it’s a big and warm blanket, you’ll find yourself carrying it along with your little one all over the place!
Pros
- Durable and lightweight
- Very easy to clean
- Meant for all-season use
- Comes in different cute patterns
Cons
- Could be thicker
Baby Essentials Baby Blanket – Ideal for Gifts
This Baby Essentials Baby Blanket is by far the most adorable-looking option on this list. It features a “blue dino” theme and even has a little dinosaur that produces soft crinkling sounds. Babies seem to love playing around and snuggling with it. Aside from this design, you can also get it in other equally cute themes like “happy shark,” “fluffy puppy,” “pink dino,” and much more — making this blanket the most giftable one here! It’s made out of plush fleece, which is the secret behind its buttery soft feel. Practical uses aside, it can also be a valuable aesthetic addition to any themed toddler room!
Pros
- High visual appeal
- Fluffy, smooth, and very lightweight
- Babies love playing with the dino attachment
- Many delightful designs to choose from
Cons
- Slightly small for toddlers
BlueSnail Baby Blanket – Warmest Choice
The BlueSnail Baby Blanket is a double-layered wrap for your little one, making it warm enough for those peak winter days. Despite having two layers, it’s still relatively lightweight as it’s made with muslin cotton and a dot fabric that’s soft and gentle. This pick is large enough to provide sufficient coverage for babies and toddlers, but can easily be folded and packed into a carrying bag. You can easily take it with you on trips, or use it as your changing pad, stroller or car seat cover, and more.
Even better, this baby blanket is quite breathable and feels plush, making it comfy enough for a baby’s sensitive skin. Plus, it’s machine washable as well so feel free to throw it into your laundry every few days to maintain proper hygiene.
Pros
- Comes in five different color combinations
- Double-layered for extra coziness
- Retains color well after washes
- Very thick and warm, perfect for winters
Cons
- Not as soft as the others
Simka Rose Baby Waffle Blanket – Best Overall
The Simka Rose Waffle Baby Blanket is the epitome of comfort and style. Designed specifically for little ones, this blanket is crafted with the utmost levels of care and precision. You can trust this baby blanket to provide your baby with the coziest of snuggles and the most peaceful of naps. The blanket’s waffle weave texture is not just invitingly soft.
It also adds an extra layer of warmth, which can ensure that your baby stays comfortably bundled up on chilly nights. With a keen eye for design, this brand offers a variety of charming colors and contemporary patterns for you to choose from. As a baby blanket made out of high-quality materials, this blanket is built to withstand the rigors of daily use as well. This baby blanket keeps babies warm without causing them to overheat, making it our top choice.
Pros
- Keeps baby warm yet lightweight
- Large and perfect size for baby
- Soft, thick material that’s durable
Cons
- Material may feel rough
- Lack of stretchiness
People Also Asked
A: Cotton is the most popular material found in baby blankets thanks to its softness and comfort level. That said, you can also find baby blankets made out of fleece, bamboo rayon, and many other suitable materials.
A: While you may want to give your baby a blanket as soon as possible to keep them warm and comfortable, this may not be a great idea. To reduce the chance of suffocation, you should avoid giving your little one a baby blanket until they’re at least 1 year old.
A: This widely varies on the design, material, and brand, among other qualities. Some blankets can go for as little as $15, while others might even be priced at hundreds of dollars! Just keep in mind that price doesn’t necessarily reflect a blanket’s quality.
A: Yes, as long as they’re lightweight, breathable, and not large enough to cover your infant’s mouth. As per the AAP’s (American Association of Pediatrics) guidelines, anything that can cover up your baby's nose and mouth can potentially cause suffocation.
A: Signs like a lack of interest in feeding, along with cold feet and hands, can indicate that your baby might be too cold. If you notice that they have started to cry less, that’s also an indication of your baby conserving more energy to stay warm.
