What are the blankets. Secrets of home comfort: how to choose the right blanket

Plaids are used as a bedspread for a chair or bed, a blanket or a warm cape. In the children's room, they may well replace the floor mat or complement

Types of blankets

Depending on the material, there are three types of products:

• natural (wool, cotton, fur, fluff);
• artificial (acrylic, microfiber, polyester, faux fur, fleece);
• mixed (natural with the addition of artificial or vice versa).

According to the dimensional grid stand out:

• adults;
• teenage;
• children's.

According to the manufacturing method, blankets are:

• knitted;
• woven;
• sewn from a single piece of material;
• patchwork.

Pros and cons of blankets

Material

The most important selection criterion is the material of manufacture.

Acrylic blankets

The material is similar to natural wool. The fabric is soft, light, obtained from synthetic fibers.

Pros:

• for a long time retains heat-insulating properties, attractive appearance;
• unpretentious care, washing in a washing machine is acceptable;
• hypoallergenic, suitable for people with hypersensitivity and children;
• lack of static electricity;
• stability of the original color due to color fastness;
• low price;
• impressive range.

Minuses:

• air is trapped;
• extraneous odors are absorbed;
• tendency to form pellets;
• loses softness from bright light;
• absorbs greasy stains that are difficult to remove.

Microfiber blankets

Synthetic fabric of a new generation, consisting of polyamide or polyester. A feature is the thickness of the thread, which is an interwoven fiber with a thickness of 1 Dan.

Pros:

• easy care (normal washing is allowed);
• durable, wear-resistant fabric;
• the color lasts a long time;
• pellets are not formed;
• absorbs moisture well, but dries quickly.

Minuses:

• a static charge is generated;
• the product must not be ironed, dried at high temperatures (for example, on a battery).

Microfiber blankets are used like blankets, as they are very warm.

Polyester blankets

The fabric is made from polyester fibres. The appearance depends on the shape of the fiber, its processing.

Pros:

• pleasant to the touch;
• products are durable, resistant to stretching and friction;
• light weight;
• easy and simple to wash, dries quickly, does not wrinkle;
• low price;
• does not absorb odors.

Minuses:

• electrified;
• at elevated temperatures changes shape (shrinks).

Faux fur blankets

The basis is a primed fabric on which a synthetic pile is attached. Popular due to its thermal insulation qualities, inexpensive cost.

Pros:

• durable and wear-resistant;
• moisture resistant;
• a large selection of colors;
• keeps heat well;
• not of interest to moths;
• easy cleaning, use of the washing machine is allowed.

Minuses:

• produces static electricity;
• prone to the formation of pellets;
• attracts dust.

Fleece blankets

Pros:

• resistant to mechanical influence, high temperatures;
• does not fade in the sun;
• lack of allergic reactions;
• resistance to mechanical stress;
• very easy care (does not wrinkle, erases perfectly);
• it is allowed to dry-clean, ironing;
• moth and mold do not start;
• light weight.

Minuses:

• over time, static builds up, which is eliminated by rinsing with an antistatic agent.

Cotton blankets

Natural material of plant origin.

Pros:

• environmentally friendly;
• a light weight;
• soft, pleasant to the body;
• appearance is preserved after a large number of washes;
• hypoallergenic.

Minuses:

• easily wrinkled;
• dries for a long time;
• does not keep enough heat, more suitable for cool summer.

Wool blankets

Woolen products are distinguished by their beauty, warmth, and health benefits.

Pros:

• medicinal properties for diseases of the musculoskeletal system, colds;
• blood circulation is activated;
• moisture is well absorbed, but the cover remains dry;
• rarely washed due to the unique ability of wool to self-clean;
• long service life;
• pleasant to the body.

Minuses:

• cause an allergic reaction;
• some models are prickly;
• high price;
• limited range of colors.

The composition of natural products - cashmere, camel, sheep wool.

Camel wool blankets

The material has amazing properties. It protects from cold, saves from heat and humidity.

Pros:

• the amount of moisture absorbed is 30% of the total weight of the product, while maintaining dryness;
• has a beneficial effect in the treatment of arthritis, arthrosis, sciatica, colds;
• the wax contained in the composition creates softness, has a positive effect on the skin, being absorbed into it. Lanolin (wax) is preserved after numerous washes;
• antistatic material;
• does not electrify, relieves static stress, which is especially important in a house with electronics and plastic;
• light, warm;
• durable (average service life - 9 years).

Minuses:

• Waste products of ticks cause allergies. Regular cleaning will help get rid of them;
• hairs tingle human skin - this is useful, but unpleasant.

Blanket sizes

Size determines the purpose of the product:

• Large: 180×220, 200×200, 200×220, 220×240, 240×260 cm - options for double beds, large sofas;
• 170×240 cm is suitable for a small sofa;
• 130×170, 140×200, 150×200 cm - armchair options.

Baby blankets:

• 75 × 75, 75 × 90 cm - for newborns;
• 100 × 120, 110 × 140 cm - for small children;
• 130 × 160, 140 × 205 cm - for primary school age.

Make sure the blanket covers the sides of the furniture but doesn't touch the floor. Comfortable overhang length - 20 cm on one side.

Blanket shape

Common shapes are rectangular and square models. Children's products often have rounded corners. Each manufacturer has original options. Some companies carry out any forms to order.

Equipment

There are models that come with bedding. This allows you not to disturb the design of the bedroom and create an overall composition.

Children's models are sometimes supplemented with a soft toy that matches the plaid in color or pattern.

Advantages

• Provides warmth and comfort at home.
• Good thermal conductivity. Due to the structure of most fabrics, warmth is retained in cool and cold conditions.
• Absorbs moisture. The product is able to take moisture and evaporate it, while remaining dry and pleasant to the touch.
• Durability. Works well for many years.
• Great look.
• Huge variety of products.

Flaws

• wear. Since a duvet cover is not put on the product, the appearance becomes worse with constant use. Scuffs appear, the color changes, especially on the side where they sit, if it is used as a bedspread. And if they are wrapped and covered, then the color of the material changes from the inside. At the same time, the operational properties are preserved.
• Dust. Since almost any blanket consists of villi of various lengths, the products collect dust very well. Therefore, regular cleaning is necessary.
• Allergens. We are talking about natural materials. Animal hair sometimes causes allergic reactions, but artificial fabrics are hypoallergenic.
• High price. The most expensive models will be natural bedspreads.
• A common problem with blankets is the formation of static electricity.

How to choose a blanket

To select a suitable blanket, determine for what purpose you need it:

• If it will cover a sofa or bed, it should be guided by the criterion of size, composition. The material for the sofa, where they will constantly sit, for example, in front of the TV, should be easy to wash. Also be wear-resistant so that there are no marks.
• If you need a blanket for cool summer days, it is better to give preference to cotton. For greater warmth, natural or artificial wool is suitable. Pay attention to the thickness of the bedspread.
• To select the best product, pay attention to the condition of the folds. If the pile fell off or was completely wiped off, such a blanket will not last long.
• Pay attention to the finish. The edge is stitched, folded, processed with ribbon, braid or fringe. The stitch should be straight, with no loose loops or threads.
• Consider the pattern so that it is symmetrical, without loose loops.
• Examine the surface - the texture should be smooth, even, uniform.

Which is better

• You should like it in terms of sensations, in appearance. Then he will bring the expected comfort.
• Colors and patterns should match the design of the room. The plaid can be in harmony with curtains, furniture, wallpaper. If the interior is bright, choose a product of a muted color or a solid color.
• Lamb wool is suitable for a child, as the material is tender and soft.

Care

Features of care for different materials are different. The washing conditions of each model are indicated on the label.

Dust your blanket regularly using a clothes brush. Wash cotton items with . After washing, do not wring out the bedspread so that it retains its shape. It is better to dry it horizontally to preserve the structure.

Woolen models are washed exclusively by hand. The water is cool, mild detergents are used. You can not twist, let the water drain itself. Dry on a flat surface. Camel wool loves airing in the warm season and snow baths in winter. Do not wash with detergents. To clean, just shake the cover.

Products should be stored in a cardboard box or simply rolled up. Do not wrap in plastic wrap.

Guarantee

There are two reasons for returning a purchased blanket:

1. The goods turned out to be of inadequate quality, a manufacturing defect was discovered, fell apart, broke through, deteriorated through no fault of yours.
2. The product did not fit in color, dimensions, size, design.

Usually the warranty is issued for 7 days. If you wish to exchange or return the goods, this is done within 2 weeks from the date of purchase, provided that the packaging, label and receipt are available. The blanket must retain its presentation.

Warranties are not provided if the product:

• damaged due to unforeseen situations - elements, fire, everyday facts;
• suffered due to improper handling, storage, transportation;
• dirty.

Blanket manufacturers

Tango

Chinese brand. Quite popular, as the rugs are distinguished by their appearance and quality. Products are made of modern materials, therefore they do not cause allergic reactions, they are suitable for small children.

They absorb moisture but dry quickly. The weight is usually light. Color solutions are bright, saturated, which remain so for a long time.

Tango blankets are distinguished by a wide range of design solutions. Products are distinguished by traditional high quality tailoring, composition and dye safety for people, highly artistic design.

Paters

A company that combines classics and modern trends in textile fashion.

A popular material for manufacturing is natural yarn (pure New Zealand wool). It is distinguished by fine hairs that retain a large amount of air. Acrylic models are recognized as the most functional products, which are distinguished by softness and lightness. They are very popular due to their affordable price.

Children's collections have a lot of advantages: light, hypoallergenic, breathable, retain heat.

Caring for New Zealand wool requires delicate hand washing using a mild detergent.

Website of company representatives: http://pled-spb.ru/catalog/pledy/

Arya

Well-known Turkish company. Manufacturers combine oriental style and European quality.

The products are of excellent composition, high-quality painting.

Models are made from microfiber, fleece, coarse calico, faux fur, polyester. The appearance of products is represented by models of a cage, plain, multi-colored, pronounced zigzag patterns, images of animals or flowers.

The embossed effect, beautiful piping, leopard skin imitation, oriental patterns, nautical theme, city images represent a variety of products.

Children's products consist of microfiber on the one hand, polyester on the other. Use as a blanket or light blanket.

A wide selection is presented on the website: http://www.aryahome.ru/

Biederlack

German company engaged in the production of blankets from various materials:

• soft cashmere;
• warm sheep wool;
• light cotton;
• hydroscopic acrylic, polyacryl;
• durable polyester, microfibre.

Plaids made of natural or artificial materials stand out for their wonderful design.

The company produces products in sizes from 130×170 to 220×240 cm.

Artificial fiber allows the production of bedspreads in a wide variety of colors. After numerous washes, the original look remains. They have hypoallergenic properties, allow air to circulate freely and warm perfectly.

Kazanova

Brand name blankets Kazanova are considered the standard of quality, as the composition includes innovative materials (acrylic, polyester) with the addition of natural fibers. Products are equipped with supersoft material, which provides durability. It looks like velor with a long pile.

Plaids do not attract dust and dirt, do not cause allergic reactions. The color is stable even under direct sunlight. Covers are warm, soft and light. Artificial materials in their characteristics are close to natural wool.

Le Vele

Trademark Le Vele presents a huge range of high quality original products.

Plaids are made using modern technologies. They correspond to world parameters of convenience and safety. Strong, durable, various colors, unusual texture. Comfortable, high quality, natural.

All products are certified, environmentally friendly.

favorite home

Fleece is characterized by durability and wear resistance. It is a soft, pleasant material that retains heat and allows air to pass through. The blanket keeps its shape, is not subject to the formation of pellets, as it is treated with a special anti-pilling compound. Traditional flower patterns, geometric and abstract shapes, and a classic cage will help create coziness in your home.

Fleece blankets are especially popular, as they are universal. They are used as a travel blanket, a warm cape for relaxing in the garden or at home.

pantex

Russian brand, known for the production of cotton blankets. Acrylic is added for fluffiness and softness.

Products are made in three sizes: 200×220, 180×220, 150×200. Choosing the right size, you will complement your interior with classic or travel models, large bedspreads on bedroom furniture. The site provides certificates of quality.

In addition to the classic series, the company has created special lines. "Elite" is distinguished by high-density products, the use of shearing technology. The drawing becomes textured, voluminous.

Large selection of baby blankets. Bright cheerful colors, high-quality, environmentally friendly raw materials. Pleasant to the touch, soft for delicate baby skin due to high quality. Sizes of children's models - 90×120, 100×0140.

Fleece

Wool blankets are the most popular due to their properties: they are warm, soft, create a special atmosphere of comfort in the house. The factory presents 20 collections of 160 colors, 5 sizes. All goods are certified.

In addition to woolen products, semi-woolen and synthetic ones are produced.

Material: sheep wool and down, camel wool and down, acrylic, alpaca wool, polyester.

A special product is a plaid pillow. It is packed in a fleece cover, used as a pillow, and, if necessary, transformed for its intended purpose.

The traditional colors of products are boundary brown.

There is a Line Lore line, made on Italian equipment, Amati - products without dyeing from merino wool. A lot of natural original models.

More budget options are synthetic polyester blankets. They are inferior to natural in their characteristics.

The history of the appearance of the plaid has more than three centuries. Its progenitor was a long piece of woolen fabric, which was used not only for its intended purpose.

Wrapping it around the waist or wrapping it from head to toe, the inhabitants of Scotland escaped with its help from the harsh northern weather. Those times are long gone, and even the Scots no longer wrap themselves in a blanket on the street, but still in the cold you can’t find a warmer and more comfortable thing than this woolen bedspread.

Staying true to tradition...

The classic plaid is the one made from undyed sheep's wool.

• For the manufacture of the warmest products, cross-bred wool is used.
• Lighter, but no less durable blankets are made from camel wool.
• The softest, thinnest and hypoallergenic bedspreads are those made from mountain goat down - cashmere.
• It is useful to sleep under woolen blankets for people who suffer from rheumatism, sciatica, arthrosis and arthritis.
• In warm weather, it is good to cover yourself with a blanket made of cotton. Such bedspreads are easy to wash and retain their original appearance for a long time (wear out slowly).

artificial heat

Acrylic blankets

The cheapest of all synthetics, they are warm, bright, smooth and comfortable. The biggest advantage of acrylic is that this material is easy to wash without losing its shape, dries quickly and does not form spools.

That is why acrylic blankets are ideal as bedspreads for a bed or sofa. Sleeping under an acrylic blanket is not worth it: the artificial material does not let air through at all!

Chenille blankets

Plaids made of synthetic material in various colors with a glossy sheen - they are distinguished by a beautiful appearance, but they can only be used as decorative capes on furniture.

This synthetic material is much "softer" than acrylic and requires careful handling.

Fleece

Material that feels like fine wool, which "breathes", absorbs moisture and retains heat well. It is fleece blankets that are good to use as a blanket.

Electric blankets

A novelty in the home textile market. Such bedspreads are not afraid of high humidity in the room, with their help you can even heat the bed and, what is most remarkable, they evenly distribute heat.

A blanket is an indispensable attribute of any home. The right blanket performs not only a functional role. This is a stylish accessory in the interior, and a warm blanket, and a symbol of home comfort.

Wool blankets

• environmental friendliness;
• breathability;
• hygroscopicity;
• antibacterial
• thermoregulating properties;
• wear resistance;
• therapeutic effect,

(GOODS=3)

But “natural wool” is a very general concept, giving information only that the material used is an animal fiber. There are many types of wool, depending on the quality and type of fibers (down, outer

Hair), method of obtaining (combing, haircut), type of animal (sheep, camel, llama, goat).

The most popular for the manufacture of quality blankets is considered camel and merino wool.

Features of merino wool blankets

Merino wool is characterized by a special fineness and elasticity of the fibers. A blanket made of it will be soft, gentle to the touch and suitable for people with sensitive skin. Merino wool does not itch or irritate the skin.

Merino wool has good hygroscopicity and thermoregulating properties - under such a blanket it is impossible to freeze or sweat.

The unique property of merino wool is that it practically does not smell on its own and does not absorb odors, including the smell of sweat.

Excellent wear resistance and increased strength are another characteristic of merino wool.

(GOODS=3)

Features of camel wool blankets

Camel hair blankets are the lightest, as each camel hair is hollow inside. If we compare blankets of the same density and size from merino and camel wool, then the difference in weight can be up to 50%.

The thermoregulatory properties of camel hair are among the most pronounced, which is explained by the conditions of the camel's habitat. In the desert, huge temperature changes occur in a short time, so wool protects very well from overheating in the heat and warms in the cold.

In addition, camel wool is in first place in terms of the quantitative content of lanolin. This is animal wax, thanks to which wool has healing properties.

(GOODS=3)

Therapeutic effect of wool

• neutralization of toxins produced by the body;
• skin rejuvenation, increasing its firmness and elasticity;
• protection from the effects of electromagnetic radiation;
• removal of inflammatory processes;
• alleviate the condition in diseases of the musculoskeletal system, relieve pain in the joints.
• Also, the micro-massage effect of the wool cloth on the skin has a therapeutic effect, which stimulates blood microcirculation, generally improving blood circulation.

However, it should be remembered that lanolin is an allergen. Accordingly, the allergenicity of a camel blanket is also higher than that of a merino one. Therefore, people suffering from bronchial asthma and prone to allergies should use camel wool products with great care.

Which blanket is better - camel or merino?

A merino wool blanket is softer, more delicate and more comfortable to the touch, but camel wool is much lighter.

A camel wool blanket is practically your home doctor, but a merino one is almost hypoallergenic.

Camel wool, unlike merino wool, cannot be dyed, so camel blankets are always only natural colors. This is a rather rich palette of shades (from white to chocolate brown), but still in the same color scheme - sandy beige. Therefore, if you need an exclusively blue or orange plaid, choose from merino.

It may be preferable to make a choice on the spot, with both options in front of your eyes (as well as your hands and nose). By appearance, by tactile sensations and even by smell, you will understand which of the products is yours. A little more difficult if you choose a blanket for a gift. If a gift is given to a loved one, whose health status you are quite aware of, then the choice should be made based on its characteristics. A grandmother suffering from rheumatism will be delighted with a camel blanket, and a small child or a person with sensitive skin will appreciate a merino blanket.

(GOODS=3)

How to distinguish a merino plaid from a camel?

• tactile sensations. To the touch, a merino wool product will be softer, softer and more delicate, while a camel wool product will be rougher and somewhat tougher;
• weight. Take two blankets of the same size and "weigh" them. The one that is noticeably lighter is undoubtedly camel;
• visual features. Merino wool is very thin, so the fabric from it will be visually smoother than from camel wool. In addition, you need to pay attention to the colors. Camel wool is not bleached or dyed, and its plaids are only in beige-brown tones. The white color of camel blankets is found, but such blankets will be very different in price, since white color is only found in the down of small camels, which is valued very dearly;
• smell. Merino wool has a slightly pronounced smell, while camel wool, on the contrary, is bright and pronounced. In aromatherapy, this smell is considered a mild sedative that has a beneficial effect on the psychological state and improves sleep;
• price. Both types of wool belong to the elite varieties and the cost of high-quality camel and merino blankets is comparable.

How to make a choice?

In favor of the manufacturer they say:

• complete information about the composition of the material on the label and sewn-in label of the blanket;
• detailed care instructions;
• full name and indication of all contact details of the manufacturer;
• quality packaging;
• providing a guarantee for the goods.

Then, whatever your choice (in favor of a camel or merino) blanket, you are guaranteed to be satisfied with the purchase.

Anna Gaevskaya 14.10.2014 802

A blanket is one of the symbols of home comfort. But choosing a truly high-quality and warm one is not an easy task. What is the best blanket to buy?

Synthetic blankets are considered poor quality. Because, although they are quite cheap, they accumulate so much dust in themselves that one cannot do without frequent use of a vacuum cleaner, and without dry cleaning too. I would like to draw your attention to other, more solid materials from which you can and should choose blankets. Let's consider several options.

Acrylic blankets

For a child, it is difficult to come up with something better than an acrylic blanket. Its properties:

• soft, light, warm;
• very durable;
• practically does not fade in the light;
• retains its original appearance for a long time;
• not electrified;
• weakly attracts dust (unlike natural fur);
• resistant to bacteria, microbes and allergens;
• the widest selection of colors.

Washing an acrylic blanket will not be difficult: throw it into a car with a water temperature of no more than 30 ° C, turn on the gentle mode - and relax!

Mixed plaids

Thanks to the “commonwealth” of acrylic, cotton and viscose, they have many valuable qualities:

• very practical to use;
• wash well and dry quickly;
• comfortable.

Pay attention to travel blankets from the acrylic-cotton series. If their 100% cotton “relatives” are short-lived (like clothes, they can lose their appearance after several washes), then in combination with acrylic, these things will please their owners for much longer. Plus, they are very comfortable.
Natural wool blankets

These blankets are simply healing! No wonder our ancestors wrapped their heads in woolen scarves, trying to get rid of toothache and headaches. Science has confirmed that wool:

• stimulates blood circulation;
• reduces pain in the back, joints and muscles;
• keeps the body dry;
• absorbs moisture (or rather sweat, neutralizing its harmful components);
• allows the body to breathe;
• resilient, elastic, durable, stays clean for a long time.

The most valuable blankets are made of wool, not treated with chemicals and dyes. Which, by the way, is especially important for people suffering from radiculitis or rheumatism, osteochondrosis, allergies, circulatory disorders, asthmatic (bronchial) and orthopedic diseases.

Woolen blankets made of cashmere and camel wool are highly valued. It is lighter and stronger than sheep.

Camel wool blankets retains heat more reliably and protects from moisture.

Products from it cannot be dried in the sun - it is better to take it out in humid weather for ventilation.

Cashmere blankets very soft and light. This fluff (undercoat) of a mountain goat is plucked with a special device or combed out by hand in the spring. Enterprising manufacturers have learned to mix natural cashmere with artificial. The price is lower, but the quality is almost the same. When buying a cashmere blanket, pay attention to the country of origin. Goods from Mongolia and China are considered to be of high quality. Slightly worse (and cheaper) are Indian, Iranian and Afghan blankets: their cashmere is dirtier, thicker and darker.

Plaids are also considered woolen, in which sheep, camel wool and even artificial fibers are stuffed on a knitted base.

How to care for wool blankets?

Wool blankets need to be dry cleaned. It can be made at home.

1. Whisk half a cap of shampoo in a small amount of warm water (no more than +30°C) until a thick foam appears.
2. Spread it evenly over the woolen cloth.
3. When the foam dries a little, remove it with a vacuum cleaner using a plastic nozzle.
4. Wipe the treated area with a cloth dampened with clean water.
5. Comb thoroughly while the pile is damp.
6. Then lay the blanket out on a flat surface to dry.

In winter, you can take the blanket out on a clean snowball, knock it out alternately on both sides and dry it indoors, spreading it out on a flat surface.

Electric blankets

The real "Oblomov's dream" is an electric blanket! It will warm not only you, but also the bed (and dry if necessary). Its heating elements are completely invisible, it folds easily, and is not afraid of moisture. But the main thing is that it will calm you and help you relax, evenly and gently distributing heat over the entire surface.

Plaid design

In terms of color and pattern, the plaid must necessarily fit into the interior, for example, be in harmony with curtains, furniture or wallpaper. For a bright room, it is better to choose a blanket in muted colors - plain or with an abstract pattern.

Blanket sizes

When choosing a blanket, do not make a mistake with the size!
For a small sofa, sofa or just hiding, a 150x200 cm blanket is better suited.
For standard beds (160x200, 180x200 cm), a 220x240 cm blanket will be just right (it will also cover the ends by 20-30 cm).
If you want to lay out the blanket to the very floor (the latest fashion), take the size 240x260 cm - you won't go wrong!
For a small bed with a width of 100-140 cm, parameters of 170x240 cm are enough. A winning option for a pair of large armchairs is a fur blanket measuring 130x170 cm.