Blanket Sizes: Types and Dimensions Guide [CHART]

Key Takeaways:

• Blanket sizes can vary based on manufacturer, so it’s important to do your research prior to purchase.

• Consider sizing up if you have a taller mattress or are looking for an oversized fit.
• Not all blankets are created equal. When choosing a blanket for sleep, consider its function, material, size, warmth, layering, care, and features.

Like choosing the right-sized pillowcase or duvet, you'll need to pick the right size when buying a blanket. If you don't consider blanket sizes, you may end up with one that doesn't fit, leading to half-covered beds, cold feet, or your blanket piling up on the floor.

These situations can be frustrating, and choosing the wrong size blanket can negatively affect your sleep. This blanket size guide will help you make the right choice, ultimately resulting in an improved sleep experience. 

Read along to learn more about blanket sizes for beds, specialty, and baby blankets, as well as how to choose the right blanket for sleep using our blanket size guide.

Blanket Sizes Chart

Like bed sheet sizes, there are plenty of options when buying a new blanket. Exact blanket sizes can vary based on the manufacturer, so it's important to do your research before making a purchase. To help put you on the fast track to comfortable and cozy sleep, we’ve compiled the average sizes of the most common types of blankets. 

Bed Blanket Sizes

If you’re looking for a blanket to keep you warm in bed, you may want to opt for a bed blanket. As the name suggests, a bed blanket is sized to be the perfect fit for your bed, similar to bed sheets and pillow sizes. While the exact blanket sizes for beds may vary slightly, they usually are a few inches wider and longer than your mattress in order to fully cover it.

But you don’t always have to match your blanket to the size of your bed. For those looking for an oversized fit, consider going a size up. For example, purchasing a king blanket for a queen bed will ensure you have the extra length you need for tucking, folding, or additional overhang to cover a thick mattress.

If you have a larger bed like an Alaskan king, you may need to order custom blankets or use more than one blanket to cover the entire mattress.

Twin & Twin XL

Dimensions: 65 inches by 90 inches or 165 inches by 229 centimeters

A twin or twin XL bed blanket is a great way to keep single sleepers with a twin or twin XL bed comfortable and warm without needing an oversized blanket that drapes to the floor.

These blankets can also be perfect for couples with different temperature preferences or sleep styles to ensure everyone has their desired blanket coverage throughout the night. Adding a twin or twin XL blanket to a larger bed can provide adequate coverage for a single sleeper, ensuring they can sleep tight without overheating their partner.

Full 

Dimensions: 85 inches by 90 inches or 216 centimeters by 229 centimeters

If you have a full-sized bed (A.K.A. a double bed) and are looking for a blanket to add extra warmth while you sleep, consider a full-sized bed blanket. Keep in mind that some full-bed blankets are branded as full/queen-size blankets, making them a suitable option for both bed sizes.

Because of this, you’ll have slightly less overhang than if you opt for a full/queen-size bed blanket for your queen bed. Additionally, a full/queen-size bed blanket can provide ample overhang for thicker full-size mattresses.

Queen

Dimensions: 90 inches by 90-100 inches or 229 centimeters by 229-254 centimeters

If you own a queen mattress and are looking for a blanket to help you sleep comfortably on cold nights, a queen blanket is the one for you. While this blanket works best on a queen mattress, you can add one to a full or double bed if you need extra coverage. As mentioned, some queen blankets are often marketed as full/queen blankets and can work for either size.

King

Dimensions: 108 inches by 90-100 inches or 274 centimeters by 229-254 centimeters

A king blanket is the go-to for king bed sleepers and anyone who wants an extra-large blanket to lounge and sleep under. This also makes it a perfect choice for couples and those who sleep alongside pets and children.

California King

Dimensions: 104 inches by 108 inches or 264 centimeters by 274 centimeters

Like the mattress, a California king blanket is longer and narrower than a standard king blanket. This makes it a suitable choice for California king mattress owners and anyone looking for a large blanket with some extra length to sleep soundly on colder nights.

Specialty Blanket Sizes

While bed blankets are primarily for the bed, specialty blankets serve different purposes, from keeping your legs warm to adding a bit of decor to your couch or chair. With that in mind, these blankets also vary in size. Continue reading to learn more about specialty blankets and their common sizes.

Weighted Blanket

Dimensions: 45 inches by 72 inches or 114 centimeters by 183 centimeters

If you want a blanket that offers more than just warmth, try a weighted blanket. Benefits of weighted blankets include improved sleep and increased “feel good” chemicals, like serotonin and dopamine, a good choice for those facing sleep or other health-related issues. Unlike bed blankets, weighted blankets are often smaller and not sized to match your bed exactly.

Our Bearaby Weighted Blanket is made of soft, organic cotton yarn and is perfect for keeping you relaxed all year round. With its revolutionary design, each blanket is evenly weighted at 20 pounds and is as stylish as it is comforting.

Throw Blanket

Dimensions: 50 inches by 60 inches or 127 centimeters by 152 centimeters

Throw blankets are lighter blankets people often drape over a couch or at the foot of the bed. Ranging in design and material, throw blankets can serve as accents or provide extra warmth when sleeping in bed or lounging on the couch. Compared to bed blankets, throw blankets are usually much smaller.

Afghan Blanket

Dimensions: 50 inches by 65 inches or 127 centimeters by 165 centimeters

Afghan blankets are slightly larger than most throw blankets and typically add a decorative touch to bedrooms or living rooms.

Lapghan Blanket

Dimensions: 36 inches by 48 inches or 91 centimeters by 122 centimeters

As the name suggests, lapghan blankets are a smaller Afghan blanket, sized for your lap. Their size makes them perfect for draping over the back of a chair or couch, adding a touch of color and a layer of warmth whenever you need it.

Baby Blanket Sizes

If you're looking for a blanket to help keep your little one snug and cozy, you can choose from a few popular sizes. But remember, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends against using blankets in cribs until infants are at least one year old. When in doubt, always consult your pediatrician with specific questions. 

• Lovey (12 inches by 12 inches or 30 centimeters by 30 centimeters): Lovey blankets are small square blankets for babies to seek comfort from in new situations. These blankets often have an attached stuffed animal and are designed to provide a sense of security for your baby.
• Preemie (18 inches by 24 inches or 46 centimeters by 61 centimeters): Preemie blankets are most common in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). These blankets are 18 inches by 24 inches and are used to swaddle babies in the NICU until they are old enough to leave.
• Receiving (40 inches by 40 inches or 102 centimeters by 102 centimeters): Receiving blankets are large square blankets used for swaddling infants. In some cases, receiving blankets come in packs so you can easily swap them out when it's time to wash them.
• Stroller (22-30 inches by 30-36 inches or 51-76 centimeters by 76-91 centimeters): Stroller blankets are slightly smaller than receiving blankets. As the name suggests, these blankets help cover your child while they’re in a stroller. 
• Crib (45 inches by 60 inches or 114 centimeters by 152 centimeters): Crib blankets are larger baby blankets designed to fit in cribs or toddler beds. As a reminder, the AAP recommends keeping all blankets outside of your baby’s sleeping space until they are one year old.

How To Choose the Right Blanket for Sleep

When choosing a blanket for sleep, size is only the beginning. From selecting your favorite material to deciding your warmth preferences, there are important considerations to keep in mind. Follow along to learn how to choose the right blanket sizes for restful and restorative sleep.

1. Consider Function

When choosing between different types of blankets, ask yourself what you’ll be using them for. If you need a blanket for your bedroom to stay warm during the winter months, then you’ll likely enjoy a bed blanket that fits your mattress perfectly.

If you’re looking for more of a decorative accent, you may want to go with a lighter throw blanket with intricate patterns and vibrant colors. 

2. Select Your Material

Once you’ve decided what you’ll use your blanket for, it's time to pick a material. Common materials for bed, specialty, and baby blankets include: 

• Cotton: Cotton is a natural and breathable fabric known for its softness, ease of care, and durability. Additionally, cotton blankets come in different thicknesses, allowing you to choose a just-right blanket for optimal sleep.
• Fleece: Fleece is a lightweight synthetic fabric that traps heat and provides warmth. It is also moisture-resistant and quick-drying, making it a popular choice for cold or damp conditions.
• Flannel: Flannel is a soft material often featuring checkered and multicolored designs. The material can consist of natural materials, like cotton or synthetic fibers, like polyester, making it a versatile option for blankets.
• Linen: Linen is a durable natural fabric that gets softer after every wash. It is a highly breathable and moisture-wicking fabric, making it a comfortable material for warm weather.
• Down: Down is a soft natural material derived from the fluffy undercoating of waterfowl, like ducks and geese. It typically fills blankets and is known for its lightweight feel and exceptional warmth.
• Down alternative: Down alternative is a synthetic alternative to natural down, providing a secondary option that is hypoallergenic and animal friendly. Like regular down fill, down alternative fill is known for its warmth and softness.
• Wool: Wool is a natural fiber that comes from sheep. The material comes in different weights and is known for its warmth, breathability, durability, and moisture-wicking properties. 
• Microfiber: Microfiber is a synthetic material made of extremely fine fibers from materials like polyester and nylon. The material is soft, smooth, and lightweight, often coming in a variety of colors and patterns.

From cotton to microfiber, you’ll have plenty of options when picking the perfect blanket, whether styling your living space, improving your sleep, or both.

3. Choose the Right Size

Size is another important consideration when choosing a blanket. If you’re looking for a blanket to add to your bed, you’ll likely want to pick one that matches your mattress size. Conversely, if you prefer an oversized look or have a longer mattress, you may want to go a size up instead.

Additionally, you'll want to consider your height when buying a blanket. After all, a blanket that isn't long enough to cover your whole body may be troublesome when taking a nap on a frosty afternoon.

4. Pick Your Desired Warmth 

Just like choosing a comforter, you should think about how warm you want it to be. You can do this by considering factors like:

• Weather
• Time of year
• Desired sleeping temperature

For example, if you live in a colder climate and prefer to be warm and toasty when sleeping, then you may want a heavy wool blanket. Or, you might lean toward a light linen blanket if you live in a warmer climate and like to stay cool.

5. Consider the Number of Layers

The number of layers you sleep with should also come into play when choosing a blanket. If you already have a thick duvet and multiple layers of bedding, a thin blanket may be all you need to add some warmth on those extra cold nights.

On the other hand, if you want to add extra insulation to one or two layers of bedding to help warm up, a thick or weighted blanket might be a better decision for a good night's sleep.

6. Research and Follow Care Instructions

From cleaning up accidental spills to routine washing, some blankets have different care instructions than others. Before throwing your blanket into the wash, check its cleaning instructions to ensure you’re washing it properly, as failure to do so could result in damage. For example, some wool blankets may not be suitable for machine washing.

You might also wonder how often to wash your blankets. While we recommend washing your sheets at least once a week, you can wash your blankets less frequently. Like caring for your comforter or duvet, you can get by washing your blankets three to four times a year. Of course, you can wash your blankets more often, but follow the care instructions on the tag to maximize the life of your blanket.

7. Consider Additional Features

Lastly, you’ll want to consider any additional features you’d like your blanket of choice to have. For example, you may want to choose a blanket that features:

• A removable cover for machine washing
• Water-resistant or waterproof materials 
• Hypoallergenic materials

By keeping these considerations in mind, you can take the stress out of choosing and ensure you get the best blanket for taking your sleep experience to the next level.

FAQ

What Is the Most Common Blanket Size?

The most common throw blanket size is 50 inches by 60 inches or 127 centimeters by 152 centimeters. Keep in mind that blanket sizes can vary depending on the blanket type and manufacturer.

What Are the Standard Sizes for Blankets?

The standard sizes for blankets are as follows:

• Twin & Twin XL: 65 inches by 90 inches or 165 centimeters by 229 centimeters
• Full: 85 inches by 90 inches or 216 centimeters by 229 centimeters
• Queen: 90 inches by 90-100 inches or 229 centimeters by 229-254 centimeters
• King: 108 inches by 90-100 inches or 274 centimeters by 229-254 centimeters
• California King: 104 inches by 108 inches or 264 centimeters by 274 centimeters
• Weighted Blanket: 45 inches by 72 inches or 114 centimeters by 183 centimeters
• Throw Blanket: 50 inches by 60 inches or 127 centimeters by 152 centimeters
• Afghan Blanket: 50 inches by 65 inches or 127 centimeters by 165 centimeters
• Lapghan Blanket: 36 inches by 48 inches or 91 centimeters by 122 centimeters
• Lovey: 12 inches by 12 inches or 30 centimeters by 30 centimeters
• Preemie: 18 inches by 24 inches or 46 centimeters by 61 centimeters
• Receiving Blanket: 40 inches by 40 inches or 102 centimeters by 102 centimeters
• Stroller: 22-30 inches by 30-36 inches or 51-76 centimeters by 76-91 centimeters
• Crib: 45 inches by 60 inches or 114 centimeters by 152 centimeters

Should I Buy a Blanket Bigger Than My Bed?

In short, it is up to you. For example, some people may buy a blanket bigger than their bed if they want an oversized look or desire additional length for tucking or folding. You may also opt for a bigger blanket if you have a taller mattress to ensure you have ample coverage.

How Big Is a 50x60 Blanket? 

A 50x60 blanket is 50 inches wide and 60 inches long. If you’d prefer to measure in centimeters, a 50x60 blanket is 127 centimeters by 152 centimeters.

What Size Is a 60x80 Blanket?

A 60x80 blanket is 60 inches wide and 80 inches long, matching the top of a queen mattress exactly. This means that a 60x80 blanket will only cover the surface of a queen mattress and does not provide any additional coverage.

Get Comfy With Purple 

Blanket sizes are essential when choosing the right blanket to help create a life-changing sleep experience. With that in mind, blankets are only the tip of the iceberg. Choosing the right mattress, bedding, and pillows can help you create an environment for optimal rest night in and night out, allowing you to be your best you.