Key Takeaways
A blanket keeps you warm thanks to its insulating properties. Wool and thick materials retain body heat. The size of the blanket and the surface covered also influence the feeling of warmth. To stay warm, choose large blankets in wool or synthetic materials.
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Introduction
Winter is here and it's time to take the throws out of the closet! There's nothing like a good, soft, warm blanket to withstand cool temperatures. But do you really know why a blanket is so warm ? Plaid, warm, wool, cotton, synthetic ... What are the properties of the different plaids that keep the warmth ?
In this article, we will look in detail at the physical and physiological reasons why a plaid is warm. We will review the characteristics of the main types of throws: wool, cotton, synthetic. Finally, we will give you our best advice for choosing your throw according to your needs.
Why plaid is essential in winter
In winter, we all need little accessories to keep us warm at home or at home exterior. The plaid is one of the essentials, it provides an incomparable feeling of comfort and well-being.
The cold makes us want to cocooning at home. Nothing better than a good soft throw for curling up on the sofa. The plaid is also essential for picnics or evenings around a fireplace. It is the perfect accessory to enjoy the joys of winter while maintaining the warmth of the body.
Not all plaids are equal in terms of thermal comfort. The choice of material is decisive for maintaining warmth. Wool, cotton, synthetic... Each material has different insulating properties. Depending on your needs and your personal preferences, there is a suitable plaid. We will detail the characteristics of the main subjects in the second part.
Types of Plaids and Blankets
There are three main types of throws or blankets depending on the material used: wool, cotton and synthetic materials. Let's take a closer look at their advantages and disadvantages.
Wool throws
wool blankets are among the most effective in retaining heat. wool is a natural fiber that has exceptional insulating properties. It retains air and limits loss of body heat.
The wool throws exist with different pile: merino, alpaca, mohair...They are generally soft and comfortable to wear. It is a durable material that lasts a long time. On the other hand, some are difficult to wash.
Cotton throws
cotton is a plant fiber which has the advantage of being hypoallergenic. cotton throws are soft, breathable and easy to maintain. They come in a wide range of colors and patterns.
However, cotton is not the most effective material for retaining heat. cotton throws are suitable for mid-seasons, but in the heart of winter, they can be a little light.
Synthetic throws
synthetic throws such as acrylic or microfiber are widely used because they are inexpensive. They imitate the properties of wool at a lower price. Certain models such as fleece or faux fur are very cozy and warm.
On the other hand, synthetic blankets come from petrochemical resources. They don't breathe much and create static electricity. But they remain an interesting alternative to wool for small budgets.
Polyester throw
polyester throw is one of the most widespread synthetic materials. Thanks to its fine fibers, it is supple and soft to the touch. polyester is easy to maintain and dries quickly. It's an inexpensive plaid. But be careful, polyester is made from petroleum and is not breathable.
Also read: does 100% polyester keep you warm ?
Faux fur throw
The faux fur throw, often made of polyester, imitates the softness of animal fur. Its fluffy effect gives a very cozy feeling. faux fur has the advantage of being an ethical, cruelty-free alternative. It's the perfect cozy option for winter!
Fleece blanket
The fleece throw is made of polyester from twisted fibers. This gives it a soft, thick and very insulating texture. The fleece is ideal for keeping warm and can also be used as a blanket. Light and compact, the fleece blanket is perfect to take with you when hiking.
Also read: does fleece keep you warm ?
With these synthetic variations, you will inevitably find a throw adapted to your needs and your budget. While maintaining comfortable warmth.
Thermal properties of a blanket
Why do some materials like wool retain heat better than others ? It's all a question of physical properties.
Wool retains body heat
wool is a hygroscopic fiber, it absorbs moisture without becoming wet to the touch. When you cover yourself with a wool blanket, the fiber absorbs the water vapor emitted by perspiration. This absorption causes a change of state which releases heat and warms the plaid.
Fibers create insulating air pockets
The fibers of wool are not smooth, they have a crenellated structure with scales.These roughnesses trap numerous micro-pockets of air between the fibers which slow down thermal exchanges. The still air contained in the plaid ensures effective insulation.
Thick fabrics limit losses
The thicker and denser a fabric is, the more it slows down heat loss. wool and tight weaves trap a large amount of still air. They create a very insulating barrier between the body and the outside.
Also read: what material protects from the cold ?
Factors influencing the sensation of heat
Other factors modulate our feeling of warmth under a plaid, such as weight, size or ambient temperature.
The weight and thickness of the blanket
A throw heavy and thick, in wool for example, better wraps the body and provides a pleasant feeling of being “snuggled”. A throw that is too light risks letting in the cold.
The surface covered by the blanket
The larger the surface area covered, the hotter you feel. A small blanket on the knees will not warm as much as a large blanket covering the whole body. Choose a throw large enough to wrap you completely.
Room temperature
Obviously, the colder it is in the room, the greater the plaid will have to provide heat. Bring a very insulating blanket if you are in a poorly heated place.
Also read: which fabrics are the most luxurious ?
Physiological reasons for maintaining heat
The feeling of heat under a plaid also depends on the body's physiological reactions.
Skin vasodilation under the blanket
When you cover yourself with a blanket, the blood vessels near the skin dilate to limit loss of heat. This vasodilation gives a pleasant sensation of warmth by accumulating body heat under the plaid.
Insulation of exposed parts
The plaid insulates the covered parts from the ambient cold. The contrast between the warmth under the plaid and the cold of the air accentuates the sensation of softness. You really feel warm under its protective cocoon.
The cozy nest effect
Snuggling under a blanket provides a comforting feeling of returning to the nest. This psychological effect of cocooning, added to the real thermal insulation, optimizes the sensation of well-being and heat enveloping.
Also read: how to rediscover the softness of a blanket ?
The snuggle hoodie : when the sweatshirt meets the blanket
The
With its tartan print reminiscent of traditional Scottish plaid patterns, the
Thanks to its loose cut and thick weave, the
Tips for Choosing the Right Plaid
Now that we have seen why a blanket keeps you warm, let's see what criteria will help you find the ideal model.
Considerations on matter
As explained previously, it all depends on what you want to use it for:
- The wool for maximum warmth
- cotton for a light and soft throw
- The synthetic for good value for money
Colors and decoration
throws exist in an infinite variety of patterns and colors. You can choose one that fits perfectly with your home decor and your personal style.
Size and dimensions
Choose a plaid that is large enough to completely wrap you up, or snuggle up together. A standard size is 150x200 cm but there are all sizes.
Also read: How to know if you are allergic to polyester ?
In summary: why a very warm blanket maintains heat ?
We have seen that blankets keep warm thanks to their insulating properties, in particular wool. Their effectiveness also depends on factors such as weight, size or ambient temperature. To stay warm, choose a large throw in wool or thick synthetic material. You will be able to fully enjoy the winter season with your perfect companion cozy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why use a blanket ?
The plaid is essential for staying warm in winter indoors and outdoors. It is also a wonderful decorative accessory which brings a touch of softness to your interior.
Which blanket is the warmest ?
wool blankets are the most effective in keeping heat, thanks to the insulating properties of this natural fiber. The ideal is a large thick blanket in merino wool or alpaca.
What material for a warm blanket ?
wool is the most effective material for a truly warm throw, then come synthetic materials which imitate its properties at lower cost. cotton is best suited for the off-seasons.
How to tell if a blanket is warm ?
To know if a blanket is warm, look at its thickness, weight and composition. The warmest throws are made of wool, cashmere or thick synthetic material such as fleece. Avoid thin or cotton throws.
How to know if a throw is of good quality ?
The criteria for a good quality throw are: noble materials such as wool, careful finishing, harmonious patterns, solid dyes, regular stitching.Prefer OEKO-TEX certified throws for responsible production. Touch the blanket to judge its softness.
Sources
[1] "Choose the right blanket", Santé Magazine
[2] "Thermal properties of textiles", French Institute of Textiles and Clothing
Updated March 17 2024
