Imagup General Magazine 2024
Getting quality sleep should be important for everyone since it greatly impacts several aspects of our lives from physical and mental health to our ability to concentrate and perform well during the day.
Yet, getting comfortable and sleeping well is not always as easy as it may seem and several factors have an influence on it. And while some things individuals cannot make better on their own, there are others they can that will help them rest well.
One such item to use is a blanket which might come as a surprise for some. After all, what can a blanket do except keep us warm? Well, there is a reason many babies and young children keep these covers with them at all times and why some cannot go to bed without it.
Besides shielding us from the cold, the warmth they provide can create a calming, comforting feeling, and make us feel safe and relaxed.
There are several different types to choose from and selecting the one that is right for you might prove to be a hard decision to make.
However, this special piece of cloth does not have to be the thickest or most expensive but should be chosen based on a few other factors such as the way one sleeps, the texture of the material, if one has allergies or not, and several others.
So, if you are considering buying a new blanket for yourself or a loved one, here are some of the best ones you can pick from to help you narrow down your choice.
The Best Types
1. Fleece
If your most important factor is warmth, then this type is the right for you. Moreover, it has a smooth texture, is soft to the touch and provides an overall feeling of coziness. Perhaps this is why most kids prefer fleece over any other material.
Several different kinds are also available such as micro-fleece which is super soft, thin, and absorbs moisture well, polyester the most commonly used and cheapest, cotton fleece which is warm, soft, and organic, French Terry fleece which is fluffy, woven, and light and more.
2. Weighted Blanket
Also often referred to as sensory or gravity blankets, they hold therapeutic properties and help you feel safe and your body relaxed by creating a feeling of physical contact and connection. It has been scientifically proven that their weight grounds your body, instantly providing a calming effect and stimulating the release of brain chemicals that are responsible for relaxation and reducing anxiety and stress.
They can also uplift your mood, lower your blood pressure, as well as your heart rate. At the same time, the cover makes it hard for you to move, meaning you can have a restful sleep without any disturbances.
All of this can greatly boost your concentration, mood, and memory, and help you feel well-rested and refreshed every morning. You can visit ynmhome.com if you are interested in learning more.
3. Cotton
Cotton is one of the most commonly used fabric types in the world and with good reason too. The fabric is chemically organic which means it is not made from any synthetic or harmful substances or compounds. As such, cotton blankets are optimal for decreasing allergen build-up, especially since they can be washed quite often due to their durability.
Moreover, the material is extremely breathable, absorbs moisture, and provides softness. Plus, it is both light and heavy enough, meaning it can be used during extremely hot days but on very cold ones too.
4. Wool
Wool acts as an organic filter since it absorbs dust and moisture well. It can be heavy or light and can be used for insulation and warmth or for keeping your body cool during summer. Thanks to a natural compound known as lanolin, it also has anti-inflammatory properties.
The material’s structure also has self-cleaning properties and can absorb and neutralize numerous chemicals too. There are also several different kinds of wool, for example, cashmere which is rare, delicate, and soft, lambswool which is the most commonly used, Merino which is often used by luxury brands due to its softness and quality, Mohair wool which is longer but also much smoother and stronger, and several others.
5. Vellux Blanket
Made from thin foam surrounded by plush nylon, something that is also known as polyurethane foam insulating base, this cover provides all the necessary warmth while staying extremely lightweight. It is also pliable, hypo-allergenic, very soft, and can be thrown in the washing machine frequently without getting damaged or disfigured.
How About Electric Blankets?
Although they allow you to adjust the temperature to your optimal comfort level, you have to be extra careful when using them. Other covers should never be placed over them and they are not something that should be used in kid’s rooms.
These blankets are made from synthetic fabrics that hold the electric heating system. Generally, it is really great for people who get easily cold, as long as the person uses it responsibly and safely.
Weave Types
Your blanket’s weight and warmth will also depend on the way it has been woven. The three types include:
1. Knit
It is usually used on wool or synthetics and provides heaviness, extra warmth, and coziness. They are very comfortable and soft, come in different sizes an colors, and you can check them on Yaasa.
2. Thermal
These weave types allow the air to flow and circulate well, are loose, and can typically be found in cotton covers.
3. Quilted
They are used in down covers (ones that have a feathery layer) to keep the feathers from shifting constantly. Check Project Repat for more on this topic.
Conclusion
No matter your preference, the size, texture, or material, you will surely be able to find at least one blanket type that will suit all your needs. Think carefully and consider everything that you are looking for but just remember that you should never be too hot or too cold when asleep.
Once you have found the perfect cover, you will see for yourself just how comforting and beneficial it is. This is especially true when it comes to getting enough rest and keeping your mind and body as healthy as possible.
