Complete Guide: How to Choose the Perfect Throw Blanket for Your Bed

The bed throw is not just a decorative accessory: it brings warmth, texture, and style to your bedroom. Versatile, it can serve as a light cover in summer, a sofa throw, or an extra layer in winter. This comprehensive guide helps you understand all aspects of bed throws: types, materials, selection criteria, care, and mistakes to avoid. Whether you're looking for a wool, cotton, linen, or synthetic throw, you'll find all the information here to make the right choice.

Different Types of Bed Throws

There is a wide variety of throws, each with its own features. Here are the main types:

Cotton Throw

The cotton throw is the most common and versatile. It is lightweight, breathable, and easy to care for (machine washable). Ideal for transitional seasons or as a decorative throw. Organic or combed cotton offers superior softness.

Wool Throw

The wool throw (merino, alpaca, cashmere) is very warm and luxurious. Perfect for winter, it adds rich texture. Note: it requires delicate care (dry cleaning or cold hand wash).

Linen Throw

The linen throw is lightweight, airy, and has a slightly wrinkled look that is very trendy. Ideal for summer or mild climates. It is durable but wrinkles easily.

Faux Fur Throw

The faux fur throw is ultra-soft and adds a cosy, glamorous touch. Often used as a decorative throw. Note: it may shed and is not always machine washable.

Fleece or Microfibre Throw

The fleece or microfibre throw is very warm, lightweight, and inexpensive. Easy to care for but may attract lint and is not very breathable. Ideal for everyday use or for children.

Woven or Knitted Throw

Woven throws (jacquard, waffle) or knitted throws (garter stitch, cable) offer an artisanal, textured look. They are often thick and warm, perfect for winter.

How to Choose Your Bed Throw: Essential Criteria

Dimensions

The throw should be suited to your bed size: a throw that is too small won't cover enough, while one that is too large will drag on the floor. For a single bed (90 cm), choose 130x170 cm. For a double bed (140 cm), 150x200 cm is ideal. For a queen (160 cm) or king (180 cm) bed, opt for 180x220 cm or 200x240 cm.

Material

Choose the material according to season and use: cotton for versatility, wool for winter, linen for summer, fleece for a tight budget, faux fur for style.

Weight

Weight (grams per square metre) indicates thickness: a high weight (over 300 g/m²) is warmer and heavier, a low weight (under 200 g/m²) is lighter.

Care

Check washing instructions: most cotton throws can be machine washed at 30°C, wool requires dry cleaning, linen may shrink in the dryer.

Style and Colour

The throw should harmonise with your decor. Neutral colours (white, beige, grey) are easy to match, while bright colours or patterns add a touch of originality.

Comparison Table of Bed Throws

How to Use a Throw on Your Bed

As a Light Cover

In summer or in heated rooms, the throw can replace the duvet. Choose a cotton or linen throw for breathability.

As a Decorative Throw

Place the folded throw at the foot of the bed or across the bed to add a pop of colour and texture. This is an excellent way to update your decor without changing everything.

As an Extra Layer

In winter, layer a wool or fleece throw over your duvet for added thermal comfort.

Mistakes to Avoid When Choosing a Throw

• Choosing a throw that is too small: it won't cover the bed and will look messy.
• Ignoring the season: a wool throw in summer will be too hot, a linen throw in winter insufficient.
• Neglecting care: a wool throw that goes in the machine will shrink and felt.
• Forgetting style: an overly loud throw can clash with the decor.
• Not checking composition: some synthetic throws may pill.

Care Tips for Your Bed Throw

Cotton Throw

Wash at 30°C, moderate spin, air dry or tumble dry on low heat. Iron if desired.

Wool Throw

Dry cleaning recommended. If hand washing, use cold water and a special wool shampoo, do not wring, dry flat.

Linen Throw

Wash at 30°C, gentle spin, air dry. Iron while damp to avoid creases.

Faux Fur Throw

Wash at 30°C on delicate cycle, air dry, brush to restore volume.

Fleece Throw

Wash at 30°C, no fabric softener (it damages fibres), air dry.

Frequently Asked Questions About Bed Throws

What is the difference between a throw and a blanket?

A throw is generally smaller and more decorative, while a blanket is functional and often larger. A throw serves as a decorative layer or an extra layer, whereas a blanket is used as the main top layer.

What size throw for a 140x190 cm bed?

For a standard double bed (140 cm), a 150x200 cm or 180x220 cm throw is ideal depending on the desired effect. The former works for a folded throw at the foot, the latter to cover the entire bed.

Can I use a throw as a main blanket?

Yes, if the throw is large and warm enough. In summer, a cotton or linen throw can replace the duvet. In winter, a thick wool throw may suffice in a well-heated room.

How to wash a wool throw without felting it?

Hand wash in cold water with a special wool product, do not rub, rinse gently, press in a towel to remove water, then dry flat in the shade. Avoid the dryer and hot water.

Conclusion

The bed throw is both a practical and aesthetic accessory. By choosing the right material, size, and style, you can transform your bedroom into a cosy haven. Don't forget to consider the season, care requirements, and harmony with your decor. Discover our selection of bed throws at Ombre Intérieur: noble materials, varied designs, and sizes to fit all beds. Make your bedroom a peaceful retreat with the perfect throw.