High Bilirubin Levels (Hyperbilirubinemia): Symptoms, Causes
10 Best Cotton Swaddling Blankets For 2023
Our Top PicksAs parents, we want to ensure that our babies are comfortable, safe, and well-cared for. Cotton swaddling blankets are a popular choice among parents due to their softness, breathability, and ability to soothe babies. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to choose the right one. That's where we come in. We've researched and tested numerous cotton swaddling blankets to identify the best ones on the market. Our analysis is based on expert insights, customer reviews, and our own testing. We'll be sharing our top picks with you shortly, so you can make an informed decision with confidence. Our focus is on quality, comfort, and safety, so you can trust that our recommendations will help you choose the best cotton swaddling blanket for your little one.
Simka Rose Baby Swaddle Blanket Pack The Simka Rose Baby Swaddle Blanket is a high-quality product made of a blend of cotton and bamboo muslin. Measuring 47x47 inches, it is perfect for swaddling newborns and comes in a pack of 3 with a blue mix design suitable for both boys and girls. The soft and breathable fabric provides comfort for your baby, while the generous size makes it versatile for other uses such as a nursing cover or stroller blanket. The durable material ensures that it will withstand multiple washes and remain in excellent condition. This swaddle blanket is a must-have for new parents looking for a cozy and practical option for their little ones.
Rated 9.9 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
Soft and comfortable, Large size for versatility, Adorable design options
KiddyCare Muslin Swaddle Blankets for Baby KiddyCare Premium Muslin Swaddle Blankets are the perfect addition to your baby's nursery. Made from soft, breathable muslin fabric, these blankets provide a cozy and comfortable environment for your little one. These versatile blankets can be used as a newborn swaddle, receiving baby blanket, or even as a stroller cover. The unisex design makes them perfect for both baby boys and girls. They are machine washable and get softer with every wash. The pack includes four different designs, each one cuter than the last. Give your baby the comfort and security they deserve with KiddyCare Premium Muslin Swaddle Blankets.
Rated 9.4 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
Soft and comfortable fabric, Unisex design, Multipurpose use
Cons
May shrink after wash
Dodo Babies Swaddle Blanket and Pacifier Clip Set The Dodo Babies Swaddle Blanket & Pacifier Clip Set is a must-have for new parents. This set includes four large cotton muslin receiving blankets, two universal binky holders, and a zip-close paci case. The blankets are soft and cozy, perfect for swaddling your little one, while the pacifier clips keep your baby's pacifier secure and within reach. The zip-close paci case is great for on-the-go, keeping your baby's pacifier clean and easily accessible. This set is an excellent gift for new parents, and the neutral color options are perfect for both baby boys and girls.
Rated 9.2 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
Four large blankets, Includes pacifier clips, Zip-close paci case
Cons
May not fit all pacifiers
GLLQUEN BABY Receiving Blanket - 6 Pack The GLLQUEN BABY Receiving Blanket is a must-have for new parents. Made of soft cotton muslin, these swaddle blankets are perfect for newborns, offering a breathable and comfortable wrap. The double absorbent material keeps your baby dry and cozy, while the 6-pack ensures you always have a clean one on hand. The star pattern adds a cute touch to any nursery, making it a great gift for baby showers or new parents. Get these high-quality swaddle blankets today and give your baby the best comfort possible.
Rated 8.9 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
Breathable and thin, Soft and comfortable, Double absorbent
aden + anais Organic Cotton Muslin Swaddle Blankets The aden + anais Swaddle Blanket is a must-have for new parents. Made from 100% organic cotton muslin, these blankets are soft, breathable, and perfect for swaddling newborns and infants. The Animal Kingdom 4 pack is a playful and adorable addition to any nursery. These blankets are versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, including as a burp cloth, nursing cover, or stroller blanket. The generous size and lightweight material make them easy to use and travel with. Give your baby the comfort and security they need with these high-quality swaddle blankets.
Rated 8.7 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
100% organic cotton, Ideal for swaddling, Cute animal kingdom design
Cons
Not suitable for larger babies
BaeBae Goods Swaddle Blanket Set of 4 The BaeBae Goods Swaddle Blanket set of 4 is a must-have for newborn babies. Made with soft cotton material, these blankets are adjustable and perfect for swaddling both boys and girls. The green/grey triangle design is stylish and gender-neutral. These blankets are suitable for babies aged 0-3 months and come in a pack of 4. Not only do they help babies sleep better by providing a sense of security, but they also make for a great baby shower gift.
Rated 8.4 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
Adjustable size, Soft cotton material, Set of 4 blankets
Cons
Limited color options
LifeTree Baby Swaddle Blanket Sea Turtle The LifeTree Baby Swaddle Blanket is a must-have for new parents looking for a high-quality, lightweight blanket. Made from a blend of bamboo cotton muslin, this swaddling wrap is soft and gentle against a baby's delicate skin. Measuring a large 47" x 47", it's perfect for newborns and provides plenty of coverage for a snug fit. The Sea Turtle design is gender-neutral and adds a touch of fun to any nursery. Overall, this swaddle blanket is a great investment for parents looking for a versatile and practical baby item.
Rated 8 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
Soft and breathable, Large size, Cute design
Cons
Some may prefer thicker material
lulumoon Muslin Swaddle Blanket Baby - Cotton Swaddling Blanket The lulumoon Muslin Swaddle Blanket Baby - Cotton Swaddling Blanket Soft Baby Receiving Blanket Neutral 2Pack(Olive) is a must-have for new parents. Made with soft and breathable cotton, these blankets are perfect for swaddling your newborn. The neutral olive color is great for both boys and girls. These blankets can also be used as a nursing cover, stroller cover, or even as a play mat. Measuring 47x47 inches, they are the perfect size for your growing baby. The lulumoon Muslin Swaddle Blanket Baby - Cotton Swaddling Blanket Soft Baby Receiving Blanket Neutral 2Pack(Olive) is a high-quality product that will make your life as a new parent easier and more comfortable.
Rated 7.7 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
Soft and gentle, Breathable fabric, Versatile use
Cons
Limited color options
David's Kids Baby Muslin Swaddle Blankets (4 Pack) David's Kids 4 Pack Baby Muslin Swaddle Blankets are a must-have for new parents. Made from 100% cotton, these swaddling blankets are ultra soft and breathable, perfect for keeping your little one comfortable and cozy. Featuring adorable woodland and animal designs, they are perfect for both boys and girls. These blankets are also versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, such as a nursing cover, stroller cover, or burp cloth. With their generous size of 47x47 inches, they provide plenty of coverage for swaddling and beyond. Overall, these blankets are a great addition to any new parent's baby essentials collection.
Rated 7.4 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
100% cotton, ultra soft, breathable
Cons
Limited design options
Sticky Toffee Muslin Baby Blanket The Muslin Swaddle Baby Blankets are a perfect choice for new parents looking for a cozy and breathable swaddling wrap for their little one. Made from Oeko-Tex certified cotton muslin, these blankets are soft to touch and gentle on baby's skin. Measuring 47 inches by 47 inches, they provide plenty of room for swaddling, as well as serving as a receiving blanket. The blue gray star design is perfect for both boys and girls and adds a stylish touch to any nursery. These blankets are easy to care for and perfect for everyday use.
Rated 7.1 based on 10
JPOST
Pros
Soft and breathable, Oeko-Tex certified cotton, Suitable for boys and girls
Cons
May not fit larger babies
FAQQ: What are cotton swaddling blankets?
A: Cotton swaddling blankets are made from 100% cotton and are perfect for swaddling your baby. They are soft, breathable, and gentle on your baby's delicate skin. Cotton swaddling blankets come in a variety of colors and patterns, so you can choose one that matches your style.
Q: What are muslin swaddling blankets?
A: Muslin swaddling blankets are made from a lightweight, breathable fabric that is perfect for swaddling your baby. They are soft and gentle on your baby's skin, and come in a variety of colors and patterns. Muslin swaddling blankets are also great for use as a nursing cover, burp cloth, or stroller cover.
Q: What are fleece swaddling blankets?
A: Fleece swaddling blankets are made from a soft, warm fabric that is perfect for colder weather. They are soft and gentle on your baby's skin, and come in a variety of colors and patterns. Fleece swaddling blankets are also great for use as a stroller blanket or car seat cover. However, it is important to note that fleece is not recommended for use in warmer weather as it can cause your baby to overheat.
ConclusionsAfter conducting thorough research and reviewing multiple cotton swaddling blankets, it's clear that this category of baby products is essential for any new parent. Cotton swaddling blankets provide comfort, warmth, and security for newborns and toddlers. The blankets we reviewed came in various sizes, colors, and materials, but all were soft and breathable. We encourage parents to invest in a high-quality cotton swaddling blanket, like the ones we reviewed, to provide their baby with the best possible sleep experience.
10 Best Electric Cooling Blankets
10 Best Electric Cooling BlanketsHome & kitchenRecombu Product Features
Bedshe 138850 ratings
More info 2 Product Features
Elegear 22707 ratings
More info 5 Product Features
332 ratings
More info 7 Product Features
16 ratings
More info 9 Product FeaturesThe 9 Very Best Weighted Blankets
12 items in this article 6 items on sale!
Photo: Marcus McDonald
There are all kinds of reasons why people have trouble falling asleep or staying asleep, and seemingly as many ways to try to remedy sleeplessness. According to Logan Foley, a certified sleep science coach and managing editor at Sleep Foundation, weighted blankets can go a long way to support better sleep. "They can help reduce anxiety and promote feelings of relaxation, which can help you fall asleep faster," she says. These blankets weigh anywhere from 5 to 35 pounds, and the pressure they provide can put your autonomic nervous system into rest mode, which in turn reduces some symptoms of anxiety, like a rapid heart rate or heavy breathing. Plus, they're just plain comforting. As David Rubin, a certified sleep-science coach and director of product testing at the Sleep Doctor, explains it: "Weighted blankets offer evenly distributed weight, which creates a feeling of being swaddled or held in a firm hug, which can increase serotonin that influences how long and how well you sleep." But for the uninitiated, picking the best one for your sleeping style might seem a bit tricky. To help you out, I consulted 11 experts to figure out which ones you should buy and even tested a couple myself.
Weighted blankets come in a variety of different materials and knits, which we'll get to below, but the most important factor when shopping for a weighted blanket is the weight, says Foley. Dr. Raj Dasgupta, sleep specialist and clinical associate professor of medicine at the University of Southern California's Keck School of Medicine, advises buyers to choose a weighted blanket that comes in at about 8 to 12 percent of the user's body weight. Sleep specialist Dr. Brandon Peters gives this example: "For an adult who weighs 200 pounds, a 20-pound blanket would be appropriate." Any heavier and the blanket will be more uncomfortable than soothing. In our experience, most blankets weigh between 10 and 25 pounds, but occasionally you'll see a mere five-pounder or a hefty one up to 35 pounds. As Keith Cushner, the executive director of product testing at Sleep Foundation, put it, "As long as you get the weight right, you'll enjoy a weighted blanket." Relatedly, all the blankets come in a range of sizes, from ones meant for use by one person or those that can be used across a bed for two.
Much like comforters, material comes down to personal preference. Over the years, manufacturers have come out with more options in terms of colors and style, Cushner says, from knitted blankets to ones that look like standard comforters with duvet covers, so you can choose what works best for you.
Sweaty sleepers may think they'll forever be excluded from the weighted blanket club because, to state the obvious, weighted blankets are, well, a heavy layer and can feel very warm. However, there are a few out there that can actually feel cool during sleep. Made from materials like Tencel and bamboo, these versions tend to be more lightweight and temperature-regulating than their polyester or flannel counterparts. (For more specifics, I rounded up a bunch of cooling options here.)
Weighted blankets are most commonly filled with plastic, glass, or steel beads; grains; beans; or even sand. Occasionally, they have no filling and get their weight from the hefty fabric. As I wrote in the companion story on the best cooling weighted blankets, glass beads, besides being more environmentally friendly than plastic, are a bit more cooling than other fillings. Whatever the filling, to make sure it won't shift over time, it needs to be sewn into quilted squares or somehow made to stay in place. Even distribution is key to a functional weighted blanket; it won't work quite as well if all the filling falls to one end.
As far as how durable they are, Cushner says that weighted blankets "hold up as long as they look good," like any regular, non-weighted blankets. Most of them come with removable covers that can be machine-washed, and even knit blankets can, per some manufacturers, go in the laundry.
Weight: 15, 20, 25 poundsMaterial: Available in Tencel lyocell, organic cotton, velvet, and organic cotton-spandex blend jumbo yarnFilling: Chunky knitMaintenance: Machine washable
Longtime Strategist readers shouldn't be surprised to find the Bearaby weighted blanket at the top of our list. It's our top choice for the best-overall cooling weighted blanket, a favorite of Strategist staffers, and even celebrity-approved. Unlike other weighted blankets, the Bearaby doesn't have a filling. Instead, it's handknit with thick, chunky layers that create the heft without added weight. And thanks to the knit construction, it's inherently breathable (and one of the few weighted blankets that you can wash as is). According to Cushner, who personally owns two Bearabys, it can be cooling, as it feels more "like a rope draped over your body as opposed to a blanket." Actress Kathryn Hahn agrees: "It's breathable and good for all seasons. I don't get so hot with it, so I can use it in the summer. I take the greatest naps of my life with this thing." And former Strategist senior writer Karen Iorio Adelson, a self-proclaimed hot sleeper, found that the smooth, loosely knit material keeps her cooler than any other weighted blanket she has tried, "while still making me feel enveloped in its calming, soft pressure." The brand sent me a 15-pounder to test, and while I am not necessarily the target audience for a weighted blanket — I, thankfully, sleep well — I found it to be extremely comforting and calming. I put it over my comforter during the winter and felt cozy and "pressed down" in a way that instantly put me to sleep. It's admittedly hard to move around underneath it, because it's so heavy, but that contributed to a deeper sleep. I will note that it's a bit cumbersome to store and carry, so you'll want to keep that in mind.
It's arguably the best-looking weighted blanket out there, too, which is what sold it for Strategist senior editor Jen Trolio. "I was so in love with the look of this one that it was hard to consider others," she says. Trolio, who has owned the velvet one for about two years and has gifted the cotton one to her father, is now "all in" on the Bearaby. As far as maintenance goes, she says washing it is easy enough, although it takes a while to dry, and while the loops require adjusting from time to time, it's held up well. For all these reasons, Robert Pagano of Sleepline agrees that the Bearaby is the best option "if you're looking for a high-quality weighted blanket that's safe — thanks to the natural materials it's made from — and easy to care for." We've shown the Tencel version here, but it's available in cotton, upcycled polyester, or velvet in a range of muted colors like lavender, plum, rose, and sage that would look just as nice on your bed as it would your sofa.
From $279 at West Elm
Buy
Weight: 5, 7, 12, 15, 17, 20, 25, 30 poundsMaterial: CottonFilling: Glass beadsMaintenance: Machine washable
If you're looking for a reliable, affordable weighted blanket, consider YnM's original cotton option, which is a favorite of Strategist associate editor Jenna Milliner-Waddell, who calls it a dupe for the much more expensive Gravity Blanket. It's made of seven layers and is filled with glass beads that are distributed between 4.7" x 4.7" pockets. "Using the blanket, I couldn't tell you how long it takes me to fall asleep, because I'm actually sleeping instead of having nightly staring contests with my ceiling," she says. YnM labels the blanket as cooling because of its many layers of breathable fabric and glass beads. But Milliner-Waddell clarifies, saying, "lying under it doesn't feel like an ice bath, but as someone who sleeps hot, I will say using the blanket doesn't make me any hotter, even on warmer nights." As far as durability goes, after owning it for three years, Milliner-Waddell says that it's "held up great, with no tears or staining, and all the beads are still in the right spot." It comes in a bunch of fun colors, like sky blue and avocado, and cute patterns, depending on the size, and has among the widest range of weight options to choose from. While the instructions say that the entire blanket is machine washable (it does not come with a cover), reviews on Amazon are mixed on whether that's a good idea. Your best bet would be to get a separate removable duvet cover so you have to wash the actual blanket less.
Weight: 12, 15, 20, 25 poundsMaterial: CottonFilling: Glass beadsMaintenance: Machine washable
Baloo's weighted blanket is made with both a 100 percent cotton interior and exterior that Adelson, who tested the blanket, reported was comfortable for a hot sleeper like herself. "I felt cooler sleeping under the Baloo than most of the other blankets," she says. While not specifically labeled "cooling," the cotton material actually plays a huge part in the breathability of the Baloo. "We sleep more deeply in a cool environment. Heat loss and temperature regulation often occurs from our feet at night. This is why people may kick their feet out from under the covers at night," explains Peters, adding, "A material like cotton is more breathable, allowing for natural cooling." The blanket boasts a thin profile, further contributing to its comfort, and the glass beads help with airflow because they're not as tightly packed. It's also machine washable.
Aside from four different weights, the Baloo comes in three sizes: throw, blanket, and comforter. The throw, their best-selling size, works best for an individual or twin-size bed. If you're looking for something to cover a full-, queen-, or king-size bed, try the blanket.
From $179 at Baloo Living
Buy
Weight: 5, 7, 12, 15, 17, 20, 25, 30 poundsMaterial: CottonFilling: Glass beadsMaintenance: Hand wash
For a more affordable cotton option — that comes in as many weight options as the YnM — consider ZonLi. Former Strategist writer Chloe Anello finds it particularly durable. "After four years of constant use, it doesn't look worn, and the beads stay in place throughout the night thanks to the quilting stitches on the blanket," she says. If you're concerned about its breathability Joe Auer, the founder of sleep-product review site Mattress Clarity, thinks it's among the cooler-sleeping weighted blankets because it's made from 100 percent cotton, and the glass beads it's filled with allow for some airflow. If you want to wash the blanket, the manufacturer recommends hand-washing it or using a separate removable duvet cover.
Weight: 10 and 15 poundsMaterial: Polyester jersey knitFilling: Chunky knitMaintenance: Spot clean only
If you like the idea of a knitted weighted blanket but want to save a few bucks, consider Nolah's version, which Trolio also tested. "It's a very solid entry-level weighted blanket if you are going for the 'chunky knit' look," says Trolio. That's because she says it has a "tighter weave" than the Bearaby, which helps it "hold its shape much better and isn't as snaggable." Unlike the Bearaby, however, it only comes in two colors (cream and grey) and two weights (ten and 15 pounds), and it cannot be machine-washed, only spot-cleaned. But the price point is much friendlier at $60 less for the 15-pound size. Right now, the Nolah is on sale for 35 percent off, bringing the price down to $142 — that's $137 less than Bearaby.
From $129 at Nolah Mattress
Buy
Weight: 12 and 20 poundsMaterial: Cotton velvetFilling: Glass beadsMaintenance: Dry clean
If you're going for something a little more luxe, Cushner recommends the weighted blanket by Saatva, which makes one of our favorite mattresses. Unlike the polyester velvet you find in many other blankets, this is composed of 100 percent organic cotton velvet, lending it a more upscale feel. The diamond quilting prevents the glass bead filling from shifting, which helps keep pressure evenly distributed throughout the night. It comes in only two weights, but it's a great choice for those who would like to have something a bit more elevated that looks more like a regular blanket for their bedroom.
Weight: 15 and 20 poundsMaterial: Polyester from recycled water bottlesFilling: Glass beadsMaintenance: Machine washable, but spot clean recommended
Here's a velvety weighted blanket that's a fraction of the price of the Saatva but still comes highly recommended by the Sleep Doctor's Rubin. It's made from polyester that's manufactured from recycled water bottles, which accounts for the lower price, but that doesn't make it any less comfortable. In fact, Rubin likes it because it's "incredibly soft and cozy," and the brand calls it "Minky." It's filled with glass beads and comes in two weights (15 and 20 pounds) with 14 duvet loops so you can secure it to your favorite duvet cover. It's machine washable, and while the instructions recommend spot cleaning, Rubin says that it "holds up well even after multiple washes."
From $119 at Comma Home
Buy
Weight: 5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 17, 20 poundsMaterial: Bamboo viscoseFilling: Glass beadsMaintenance: Machine washable
Here's a weighted blanket made of bamboo viscose that Ben Trapskin, founder of Sleep Sherpa, has been using for the past year. "It is one of the smoothest-feeling weighted blankets I have used," he says, thanks to the bamboo fabric cover that, according to him, "has a silky feel and helps keep you cool." The glass-bead-filled blanket incorporates layers of microfiber, which Trapskin says "gives it a more consistent feel, more like a regular blanket." The extra padding "makes it so that you don't hear the glass beads shifting when you move," he adds. Another feature he calls out is the fact that it comes with a travel case. Because of it, "It's easier to fold and put away than other weighted blankets I have used." It's machine washable, but you can buy a separate cover for added protection.
Weight: 10 poundsMaterial: Polyester sherpa fleeceFilling: Glass beadsMaintenance: Machine washable
If you're curious to dip your toe in the world of weighted blankets, consider trying out a throw. Luna, which makes our favorite Lyocell cooling weighted blanket, sent me its newest product to test. It's a double-sided sherpa fleece throw that weighs ten pounds. If you didn't know it was a weighted blanket, you might not even notice that it has a bit more heft to it than your standard fuzzy coverlet, making it an ideal introduction for someone who might not be ready to commit just yet. It's plush, soft, and not too heavy, and I found it great for cuddling with on the sofa while still feeling a nice amount of pressure. It's filled with glass beads that I barely heard shifting and is easy to fold up and put away — unlike the Bearaby I tested. I will note, however, that five pounds makes a difference: The 15-pound Bearaby I tried felt significantly heavier (and more substantial) than this ten-pound throw. But those five pounds — in combination with the Bearaby's open-weave, chunky knit — make it much more cumbersome to handle. I would say that a standard glass-filled weighted blanket (like this Luna blanket and most of the other options on this list) would be the better starter choice for novice users.
$40 for 2$61 now 35% off
• Karen Iorio Adelson, former Strategist senior writer• Chloe Anello, former Strategist writer• Joe Auer, founder of Mattress Clarity• Keith Cushner, executive director of product testing at Sleep Foundation• Dr. Raj Dasgupta, assistant professor of clinical medicine at the University of Southern California's Keck School of Medicine• Logan Foley, certified sleep science coach and managing editor of Sleep Foundation• Jenna Milliner-Waddell, Strategist associate editor• Robert Pagano, co-founder of Sleepline• Dr. Brandon Peters, sleep specialist• David Rubin, director of product testing at the Sleep Doctor• Jen Trolio, Strategist senior editor
Comments
Post a Comment