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After a long day, there is nothing quite like curling up under a cushy blanket while you stream a Netflix original or catch up on your favorite TV series. For something as basic as a blanket, it can be difficult to find a comfortable throw that looks good on your couch or bed but is also easy to clean and will last a long time. Thankfully, we narrowed down the options so you can replace your matted-down sofa throw or cozy up the guest room.
Fiber scientists in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab evaluate blankets year-round to determine the coziest options for every season. During our most recent categorical evaluation, we tested 30 blankets to assess construction and any changes in appearance after laundering. Our pros also sent blankets to more than 75 consumer testers who provided feedback on softness, comfort, appearance, ease of maintenance and more. Top-performing blankets even made it into our annual GH Bedding Awards!
ChappyWrap Captain's Classic Light Blue Original Blanket
Pros
- Super soft, cozy feel
- Combines softness of synthetic fibers with the natural feel of cotton
- Lab analysts found no changes in appearance after laundering
Cons
- No solid colors
Materials: Cotton, acrylic, polyester | Colors: 2 | Size: 60" x 80" | Care: Machine wash and dry
Combining the plushness of synthetic fibers with the natural feel of cotton, ChappyWrap blankets are popular for their signature soft yet substantial fabric made with a blend of cotton, acrylic and polyester. GH testers loved the feel and look of this blanket, giving it perfect scores for comfort and appearance. "It's so soft and cozy that I'm always wearing it around the house," shared one tester. "My pre-war apartment can feel pretty cold in the winter, and this blanket kept me cozy and warm," said another tester who used this blanket while on their couch.
GH analysts found this pick easy to wash and dry, noticing no shrinkage or changes in appearance. We were also blown away by the impressive range of patterns, including nautical, floral and plaid designs, but wished there were solid colors available as well. We do appreciate the kids' collection if you're looking for a nursery throw.
Pros
- Budget-friendly
- Lofty texture and plush feel
- Available in a range of colors and sizes
Cons
- Off white color is more likely to show stains
Materials: Polyester | Colors: 27 | Sizes: 50" x 60" (Throw); 50" x 70" (Throw XL); 60" x 80" (Twin); 66" x 90" (Twin XL); 84" x 90" (Full); 90" x 90" (Queen); 108" x 90" (King); 102" x 96" (Cal. King) | Care: Machine wash
For under $16, you can cuddle up with a throw that received an almost perfect score for softness. One hard-to-impress tester said, "It's my go-to for snuggling on the couch, and I want to buy it in every color." They loved the "generous lofty texture" and the stunning ribbed design. Another tester who said ribbed throws can oftentimes feel cheap described this Bedsure blanket as "plush."
Testers reported that the blanket washed well and is a good size for one person (although there are many larger sizes available). We sent the off white color pictured here to our tester panel, but you can choose from 27 solid colors if you want a darker shade that will hide stains better.
Pros
- Wicks away sweat to address night sweats
- Reversible design is both cooling and soft
- Received a perfect soft for softness
Cons
- Not the most stylish blanket
Materials: Egyptian cotton, synthetic fabric | Colors: 13 | Sizes: 79" x 86"; 51" x 67"; 59" x 79"; 90" x 108"; 90" x 90" | Care: Machine wash
Every tester gave this cooling blanket a perfect score for comfort and all said they would continue using it while in bed or on the sofa. The reversible blanket, a 2025 GH Bedding Award winner, features a cool-to-the-touch synthetic side designed to wick away sweat as well as a cozier cotton side for snuggles. It drapes well at the end of your bed or on your couch, but it can also be used in place of a comforter.
One tester even said it "decreased night sweats," while another shared, "I sleep hot at night, and it helped to keep me cool and comfortable." The blanket received lower scores for its overall appearance, but luckily, you can choose from over a dozen colors and striped patterns to add some flair to its more functional style.
RELATED: The Best Cooling Comforters
Pros
- Soft bubbled texture
- Washes well, according to testers
- Mid-weight construction keeps you warm
Cons
- Expensive
Materials: Polyester | Colors: 3 | Sizes: 60" x 50" (Throw); 80" x 60" (Oversized Throw) | Care: Machine wash
A tester who washed this luxe blanket reported it "was just as soft and fluffy after washing as before." That earns a gold star from us — and makes the hefty price tag easier to swallow. Not only does this blanket feel super soft, but it also looks nice when not in use. True to its name, this throw is ideal for cuddling with your partner, and "the sculpted faux fur gives the blanket an overall look of luxury," shared one tester.
A GH Bedding Awards Winner, our experts quickly became obsessed with the unique bubbled texture. Some testers reported the mid-weight blanket was on the heavier and warmer side, so it may be best for the colder months when you want the extra weight and warmth. One tester said the added weight was just right and made them "feel safe and relaxed."
Pros
- Super soft
- Very warm
- Holds up well overtime, according to testers
- Specifically designed to keep your feet warm
Cons
- Pricey
- Chunky design may be difficult to store
Materials: Synthetic faux fur | Colors: 11 | Sizes: 50" x 70" | Care: Machine wash
A 2025 GH Bedding Award winner, the Footsac Blanket features exactly what you are probably picturing: a pocket at the bottom designed just for your feet! Testers nestled under this blanket while lounging on the couch or watching TV and gave it perfect or nearly perfect scores across every category. It's an investment at $200, but it offers a luxe feel that more affordable blankets don't always nail on the head.
"The 'Footsac' on the bottom of the blanket is a game-changer — it keeps my toes warm and toasty even in cold weather," shared one tester, while another added, "the material is extremely soft and thick." The same tester reported that the blanket has held up well and is still as soft as it was on the day they unpackaged it.
One thing to note: While the foot pocket is spacious enough to fit the feet of another person, some testers said the foot pocket was difficult to use if you were cuddling under the blanket with someone who is a different height. It is also rather chunky, so if you prefer to stow your blankets in a drawer or closet instead of on your couch, make sure you have enough storage space to do so.
Pros
- 37.5 cooling technology
- Designed to prevent night sweats
- Can be used year-round
Cons
- Doesn't have a fuzzy soft feel
Materials: Cotton, polyester | Colors: 5 | Sizes: 88" x 94" (Full/Queen); 96" x 107" (King) | Care: Machine wash with cold water and tumble dry low
Our favorite cooling blanket is made with 37.5 cooling technology, which stores heat when you're warm and releases it when you're cool for the most comfortable sleep all night long. GH analysts have tested many products with 37.5 technology and are continually impressed with its ability to prevent night sweats in the first place.
One tester described the blanket as "crisp and airy" and found it to be a versatile cover they can use paired with just a top sheet during warmer months or in between a top sheet and a second blanket when it's colder. Testers did note the blanket isn't fuzzy or plush. Still, it can be placed in the washer and dryer for easy cleaning and is available in five solid colors that will match most bedroom or living room aesthetics.
Gravity Blanket Weighted Blanket
Pros
- Relaxing, calming benefits
- Soft microfleece cover
- Quilted stitching to keep fill evenly distributed
Cons
- May not be ideal for hot sleepers
Materials: Cotton with glass beads | Colors: 3 | Size: 48" x 72" (Twin/Throw) | Care: Machine-washable cover; internal blanket is hand-wash only
If you’re a restless sleeper and struggle to get those much-needed Zzz’s, a weighted blanket might be the perfect blanket for you. Many credit the soothing feel of weighted blankets for helping them rest a bit easier. This popular pick has grid-like stitching to help keep the interior glass beads from bunching up and comes in three weights (15, 20 and 35 pounds).
Testers loved the soft machine-washable microfleece cover and said that the "fill was well distributed," but reported it can run hot.
RELATED: The Best Weighted Blankets
Pros
- GOTS-certified organic cotton
- Breathable and soft waffle weave
- Can fit multiple people
Cons
- May not be warm enough on its own
Materials: Organic cotton | Colors: 11 | Size: 74" x 91" (Twin/Twin XL); 96" x 96" (Full/Queen); 112" x 96" (King/Cal. King) | Care: Machine wash with cold water and tumble dry on low
This waffle blanket from Boll & Branch combines high-quality materials with a chic look. GH analysts appreciate that the brand uses GOTS-certified organic cotton, meaning the whole supply chain is organic, not just the growing of the cotton. Reviewers loved the waffle weave, saying it's breathable with a soft, textured surface, but some testers noted it was on the thinner side. Although some said it offered enough warmth, one tester folded it to double the thickness.
We were impressed with its soft feel compared to other waffle blankets and appreciated its larger size that is sizable enough to comfortably cover multiple people. Available in 11 neutral shades, this blanket is designed for use on your bed, but reviewers also loved it as a throw on the sofa.
Pros
- Reversible
- Over 90,000 Amazon reviews
- Large size for multiple people
Cons
- Showed some pilling after extensive use
Materials: Polyester | Colors: 25 | Size: 50" x 60" (Throw); 60" x 80" (Twin); 90" x 90" (Queen); 108" x 90" (King) | Care: Machine wash
Amazon reviewers (over 75,000 of them!) agreed that this sherpa fleece throw blanket is an excellent buy. Made from polyester microfiber, this blanket is reversible with one side mimicking soft fur while the other is smooth fleece. It also happens to be under $35 and is frequently on sale for less — making it a popular blanket Good Housekeeping readers buy on repeat.
Testers loved the fleece material from Bedsure, saying it's impressively soft, and its massive King size is ideal for couples to share. Reviewers said the blanket held up well in the wash, but GH analysts noticed some pilling and excess fuzziness on the sherpa side after extensive use.
RELATED: I Review Bedding, and My Favorite Throw Blanket Is on Sale
Pros
- Automatic shut-off
- Pre-heat setting
- Super soft, plush microfiber cover
Cons
- Some testers felt the wires through the blanket
Materials: Polyester | Colors: 13 | Size: 60" x 50" (Throw); 84" x 62" (Twin); 84" x 72" (Full); 90" x 84" (Queen); 90" x 100" (King) | Care: Machine wash
Acing Lab testing and receiving excellent reviews from testers, this pick took the top spot in our electric blanket guide, making it ideal for winter use. It boasts 12 different heat settings with dual controls to customize the temperature on each side of the bed. The heat automatically shuts off after 10 hours, providing comforting heat while you sleep and peace of mind when it comes to safety.
Testers especially loved the super soft, plush microfiber cover, the easy-to-use controls and the pre-heat option to warm your sheets before bedtime. However, some noted they could feel the wires through the blanket. Still, the fabric didn't shrink or change appearance after several laundering cycles in Lab testing.
Pros
- Soft, lightweight feel
- Versatile for use on a bed or in the living room
- Matching shams available
Cons
- May slide off during the night
Materials: Cotton | Colors: 9 | Size: Full/Queen, King/California King | Care: Machine wash with cold water and tumble dry low
Airy and breezy, this lightweight coverlet from Riley impressed testers with its "incredibly soft feel." One tester even said that she bought one for each room in her house. Another tester was impressed their dogs' claws didn't cause any pulls, but they said the blanket slid off their body and the bed during the night.
GH analysts recommend using this lightweight blanket as either a throw year-round or on your bed in the summer months instead of a comforter — pair it with the matching shams for a chic, cohesive look.
How we test blankets
The Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab is comprised of fiber scientists who test all types of bedding. In our most recent evaluations, we tested 30 blankets, sending samples to over 75 consumer testers. Here are the main criteria we looked at before deciding on our top-tested picks:
✔️ Comfort: When testing blankets, GH analysts test them in the Lab as well as among testers who provide feedback on comfort, feel, temperature regulation and more. Testers used these blankets on the couch when watching a movie or snuggled up in bed. Comfort is key, so every tester rated the blanket's softness and overall comfort.
✔️ Durability: Blankets need to stand up to use as well as laundering. We evaluate the construction of each blanket to ensure that it is well-designed. Then, GH analysts wash the blankets according to their care label, rating shrinkage and any changes in appearance.
✔️ Appearance: While blanket feel and comfort reign supreme, you still want a stylish look. Testers rated each blanket's appearance, providing notes on how it looked draped on a couch or bed.
✔️ Shopping experience: When shopping for a blanket, you want a seamless ordering experience with easy returns if the material and feel are not for you. We chose brands that have easy-to-shop interfaces with good return policies.
What to look for when shopping for the best blankets
✔️ Material: The most important aspect of blanket shopping is the feel, and material has the largest impact on feel. Some GH testers have been impressed with how soft synthetic blankets feel, while others prefer the natural feel of cotton or linen, so this is mostly subjective and up to your preference.
✔️ Features: Some blankets feature heating capabilities, cooling technologies or additional weight for extra coziness. Think about how you plan on using the blanket to decide which features are most important to you.
✔️ Weight: GSM a.k.a. grams per square meter indicates the thickness of the blanket. This is a great way to determine which season a blanket is designed for as a higher GSM means a warmer blanket. Generally, we recommend opting for blankets under 300 GSM for summer. If GSM isn't listed, you can look at the product's weight: heavier blankets are better suited for colder months.
✔️ Size: Before purchasing, make sure to look at the specific dimensions for the blanket as a Queen or King sized blanket can vary by brand. Also, some blankets are designed to be used by just one person, so opt for an oversized one if you plan to share.
✔️ Care: For a blanket you use every day, opt for styles that have simple care instructions — avoid spot clean or dry clean only styles. However, you may be okay with blankets that aren't machine washable if you plan to use them more for decor than function.
Why trust Good Housekeeping?
Emma Seymour is the associate director of Good Housekeeping's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab. She has overseen Lab and consumer tests for blankets and throws since 2018. With a degree in Fiber Science and Apparel Design from Cornell University, she has extensive research experience in product testing.
Elizabeth Berry most recently updated this story, incorporating newly tested blankets from GH's 2025 Bedding Awards. She keeps her Boll & Branch Waffle Bed Blanket at the end of her bed for an extra layer at night and always gives it to guests who sleep over.
Emma Seymour (she/her) is the associate director of the Good Housekeeping Institute's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance.
