A blanket is an essential accessory for babies and can provide warmth, comfort, and security. It also promotes healthy sleep and development. But it’s important to choose the right fabric.
The fabric must be soft, breathable, and gentle on baby skin. Moreover, it should be easy to embroider. Narrow hems look good on flannel blankets and satin edge finishing is perfect for fleece blankets.
Flannel
Flannel baby blankets are soft and warm against a new infant’s skin. They are typically a square yard of fabric and come in various colors and patterns. The fabric is also breathable to prevent overheating or suffocation. A flannel baby blanket can fold easily into a diaper bag for those times when the baby needs to be covered or swaddled.
A flannel blanket is easy to sew. You can make one from two pieces of flannel or use a single piece with a patterned flannel on one side to stimulate the infant’s senses. This type of blanket is also a good choice for cooler climates since it helps to regulate a baby’s body temperature.
Another popular blanket type is a receiving blanket, usually made from a thin material like cotton or bamboo. These blankets are designed to be multipurpose and can be used when a baby is cold, spits up, or is breastfeeding. They are a good size to grow with the baby, which makes them perfect for toddlers as well.
Cotton
Cotton is a soft fabric that is safe for infants and toddlers. It is also breathable, which allows air to circulate and prevents overheating. It’s ideal for swaddle blankets and can get even softer with each wash. It’s a popular choice among parents who prefer natural materials for their babies’ products.
While polyester is safe for infants, it is not as breathable as cotton and can cause irritation if it comes into contact with the baby’s skin. It’s also important to avoid fabrics that may pose a choking hazard, such as those with loose threads or small embellishments.
Once you’ve stitched all around, give the blanket a good press with an iron. You can use a narrow hem on flannel blankets, and satin edge finishing is great for fleece. Just make sure to leave a gap for turning. You can also add a name or initials to personalize the blanket. You can sew the initials by hand or use a machine.
Wool
Wool baby blankets are soft, warm and durable. They also wick away moisture, which helps keep your baby comfortable and dry. Plus, they’re fire-resistant and self-extinguishing, which makes them safer than cotton and synthetic fabrics.
Another great option is a lightweight, breathable fabric called muslin. This is a thin, open-weave fabric that’s ideal for newborn babies. It’s safe to use in a crib or bassinet and is OEKO-TEX-certified, meaning it’s free of more than 1,000 harmful chemicals.
Cashmere
The luxurious material is soft and breathable, making it ideal for babies. It also gets softer with every wash. It is available in a variety of patterns and sizes, so you can find one that fits your baby’s preferences. Some blankets are even themed, such as animal prints to reflect their favorite animals.
Other baby blankets come in solid colors, which are more neutral and versatile. They are often made with a mix of materials, including cotton and wool. If you want to be eco-friendly, look for a fabric that is 100% organic. Organic fabrics are grown without harmful pesticides and synthetic fertilizers.