Bedspread, Throw & Blanket: What’s The Difference?

26 November 2024 | 3 Minute Read - Words By Joanne
Unsure of the differences between a bedspread, throw, and blanket? Each serves a unique purpose and adds its own touch to your bedroom or living space. Our guide breaks down everything you need to know to choose the best option for your home.

Table of Contents

  1. Bedspread, Throw & Blanket: What’s The Difference?
  2. Quick Overview: Bedspread, Throw & Blanket
  3. What Is A Bedspread?
  4. What Is A Throw?
  5. What Is A Blanket?
  6. FAQs

Bedspread, Throw & Blanket: What’s The Difference?

The main differences between a bedspread, throw, and blanket are their sizes and how they're used. Bedspreads are the largest bedcover on our list, mainly used for decorative purposes and covering the entire bed. Throws are the smallest and most versatile option, offering a blend of functionality and style. Blankets are in the middle in terms of size and are predominately used for additional warmth.

Let's explore all the details in our latest guide.

Porto Bedspread Latte

Quick Overview: Bedspread, Throw & Blanket

Let's take a quick look at the difference between a bedspread, throw and blanket:

Bedspread

  • Lightweight and often quilted design

  • Decorative element

  • Made from cotton, wool or synthetic fibres

  • Single layer

  • Covers the entire bed

  • Can be paired with a flat sheet on warm summer nights

Throw

  • Smaller than a bedspread and blanket (usually around 1 m x 1.5 m)

  • Decorative elements - often used to add a pop of colour

  • Provide an extra layer of warmth

  • Easily washed

  • Available in a variety of fabrics, colours and textures

Blanket

  • To be used on the bed with the addition of a duvet 

  • Provides warmth

  • Big enough to cover your whole body 

  • Available in a variety of colours and fabrics 

What Is A Bedspread?

A bedspread is a versatile, single-layer cover that comes in various sizes, including single, double and king-size. They've recently made a comeback as a staple home decor element due to their versatility and ability to transform a room into a cosy retreat. Bedspreads are also used to protect duvet covers, especially if your pet sneaks up for a quick snooze!

Unlike duvets, bedspreads cover the entire bed, including the pillows and often drape down the sides. Once draped over, it's folded back from the top to about halfway down the bed, creating a layered look.

Bedspreads are made from lightweight materials such as cotton, linen, silk, polyester, wool or bamboo that add a decorative element to the bedroom. Coloured bedspreads also make great statement pieces, creating a bold contrast against crisp white linen.

There are different types of bedspreads on the market, such as:

  • Quilted bedspreads consist of three layers of fabric, tightly stitched together for a more textured look and feel. These are ideal to use in addition to duvets on colder nights for extra warmth.

  • Woven bedspreads consist of a single layer of fabric and are, therefore, thinner than quilted types. These are great paired with a flat sheet on warm summer evenings.

  • Chenille bedspreads are made from soft, plush velvety fabrics and come in a variety of colours. These can be used with heavier bed covers on cooler nights or used on their own in warmer months.

What Is A Throw?

A throw is a small, decorative blanket often used for warmth, decoration - or both. The difference between a throw, bedspread and blanket is its size, measuring roughly 1 m x 1.5 m. Throws are available in a wide range of colours, fabrics and textures and are very easy to clean.

Throws are versatile items that can be used in various ways:

  • To provide warmth on chilly evenings when draped over shoulders or legs.

  • As a lightweight bedcover - perfect for warmer months or as an extra layer during colder months.

  • As decorative elements, such as layering woven throws with faux fur ones to add visual appeal to bedrooms and guest rooms.

  • Draped over a sofa or bedroom chair to add a touch of colour and personality.

  • Rolled together in a basket in indoor or outdoor seating areas when entertaining guests.

  • Used to protect furniture from pets or sticky toddler hands.

What Is A Blanket?

A blanket is a thick, often single-layered, piece of fabric used for additional warmth. It’s generally larger than a throw but not quite as big as a bedspread and is generally big enough to cover your entire body. While their main purpose is to provide warmth, they're also used for decorative purposes, adding a flair of style and colour to bedding and living rooms.

Blankets are typically made from warm, heat-retaining materials like:

  • Wool is known for its excellent insulation properties and durability. These blankets are often heavy and can be quite warm.

  • Cotton is lightweight, breathable, and hypoallergenic. This fabric is ideal for warmer climates or for layering with other bedding.

  • Fleece is soft, cosy, and lightweight. Blankets made from this material are perfect for snuggling up on the couch or using as a throw blanket on chilly days.

Blankets can be placed on top of the bed or between the duvet cover and sheets and come in a variety of styles, colours and thicknesses.

Alaska Throw

FAQs

Is a bedspread the same as a throw?

No, bedspreads and throws are different in many ways. Bedspreads are large, single-layered covers used to add layers and texture to existing bedding. They cover the entire bed and often drape over the sides. Throws are much smaller and can be used as decor or to provide additional warmth - or both.

Should a bedspread touch the floor?

A correctly sized bedspread, suited to the bed size, should touch the floor and cover the pillows due to its size. However, whether you want the bedspread to touch the floor or not is entirely up to personal preference, as you can fold it back to shorten the length.

What colour do fleece blankets come in?

Fleece blankets are available in various colours. For instance, our Heat Holders Fleece Blankets are available in 21 colours, including gold dust, white sand, sage, emerald, cranberry and black.

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