Blanket Materials Guide: Wool, Cotton, Alpaca & More

From breathable cotton to insulating wool, not all blankets are made the same... and that’s a good thing! Making the right choice from the variety of materials on offer depends on how and where you’ll use your blanket, as well as your personal preferences for softness and warmth. Here's a breakdown of our most popular blanket materials, including pros, best uses and key differences.

Pure Wool Blankets

What are the benefits of pure wool blankets?

Wool is naturally insulating, breathable, moisture-wicking and sustainable. It keeps you warm in winter and cool in summer, making it ideal for year-round use. 

Our Clifton, Totterdown, Wildweave and Rainbow Stripe blanket collections are all made in the British Isles using 100% pure new wool.

Are wool blankets soft or itchy? 

If you love the natural feel wool, you’ll find these blankets soft and snuggly. These blankets have a brushed finish which feels fluffy and lofty.

Some people with sensitive skin may prefer merino wool, alpaca or or cotton, which are smoother and less fuzzy.

What are the best uses for wool blankets?

Wool blankets are perfect for beds, sofas, or as an extra layer of natural warmth in your living space. They come in an array of colours and weave patterns, as well as being machine washable with care.

Recycled Wool Blankets

What are the recycled wool blankets made from?

Our popular random recycled wool blankets are woven from leftover wool yarns saved from the spinning industry. These remnants are collected and woven in random colourways to create beautiful, sustainable wool blankets that help reduce waste.

Do the recycled wool blankets feel different to pure new wool?

Some of our remnant yarns come from producers of rugs and upholstery fabrics, so our recycled wool blankets tend to have a more rugged texture than our virgin wool options. They're tough, easy to care for and perfect for everyday use, especially as an outdoor companion, or for pets.

Why choose a recycled wool blanket?

They're ideal if you're looking for a more affordable and eco-conscious option that still delivers on natural wool warmth and British-made quality.

Cotton Blankets

What are the benefits of recycled cotton blankets?

Our Cloud Cotton blankets are made from recycled cotton, which is soft, breathable and sustainable. Cotton blankets are ideal for warmer months or for those who prefer a non-wool option. Recycled cotton is a sustainable alternative to virgin cotton and takes up to 80% less energy and water to produce.

Are cotton blankets warm enough for winter?

Yes, our recycled cotton blankets have a brushed finish that makes them extremely soft to the touch, as well as lifting the fibres to make them warm and snug on cold nights. They have a satisfying weight and thickness, while remaining breathable.

Where are your cotton blankets made?

Our Recycled Cloud Cotton Blankets are proudly woven in Lancashire, England on traditional jacquard looms.

Alpaca Blankets

What are the advantages of alpaca blankets?

Alpaca fibres are long and silky, creating beautifully light and soft blankets. They’re naturally hypoallergenic as they contain no lanolin, making them a great option for those with skin that’s sensitive or irritated by wool.

How do alpaca blankets compare to cashmere?

Alpaca is often compared to cashmere for its soft feel and light weight, with the added advantage of being more durable and resistant to pilling. Alpaca is considered more sustainable than cashmere too, as alpaca have less environmental impact when grazing the land than cashmere goats.

Are alpaca blankets luxurious?

Yes, alpaca blankets are very luxurious – they feel soft and silky to the touch, with a light and gentle drape. They’re ideal as an extra-special gift

How warm are alpaca blankets?

Alpaca blankets are remarkably warm for their weight, thanks to the hollow structure of alpaca fibres and the microscopic air pockets that run through them. As a result, alpaca blankets are warmer gram-for-gram than sheep’s wool but often feel lighter and less bulky.

Picnic Blankets

What are the picnic blankets made from?

Our picnic blankets feature a pure wool top layer that’s woven in England to the same quality as our interior blankets. To this we add a soft-touch polyester canvas backing, and real leather carry straps for easy transport.

Are picnic blankets waterproof?

The backing is waterproof and flexible, designed to protect against damp grass or sand without that plasticky feel you get from cheaper alternatives. If it gets muddy, it’s easy to wipe off with a damp sponge.

What should I look for in a high-quality picnic blanket?

Look for a wool top for comfort, a soft waterproof backing, and real leather carry straps. A generous size and durable British-made quality are key for long-lasting use. Avoid flimsy materials and picnic blankets made overseas, where the quality won’t match handmade blankets made in the UK.

Can I get a swatch or sample of a blanket before I buy?

Our blankets are woven as full-size pieces, so unfortunately, we’re unable to offer cut swatches. We do offer free UK returns should your blanket not match your décor on arrival.

More questions? Contact our friendly customer support team.

We love helping customers find the perfect blanket so, if you have any other questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.