Whether for yourself or as a gift, choosing the right infant blanket can be an overwhelming task. After all, there are tons of products on the market, spanning all price points and even pushing the limits of the imagination! Luckily, there are really only three factors to consider when making this decision: size, fabric, and the pattern or colors.

Consider the size

You should determine what size blanket you want based on what you will use it for. If it is a receiving blanket or one to be used for swaddling during the baby’s early months, then you will probably want something smaller. However, if you intend for the baby to use it for longer, then larger is better.

Pick a functional fabric

Short and simple, the best fabric for baby blankets is cotton muslin. It is versatile, durable, soft, and you can even buy organic cotton muslin for parents who prefer to keep their baby away from synthetic fibers. Although flannel and wool may make sense as a layering blanket in very cold climates, parents will get the most use out of a cotton muslin blanket because they can use it during every season for almost every purpose.

Have fun with patterns and colors

This choice is up to you! If you know the gender of the infant, it can be fun to get something pink or blue. Some parents prefer to avoid these gendered colors or they are waiting until birth to find out the baby’s gender – in these situations, you can choose from a variety of fun patterns or gender-neutral colors. The options are abundant, and there is no wrong answer!

Baby blankets come in all shapes, sizes, colors and fabrics. With so many choices, how can you decide which one is the best for your infant? The best fabric often depends on the use of the blanket and the climate where you live.

Here are some popular fabrics and the pros and cons for baby blankets made from them:

• Wool. Wool blankets really only make sense in places where the temperature is consistently low and the weather is harsh. They are too rough to go next to baby’s sensitive skin but can be used when layering in very cold conditions.
• Flannel. Flannel can be made from wool, wool and synthetic fibers, or wool and cotton fibers. Like wool in its pure form, it is best used in cold climates because it can overheat babies when the temperature is warmer. Although these blankets are good for layering, flannel blankets would not be recommended for an all-purpose baby blanket.
• Faux fur. While faux fur may seem silly to many parents, it is popular with some moms because it has a soft texture and fun appearance. Today’s faux fur is made from cotton but can be difficult to clean and keep sanitary.
• Fleece. Fleece is made from processed polyester, making it a synthetic fiber than many parents prefer to keep away from the baby’s sensitive skin. Again, this is a good material for layering blankets, but not for a baby blanket.
• Cotton muslin. This is the preferred fabric for baby blankets because it is not synthetic, is relatively economical, can be easily washed and sanitized, and is very soft to the touch. This is the most popular choice for baby blankets and the only one sold by Luna Lullaby.