Of all the fun things to buy when your baby is on the way, blankets have to be at the top of the list. But there are so many different options out there! Which baby blanket size is right for you and your little one?
Should you get them a tiny blanket that they can cling to for comfort? Should you get them a huge blanket that can cover you and them? Or should you get them something in between?
In this article, we discuss the most common baby blanket sizes and how to choose the right one for your infant. We’ll also talk a bit about safety and give you tips for getting the most out of the blanket(s) you do bring home.
Key Takeaways
Table of contents
Baby blanket safety
One of the main things to keep in mind when it comes to baby blankets is when it’s safe for your baby to have one in their crib while they sleep.
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends waiting until your child has passed their first birthday before adding any blankets or toys into their crib. Leaving the extras out of your baby’s crib reduces the risks of suffocation and keeps your baby safe while they’re sleeping.
Once your baby reaches the 12-month mark, the risks of getting tangled in objects while sleeping drops significantly. After that, you can look at the way your little one sleeps (still as a stone or wiggly as a worm) and decide if a blanket is a good idea.
If your baby is sleeping well without a blanket, don’t feel that you have to use one right away. You know your little one best, so always go with what you think will make them the most comfortable.
Common baby blanket types and sizes
There’s no standard for baby blanket sizes (like there is for cribs, crib mattresses, and other baby gear), so keep your eye on the label to make sure you’ve got enough material for your child.
Here are some of the more common baby blanket sizes you can use as a guide.
Swaddling blanket
A swaddling blanket is typically around 40-44 inches (some may be slightly larger). The square shape is ideal for wrapping your baby snugly and replicating the coziness and warmth of the womb.
Blankets larger than 48 inches square may be too big for swaddling because their excess material doesn’t tuck well and can be uncomfortable for your little one. It may even pose a safety hazard.
If you’re concerned about swaddling your baby correctly, consider trying a sleep sack instead. This unique sleeping option can help your little one stay comfy and warm (but not too warm) all night long.
For more information on how to dress your newborn at night, check out these articles from the Newton blog:
- How To Swaddle A Baby: The Complete Guide For Parents
- Sleep Sack Vs. Swaddle: Which One Is Right For Your Baby?
Receiving blanket
Receiving blankets typically measure in at 30 to 32 inches square and are perfect for covering your little one during diaper changes or tummy time. They can also be used for burping your baby, cleaning up messes, and many other things you face every day as a parent.
Some receiving blankets for newborns are much smaller than this and can measure in at 18 inches square. Make sure to read the label to find out exactly how big the blanket is when unfolded so you know what you’re getting.
Crib blanket
A crib blanket is typically rectangular and measures anywhere from 30 to 40 inches on one side and 40 to 60 inches on the other side.
Crib blankets, as their name suggests, are perfect for keeping your older baby warm and cozy in their crib at night. Keep in mind that your newborn shouldn’t sleep with a blanket — or bumpers or toys — until they’re at least one year old (sometimes older).
For more information on keeping your baby safe at night, take a few moments to read this article from the Newton blog: When Can Your Baby Sleep With A Blanket | Sleep Safety.
Stroller blanket
Stroller blankets are among the larger of the blankets on this list. They range from 40 to 50 inches on the short side by 60 inches on the long side. This extra material makes it easier to keep your baby warm in their stroller or car seat (even when they get bigger).
Note: only place a blanket over the baby in their stroller or car seat after the harness is properly secured, and make sure the blanket stays away from their face.
Multi-use blanket
Multi-use blankets are typically smaller than stroller blankets and crib blankets but larger than receiving blankets and swaddling blankets. They often measure between 30 and 40 inches on a side and can be either square or rectangular.
The main difference between these blankets and the others on this list is that they’re thicker and can be used as a clean, soft surface on which your baby can crawl and play. And because they’re on the larger side, they can double as a stroller or car seat blanket in a pinch.
How to choose the right baby blanket size
Now that you’ve got some of the common measurements in mind, here’s how to choose the right baby blanket size for your little one.
Baby’s age and size
The first thing to consider when trying to choose the right baby blanket for your little one is their age and size. Depending on the purpose and the season (more on those next), you want the blanket to cover their body so they stay warm and cozy.
To that end, newborns will benefit more from smaller blankets, like the swaddle and receiving varieties, while older and larger children will benefit from crib, stroller, and multi-use blankets.
Purpose
Hand-in-hand with your baby’s age and size is the purpose for which you’ll use the blanket. For example, a tiny 12-inch by 12-inch blanket won’t keep your little one warm, but it can provide something for them to clutch.
On the other end of the scale, a crib blanket is much better for keeping your one-year-old warm while they sleep, and a multi-use blanket makes for a great play surface whether you’re outside or inside.
As you shop for baby blankets, keep in mind that there’s absolutely no reason you can’t have more than one size. In fact, we recommend you do!
Having a swaddling blanket, a receiving blanket, a crib blanket, a stroller blanket, and a multi-use blanket on hand when needed can make your life much easier and ensure that your little one is comfy wherever they happen to be.
Season
There’s also no reason you can’t have different blankets for the various seasons where you live. Thin and lightweight blankets (of all sizes) are perfect for the warm months, while thicker and heavier blankets make it easier for your baby to stay comfy during the cold months.
Remember that your baby can get too hot at times…especially when they’re fully dressed and have a thick blanket around them. For that reason, you may choose a thinner, more breathable blanket even when it gets cold outside. And that’s OK!
You know your bundle of joy best, so use your best judgment about the right baby blanket size and thickness to use throughout the year.
Material
Baby blankets come in a variety of materials, including:
- Cotton
- Muslin
- Flannel
- Knit
- Fleece
Words to look for when considering the material your baby blanket is made of are gentle and machine washable (natural and organic are also good ones!).
“Gentle” will typically mean soft enough that it won’t irritate your baby’s sensitive skin. And “machine washable” is important because the blanket will get dirty and you don’t want to have to spend extra time handwashing your little one’s necessities — you’re busy enough as it is!
As your baby gets older and more mobile, choose more durable fabrics that can withstand being dragged around and thoroughly loved to death.
Your own preferences
Aside from size and purpose, this decision basically comes down to your preferences. As long as it keeps your baby warm and comfy when it needs to, that’s all that really matters.
If you like using a flannel receiving blanket for just about everything, great! Or if you like the versatility of having a multi-use blanket on hand for all your trips out and about, that’s great, too.
In fact, choosing a color or print that appeals to you as well as to your baby will make it more fun for all (you will be looking at the blanket more than your baby, anyway).
Safe sleep alternatives for newborns and young babies
If loose blankets aren’t safe for babies under 12 months, how are you supposed to keep your little bundle of joy warm and cozy at night? Don’t worry. You don’t have to let your baby freeze!
There are several pediatrician-approved alternatives that keep your baby snug and comfortable while eliminating safety risks.
Swaddle blankets (for newborns)
Swaddling is a time-honored practice of wrapping a newborn snugly in a thin blanket so they feel safe and secure, mimicking the tight environment of the womb. It also prevents their involuntary startle reflex (called the Moro reflex) from jerking them awake every few minutes.
When swaddling, make sure to use a lightweight, breathable swaddle blanket. Wrap it securely around their arms and torso, but leave enough wiggle room around their hips and legs so their joints can develop naturally.
Safety tip: Stop swaddling as soon as your baby shows any signs of trying to roll over. This usually happens around 2 to 4 months of age. Once they can roll, they need their arms free to push themselves up if they end up on their belly.
Sleep sacks and wearable blankets
Once your newborn outgrows the swaddle (or if they prefer to sleep with their arms out from day one), sleep sacks are a good solution. A sleep sack is essentially a zip-up wearable blanket that your baby wears over their pajamas or onesie.
Because your baby wears the sleep sack like clothing, they can’t kick it off during the night or wiggle around so that it ends up bunched around their face. Sleep sacks come in various sizes and warmth ratings (a.k.a. TOG ratings), making it super easy to dress your baby appropriately for hot summer nights or chilly winter evenings.
Just make sure that whatever sleep sack you choose for your little one is properly fitted and non-weighted.
Layering sleepwear
Sometimes, the simplest solution is just dressing your baby in proper layers. In cooler weather, a long-sleeve cotton onesie paired with a pair of footed sleeper pajamas can keep your baby warm without needing any extra bedding.
As a general rule, dress your baby in one more light layer of clothing than you would wear to be comfortable in the same room.
How to know if your baby is too hot or too cold
When using blankets, sleep sacks, or swaddles, one of the biggest challenges you’ll encounter is figuring out if your baby is at a comfortable temperature. Overheating is a known risk factor for babies and can make them restless and uncomfortable.
Because they can't tell you how they feel, you have to look for physical cues.
How to check your baby’s temperature
To start, don’t rely solely on your baby’s hands or feet to judge their warmth. It’s completely normal for hands and feet to feel cool to the touch because their circulatory system is still developing.
Instead, feel their back or chest, watch for sweating, and look for shivering.
Feel their back or chest: Slip two fingers inside their clothing so you can touch their skin. It should feel warm and dry.
Watch for sweating: If their neck is clammy, their hair is damp, or their skin feels hot and flushed, they’re likely too hot. Remove a layer of clothing or switch to a thinner blanket.
Look for shivering: If their chest feels cool to the touch or their skin looks pale, add an extra layer or dress them in a warmer sleep sack.
Smart ways to use and repurpose baby blankets
Blankets are one of the most common gifts you’ll get before and after your baby is born. At some point, you’ll have a mountain of soft, beautiful blankets and be wondering what to do with them all. Especially since your baby can’t sleep with them in the crib just yet!
Luckily, baby blankets are among the most multi-functional items in your nursery arsenal. Here are some clever ways to put them to good use every day.
Travel play mat
Tummy time is essential for helping your newborn build strong neck, shoulder, and core muscles.
To facilitate this activity, keep a sturdy multi-use blanket or crib blanket in your diaper bag or trunk for spontaneous trips to the park, playdates, or visits to family.
Laying a clean blanket over carpet, grass, or hardwood floors creates a soft, familiar space for your little explorer to stretch and move.
Lightweight nursing cover
If you prefer privacy while breastfeeding out in public, a soft, breathable muslin receiving blanket works as a fantastic makeshift cover.
Simply tuck one end under your shirt strap or drape it gently over your neck. Because muslin is extremely airy, it provides coverage without overheating you or your baby while they feed.
Burp cloth and spill shield
It’s a universal fact: Spit-up happens. And usually when you’re dressed and ready to walk out the door!
Keep a few receiving blankets handy in every room. They offer far more surface area than standard burp cloths, protecting your clothes from drool, milk dribbles, and sudden burping accidents.
Emergency diaper changing pad
Public changing tables can be cold, hard, and questionable when it comes to cleanliness. Layering a folded receiving or multi-use blanket under your baby during diaper changes creates a cushioned, clean barrier.
If it gets dirty, you can just toss it straight into the wash when you get home.
Comfort object
As your baby transitions into a toddler, they may develop a strong emotional attachment to soft textures. A favorite swaddle or small blanket can turn into a beloved comfort object that can help them self-soothe during preschool drop-offs, doctor visits, or road trips.
How to wash and care for baby blankets
Who knew your baby could produce so much laundry! Between spit-up, leaky diapers, and drool, your baby’s blankets will go through endless rides in the washing machine.
Here are some tips to help you take good care of these fabrics so they stay cozy, soft, and hygienic for years to come.
Check the care label first.
Before washing any blanket, take a quick look at the care label. While sturdy cotton and muslin blankets can usually handle standard warm-water cycles, delicate knits, handmade heirloom quilts, or wool blankets may require cold water, gentle cycles, or air drying to prevent shrinking and tearing.
Choose a gentle detergent.
A newborn baby’s skin is much thinner and far more delicate than yours. That makes it prone to rashes, dryness, and eczema.
Wash all baby blankets using a clear, fragrance-free, dye-free detergent. Avoid heavily scented laundry soaps that can leave chemical residues on the fabric fibers and irritate your baby's breathing or skin.
Skip the liquid fabric softener.
It may be tempting to add liquid fabric softener to your laundry to make baby blankets extra plush, but softeners leave behind a waxy film on fabric fibers. This coating can reduce the absorbency of cotton blankets and make fabrics less breathable.
Instead, toss a few wool dryer balls into the dryer to naturally soften fabrics and reduce drying time.
Treat stains as soon as possible.
Spit-up, diaper blowouts, and formula stains are bound to happen. To prevent yellowing or permanently set-in stains, rinse the blanket with cold water as soon as possible.
Then pre-treat stubborn spots with a baby-safe stain remover or a dab of gentle laundry detergent before washing.
Cozy and warm night and day!
The main purpose of a baby blanket is to keep your little one warm, give them comfort, and help them sleep. But there’s more that you can do to ensure your baby gets the best night’s sleep possible.
Put them down on an ultra-breathable, ultra-comfortable mattress and sheet set from Newton. A firm, breathable mattress from Newton coupled with soft, organic cotton sheets (also from Newton) is great for newborns, toddlers, and children of all ages.
We even offer breathable, waterproof, and machine-washable mattress pads for added peace of mind. With Newton, your newborn’s crib is all they’ll need for a long, restful slumber until they’re old enough for a blanket!
For more information on helping your baby sleep through the night and to check out our crib mattresses, sheets, pads, and swaddles, visit NewtonBaby.com today.
Frequently asked questions
How many baby blankets do I actually need?
While you’ll likely receive quite a few as gifts, a practical starting number for your nursery registry is 4 to 6 blankets in total:
- 3 to 4 swaddle or receiving blankets (for swaddling, burping, and daily messes)
- 1 to 2 stroller or multi-use blankets (for outings, car trips, and tummy time play mats)
Having this amount ensures you’ll always have a backup ready in the diaper bag when another is sitting in the laundry hamper!
Is muslin or fleece better for a baby blanket?
Both have their uses, and your choice will largely depend on the temperature outside and inside. Muslin is lightweight, breathable, and gentle, making it the ideal choice for swaddling, hot summer months, and sensitive skin.
Fleece, on the other hand, is much warmer and thicker, making it fantastic for outdoor stroller rides in cold weather. If you’re using a fleece blanket in your baby’s crib (as long as they’re one year or older!), be sure to watch for signs of overheating.
How do I stop my toddler from kicking off their blanket?
For children over 12 months old who sleep with a blanket, it’s completely normal for them to kick it off as they wiggle around at night.
If they keep waking up cold, ditch the traditional blanket and try a toddler-sized sleep sack with foot holes! This allows them to walk around safely when they wake up while keeping them covered all night long.
