There are so many types of baby blankets out there that it can be overwhelming if you’re a new parent-to-be and you’re trying to get prepared. Different types of baby blankets come in different standard sizes, though, of course, there can be a great variation on this between manufacturers.
Here we will look at the different types of baby blankets available, what sizes they come in, as well as what their uses are. However, it is important to know that you don’t need to rush out and buy every sort of blanket for your new arrival.
Many types of blankets can be used for various different scenarios, making them a sort of multi-purpose blanket. This is especially the case for larger blankets which can be folded up for a smaller use, for example, in a stroller or car seat.
Baby Blank Types and Their Sizes
Bassinet Blanket
A bassinet is the secure area for a baby to sleep in from birth to around 4 to 6 months of age. This is a small type of baby bed because it will need to fit in the parents’ room, as this is the safest place for newborn babies to sleep. A bassinet could also be known as a Moses basket or a cradle. The standard size of bassinet mattress is 15 inches by 30 inches, so generally, bassinet blankets will be slightly smaller than this in order to cover the baby and keep them warm while not covering their face.
Most bassinet blankets measure 13 inches by 28 inches, and many parents will tuck the end of the blanket down the side of the mattress (by the baby’s feet) so that it stays in place during the night. There are instances where you may not need a bassinet blanket for your baby, for example, if your baby prefers to be swaddled or if you use a grobag or blanket bag for your baby to sleep in.
A grobag is a type of sleeping blanket which is-sized to fit the age of your baby, and it is worn by the baby rather than being laid over the top of them. A grobag has armholes and a neck hole but is very spacious around the leg area to allow the baby freedom of movement. These can zip up, or some have poppers to keep them safe and secure.
They are used instead of, rather than in addition to, a bassinet blanket. If you intend to co-sleep with your baby, this is another scenario where you won’t need a bassinet blanket.
Security Blanket
A security blanket is a small blanket that babies and toddlers may hold while they sleep to provide them with comfort. A security blanket can be made from a variety of fabrics, but it should be soft and comforting against a baby’s delicate skin.
This type of item is usually introduced to babies at 3 or 4 months of age, and it can become invaluable to help a baby feel secure during bouts of separation anxiety. Some babies will have a soft toy instead of a security blanket. This type of blanket typically measures 14 inches by 17 inches.
Car Seat Blanket
It is recommended that babies and children do not wear coats or heavy layers in their car seats, as this can alter the fit of the car seat straps and make the safety device less effective. Instead, in cold temperatures, you should use a blanket over the car seat to keep your baby warm. There are a variety of ways you can do this.
Some people use regular blankets, such as a stroller blanket, and layer them over the baby. The blanket may need to be folded to make it the right size or could be tucked around the sides of the car seat.
Alternatively, you can buy blankets specifically designed to be used with a car seat. These may have strategically placed holes for the car seat straps to go through, which help hold the blanket in place and ensure the baby doesn’t lift it over their face. Standard car seat blankets will measure 20 inches by 24 inches.
Stroller Blanket
Stroller blankets are designed to be used to keep a baby warm in a stroller, and as such, they measure 30 by 35 inches in order to cover the baby and most of the stroller seat. You can tuck the blanket under the baby’s legs to keep it in place or buy a stroller blanket similar to a car seat blanket which has holes for the stroller straps. You may instead opt for a footmuff of cozy-toes for your stroller, which zips onto the stroller’s seat pad and keeps the baby covered up to chest height.
Swaddle Blanket
A swaddle blanket is used to wrap the baby up securely, including their arms. This is a technique loved by many parents and nurses because it helps a newborn baby to sleep better, ensuring they feel secure and snuggled tightly, much like they would have felt in the womb. However, it is somewhat controversial because some people believe it is too restrictive for babies.
If you want to swaddle your baby, you can use a specially designed swaddle wrap that is secured with velcro, or you can use a swaddle blanket for a traditional swaddle. Swaddle blankets usually measure 45 by 45 inches or 48 by 48 inches.
Crib Blanket
When a baby moves out of the bassinet and to a crib, they will need a bigger blanket. A crib blanket will measure 40 by 60 inches, and this is a standardized size so that you can get different sheets and covers for the blanket.
You will not require a crib blanket if you continue to use a grobag or sleep-bag, as these can be used right through toddlerhood as an alternative to blankets. If you live in a hot climate, you may also not need a crib blanket, and layers of pj’s may suffice.
