Do Blankets Count as Bedding? Everything You Need to Know

Ever looked at your bedroom and wondered what actually counts as bedding? You’re not alone. My kids ask me similar things some nights when we’re changing sheets or digging through linen cupboards for that last clean blanket. And unless you’re a shop assistant at John Lewis or moonlight as a hotel housekeeper, you’ve probably never given it a second thought until someone brings it up.

What is Bedding? (And Where Do Blankets Fit In?)

If you break it down, the term "bedding" isn’t as mysterious as it sounds. In the UK (and across the world), people usually mean anything that covers your mattress or keeps you warm in bed. The usual suspects: fitted sheets, duvet covers, pillowcases, and sometimes—yes, blankets. Still, things get fuzzy. There’s always some expert on telly saying you absolutely need a particular Egyptian cotton thread count, or that continental quilts are the only real bedding. But for most of us, bedding includes whatever turns a bare mattress into a cosy spot for sleep.

Blankets come into play in a big way. Technically speaking, a blanket is any large wool, cotton, synthetic, or blended fabric designed to—quite simply—keep you warm. On those weirdly chilly summer nights in Manchester (thank you, British weather), nothing beats dragging a blanket out to snuggle under as the rain taps the windows. While duvets have taken over a lot of bedrooms in the UK, especially since the 1970s, blankets still turn up in winter, guest rooms, or when you accidentally leave the heating off. But here’s the thing: in just about every department store, bedding section, and household guide, blankets are listed right there beside duvets, throws, and comforters. Call it tradition, practicality, or branding—but yes, most folks, manufacturers, and experts agree: blankets are bedding.

Of course, not all countries treat blankets the same. Wander into an American home, and “bedding” might mean everything from the mattress protector to a decadent quilted throw. Pop over to Scandinavia, and they might not use top sheets at all, but their duvets double up with blankets when it’s frosty. A fascinating thing: the British Bedding Industry’s recent 2024 survey showed that 78% of UK households own at least two blankets (apart from duvets and quilts). That’s not just for nostalgia—people genuinely find blankets as an essential part of their bedding during colder months. So whether you’re a stickler for tradition or just after warmth, don’t let anyone tell you blankets don’t count.

Here’s a quick comparison of common bedding elements and what they do:

Types of Blankets and Their Roles in Bedding

So you know blankets are bedding, but not all blankets do the same job. Some are designed purely for looks, others for that feeling of being hugged by a warm cloud. Here’s where it gets interesting—blankets come in a smorgasbord of materials, weaves, and thicknesses. Each style actually makes a difference in how warm you’ll sleep or how stylish your room feels. Ever tried a heavyweight wool blanket in mid-July? Not my brightest idea, let me tell you. Meanwhile, my daughter Eliana drags her battered pink fleece everywhere—bed, sofa, even picnics in the garden when the rain lets up.

Check out the main players:

• Wool blankets: Absolute classics in UK homes, especially when the heating’s patchy or you get those freezing snaps. Wool’s natural insulation traps heat without feeling smothering. A good merino wool blanket will last decades—practically an heirloom.
• Fleece blankets: These are softer, often lighter, perfect for kids (or grown-ups who love a bit of cosiness without weighing down the bed). Easy to wash, too—which is a godsend when your little one brings marmalade toast to bed.
• Cotton blankets: Breathable, more suitable for mild weather and layering. Some prefer waffle weaves for texture and airiness.
• Electric blankets: A modern luxury, much appreciated when your boiler acts up. Just remember, always follow the safety instructions and keep them out of reach of pets who like to nibble wires.
• Weighted blankets: These are all the rage for people who struggle with sleep or anxiety. They’re filled with glass beads or pellets to add gentle pressure.

It’s not all about being toasty, though. Blankets do double duty as design statement pieces. Toss a tartan over your sofa or the end of the bed, suddenly the whole room feels pulled together. In the UK, it’s become quite trendy to display colourful throws or chunky-knit blankets, like some sort of lifestyle magazine spread. If you’re on Instagram, you’ll know just how obsessive people can be about ‘blanket folding aesthetics.’

When you build your bedding layers, blankets offer flexibility. You can start with a light sheet, top it with a fluffy duvet, and then throw on a blanket if it’s freezing, or use just a sheet and blanket if it’s muggy. This old-school approach is making a comeback, partly because it helps save on heating bills (a big deal with prices up 20% since 2023), but also because people love customising their sleep setup. Some sleep experts actually recommend layering for people who toss and turn or who share beds with someone who’s always either too hot or too cold.

Ever wondered which combination works best for UK homes? Here’s what recent polling (April 2025, UK Sleep Council) found about layering preferences:

Another fun fact: when the Met Office forecast a colder-than-usual winter last December, Google searches for 'best wool blankets UK' went up by 68%. An old-fashioned solution catching new popularity.

How to Choose and Look After Your Bedding (Yes, Including Blankets)

Now the practical bit. Picking bedding is more than just what looks pretty in a catalogue. A good set of bedding (blanket included) changes the game for comfy, restful sleep. Start with fabrics—natural materials like cotton or wool breathe better and regulate temperature. If allergies are a thing in your household (Jax sneezes at the first hint of dust), hypoallergenic options and regular washing routines matter a lot. Synthetic fibres might stay brighter after dozens of washes, but nothing beats natural fibres for softness. The Quality Sleep Foundation (2024) found that people using natural fabric bedding slept 27 minutes longer on average each night, compared to those with only synthetic blends. Definitely a swap worth considering.

Layering helps you adapt when the weather in the North flips on a whim. If you’re always cold, stash a blanket in a basket near the bed for easy access. In summer, you can swap out chunky blankets for something lighter. And if you’ve got restless family members, buy a couple of lighter blankets to layer—way easier than fighting over a heavy duvet in the middle of the night.

Here’s a quick set of tips to keep every bit of your bedding in top shape:

• Wash blankets at least three times a year—more if they’re used a lot. Fleece and synthetics can usually go in low-temp cycles; wool needs gentler treatment, maybe even hand washing if you don’t want it to shrink to doll’s size.
• Store blankets in dry, cool places—damp can lead to musty smells or even moth damage, especially with wool.
• Look for blankets with double-stitched edges—they’ll last longer and fray less in the wash.
• Rotate bedding seasonally. Pack away heavy winter blankets when summer hits to free up space and freshen things up.
• Fix snags or tears quickly. A simple stitch now saves a headache later (my mum’s trick with a darning needle still beats anything you’ll find in a shop).

Some folks like to go full pro and use a blanket ladder for airing out or displaying beautiful throws. I’ve only managed to not trip over it twice, but hey, it looks great. For families with kids or pets, durable and machine-washable blankets are gold—no one wants to deal with spaghetti stains or mystery marks every week. And let’s be honest, nothing beats piling everyone into bed on a Sunday morning, grabbing the softest blanket in the house, and making ridiculous forts. At the end of the day, your bedding’s not just fabric; it’s comfort, warmth, and memories, all rolled into one. Blankets may seem like an afterthought, but they really are an essential part of bedding in every sense—practically, emotionally, and, yes, according to every dictionary (and most grandmas) out there.