Choosing the right baby blanket seems simple at first, but the material you pick makes a real difference in how comfortable, safe, and practical it is for everyday use. Between late-night feeds, naps, stroller walks and all the little in-between moments, a good blanket becomes one of the most-used items your baby owns.
Below is a straightforward guide to the three fabrics most parents compare: bamboo, cotton, and muslin, including what makes each one special, what to use them for, and how to decide which is right for your little one.
Bamboo: Soft, breathable and naturally gentle
Bamboo has become incredibly popular over the past few years, especially among parents looking for something soft enough for sensitive skin. Bamboo viscose has a buttery, silky feel that stays gentle wash after wash.
One of the biggest advantages of bamboo is temperature regulation. It naturally keeps babies cool in warmer weather and comfortably warm in cooler rooms. Bamboo also handles moisture well, it dries quickly and doesn’t trap humidity, which helps prevent irritation or overheating.
When bamboo is a great choice:
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Babies with sensitive or easily irritated skin
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Warm climates and summer months
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Everyday blankets used for sleeping or stroller naps
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Parents who want a lightweight but cozy option
Bamboo blankets tend to feel premium without being heavy, making them ideal as an all-year essential.
Cotton: Classic, durable and easy to care for
Cotton has been a staple in baby textiles for generations. It’s dependable, durable and easy to wash, an important detail when a blanket needs to go straight from the pram to the laundry basket after a long day out.
High-quality cotton blankets feel soft and breathable, and they handle frequent washing without losing their shape. Compared to bamboo, cotton is usually a little thicker and can offer a more structured feel.
When cotton is a great choice:
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Everyday use at home
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Colder months or layered bedding
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Parents who want a durable, low-maintenance blanket
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A cozier, slightly heavier texture
Cotton blankets are also a safe, timeless choice for gifting.
Muslin: Light, airy and wonderfully versatile
Muslin is famous for being one of the most versatile baby materials. It’s created by weaving cotton into an open, airy texture that feels light and breathable. Muslin gets softer with every wash, making it perfect for newborns.
What sets muslin apart is how multi-purpose it is. It can be a swaddle, a stroller cover, a feeding cloth, a lightweight nap blanket, or even something soft for tummy time.
When muslin is a great choice:
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Summer months and warm indoor environments
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Newborn swaddling
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Travel and on-the-go days
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Parents who prefer a very lightweight fabric
Muslin is the blanket you reach for when you’re not sure what you’ll need, and you want something that works for everything.
So, which material should you choose?
All three materials have their strengths, so the “best” choice depends on how you’ll use the blanket:
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Choose bamboo if you want the softest, most breathable option for everyday comfort.
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Choose cotton if you want something sturdy and warm that’s easy to care for.
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Choose muslin if you want a lightweight, versatile blanket that works for everything from swaddling to stroller walks.
Most parents end up loving a combination, one cozy cotton blanket at home, one bamboo for daily naps, and a couple of muslin cloths for everything in between.
A small note on safety
Regardless of material, always follow safe sleep guidelines. Blankets shouldn’t be used for overnight, unattended sleep in cribs for newborns. They’re wonderful for supervised naps, prams, and everyday cuddles.
Explore Baby Blankets at Lilla North
If you're looking for soft, Scandinavian-inspired baby textiles, you can explore our selection of gentle, carefully chosen baby blankets, designed to feel calm, warm and safe for your little one.
Lots of Love,
Lilla North
