There’s nothing like cozying up with a warm cup of coffee or tea and a warm snuggle blanket on a winter day! Can you picture yourself, maybe in front of the fire (or next to the heater !) and with a book in your hands? The ultimate relaxation and luxury moment in our busy lives…

People from northern European countries like Denmark or Norway have even a word to describe this: “hygge” meaning a cozy, contented mood evoked by comfort and conviviality.

When it comes to creating a cozy, healthy, and eco-friendly home, choosing organic and non toxic blankets, quilts, bed sheets, mattresses, and bedding in general, is an excellent step. In this article, we highlight the reasons why chosing a high quality cozy blanket is better for you, the planet, and ultimately your wallet.

What are Synthetic Blankets Made of?

These days most blankets are made of cheap virgin fossil-fuel-based fibers like polyester, acrylic, and nylon. Please note: don’t be fooled by product descriptions on packaging like:

• Microfiber
• Microplush
• Microdenier
• Microsuede
• Fleece   
• Faux Fur
• Chenille
• I’m Comfy!
• Soft Touch
• Cloud Like
• Warm and Cosy

Manufacturers use these descriptions and misleading “marketing words” in order to avoid the word “synthetic”. In the video here below we highlight how brands disguise synthetics in textiles by showing examples.

Sometimes you’ll see claims like “made from plastic bottles recovered from the ocean” or “ocean bound”. This is recycled PET (rPET, aka PolyEthylene Terephthalate) and it’s still plastic but spun into a fiber!

The Latest Unsustainable Fashion Trend: Polyester Oodies or Hooded Blankets

Last, but not least, be aware of the latest fashion trend called, oodies, which are hooded blankets or wearable blankets designed as an oversized hooded sweatshirt with an oversized “kangaroo pocket”. They are all MADE OF PLASTIC, no matter if with recycled plastic or not! PLEASE always check the labels of what you’re actually buying, and please choose a plastic-free blanket!

What are the Environmental Issues with Synthetic Blankets?

Synthetics materials are petroleum based and cheap to produce, but their environmental impact is visible through out their life cycle: extraction, production, transportation, and end-of-life. They are easy to care for but shed microplastics with every wash. According to the International Union for Conservation of Nature, 35% of microplastics in the world’s oceans come from washing synthetic textiles (1).

What are the Health Issues with Synthetic Blankets?

One of the most immediate health concerns associated with polyester is how unpleasant this fabric is on the skin, causing skin irritation, and allergies according to several studies published in peer-reviewed journals (2). The synthetic fibers can cause friction against the skin, the largest organ in our body, leading to redness, itching, and rashes, particularly in individuals with sensitive skin or pre-existing dermatological conditions. Your skin is literally like a sponge, don’t it absorb toxins!

Beware of blankets and comforters labeled as stain- or water-resistant. They most probably contains PFAS, following a 2022 research report (3) by the not-for-profit organization Toxic Free Future.

Synthetic blankets, hoodied blankets, and jumpers can also be extremely dangerous next to fire. Who doesn’t love a good bonfire on a chilly evening? Well, a cozy camping night by the fire can transform into a tragedy, like it happened to an Australian girl, who suffered severe burns to 13% of her body, including her face, right arm, and the right side of her chest (4). The wind carried sparks onto her jumper, causing it to ignite instantly. The product was later recalled by Temu upon pressure by the ACCC (5) for not having a Warning Label saying; “High Fire Danger – Keep Away from Heat and Flame”. Would the label have prevented this? Of course not, and this is exactly the point, stay away from such products! Buy once, but buy better!

Related: 9 Organic, Truly Non-Toxic Bedding Brands That Use Only Natural Fibers

5 Organic Non Toxic Soft Blankets & Throws that are Free of Synthetics

These blankets are crafted from natural fibers like organic cotton, wool, linen etc. free from toxic chemicals, including toxic PFAS, making them safe for your skin and the environment. Below are five standout options that combine sustainability, comfort, and style.

This post contains affiliate links, which means we may receive a small commission, at no cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. This helps us continue the hard work we put into researching products and solutions. 

Please Note: Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health. Please read our disclaimer.

1. AIZOME 100% Regenerative Organic Cotton Knitted Blanket

We personally tested this regenerative blanket made from 100 % organic and undyed cotton and… OMG you can’t imagine how super soft this breathable fabric feels at the touch. It’s perfect for sensitive skin, as it’s hypo-allergenic, i.e. free of any synthetic softeners, allergens, and irritants, as it’s bio-enzyme processed instead.

The design of the blanket is stunning, as it features a minimalist, luxury knit and has a natural beige hue. The knit is so stylish that it could be perfect also as a cardigan! No wonder that it comes with a lifetime warranty. It is a timeless piece to hand over from generation to generation.

Aizome is the best choice for toxin-free bedding. All of their products are plant-dyed and made without petrochemicals. Their fabrics have been tested under the control of a dermatologist through HRIPT (Human Repeat Insult Patch Test), the most common screening for skin safety, which consists of a patch test that assesses the skin’s potential reaction to products applied to the skin (We read the whole study report). Even their wastewater is so clean that it was certified as skincare (WASTECARE). Feel the difference for yourself!

Material: 100% Organic Cotton

Certifications: GOTS, Oeko-tex Standard 100, QTEC (Japanese Textile Assessment)

Made mindfully in: India

Shop Aizome – 10% off with code IMPLASTICFREE
Black Friday Deal: 48hour flash deal – $100 off

Credit: Image and video by I’m Plastic Free / Simona Paganetto testing the Aizome Regenerative Organic Cotton Knitted Blanket

Related: 11 Plastic-Free Underwear Brands You Can Compost

2. Avocado Luxury Natural Throw Blankets

Avocado has created a range of luxurious comforters and throws, sustainably woven or knit from the finest fabrics, like merino wool, cashmere, organic cotton, and recycled cotton. The natural colors have no added dyes and all other colors are set with natural dyes and metallic salts to have the lowest environmental impact possible, while still giving a warm touch to any room in your home.

Material: merino wool, cashmere, organic cotton, and recycled cotton.

Certifications: GOTS, GOLS, USDA Organic, USDA Certified Biobased

Made mindfully in: USA and Mongolia.

Shop Avocado

Related: The Very Good Bra: 100% Organic Cotton Padded Bra Review

3. Coyuchi Sequoia Organic Throw / Washable Blanket

Coyuchi has also created a beautiful product range of organic cotton blankets mixed with soft wool etc. with a process that is free of chemicals and toxins that endanger the health of humans,  animals, and the ecosystem. This soft, cottony feel blanket is paired with the warmth of wool.  The fabric is brushed for extra softness and finished with a double-needle stitched edge.

Materials: 70% organic cotton and 30% organic wool

Certifications: GOTS, FairTrade, MadeSafe, GOLS , 1% for the Planet

Made mindfully in: Germany.

Shop at Amazon

Related: JulieMay Rosie Silk & Organic Cotton Lace Lingerie Set Review

4. Pact Organic Cotton Quilt

Pact’s premium organic quilt is inspired by the classics, but reimagined to feel modern, sleek, and comfortable with a medium weight. It’s perfect as a standalone cover during the summer months, and as a layer in winter.

This quilt is made with premium organic yarn superior to conventional yarns used in high thread-count sheets.

Materials: 100% organic cotton sateen and 100% organic cotton fill

Certifications: GOTS,  Fair Trade certified factory

Made mindfully in: India

Shop Pact

Related: 4 Reasons to Choose Plastic Free, All Natural Fibers Over Synthetic Fibers

5. Ecodownunder Australian Merino Wool Blankets & Throws

The Ecodownunder Wool Knit Blanket is produced using luxurious Australian Merino Wool, a material that is well known for its lightweight warmth and breathability, and perfect for all seasons. This thermoregulating blanket acts like a natural insulator, and has a soft, plush feel that will keep you cosy all year-round, no matter if snuggling on the couch, or having a nap.

If the blanket is too heavy, they also offer gorgeous throws made of the same fabric.

Material: 100% Australian Merino Wool

Certifications: GOTS

Made mindfully in: India

Shop Ecodownunder

FAQ

Why Choose Blankets Made of Natural Fibers?

Blankets made of natural fibers like cotton, linen, or wool can help with the following health benefits:

• Less Chemical Exposure
• Less Allergic Reactions
• Improved Sleep Quality
• Lighter Footprint on the Environment (if they’re a one-off purchase)
• Ultimately, more comfort (and health to the family)

Natural fibers breathe, which helps you regulate your body temperature during sleep (they are so called “thermo-regulating”) and if you do sweat at night, they are more absorbent, so you don’t feel damp!

Related: 4 Reasons to Choose Plastic Free, All Natural Fibres Over Synthetic Fibres

How to Find Non Toxic Weighted Blankets?

If you’re looking for non-toxic weighted blankets for kids or adults, keep an eye out for these materials and features:

• Weighted Blanket for Kids: 100% Cotton with Non-Toxic Glass Beads
• Bearaby Hand-knit Weighted Blanket for Adults Made of Cotton

Don’t buy polyester weighted blankets with plastic poly pellets (microplastics) as a filling!

Conclusion: Switch to Sustainable Blankets That Will Last a Lifetime!

Investing in one of these non toxic blankets is a significant step towards creating a healthier home. By opting for natural and organic materials, you can reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals, improve your sleep quality, and contribute to a more sustainable environment.

Whether you prefer the softness of cotton or the warmth of wool, these options offer something for everyone seeking comfort without compromise!

References and Scientific Literature Sources:

(1) https://portals.iucn.org/library/sites/library/files/documents/2017-002-En.pdf
(2) https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23022822/
(3) https://toxicfreefuture.org/research/pfas-in-stain-water-resistant-products-study/results/
(4) https://www.abc.net.au/news/2025-01-07/temu-recall-flammable-glow-in-dark-jumper-australia-consumer-law/104787390
(5) https://www.productsafety.gov.au/search-consumer-product-recalls/glow-in-the-dark-hooded-jumper-sold-on-temu

–

Browse our I’m Plastic Free platform for non-toxic plastic alternatives.

Related posts:

8 Non-Toxic Leggings for a Microplastic Free Workout Home Comfort Systems aka HVAC: The Importance Of Air Purification Elevate Your Space with Sustainable Home Decor: Non-Toxic, Plastic-Free Alternatives for Every Room