When shopping for an outdoor blanket, consider your lifestyle and needs. Pearce says to look for “materials that are forgiving to sunlight, water, and stains.” Since your pick may be exposed to sand, ocean water, or just some dripping condiments, you’ll want something that is easily washable. To help you find the best option, we researched the best outdoor blankets, considering their size, material, ease of cleaning, and additional features. Our top pick is the Little Unicorn Outdoor Blanket because it’s available in various sizes and colors and is super easy to clean. Read on to discover the best outdoor blankets. Keep in Mind: It’s not the best for snuggling and may be heavy to carry. The blanket comes in three sizes, with the smallest fitting one to three people and the largest holding five to eight people. We love that it is machine washable and easily rolls up into a compact size. Once rolled, there’s also a carrying tote strap that makes it a cinch to take this blanket anywhere and everywhere. Although, some may find it to be a bit heavy to carry. Overall, this is a reliable and high-quality option and makes a great gift for hosts, team coaches, or new parents. Price at time of publish: $60 Size: 5 x 5 feet, 5 x 7 feet, 5 x 10 feet | Materials: Padded polyester | Waterproof: Both sides are water-resistant Keep in Mind: It’s not clear if it’s dryer-safe. Easy to store in a car trunk, dorm room, or anywhere else, the blanket zips into a little rectangle that has a carrying strap and zippered pocket. We also love that it comes in various patterns and stripes to suit different styles and tastes. Price at time of publish: $30 Size: 60 x 70 inches | Materials: Polyester | Waterproof: Both sides are water-resistant Keep in Mind: It doesn’t have a handle or pouch for carrying. Soft enough to snuggle up in, this is a great blanket to take when walking around your house or yard when it’s cold. Still, it doesn’t include built-in carrying aids, so you will need an extra tote to travel with it. Measuring 48 x 60 inches, it can hold up to two adults. If you’ve got a well-used outdoor living space, this blanket could be a splurge-worthy addition that will look just as good indoors and out. Price at time of publish: $220 Size: 48 x 60 inches | Materials: Recycled polyester | Waterproof: No Keep in Mind: The carrying strap isn’t attached to the blanket, and this blanket is pricier than other options. All blankets are water-resistant and UV-coated to protect your unique design from fading. It’s also machine washable in case it becomes particularly dirty—although, it’s not dryer-safe, so make sure to line-dry it. We also love that it comes with a carrying harness that slides around the blanket once it’s rolled up. At $99, this is one of the pricier options on this list. However, we think it’s worth it due to the high amount of custom designs the site offers. Price at time of publish: $99 Size: 50 x 60 inches | Materials: Woven polyester | Waterproof: Both sides are water-resistant Keep in Mind: The color options are limited color options, and the nylon material can be a bit noisy. The blanket comes in a few solid colors and classic plaids and is also available in an extra-large size if you need more space. Thankfully, it includes a stuff sack, so it’s easy to take this blanket on the go. Even better, it’s machine washable and dryer-safe, so it’s super easy to clean after a long day of outdoor activities. Price at time of publish: $69 Size: 72 x 58 inches | Materials: Fleece and polyurethane-coated nylon | Waterproof: Bottom side is waterproof Keep in Mind: There are limited color options, and there is no carrying aid. It’s only available in a few neutral colors, so it’s not as diverse as other options. However, the brand notes the blanket is reversible, so you do get two colors for the price of one. It also comes in four sizes to accommodate large and small pets and is domestically sewn. Machine washable, this blanket will be your new best friend (besides your dog, of course). Price at time of publish: $58 Size: 60 x 60 inches | Materials: Microfleece with internal waterproof barrier | Waterproof: Has an inner waterproof lining Keep in Mind: It’s hand wash only and comes in limited color options. We also love that this outdoor blanket cleverly folds itself into a tote, thanks to the attached elastic cord and carrying handle. Even better, the tote has a hidden zippered security pocket so you can store keys, wallet, or other picnic essentials. Do note that this blanket should not be machine washed or dry cleaned. It’s recommended to hand wash it with warm water and mild soap, so it may be best to avoid this pick if you host a messy crowd. Price at time of publish: $59 Size: 70 x 81 inches | Materials: Fleece and polyester with PVC backing | Waterproof: Bottom side is water-resistant Keep in Mind: The blanket displays branding when folded, and the care instructions are not listed. When you’re ready to hit the road, the blanket rolls up and has a built-in handle and harness for easy carrying. It’s lightweight and shouldn’t be too heavy to lug around if you need to walk to your sitting destination. When rolled up, there is small Dick’s Sporting Goods branding on the blanket, which cannot be removed. The brand also doesn’t clarify the care instructions, so we recommend hand washing this blanket and hanging it to dry. Price at time of publish: $25 Size: 58 x 72 inches | Materials: Fleece with water-resistant backing | Waterproof: Bottom side is water-resistant Keep in Mind: It may be difficult to fold up, and it’s unclear if it’s dryer-safe. Even better, these outdoor blankets are machine washable, and we recommend air drying them since it’s not specified if they’re dryer-safe. While they aren’t waterproof or water-resistant, they should still hold up to a few drops of water or a thin layer of morning dew. We also love that they have a built-in harness for easy carrying, however, it can be hard to roll it up correctly, depending on which shape you choose. Still, these are whimsical and reliable options for your kids. Price at time of publish: $25 Size: Approximately 72 x 60 inches, depending on the shape | Materials: Polyester | Waterproof: No Keep in Mind: It only comes in one color. Unlike many other options on this list, this outdoor blanket isn’t waterproof. We recommend using it during the day when the ground is more likely to be dry, so you avoid wetting it. If you plan to use it at the beach, make sure you’re far enough away from the waves during the high tide. If it becomes too dirty during an outing, rest assured that you can toss it in your washing machine on cold for easy cleanup. Price at time of publish: $20 Size: 58 x 70 inches | Materials: Polyester | Waterproof: No Keep in Mind: It’s not as soft as other options, and it can be slippery on hard surfaces. This choice isn’t super soft, warm, or cushy, so don’t expect it to keep you warm on a chilly day. Due to its smooth surface, it’s also not the best outdoor blanket to layout on hard surfaces that become wet often, like a pool deck, since it becomes slippery. Still, it’s very easy to wipe clean, and you can toss it in the washing machine for deeper cleaning. And, at under $30, it’s a great affordable blanket, too. Price at time of publish: $24 Size: 95 x 108 inches | Materials: Parachute nylon | Waterproof: Both sides are waterproof Keep in Mind: The blanket may be heavy to carry for some and is pricier than other options. While expensive, this trusty blanket will be a reliable addition to your camping gear as long as you’re not backpacking. It weighs 5.8 pounds, so it’s too heavy if you need to carry light. Still, it comes with its own carrying bag for easy transport. And, if any smores fall on the blanket, have no fear—it’s machine washable. We also love that it’s available in four fun colors that are easy to spot. Price at time of publish: $200 Size: 55 x 78 inches | Materials: A mix of polyester and rayon | Waterproof: Bottom side is waterproof Keep in Mind: The blanket is dry clean only and pricier than other options. The roll-up design is secured with leather carrying handles, so it’s easy to take this wherever you’re headed. However, cleaning this pick may be an issue for some. It’s dry clean only, so keep that in mind prior to purchasing. Although it’s more expensive than other outdoor blankets on our list, the craftsmanship and quality of this blanket are unbeatable, making it well worth the price. Price at time of publish: $169 Size: 60 x 70 inches | Materials: Virgin wool blanket, nylon backing | Waterproof: No Keep in Mind: This blanket is pricier than other options, and the material can be noisy. For extra cozy comfort, the cape clip allows you to wear your blanket and stay hands-free to eat, drink, or do anything else. Four corner loops make it easy to stake it to the ground if you want to use it as a picnic blanket or ground cover. When you’re ready to hit the road, the Rumpl packs into its own small carrying bag for total portability. Even better, it’s machine washable for easy cleaning. At $99, this is one of the more expensive blankets, but its durability and portability can’t be beaten. Price at time of publish: $99 Size: 52 x 75 inches | Materials: Recycled polyester | Waterproof: Both sides are water-resistant Keep in Mind: You must remember to remove the battery before washing. Measuring 40 x 50 inches, it’s a great blanket to snuggle up. We also love that it has a cozy kangaroo pocket. You can toss it in the washing machine and dryer for easy cleaning—just don’t forget to remove the battery beforehand. This blanket is pricier than other options, but it’s worth the investment if you get cold easily. Price at time of publish: $130 Size: 40 x 50 inches | Materials: Polyester and nylon | Waterproof: Bottom side is water-resistant
What to Know About Outdoor Blankets Before Shopping
Size
Many blanket retailers include both the size and number of people who will comfortably fit on the blanket. Use these guides to help you find the right blanket for your needs. If in doubt, err on the side of bigger is better.
Material
Outdoor blankets are made from many different materials. Choose the material based on your needs. Fleece blankets will be soft and cozy but may not be waterproof. Nylon or polyester blankets are often water-resistant but may not be as snuggly.
Cleaning Instructions
It’s safe to assume your outdoor blanket will become dirty from dirt on the ground, grass, spilled picnic goodies, and more. Choose something easy to wash, especially if you have kids, pets, or a big picnic crowd.
Additional Features
Some outdoor blankets come with their own carrying case, have zippered pockets, or even plug in and heat up. Seek out these features if you’ll use them and think about how you’ll store your blanket in between uses—a built-in carrying or storage feature is always helpful.
Your Questions, Answered
How often should you wash an outdoor blanket?
Interior Designer Birgitte Pearce says, “I recommend washing your outdoor blanket fairly often throughout the summer months, depending on how often it is used. Between sunscreen, bug spray, and pollen—or in the case of my house, dog hair—things can get messy quickly.” If you’ve spilled food on your blanket, wash it right after your outdoor adventure so it’s ready for the next one.
How should you store an outdoor blanket between uses?
For a blanket used at home, Pearce shares, “On a covered porch, it is ok to leave it out. But on an uncovered patio, it is probably best to store it inside unless you have patio storage for furniture cushions.” Many outdoor blankets come with storage bags, so use those (but only once your blanket is clean and dry). Then you’ll always know your outdoor blanket is ready to hit the road.
Who We Are
This story was written by Maya Polton, a freelance writer with 15 years of digital media and communications experience. To find the best outdoor blankets, she aimed for sites that offered a variety of styles and sizes, affordable prices, and long-lasting blankets. User reviews (and complaints) were also helpful in finding brands that live up to their promises of quality, accurate descriptions, and customer service. Maya has three active kids, so she keeps a fold-up outdoor blanket in her car to always have a place to sit and relax if she finds herself at a soccer game, impromptu picnic, or park playdate. In researching the best outdoor blankets, she’s realized it’s time to upgrade her blanket stash into something bigger and much more attractive.
