How Many Blankets Does A Baby Need?

Wondering how many blankets does a baby need?

In this guide, we breakdown how many blankets for newborn baby you’ll need!

Baby blankets primarily are there to keep your baby warm and cozy, whether it is during the night or while your baby is playing.

Yet surprisingly, there are several different types of baby blankets available, so it can quickly become confusing just how many baby blankets do you need!

There are receiving blankets, wearable / swaddling blankets, security blankets, stroller blankets, milestone blankets, and more!

That’s where knowing the different types of baby blankets there are available and how many you need of each can be very beneficial.

So, let’s take a look at how many blankets does baby need!

And if you love this guide on how many baby blankets do I need, make sure to check out our guide on when can babies sleep with a blanket and how many crib sheets do I need.

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How Many Blankets Does A Baby Need?

Here are our recommendations for how many baby blankets to buy depending on the style that you choose:

StyleQuantity
Receiving Blankets3-6BUY NOW
Wearable or Swaddle Blankets2-3BUY NOW
Security Blankets2BUY NOW
Stroller Blankets1-2BUY NOW
Milestone Blanket1BUY NOW

Are Baby Blankets Really Necessary?

While it is possible to forego using baby blankets, they are something that will help keep your baby safe and comfortable in a range of situations.

They can make for a soft and clean play mat.

Provide a buffer between baby and the outside world.

Catch spit-up and drool.

Provide security and comfort.

And obviously provide warmth on a cool day.

So, while a few may think they aren’t necessary, many parents love to have them on hand.

It is important to note though blankets and soft bedding are not recommended by the American Association of Pediatrics (AAP) for keeping your baby warm at night before the age of 12 months due to the risk of accidental suffocation and SIDS. Instead, you should consider using wearable baby blankets, layered clothing, and/or setting the room temperature approximately.

How Many Blankets Does A Baby Need?

So, how many baby blankets do you need?

Obviously, the number of baby blankets you need will depend on how you plan to use your baby blankets, but many parents find that they regularly use 10-12 baby blankets.

Here’s what we suggest based on the different types of baby blankets.

Three To Six Receiving Blankets

Just like the name suggests a receiving blanket is used to wrap a newborn baby right before families ‘receive’ their baby in their arms for the very first time.

Whilst they are hold sentimental value, you’ll quickly learn how valuable a receiving blanket can be!

From cleaning up spit ups during burping to keeping your baby dirt free to swaddling, a receiving blanket is one of the most versatile blankets you’ll own.

No doubt you’ll find you will be reaching for one time and time again.

That’s why we recommend a minimum of three – one to use, one in the wash, and one extra. All it takes is one large spit up, and you’ll need to change out your blanket.

Our Top Pick
Luvable Friends 100% Cotton Flannel Receiving Blankets
$13.99

These affordable, high quality, 100% cotton flannel receiving are perfect for any new mom! They come in a range of adorable colors and patterns and best of all are soft and gentle on your baby's skin.

03/18/2024 02:03 pm GMT

Two To Three Wearable or Swaddle Blankets

Let’s just start by clarifying that a wearable blanket (or sleep sack as they as also called) are different to a swaddle blanket.

Yet, both are designed to keep your baby warm whilst they sleep.

Swaddle blankets are designed to wrap around your newborn so they can’t wriggle their arms out whilst a wearable blanket is designed to allow your baby’s arms to move freely.

A swaddle blanket mimics the tight feeling they feel in the womb and prevents their startle reflexes from waking them up, however they are only recommended until your baby starts trying to roll over. Once they begin trying to roll, you’ll need to transition them to a wearable blanket.

Both keep your baby warm while they sleep.

And depending on the type of swaddle you choose (traditional vs modern 2 in 1 style), both come in various weights so are suitable for varying climates.

So, now you know what each one is and when it is used, how many do you need?

We recommend purchasing at least 2 swaddle blankets and/or 2 wearable blankets in the appropriate sizes and TOG.

If you own two then one can be in the wash while your baby is wearing the other one. It might even be helpful to consider having a third on hand to use in case of emergencies!

Our Top Pick
Burt's Bees Wearable Baby Blanket
$22.95 $19.59

Made with 100% organic cotton, this wearable baby blanket is sure to keep your baby warm and cozy as they sleep. It has a Zipper that opens from the bottom easy diaper access, is machine washable, and is carefully sized for baby to move around freely and safely. Burt's Bees wearable baby blankets come in a wide range of patterns and TOG to suit your baby's needs.


03/18/2024 04:03 pm GMT
Our Top Pick
Swaddle Blanket
$41.99 $29.99 ($10.00 / Count)

It's hard to go past these swaddle baby blankets for your newborn baby (0-3months & 3-6 months). This snug baby wrap is easy to use and will help ease your baby’s transition into the world and prevents spontaneous movements from waking them up.

03/19/2024 03:03 am GMT

Two Security Blankets

A security blanket is that cute and cuddly blanket or ‘blankie’ that can be introduced to babies around three months of age to help them form an attachment to something other than you to provide them with comfort.

It smells familiar to them.

Is soft and cuddly so feels great against their skin.

And can help make any unfamiliar place feel more like the comfort of home making them more at easy no matter where they are.

So, if you decide that you’re going to introduce your baby to a security blanket we highly recommend that you purchase two identical security blankets.  

Why? Well, if one gets lost or damaged beyond repair you are going to need to have another one on hand quick smart to avoid a meltdown. This is more crucial as they get older and are still attached to their security blanket because trying to find an exact replicate 5 years down the track may be near impossible!

Our Top Pick
Hudson Baby Unisex Baby Security Blanket
$9.99

Made with 100% cozy plush fabric these baby security blankets are nothing short of adorable! They are high quality, come in a variety of colors / animals and optimal for every day use.


03/11/2024 09:03 pm GMT

One To Two Stroller Blankets

Essentially, a stroller blanket is a special kind of cover used to keep the baby warm and comfy when using a stroller.

They are also commonly used in cars and are great to have on hand when you’re on the go.

As these are not your everyday type blanket (unlike a receiving blanket) you only need one or two based on how often you baby will be in their stroller.

You may also want to read: How to Keep Baby Warm in Car Seat [10 Easy Steps]

Our Top Pick
Burt's Bees - Reversible Stroller Blanket
$26.99 $22.99

Keep your baby warm and cozy while on the go with this 100% organic, GOTS certified stroller blanket! It has a breathable jersey shell and 100% polyester fill for extra warmth. It is reversible and comes in a range of gorgeous patterns and colors.


03/09/2024 04:03 pm GMT

One Milestone Blanket

Ok, so a milestone blanket is not a necessity, though we think that having one is a must!

A milestone blanket is an adorable way to help document your baby’s growth by allowing you to take some awesome monthly photos of your baby with a beautiful backdrop.

You’ll adore looking back at photos your baby’s growth and development on their special milestone blanket for years to come.

Our Top Pick
Yoothy Baby Monthly Milestone Blanket
$25.99

Capture your baby's milestones with this beautiful picture ready woodland themed milestone blanket. It come with all the accessories for perfect photos with a gorgeous wreath to mark the numbers & days/weeks/months/years. It's gender-neutral design makes it perfect for both baby girls and boys.

03/11/2024 05:03 pm GMT

How to Decide How Many Baby Blankets You Need

Everyone has different needs when it comes to how many baby blankets are needed. If you live in Hawaii your requirements are going to be vastly different to those living in Alaska.

So, here are some suggestions to help you decide how many newborn blankets you need.

How Often You Want to Do Laundry

Let’s use receiving blankets as an example.

If you only have three receiving blankets, you’ll be washing them more often than not. Babies spit up – a lot – and you’ll want to make sure you always have a clean one on hand.

Think about how often you do laundry, especially with a new baby.

If you do a weekly laundry wash, you will find three receiving blankets aren’t enough, especially if your baby has reflux. You’ll need enough receiving blankets to last through all week before they need to be rewashed.

What Season Your Baby is Arriving / Where Do You Live

If you have a summer baby or live in a hot climate, you’ll probably find you won’t need as many warm blankets.

For example, you probably will have no need for a stroller blanket if your baby is born in summer in Hawaii.

However, if you have a winter baby in Alaska, you may need several stroller/car blankets.

How Often Do You Go Out

If you are frequently leaving your home, then you may find that you need a few extra blankets to store in your diaper bag or car.

No one want to reach for their receiving blanket in a spit up emergency only to realize you forgot to pack it!

Common FAQs About Buying Baby Blankets

How Many Blankets Do Babies Need At Night?

Blankets and soft bedding are not recommended by the American Association of Pediatrics (AAP) for keeping your baby warm at night before the age of 12 months due to the risk of accidental suffocation and SIDS. Instead, you should consider buying 3-4 wearable blankets or swaddle blankets.

Are Baby Blankets Necessary?

While it is possible to forego using baby blankets, they are something that will help keep your baby safe and comfortable in a range of situations. From cleaning up spit ups, to providing warmth, comfort, and security to keeping your baby dirt free, many parents love to have baby blankets on hand.

Final Thoughts on How Many Baby Blankets Do You Need

Baby Blankets are an everyday baby item, but you need an idea of how many baby blankets you need so you’re not left short or running out of places to store them all. Having a plan stops you from overbuying as well as being underprepared.

And if you’re looking for more great guides, then check out these sleeping guides on how to dress a newborn baby for sleep, best bassinets for breastfeeding and what should baby wear under sleep sack.

StyleQuantity
Receiving Blankets3-6BUY NOW
Wearable or Swaddle Blankets2-3BUY NOW
Security Blankets2BUY NOW
Stroller Blankets1-2BUY NOW
Milestone Blanket1BUY NOW
  1. Luvable Friends 100% Cotton Flannel Receiving Blankets
    $13.99

    These affordable, high quality, 100% cotton flannel receiving are perfect for any new mom! They come in a range of adorable colors and patterns and best of all are soft and gentle on your baby's skin.

    Buy Now
    03/18/2024 02:03 pm GMT
  2. Burt's Bees Wearable Baby Blanket
    $22.95 $19.59

    Made with 100% organic cotton, this wearable baby blanket is sure to keep your baby warm and cozy as they sleep. It has a Zipper that opens from the bottom easy diaper access, is machine washable, and is carefully sized for baby to move around freely and safely. Burt's Bees wearable baby blankets come in a wide range of patterns and TOG to suit your baby's needs.


    Buy Now
    03/18/2024 04:03 pm GMT
  3. Swaddle Blanket
    $41.99 $29.99 ($10.00 / Count)

    It's hard to go past these swaddle baby blankets for your newborn baby (0-3months & 3-6 months). This snug baby wrap is easy to use and will help ease your baby’s transition into the world and prevents spontaneous movements from waking them up.

    Buy Now
    03/19/2024 03:03 am GMT
  4. Hudson Baby Unisex Baby Security Blanket
    $9.99

    Made with 100% cozy plush fabric these baby security blankets are nothing short of adorable! They are high quality, come in a variety of colors / animals and optimal for every day use.


    Buy Now
    03/11/2024 09:03 pm GMT
  5. Burt's Bees  - Reversible Stroller Blanket
    $26.99 $22.99

    Keep your baby warm and cozy while on the go with this 100% organic, GOTS certified stroller blanket! It has a breathable jersey shell and 100% polyester fill for extra warmth. It is reversible and comes in a range of gorgeous patterns and colors.


    Buy Now
    03/09/2024 04:03 pm GMT
  6. Yoothy Baby Monthly Milestone Blanket
    $25.99

    Capture your baby's milestones with this beautiful picture ready woodland themed milestone blanket. It come with all the accessories for perfect photos with a gorgeous wreath to mark the numbers & days/weeks/months/years. It's gender-neutral design makes it perfect for both baby girls and boys.

    Buy Now
    03/11/2024 05:03 pm GMT
how many blankets does baby need