Wool Blanket Guide: Merino vs Lambswool, Warmth, Itchiness, Washing and Moth Protection

A wool blanket is one of the oldest and best ways to stay warm. Wool traps air, holds heat when it is cold, breathes when it is warm and resists odors. A good wool blanket lasts for decades. A bad one is scratchy, shrinks in the wash or gets eaten by moths. Knowing the differences between wool types, how to read the weight, how to wash and how to store saves you from disappointment.

This article is part of our bedding guide, where you can compare related options.

A wool blanket is a blanket woven or knitted from sheep’s wool (or blends with other fibers). It can be a thick bed blanket, a throw for the couch, a travel wrap or a classic camp blanket. This guide explains the main wool types, how warmth and weight work, what makes wool itchy, how to wash and store wool and keep moths away and how to choose. Always follow the care label on your blanket.

Comfortable stack of warm, patterned wool blankets. Perfect for cozy spaces

Types of Wool

Merino: the softest common option. Merino fibers are fine, so they feel smoother against skin. Retailers say it costs more than blended or coarser wools. Merino is described as regulating temperature in both directions, which makes it better for year-round use than lambswool. Lambswool: wool from a sheep’s first shearing, at about seven months. It is softer than ordinary wool but a bit coarser than merino. Regular (coarser) wool: traditional camp blankets and military blankets. Warm and tough, but more scratchy. Cashmere-wool blends: a middle ground on softness, warmth, price and durability. Pure cashmere is more fragile. Alpaca and mohair blends: other animal fibers, sometimes blended with wool. Washable (easy-care) wool: treated so you can machine wash. Pendleton’s Easy Care Eco-Wise line is machine washable and tumble-dryable, and it often softens after the first wash.

Type	Softness	Notes
Merino	Softest	Higher cost, temperature regulating
Lambswool	Soft	Slightly coarser than merino
Regular wool	More scratchy	Tough, traditional
Blends	Varies	Balance of price and softness

Warmth and Weight (GSM)

Wool insulates well, so a light blanket can still be warm. Weight in grams per square meter (GSM) is the most useful number for comparing warmth. A higher GSM means a thicker, warmer blanket.

General guidance (not from the sources, so verify): light (under about 300 GSM). Summer or layering; medium (about 300 to 500 GSM). Three-season use; heavy (500 GSM and above). Winter.

Many wool blankets do not list GSM, so use the weight in pounds and the thickness of the weave as clues. A throw for the couch can be lighter than a bed blanket.

Itchiness

Some scratchiness is normal for wool, but it depends on fiber thickness.

Fine fibers (merino) feel smoother. Thicker fibers feel prickly. A cotton or satin binding at the edges helps. A cover helps. Put a duvet cover or a sheet between the blanket and your skin. See the down comforter and duvet guides. Look for a blanket you can comfortably rest under for long periods. Test the feel against your neck or forearm in the store. Choose merino or lambswool if the blanket will touch skin, such as a lap or shoulder throw.

If you have wool allergies or sensitive skin, test a small piece or ask your doctor.

Washing and Care

Care varies, so follow the label.

Traditional Pendleton blankets are labeled dry-clean only, since washing can shrink them. Easy-care wool blankets can be machine washed. Hot water, tumble drying and wringing are the most common ways people damage wool blankets.

General tips for washable wool:

Check the care label.
Use cold or lukewarm water on a gentle or wool cycle.
Use a wool-safe detergent.
Do not wring or twist.
Lay flat to dry, away from direct heat.
Reshape while damp.

Airing the blanket outside in shade between uses keeps it fresh. Wool resists odors and does not need frequent washing. Spot clean spills right away with cool water.

Moths

Clothes moth larvae, not adults, are what eat wool. Moths prefer dark, undisturbed storage.

Clean the blanket before storing. Soiled wool attracts moths. Store in a sealed cotton or zippered bag (not plastic if the blanket is damp). Air and shake the blanket occasionally. Use cedar blocks or lavender, but remember cedar and chemical repellents deter moths but don’t fully protect the blanket. Check stored blankets every few months. Keep closets clean and vacuum corners. Freeze or have a professional treat an infested blanket.

Moths are a risk for any natural fiber, so careful storage matters.

Sizes and Uses

Throw (about 50 by 60 inches). For the couch. See the couch table and accent chairs guides for living room ideas. Twin, full, queen, king. Bed sizes. See the full vs queen and twin vs twin XL guides. Travel and stadium blankets. Camp and emergency blankets. Baby blankets. Choose soft, tested wool and follow safe sleep guidance from your pediatrician.

Layering on a Bed

Place the wool blanket over your sheets, under a duvet or comforter, or on top. Use a duvet cover to protect the blanket and prevent itch. Combine with breathable sheets. See the best cooling sheets guide. In summer, use a light wool blanket instead of a heavy comforter.

What are the main strengths and weaknesses?

On the plus side: warm and breathable; long-lasting; naturally odor resistant; temperature regulating (merino); natural and renewable. On the downside: can be itchy; some need dry cleaning; moths; can shrink if washed wrongly; higher cost.

How to Choose a Wool Blanket

Decide the use: bed, couch, travel. Choose a wool type: merino, lambswool or blend. Check GSM or weight. Check softness against skin. Check the care label: washable or dry clean. Check the size. Check the weave and binding. Plan storage against moths. Check the maker’s reputation and warranty. Read reviews for itchiness and shrinkage.

What mistakes should you avoid?

A few common mistakes are worth avoiding: washing in hot water or tumble drying; storing soiled wool; buying coarse wool for skin contact; ignoring the weight; using plastic bags that trap moisture; expecting wool to be soft like cotton.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between merino and lambswool?

Merino is finer and softer. Lambswool comes from the first shearing and is softer than ordinary wool but slightly coarser than merino.

Are wool blankets itchy?

Some scratchiness is normal. Fine merino is smoother. Use a cover if needed.

Can I wash a wool blanket?

Some are machine washable. Many traditional ones are dry-clean only. Follow the label.

How do I keep moths away?

Clean the blanket, store it in a sealed bag, check it regularly and use deterrents like cedar, knowing they do not fully protect.

What does GSM mean?

Grams per square meter, a measure of fabric weight. Higher is warmer.

Are wool blankets good in summer?

A light wool blanket can regulate temperature, but heavy ones are too warm.

Conclusion

A wool blanket gives warmth that lasts for decades when you choose the right type and care for it properly. Choose merino or lambswool for softness, check the weight, follow the care label and store it safely against moths.

Protect it with a cover and air it often. With a little care, a wool blanket is a lifetime companion on cold nights.