Everything you need to know—without the overwhelm.
When you're preparing for a baby—whether it's your own or someone you love—it's easy to get swept up in all the shopping lists, registries, and online recommendations. One question we hear often at SwaddleAn is: “How many baby blankets do I actually need?” And we get it—between swaddles, throws, sleep sacks, and quilted layers, it can feel like a lot to figure out.
But the truth is, you don’t need dozens of blankets. You just need the right ones—for the right moments.
What is your blanket purpose?
Not all baby blankets are used the same way. A swaddle blanket serves a different purpose than a wearable sleep sack. A lightweight bamboo blanket is different from a cozy knit meant for nursery styling. That’s why the first step is to consider how you’ll actually use your baby blankets: for swaddling, stroller walks, safe sleep, cuddles, or travel. And if you’re shopping as a friend looking for a thoughtful baby gift, you’ll also want to think about which ones feel gift-worthy.
👉 Read more: 6 Different Types of Baby Blankets and Their Uses
Learn the difference between swaddles, bamboo layers, knitwear, fleece, and sleep sacks—so you can choose based on purpose.
Recommended Blanket Quantities
Most families find that 6 to 10 baby blankets is the sweet spot. This gives you enough to rotate between cleanings, without overflowing the nursery drawers. Here’s a general guide:
- Swaddle blankets / Receiving Blankets (3–4): You’ll use these the most in the newborn stage—for swaddling, burping, laying under baby for tummy time, or as a light layer in the car seat or stroller.
- Bamboo baby blankets (1–2): These are breathable, soft, and compact—perfect for travel, on-the-go naps, or when you need just a little warmth. With a TOG rating of 1.0 and generous size (like SwaddleAn's 33x33"), they work wonderfully for cooler days and don’t take up much space.
- Knitwear blankets (1–2): Often used for layering during naps or for nursery decor, these cotton knit blankets are cozy, photo-worthy, and ideal for gifting. SwaddleAn’s knit blankets are made in-house using Japanese Shima Seiki technology to ensure softness and durability.
- Wearable blankets or sleep sacks (2–3): These are a safe sleep essential, especially once your baby starts rolling and can’t be swaddled anymore. They replace loose bedding in the crib, giving your little one a secure night’s rest.
Considerations for Blanket Quantity
While having the right number of blankets is helpful, what matters even more is the quality. Your baby’s skin is sensitive, and not all materials are created equal. At SwaddleAn, we recommend choosing natural, breathable fabrics like bamboo rayon and 100% cotton. Bamboo, in particular, is thermo-regulating, moisture-wicking, and incredibly soft—making it one of the best choices for both comfort and skin safety.
We’ve also carefully designed our embroidered blankets with a protective backing layer, so the stitching never scratches or irritates your baby’s skin. These small design decisions matter. Because when it comes to your baby’s comfort, every detail counts.
👉 Also check out: How to Choose the Right Size Baby Blanket
This guide breaks down baby blanket sizes by type, use case, and age—no guesswork needed.
Blankets for Gifting? Why not?
Looking for the perfect baby shower gift or something special to welcome a new baby into the world? A personalized baby blanket is always a good idea. Whether it’s a super soft bamboo baby blanket embroidered with the baby’s name or a cozy heirloom knit blanket with delicate hand-stitching, a personalized touch makes your gift feel extra meaningful.
It’s not just cute—it’s useful, unique, and something the family will actually use (and love). Best of all, it becomes a keepsake they’ll hold onto long after their little one has outgrown it. At SwaddleAn, we offer personalized baby blankets with your choice of over 30 embroidery thread colors and a curated selection of beautiful fonts to match any style—classic, modern, or playful.
If you’re not sure what to get, go with personalization. It turns any baby gift into a memory.
Final Thoughts
So how many baby blankets do you need? Enough to stay clean, comfortable, and covered—but not so many that you feel overwhelmed. Focus on variety (a mix of swaddles, wearable, and layered styles), choose high-quality materials like bamboo and cotton, and don’t underestimate the joy of a personalized gift—whether for yourself or someone you love.
At SwaddleAn, every blanket we make is designed to bring peace, comfort, and calm into your baby’s world—and your parenting journey.