Are you shopping for outdoor waterproof blankets for your emergency kit? Or do you need one on standby to keep you warm for those beach picnics? A waterproof blanket is no longer a nice-to-have item but a must-have, especially if you enjoy spending time outdoors. The good news is that you will have plenty of options in the market. However, the bad news is that shopping for the best outdoor blanket can be challenging, especially if this is your first time buying one.
This guide has everything you need to know about finding the best outdoor waterproof blanket for all forms of travel and will be durable enough.
How Do Waterproof Blankets Work?
A waterproof blanket is designed to keep you warm and dry outdoors. You can use it while camping, on a beach picnic, or in a stadium when it's cold during a game.
This type of blanket comes with a waterproof backing side to resist external moisture sources, such as rain and mildew. The inside of a waterproof blanket is soft, yet thick so that you can stay comfortable while using it.
The waterproof feature of a blanket offers versatility such that you can use it for different purposes. It can provide extra insulation when you are camping under extreme weather conditions. You can also use it for a beach picnic to relax in the sand without worrying about getting anything wet. The blanket can give you extra warmth while you are driving, if you use it as a cover for the car cushion. And you can also use it for sporting events or concerts to help you stay warm or to sit on the ground.
Waterproof blankets are one of the best innovations in modern times. Make sure you choose the best waterproof material to ensure that you can maximize its use, regardless of where you use it.
What Material is a Waterproof Blanket?
The best material for making an outdoor waterproof blanket is polyester with a polyurethane coating. This material is used on the blanket's waterproof backing side to discourage penetration of water and other forms of moisture.
Polyester is technically a waterproof fabric. This material can discourage the absorption of moisture. When woven tightly, it is difficult for water to pass through the fabric.
Polyurethane is another waterproof fabric. It is also a durable one. It is used in hospitals and outdoor products when durability is a must. PU coating on any material, such as blankets, can deliver a wide range of thickness to the product.
The combination of polyester and polyurethane fabric coating delivers optimum thickness to the blanket. It also prevents water from penetrating the fabric surface so you can stay warm even under various conditions. These types of fabric are also known for their windproof quality.
The inner fleece material is another common feature in an outdoor waterproof blanket. The polar fleece material helps to keep you warm when you wrap the blanket around your body. Combining these materials ensures that you can stay warm and dry for longer.
This material can help you stay warm and comfortable in conditions not lower than 45 degrees.
Caring for a Waterproof Blanket
The backing side of a blanket made with polyester and polyurethane coating is waterproof. Therefore, you must know the proper way to wash and care for an outdoor waterproof blanket to ensure that it will stay in good shape for longer.
The waterproof blanket is engineered with a durable coating but always read the instructions on the best way to wash it. Make sure to check whether it can be machine-washed or not. Ideally, you should wash it separately from your other clothes.
Before you wash the outdoor waterproof blanket, wipe off any debris on the coated surface. Use the lowest and most gentle setting on your wash cycle. Also, you must use mild detergent to clean it. You should never use bleach or harsh chemicals. Once you are done washing, leave the blanket to air dry on the line.
If you choose to hand-wash the blanket, use cold water and gentle detergent. Allow it to soak in the soapy water before you hand-wash it. Make sure to rinse it thoroughly. The blanket must be completely dry before you take it off the washing line, to prevent mildew and bacteria formation. Don't use warm water to wash a waterproof blanket to prevent damage.
FAQs when Buying Outdoor Waterproof Blankets
What type of weather is a waterproof blanket good for?
A waterproof blanket is versatile enough for all kinds of weather. However, it is ideal for cold and wet weather conditions. It won’t be a good choice for warm weather because you would need a blanket that has moisture-wicking properties instead.
What features to look for in an outdoor waterproof blanket?
Aside from a waterproof coating to keep you dry, choosing a durable blanket is vital so it won't get damaged easily, even if you lay it on the ground. Make sure to check for the quality of the stitching, especially on the edges, as it can maintain quality for many years.
What is the ideal size for a waterproof blanket?
It depends on your needs. Most waterproof blankets are large enough to cover at least two people. You can find blankets large enough to cover up to three to five people. You can shop for blankets according to your need or intended use.
When shopping for different-sized blankets, make sure that you consider how to carry them after use. You want something compact enough to pack and carry around after use.
What is the best way to dry waterproof blankets?
You can tumble dry a waterproof blanket but keep it on the lowest setting to avoid damage, especially to the waterproof coating. It is also recommended that you air dry your blanket to ensure that it dries completely.