With summer fast approaching, you might need to bring out the good-quality blankets perfect for the beach!
“What is a beach blanket”, you might wonder? And just what makes a good beach blanket?
There is more to beach blankets than just them being used on the beach and sand. There are things to consider about it, such as its size and fabrics.
Read on to know more about these blankets before you go on on that long-awaited vacation to the beach!
What Is A Beach Blanket?
Beach blankets, as the name implies, are specifically made to be used on the beach. These blankets are essential when it comes to vacationing.
It helps you create an area specifically for sunbathing, lounging, and picnicking.
Most beach blankets also stave off the sand. These blankets can vary and differ to suit a variety and list of circumstances.
May that be from doubling as stylish towels or creating a moisture-free barrier.
Beach blankets are usually durable and provide more comfort than towels, cloths, or sheets when sitting on the sand.
A good-quality beach blanket is waterproof, sand-proof, and extremely durable.
It should offer a large surface area and, at the same time, folds up to be conveniently travel-friendly and portable.
How Big Are Beach Blankets?
There are various sizes of beach blankets.
If you are looking for a beach blanket that can hold a large family or gathering of friends, there are large blankets that measure about 12×12 feet.
This size can hold up to 10 people.
There are, of course, smaller beach blankets that can cover 1-3 people. This size is for the use of a single person or to take little space.
What Are Good Fabrics/Materials For Beach Blankets?
One of the key things to consider in a beach blanket is the material that was used to make or construct it.
Here are a few materials that would make a perfect beach blanket.
Parachute nylon
This is probably one of the most recommended materials for beach blankets.
It contains all the features that it should have, such as being sand-proof, waterproof, and lightweight.
Furthermore, parachute nylon is an extremely durable material.
For any unusual instances like fabrics catching on fire or pet dogs tearing it up, there is no need to worry as this material is also fire-resistant and tear-resistant.
Fleece fabrics
Fleece is another main option for beach blankets.
While it is not waterproof like parachute nylon, it does offer superior comfort that the former material.
It is, however, lightweight, making it ideal for traveling.
There is always the option of combining fleece fabric with other waterproof materials. This would make the beach blanket both waterproof and comfortable to lounge on.
Polyester
There has been a bit of ongoing debate whether polyester is waterproof or not. The answer is both yes and no.
At most, polyester is a synthetic material that is usually used to make water-resistant products, like beach blankets.
An excellent way to increase the level of water resistance of polyester is by increasing the thread count.
This method reduces the size of gaps between the threads, restricting water from passing through.
Microfiber
Microfiber contains both polyester and polyamide.
The polyester offers a towel-like structure, while the polyamide assists in adding absorption and density to the blanket.
Microfiber is durable, absorbent, and soft.
How To Keep Beach Blankets Sand-Free?
One sure way is by looking for beach blankets that have materials capable of keeping sand from sticking.
Sand likes to stick on moist items, such as beach towels, so it is best to avoid fabrics that tend to moist.
Waterproofing materials or using fabric treatments are an effective means of keeping sand off the beach blanket.
Place heavy items on each corner to weigh the beach blanket down. In the case of sandy hands and feet, you can use baby powder to rub the sand off.
How To Wash A Beach Blanket?
Before washing a beach blanket, make sure to double-check the label if it has one. Usually, there are wash instructions there you can follow.
In the case of absent instructions, you can wash the beach blanket on a washing machine. Make sure to use cold water and set it on a gentle cycle.
For multi-layered beach blankets, make sure to hand wash them.
It is advisable to wash the beach blanket separately from other fabrics or items. Avoid adding any fabric softener.
These chemicals can likely destroy the technical fabric or the waterproofing capabilities of the blanket.
After it is done washing, tumble dry the blanket on low. Air drying is also an option.
How To Maintain A Beach Blanket?
Generally speaking, any blanket with more than one layer needs to be hand washed. This is because of the layers being glued together.
Putting it in a washing machine using a setting other than a gentle cycle can destroy the adhesion.
Conclusion
Summer vacation is just around the corner! With the hot season being this near, it is about time to plan the beach vacation trip of the year.
It is also the perfect time to look up what is a beach blanket, what size it should be, and what type of fabric it uses.
Settle all this now before you embark on the road towards the most-awaited vacation of the year!