If you’ve never knit a baby blanket before, you might find yourself overwhelmed by the various baby blanket sizes. From my research, I found nine different types of blankets. You read that right. Nine. Most of these have names that vary by region or style.
No doubt, it can get a little confusing.
Today, though, I’m going to simplify the various types of baby blankets for you.
I’ll discuss the different blanket sizes, give dimensions for each in inches and centimeters, and even provide a brief explanation of each type. Finally, I’ll finish off with a handy cheat sheet that you can pin for easy reference.
Before we get started, though, let’s talk a minute about your blanket size standards.
* Get I Love This Cotton! yarn in Mint for your knitting project.
* Get this adorable Baby Sloth Plush toy for baby.
Average Baby Blanket Sizes
Any internet search for baby blanket sizes will show there are lots of irregularities for each type. The primary reason seems to originate from blankets made by hand vs. commercially made blankets.
With commercially made items, there is often a common blanket size standard. This is, chiefly, due to control over the cutting of fabric and sewing the blanket together.
When it comes to hand knitting though, there are many factors involved that affect final size. These would be: tension; fiber and knitting needle materials; and knitting style. Alas, I'm talking about that ever discussed topic of gauge in knitting.
But gauge isn’t always so critical in baby blanket sizes. Still, I digress.
What I mean to say is: when it comes to hand knit blankets, it is difficult to find a standard blanket size. You see, aside from gauge, the average baby blanket size will vary depending on whether it is hand knit, crochet, or sewn.
Baby blanket sizes will also vary on how the blanket will be used. Some of the most common uses are to:
- Protect from dirty surfaces.
- Provide warmth.
- Protect from the elements.
- Give comfort.
Another common use for a hand knit blanket is to serve as a coverlet for baby. What’s a coverlet, you ask? I’m glad you asked.
What is a Coverlet?
Think of your average child-size bedspread. A coverlet, in comparison, is smaller and lighter than this.
As the name suggests, a coverlet’s purpose is to cover the baby, not drape the bed. This is why, when it comes to knitted baby blankets, there is so much size variation.
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As we go through the different sizes, I’ll include mattress size dimensions (where found) along with blanket sizes. This will help you mentally visualize the differences and dimensions.
Keep in mind, the measurements given for these types of blankets are merely suggestions. There is no hard or fast rule saying you have to knit a baby blanket of a certain size. You are the boss of you and may do whatever your heart desires.
Okay, on with the baby blanket show. Working from smallest to largest, we begin with the lovey blanket.
Lovey Blanket
When a child is born, one of the first things given to the baby is a soft toy or blanket. This act of generosity has deeper subconscious meaning than you may have realized.
Coming into this world is daring and bold, and one wants to soothe and comfort the baby. This is what the lovey blanket is all about.
What is a Lovey?
A baby lovey is a blanket that an infant or child clings to, and returns to, for comfort.
Commonly made with a natural fiber like cotton, a lovey blanket is small and light. About the size of a square knitted dishcloth, a lovey is a great size for newborns or infants.
Here's an example of a simple lovey blanket in stockinette stitch. Knit with 100 percent cotton yarn, it's oh so soft and machine washable.
I love the interesting color pooling of the yarn, don't you?
Easy Lovey Blanket Pattern
Want to make your own lovey blanket like the one shown here? Here's a list of the knitting supplies I used, along with the knitting pattern instructions.
You'll need to know:
- How to Make a Slip Knot
- The Long Tail Cast On
- Stockinette Stitch (knit one row, purl one row)
- How to Slip a Stitch
- How to Bind Off
You'll need the following knitting supplies:
- ChiaoGoo Circular Needles, U.S. Size 7 (4.5 mm), 24" length
- Hobby Lobby's I Love This Cotton yarn in Aqua Ombre. It's 100% cotton, worsted weight yarn, 153 yards/140 meters, 3oz.
- 2 Stitch markers to mark border edges (optional).
- Metal ruler for correct measurement.
Lovey Blanket Pattern
Cast On 52 stitches with Size 7 (4.5 mm) circular needles.
Garter Stitch Border 1:
Slipping 1st stitch (st) of each row, knit 10 rows in garter stitch.
Pattern:
Row 1: Slip 1st st, knit across row.
Row 2: Slip 1st st, purl across to last 6 stitches, knit 6.
* Repeat rows 1 & 2 until piece measures 9.25"
Garter Stitch Border 2:
Slipping 1st st of each row, knit 9 rows in garter stitch.
Bind off on 10th row.
Note: When slipping first stitch of each row, you'll need to move yarn to the back before working next stitch.
How Big is a Lovey Blanket?
A knit lovey is usually about 10 inches to 12 inches square. In centimeters, it's about 25 cm to 30 cm square.
Lovey Blanket Sizes in inches / centimeters:
10” X 10" / 25 cm X 25 cm
12” X 12” / 30 cm X 30 cm
While a lovey doesn’t fall under the coverlet statute, the next item does. Now, let’s talk about Bassinet Blankets.
Bassinet Blanket
A bassinet is a small bed designed for babies from birth to about four months of age. Also called a cradle bed, it is often used to rock a baby to sleep. While they are not as common these days, they still exist so I’ve included it here.
Following are the dimensions for a bassinet mattress and a knitted bassinet blanket.
Bassinet Mattress Size in inches / centimeters:
15" X 30" / 38 cm X 76 cm
Bassinet Blanket Size in inches/ centimeters:
13” X 28” / 33 cm X 71 cm
Security Blanket
Whenever I hear the words security blanket, Linus from Charlie Brown always comes to mind. If you’ve ever watched the cartoon, you probably remember Linus carrying around his own blanket.
Like loveys, a security blanket also brings comfort to little ones. The difference between the two types of blankets is size. In this instance, a security blanket is larger than a baby lovey. Below are the dimensions.
Security Blanket Size in inches/ centimeters:
14” X 17” / 36 cm X 43 cm
Here's an example of a security blanket I knit up in 100% cotton yarn.
Love this pattern? You can learn more about the Eenie Meenie Baby Blanket here. It includes written instructions for a security blanket, stroller blanket, and washcloth.
* Get I Love This Cotton! yarn in Mint for your knitting project.
* Get this Baby Gund Winky Lamb for your baby.
Before we move on to the next type of blanket, I wanted to call your attention to this great charity I found.
Have you heard about Project Linus?
Project Linus is a national, non-profit organization I discovered while researching this post. At the heart of their mission is their desire to:
“Provide love, a sense of security, warmth and comfort to children who are seriously ill, traumatized, or otherwise in need through the gifts of new, handmade blankets and afghans, lovingly created by volunteer “blanketeers.”
- ProjectLinus.org
Whether you’re a knitter, crocheter, or quilter, you can help. Click on the following links to learn more about Project Linus blankets:
Next, we move on to discussing preemies and preemie blankets.
Preemie Blanket
This type of blanket is designed for preemies (prematurely born babies). Preemie babies usually weigh less than seven pounds and can be small enough to fit in the palm of your hand.
Here's an example of a preemie blanket knitting pattern I made called the Paseo Blanket. You can find the pattern link below.
* Get Paseo Blanket knitting pattern.
* Get I Love This Cotton! yarn in Aspyn for your knitting project.
All across the country, Neonatal Intensive Care Units (NICUs) have a need for preemie blankets.
Here’s another great charity called Knots of Love. Created with just preemies in mind, your blanket donation could help foster the attachment between mother and child. Of course, preemie blankets also provide a reminder of love and comfort.
Below you’ll find the dimensions for a preemie size blanket.
Preemie Blanket Size in inches/ centimeters:
18" X 24" / 46 cm X 61 cm
If you’d like to knit a blanket for this charity, be sure to check out Knots of Love approved yarn list before you start knitting.
Car Seat Blanket
The next size of baby blanket is a car seat blanket cover. This blanket is not much larger than a preemie blanket so you could easily choose to knit this size instead.
Again, this blanket size is intended to serve as a coverlet. In this case, it would cover the car seat and baby.
Car Seat Blanket in inches / centimeters:
20” X 24” / 51 cm X 61 cm
Stroller Blanket / Pram Blanket
While this blanket type carries two different names, they’re the same thing. It’s just a matter of regional distinctions.
In the U.S., it’s considered a stroller blanket. The British would call this blanket size a pram blanket.
I've heard others simply refer to this blanket type as a baby blanket. You can imagine how confusing this is when you’re trying to find a specific knitting pattern size to knit.
For the sake of clarity, I’ve stuck to the stroller blanket and pram blanket names. I hope this helps you, too.
* Get I Love This Cotton! yarn in Pale Denim.
What is a Typical Blanket Size?
Of all the baby blanket sizes, the stroller blanket is the most commonly knit. This means the stroller blanket is the average size of a baby blanket.
Because it’s the average baby blanket size, it has the potential to be more than just a stroller blanket cover. It could be a burp cloth, changing pad, or textured snuggle for the child. Later, when the child is a little older, it’s a great size to wear as a cape and become a superhero!
While it's hard to tell from the above picture, this hand knit blanket is stroller size. The picture below shows a copy of the same knitting pattern modified with a slip stitch edge.
This baby blanket size knit was crafted with Hobby Lobby’s I Love This Cotton Yarn in Pale Denim and Buttercup, respectively.
* Get I Love This Cotton! yarn in Buttercup.
Baby Stroller Blanket / Pram Blanket in inches / centimeters:
30” X 35” / 76 cm X 89 cm
Types of Yarn for Baby Blankets
Here's a quick digression.
The stroller blanket is probably my favorite baby blanket size to knit. It sort of has the Goldilocks effect for me in terms of size. Just right.
When I knit baby blankets, I mostly use cotton yarn. Why? Well, this is done more out of a desire to use up what’s in my yarn stash.
The best yarns for baby blankets are made from natural fibers, though. Wool or cotton tend to be fuss-free and gentle for baby. Acrylic is also easy to care for but it’s not a natural fiber. Ultimately, you want to:
- use something soft and gentle.
- choose a fiber that can be machine-washed.
- save time and work with what you have.
The above image is just a small sample of my extensive cotton yarn stash. But I digress (again). The next blanket type we'll discuss is the receiving blanket.
Receiving Blanket
Not only are receiving blankets customary, they’re also a staple in any nursery. Often made from a soft material like cotton, they’re used for just about everything. You can never have too many on hand.
To keep it lightweight, consider knitting one in fingering weight or sport weight yarn. You can learn more about yarn weights here.
Receiving Blanket Sizes in inches / centimeters:
36" X 36" / 91 cm X 91 cm
40" X 40" / 102 cm X 102 cm
Toddler Blanket / Crib Blanket
Unlike previous blankets which are designed to serve as a coverlet, a toddler blanket is different. When knitting a toddler blanket, also known as a crib blanket, the size is more dependent on age.
In case you didn’t know, the average age of a toddler ranges from 12 months to 36 months (1 to 3 years old). What all this means is: you’ll need to knit a larger blanket. This is so the crib blanket will fit the bed, not just cover the child. Logic!
Below are the dimensions for a toddler mattress size and a toddler blanket.
Toddler Mattress Size:
28” X 52” / 71 cm X 140 cm
Toddler Blanket / Crib Blanket Sizes in inches / centimeters:
40" x 60" / 102 cm x 152 cm
Swaddle Blanket
Finally, we’ve come to the last type of baby blanket.
While the swaddle blanket is the largest one, it’s intended for your baby in its earliest stages. Let’s talk a little about what a newborn swaddle blanket is.
What is a Swaddle Blanket?
When I think of a swaddle blanket, I am reminded of a star, in more ways than one.
When it comes to swaddling, it’s like wrapping your baby in the arms of a star. For me, this is the easiest way to visualize what a knit swaddle blanket looks like.
As shown in the image below, a baby swaddle blanket is a large knit square. When swaddling your baby, you turn the blanket 45 degrees to wrap your baby more easily.
Newborn swaddle blankets will keep your baby warm, safe, and wrapped in knitted love.
Swaddle Blanket Sizes in inches / centimeters:
45” x 45" / 114 cm x 114 cm
48” x 48” / 122 cm x 122 cm
No time to knit a swaddle blanket? You can cut and make this diy swaddle blanket with fabric in no time.
Now that you’ve learned about the different blanket types and blanket sizes, you may still have one lingering question.
How Big Should a Baby Blanket Be?
The true answer to this question depends on the amount of time, effort, and cost you want to put into knitting one. Along with this, there are several things to consider. Let’s discuss.
Ideally, you want to knit a baby blanket that:
- can grow with the child.
- isn't unreasonably large.
- is easily launderable.
- is gentle enough for the baby's sensitive skin.
- will be cherished, loved, and adored.
When it comes to choosing the perfect size, there’s no right or wrong answer. Whether you are knitting from a pattern or writing your own pattern, your knitted blanket will be a gift from your heart. In the end, that’s what counts the most.
Ok, I know you’ve got your knitting tools ready and are eager to start. Before going on a wild goose chase, check out these easy baby blanket knitting patterns. Seriously, they’re easy enough for beginners. I’ve vetted them myself.
You'll need to know how to read a knitting pattern and a few other easy techniques but you can knit them all!
Not ready to knit a baby blanket? Check out these easy knit and purl stitch patterns for beginners. Seriously easy.
And, as promised, here is a handy, pinnable cheat sheet to all the baby blanket sizes. This infographic has all nine types, various sizes, and shows inches and centimeters. Pin away!
We hope this guide to baby blanket sizes has taken the confusion out of your search.
Did you find it helpful? Let us know. I'd love to hear from you!
Loved the differs explanations of baby blankets! It’s just what I needed as a beginner!
Thanks so much!
That's great! Thanks so much for letting me know. I appreciate it.
Where can I find the pattern? It’s great looking. Thanks
Thanks so much, Joyce. I am working on the pattern now and hope to have it up very soon. Stay tuned!
Your explanation of sizes is very helpful. However, I am having trouble finding a pattern for a 40 X 60 toddler blanket. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks much! Laurie
Hi Laurie! Unfortunately, I've yet to find an easy method for searching for blanket patterns by size. I'd start with finding a pattern you like. That's usually the hard part. Then, read through the pattern instructions. In most cases, you can add more pattern repeats for width and height. I recommend knitting a gauge swatch to help you determine how many pattern repeats you'll need for width/height, and how much extra yarn you'll need for your modifications. I hope this helps.
This was perfect !! I’m starting a small knitting business and one of my customers would like a blanket. I’ve never finished one so I want it it be close to perfect and this page put my mind at ease. I’m super excited to start.
I'm so glad I could put your mind at ease. Thanks for taking the time to drop me a note. I really appreciate it. Best of luck on your new endeavor!
Thanks so much for this information! Could you share the pattern for the blanket pictured? The one with the sloth?
You're most welcome! As for the pattern, I am currently working up the pattern for different sizes. I will definitely share it soon. Thanks so much for your interest!
Hi Christina,
Thank you for all the information on all the different sizing. I want to make the stroller blanket 30 x 35. I am going to try to adjust a pattern I love that requires a bulky yarn 50 needle. I want to make it with the Pakucho Organic Cotton 8 skeins/size 11 needles or what other size may work. the pattern is in multiples of 6 plus 9. the 50 needle cast on 45.
Do you think you can help me???
Keep me posted on new things.
Best,
Linda
Hi Linda! I recommend that you knit a gauge swatch with the different needle sizes to see what will work best. You can find more info on how to knit a swatch here.
From a quick search, it looks like Pakucho Organic Cotton comes in different yarn weights so I'm not sure if you're still planning to use a bulky yarn. Swatching will always give you more concrete information so I'd start there with the yarn you intend to use and the needles you'd like to use. Then adjust until you're satisfied with the look and feel and size. Best of luck to you!
where will i find a pattern for blue brick baby blanket
Hmmm. I'm not sure. Are you sure that's the correct name? I did a search and couldn't find anything. It sounds familiar but can't place my finger on it. Can you remember any of the details about it? Do you have an idea where you saw it/heard about it?
Hi,
I love your website. How can I get the pattern for the lovey blanket, featured on the website? It looks "easy" which is my skill level.
Patty
Thank you so much, Patty! I appreciate your comments...and the laugh. I can't locate my notes on this but I know I have the lovey here somewhere. Once I find it I'll update the site (and you) when I have the details. And yes, as I recall, it is easy. Just simple garter stitch borders and stockinette stitch. I'll be in touch very soon.
Do you have a link to the pattern for the mint green security blanket, with the stuffed lamb on top, that looks like squares? You also show a stroller blanket in blue and another blanket in yellow. Are they all the same pattern? It is a lovely blanket and I would like to find the link for the pattern.
Thank you.
Hi Terri! Thank you so much for your interest! Believe it or not, I am currently working on writing the pattern up in various sizes. I've been busy swatching and knitting but I'm in the final stages and will post it very soon. Stay tuned!
Hi! Thank you so much for this post, it's so clear, just what I needed.
I have a question about the weight of the blanket. I'm making a 85 x 100 cm baby blanket and I'm using doble baby yarn, but I'm worried it will be too heavy. I think it will have 600 gr by the end. Is it too much?
I really appreciate your help.
Thank you
I'm so happy to hear that, Natalia! I'm glad you asked that question as it's an important one to consider. As far as your blanket goes, I don't think that will be too heavy. I have made several cotton baby blankets and each has weighed a little over a pound - about 595 grams - so I think yours will be alright. I hope this helps you.
Searching for the right size baby blanket I am so thankful to you for spelling it all out clearly! I am using a simple Lion Brand pattern which mimics the Old Fashioned dishcloth. It’s about 30” square. This is my second one as I have already gifted the first! I think this size will be very versatile for Mommy’s use! Thanks Again!
Hi Janie! Thank you so much for the lovely comment and kind words. I'm glad you found my post on Baby Blanket Sizes helpful. You absolutely made my day! Cheers!
Hello Christina - I found your chart for various size baby blankets very useful.
Would very much like the pattern identified as:
Knit Security Blanket in 100 Cotton Yarn, Mint
Hi Rosemarie! Thank you for your interest in this pattern. I am currently typing up the pattern and hope to have it up by next week at the latest. Would you like me to notify you when it's available? If so, email me at info@knitfarious.com so I won't forget. Thanks!
Christina, I have a question that I am unable to find an answer for. I hope that you may have the answer for me.
Q: I have a sample swatch that I like the pattern and want to make a baby blanket from it. How do I add up how many stitches I need to make this swatch into a baby blanket. The pattern of one is 28 rows repeat cast on multiple of 16+1+2 edge stitch
Hi Mary. Great question! First, you'll need to measure your gauge swatch and count the number of stitches within a 4" or 5" section. Then you'll need to put your math skills to the test.
This is a quick and easy way to figure out the dimensions. Let's use this as an example:
Say you measure your swatch and get 16 stitches per 4 inches. You want your blanket to be 32 inches wide, so you'll need to multiply 4 x 8 = 32".
Then you'll multiply 16sts (4 inches) X 8 to determine how many stitches you need to acquire the 32". Then you do the same thing for height.
You'll also have to make a few adjustments based on the pattern cast on requirements, edge stitches, and size you want, etc., but just do the math. Since I'm a visual learner, I like to diagram it as well, just to make sure my math is right. Do whatever works for you.
I hope this gets you going in the right direction. Thanks for writing in!
Thank you so much, I will try that, I hate math but it seems simple enough.
You're very welcome. I'm with you on the math part, but yes, it's simple enough to do. Best of luck! Let me know how it goes! ~ Christina
Hi Christina,
I have found a pattern to make a 105x140cm baby blanket.
It says to cast on 109 stitches with 6mm kneedles using light bulky wool.
I was thinking I would need a lot more stitches- around 200 for this blanket width.
Can you please help with this?
Thank you, Donna
Hi Donna! Great question. Is the blanket knit with larger needles or any lace or eyelets or anything which might account for the size difference/stitch difference? That'd be my first guess. If not, then the best way to figure out what size you'd end up with is to knit a gauge swatch. If you haven't done that yet, I'd start there. It'll save you a lot of disappointment later. Let me know how it goes. Luck!
Hi Christina,
Thank you for your reply. It is knitted with 6mm/10 US circular needles, and that I would need 650m of light bulky wool (12 ply). The finished measurements are 105x140cm.
I have just finished knitting a pram blanket. It was 65x70cm finished measurements - I cast on 128 stitches and used 4mm needles and 8 ply wool.
Thanks Christina
Thank you for this detailed and valuable post - JUST what I needed!
You're very welcome! Thanks for taking the time to drop me a note. I really appreciate it!
Super helpful! thank you.
I'm trying to transcribe a pattern for an infant blanket to toddler size on request and you've given me the way to do it.
Awesome! So glad to hear it! Thanks for taking the time to let me know.
I need to find a good baby shower gift for my cousin, because she just had her first child. It makes sense that I would want to get one that's a good size. I can see that a blanket that's too big could be annoying to use.
Check out the hand-knitted baby blankets at Sheep Dreamzzz. They are made by a small group of women in Nicaragua who knit to feed their families, and the non-profit that runs this gives the lady knitters all of the profits. The quality of the knitting superb and it's a great way to get a baby gift and help people at the same time.
Thank you, Steve, for sharing this info! The blankets look great!
Sizing suggestion is helpful
Thank you
I'm glad you found it helpful, Nancy. Thank you so much for letting me know. I appreciate it.