If you are unsure what the best blanket for any given situation might be, consider all the uses of a throw. Throws are so useful because they are often particularly large, but usually very easy to clean. They can be used as blankets for warmth and double up as rugs for sitting on. Here are a just a few uses for throw blankets. 

Transform the look of an old sofa with the use of a throw blanket. If a sofa's upholstery is torn or tattered, repairing it can be costly and time consuming. However, a large throw can be used to cover the entire sofa and can be easily tucked under the cushions to keep the blanket from slipping. A faux-fur blanket is particularly suited to this purpose, as it adds a great aesthetic, but also makes the sofa really cosy and comfortable - great for winter nights inside watching a movie.

Also perfect in winter, a throw can help to illuminate drafts at bed time. Everyone feels the pinch of heating and gas bills, but at the same time it's horrible to be too cold whilst sleeping. Tucking a fleece throw in at the foot of a bed can really help to illuminate drafts. By keeping the feet warm, the entire body stays warm. Or, if it becomes chilly in the night, simply pull the blanket up from the foot of the bed for an easy extra layer. 

This type of blanket also makes an ideal gift for an elderly relative, for whom staying warm is essential. Warm, comfortable, but light weight and easy to wash, a fleece throw is the perfect gift for anyone with mobility problems, who needs to keep warm.

Many types of throws are fantastic for camping trips. Firstly, they provide an extra layer of warmth over a sleeping bag, but also can double up during the day as a picnic blanket. Blankets made from polyester fleece are perfect, because they are lightweight, roll up small, will dry quickly, and will shed dust, dirt and sand with a shake. Unlike traditional rugs, a fleece throw will not hold sand from the beach for weeks and weeks.

Another practical and useful use for throws is to protect car seats from mess caused by pets. If it is necessary to transport a dog, for example in the back of a small family car, simply put the throw down first. Just like that, the car seats will be protected not only from hair, but from any mud and muck. A simple woven throw is best for this, since they are inexpensive, fold down very small, and can be washed in the washing machine. 

So, as you can clearly see, throw blankets have more uses than might immediately meet the eye. They also come in a wide range of materials and colours, to suit their purpose even better. Embroidered throws can make a lovely personal gift or as professional looking company gifts.