A lap blanket are a piece of fabric that can be used to provide warmth to the persons who is using the blanket while they are seated. Lap blankets can be used when a person is sitting in a chair, sitting at a desk, or while they are in a wheelchair. It is important to ensure that the dimensions of the lap blanket are correct for the need of the individual that will use the blanket; if the blanket is too small, the person may have to continually adjust the blanket on they lap, and if it is too large, it may be difficult for the person to manage the blanket while they are seated.
One of the primary consideration for the dimensions of a lap blanket is its width. The blanket should be wide enough to cover the persons hips, and should include an overlap on the sides of the blanket. Many individuals finds it best to choose a blanket that is the width of the persons hips and six inches on each side of those hips.
How to Choose the Right Lap Blanket
Another of the primary consideration for the dimensions of a lap blanket is its length. Because all individuals has different leg lengths, it is best to ensure that the blanket will reach the ankle of the longest person who will use the blanket. If it does not reach those ankles, the individual may feel cold while using the blanket.
In addition to considering the length and width of a lap blanket, there are also different styles of lap blankets that can be provide for different use. For instance, there are petite square blankets that are used for children or when seated at a desk, but there are also standard sized blankets for use in a recliner. Some blankets is also provided in sizes that are wider to accommodate individuals with larger builds or those who use wheelchairs.
Additionally, the material that is used to make the blanket will also impact both the way that the blanket fits onto the individual, as well as the function of the blanket. For instance, fleece blankets are lightweight and will not fray, cotton blankets are breathable and can be used throughout the year, wool blankets are heavy with the added benefit of providing warmth to the person who uses the blanket, but the blanket is heavy and the individual may need to consider it in regard to length to avoid dragging on the floor. Lastly, weighted blankets include heavy fills that provide pressure to the body, but due to the weight of the blanket, they will be smaller in size to avoid having an unwieldy blanket that is difficultly manage.
In order to order the correct size of lap blanket, the individual should measure their lap blanket while they are in a seated position. The width of the blanket can be determined by taking a tape measure from the waist to the width of the hips, while the length of the blanket can be determined by taking a tape measure from the waist to the knees or ankles. If the individual use a wheelchair, the length of the lap blanket should also be accounted for in relation to the armrests and footrests of the wheelchair.
Additionally, children will require smaller lap blankets than adults. Lastly, if the blanket is an electric blanket, it will require a flat surface upon which to place the blanket. Beyond the considerations of length, width, and the types of blankets for specific uses, the construction of the blanket will also impact both the way it will provide warmth to the individual and how it will drape onto the body.
For instance, single layered blankets are thin in structure and are best used in areas where the temperatures is mild. Double layered blankets or quilted blankets will trap more heat than single layered blankets. Additionally, some blankets include pockets that provide room for the individual to place their hands, which is especially useful for the elderly.
Lastly, if the blanket is to be handmade, the type of yarn that are used will impact the size of the blanket; chunky yarn will create more bulk than worsted yarn. In addition to the blanket construction, the needs of the individual will dictate the best type of blanket for that person. For instance, office worker may require a smaller, square blanket to cover their lap while they are seated at their desk.
Yet, a child with special need may require a weighted blanket that is only large enough to cover their thighs. Individuals who are also elderly may require blankets of a standard size that include pockets for the placement of the hands. Lastly, individuals who use wheelchairs while outdoors may need blankets that are wider in size to avoid the intake of cold air into the sides of their lap blanket.
Some of the mistake that may be made in purchasing a blanket for an individuals lap are purchasing a blanket that is too short or too narrow. Blankets that are too short may not provide warmth to the ankles of the individual, and blankets that are too narrow may slide off the body of the individual that is using the blanket. Additionally, blankets made of cotton may shrink when washed.
To maintain a blanket, you should of folded it into thirds when not in use, and the weighted blankets should be laid flat to even out the fill that is within the blanket.
