15 Best Yarns For Baby Blankets (Crochet + Knit)

This blog post will show you the 15 Best Yarns For Baby Blankets (Crochet + Knit).

Knitting or crocheting a baby blanket is perfect for beginners and experienced makers! 

It is a great way to showcase your skills and makes for a thoughtful and heartfelt gift for a new mom and her little bundle of joy.  

That will become a heirloom in the family.

So why not see what beautiful masterpiece you can create?

How To Choose The Perfect Yarn For Your Crochet Baby Blanket – A Guide

What weight yarn is best for crochet blankets?

The best weight yarn for a crochet blanket depends on your preferences, the desired drape, and the type of blanket you want to make.

Here are some common yarn weights used for crochet blankets:

1. Worsted Weight (Medium-4): This is a popular choice for blankets because it balances warmth and versatility. Worsted weight yarn is widely available, and you can find a variety of colors and fibers in this weight.
2. Bulky Weight (Chunky-5) or Super Bulky (Super Chunky-6): These yarns work up quickly, making them suitable for cozy and warm blankets. They can add a chunky and textured look to your project.
3. Sport Weight (Light-3) or DK (Light-4): These lighter weight yarns can create more delicate and lightweight blankets. They are suitable for projects where you want a finer and drapey fabric.
4. Fingering Weight (Super Fine-1) with multiple strands: If you like a lightweight and delicate blanket, you can use fingering weight yarn held double or triple to achieve the desired thickness.

When choosing the weight of yarn, consider the pattern you plan to use, the stitch pattern, and the recipient’s preferences. 

Remember that using a larger or smaller hook with the same yarn can also affect the final drape and appearance of the blanket. 

• Learn everything about the different yarn weights here – Yarn Weight Guide {+ Conversion Chart}
• Learn how to read a yarn label here – How To Read A Yarn Label (Step By Step) 

How many yards of yarn do I need to crochet a baby blanket?

The yardage needed for a baby blanket can vary depending on the blanket’s dimensions, the chosen yarn weight, the stitch pattern, and your individual tension.

However, I can provide a rough estimate based on a standard size for a baby blanket, which is often around 30 inches by 36 inches (76 cm by 91 cm).

For a baby blanket of approximately this size, you might need the following approximate yardage:

• Fingering Weight Yarn: 1,200 to 1,400 yards
• Sport Weight Yarn: 1,000 to 1,200 yards
• DK Weight Yarn:  800 to 1,000 yards
• Worsted Weight Yarn: 800 to 1,000 yards
• Bulky Weight Yarn: 600 to 800 yards
• Super Bulky Weight Yarn: 400 to 600 yards

If you’re following a specific pattern, it should provide guidance on the required yardage for the size you’re making. 

To learn everything about the different blanket sizes and how much yarn you need for each one, check out this post – Crochet Blanket Sizes And How Much Yarn (+ Chart) 

What is the safest yarn to use for babies?

Safety, softness, and ease of care are important considerations when choosing yarn for baby items.

Here are some popular choices for safe yarn options for baby projects:

1. Acrylic Yarn: Acrylic yarn is a popular choice for baby items because it’s generally hypoallergenic, soft, and easy to care for. It’s machine washable and doesn’t cause allergic reactions in most babies. Look for high-quality, baby-friendly acrylic yarns that are specifically labeled as soft and non-irritating.
2. Cotton Yarn: Cotton is a natural fiber that is breathable and soft, making it a good choice for baby items, especially in warmer climates. It’s also hypoallergenic and tends to be gentle on sensitive skin. Choose a soft, organic cotton yarn for the best comfort.
3. Bamboo Yarn: Bamboo yarn is another natural fiber that is soft, breathable, and eco-friendly. It has a silky texture and drapes well. Additionally, bamboo has natural antibacterial properties.
4. Merino Wool: Merino wool is known for its softness and warmth. It’s a breathable natural fiber that can help regulate body temperature. Look for superwash merino wool, which is treated to be machine washable.
5. Baby Alpaca Wool Yarn: Alpaca yarn is soft, lightweight, and hypoallergenic. Baby alpaca fiber is even softer than regular alpaca fiber, making it a luxurious choice for baby items.

When selecting yarn for baby projects, it’s essential to consider the fiber content and the care instructions.

Machine-washable yarns are practical for baby items since they likely need frequent washing.

Learn everything about the different yarn fibers here – Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers

Is 100% cotton yarn good for babies?

Yes, 100% cotton yarn is a good choice for baby items, and it’s often recommended for a few reasons:

1. Softness: Cotton yarn tends to be soft and gentle, making it suitable for a baby’s delicate skin. It doesn’t have the potential itchiness or irritation some other fibers might have.
2. Breathability: Cotton is a breathable fiber which can help regulate a baby’s body temperature. This makes it a good option for baby items in various climates, especially in warmer weather.
3. Hypoallergenic: Cotton is hypoallergenic, making it less likely to cause allergic reactions. This is important for babies who may have more sensitive skin.
4. Easy to Care for: Cotton yarn is typically machine washable and can withstand regular laundering, which is practical for baby items that may need frequent cleaning.
5. Versatility: Cotton yarn comes in various weights and colors, giving you plenty of options for creating different types of baby items, from blankets to clothing.

Remember that while 100% cotton is generally a good choice, some people find it may not be as stretchy as yarns containing elastic fibers.

This is something to consider depending on the item you’re making.

Always check the care instructions on the yarn label and consider the recipient’s needs when choosing yarn for baby projects. 

What is the best yarn to use for newborns?

When selecting yarn for newborns, consider the following factors:

• Softness: Choose a yarn that feels soft against the skin and doesn’t have any rough or scratchy texture.
• Hypoallergenic: Opt for yarn that is less likely to cause allergic reactions. Natural fibers like cotton, bamboo, and alpaca are often hypoallergenic.
• Ease of Care: Newborn items are likely to need frequent washing, so choose yarn that is easy to care for. Machine-washable yarns are convenient for busy parents.

Additionally, avoid using yarns with small parts or embellishments that could pose a choking hazard for newborns.  

What is the difference between baby yarn and regular yarn?

The main differences between baby yarn and regular yarn are often related to the fiber content, softness, and the specific needs of items intended for babies.

Here are some common distinctions:

1. Softness: Baby yarn is designed to be exceptionally soft and gentle, making it suitable for a baby’s delicate skin. It often undergoes additional processing or uses specific fibers, such as baby alpaca or fine merino wool, to achieve a soft and cuddly feel. Regular yarn may vary widely in softness, and while some regular yarns can be soft, others may have a rougher texture.
2. Fiber Content: Baby yarns often use fibers that are hypoallergenic and less likely to cause skin irritation. Common fibers include acrylic, cotton, bamboo, or blends that prioritize comfort. Regular yarns can include a broader range of fibers, including those that might be less suitable for sensitive baby skin.
3. Durability and Care: Baby yarns are often designed to be easy to care for, with many being machine washable and durable. Parents appreciate the convenience of being able to clean baby items easily. Regular yarns can vary in terms of care instructions, and some may require more delicate handling.
4. Colors and Patterns: Baby yarns often come in a range of soft, pastel colors and may include variegated or self-striping options. Regular yarns have a broader spectrum of colors and patterns, offering more diverse project choices.
5. Weight: Baby yarns are often available in finer weights such as sport, DK (double knitting), or light worsted. These weights are suitable for creating lightweight and comfortable baby garments and blankets. Regular yarns come in a wide range of weights, offering versatility for different types of projects.

It’s important to note that the terms “baby yarn” and “regular yarn” are not standardized, and different manufacturers may have their own interpretations. 

Can you use regular yarn for a baby?  

Yes, you can use regular yarn for baby projects, provided you consider certain factors to ensure the baby’s safety and comfort. 

Look for soft and gentle yarn options that won’t irritate the baby’s sensitive skin. 

Choose yarn from hypoallergenic fibers like soft acrylic, cotton, or bamboo. 

Opt for machine-washable yarns for easy care, and ensure that any dyes used are non-toxic and baby-safe. 

Be cautious with yarns containing small parts or embellishments that could pose a choking hazard, and always secure any decorative elements. 

Additionally, consider the baby’s specific needs, including allergies or sensitivities. 

While yarns labeled for babies may have certain features, many regular yarns are suitable for baby projects, making it essential to read the yarn label and use common sense when selecting yarn for baby items. 

If following a pattern, check for any yarn recommendations provided by the designer.

Crochet Blanket Patterns 

• How To Crochet A Blanket + Free Beginner Pattern
• Chunky Crochet Blanket – Super Easy Free Pattern!
• 33 Best Bernat Blanket Yarn Patterns (Free Ideas)
• Crochet Afghan Patterns
• 47+ Free Crochet Baby Blanket Patterns Using Lightweight Yarn
• 20 Temperature Blanket Patterns (The Ultimate Guide)
• 13 Free Black And White Blanket Crochet Patterns
• Simple Crochet Baby Blanket Pattern (Blanket Stitch)
• How To Crochet A Granny Square Blanket (Free Pattern)
• 23 Fall Crochet Blanket Patterns

Crochet Lessons

If you are a new maker and need help with the crochet basics, check out the crochet lessons here – Crochet Lessons {With Video Tutorials}.

There, you will find tutorial posts for all the crochet techniques a newbie needs to know.  

Including how to create a foundation chain (ch), single crochet, double crochet, and all the crochet abbreviations (in UK and US terms) a maker needs to know.  

And if you need more video tutorials, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube

Join The Handy Little Me Facebook Group to connect with more makers.