Blankets and flannel sheets are warm and cozy bedding accessories in the cold winter months. It is important to not only choose good quality covers and sheets, but to also take care of them properly, to insure that they last a long time. Here are some tips to help you choose and care of your bedding.

Flannel Sheets
To choose the best flannel sheets, look for ones that are made with heavy 100% cotton. Look for "yarn dyed" material instead of "printed" because it will hold its color longer and won't fade as quickly. To choose the best-quality flannel sheets make sure that they are tightly woven. When you hold them up to the light, you shouldn't be able to easily see through them. Another thing to remember when purchasing a flannel sheet set is to take your type of mattress into consideration. If you have an extra deep or pillow top mattress, you will need to make sure to select deep pocket flannel sheets.

The most important characteristic that is used to rate flannel sheets is fabric weight. Just like cotton bed sheets are rated based on their thread count, flannel bed sheets are assessed based on the weight of the fabric. Bed sheets that have a fabric weight of five to six ounces per yard are the best choice.

Never use hot water when washing flannel sheets. Use a gentle laundry detergent to help preserve the color of the sheets, and use liquid fabric softener or dryer sheets to keep flannel sheets comfortable and soft. Use a medium to low dryer heat setting, and remove the flannel sheets promptly from the dryer to avoid wrinkling.

Blankets
Blankets are usually chosen on the basis of factors like size and material. Fleece blankets are characterized by a brushed surface for extra warmth and softness. Cotton blankets are soft to the touch, are very breathable, and can withstand repeated washes which make them very durable. Down blankets use a 100% natural fill. Down filaments form three-dimensional clusters that trap air, making for an extremely effective insulator. Because it is breathable, it helps keep you warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

Since there is such a wide range of blankets available, caring for them differs as well. For laundering blankets, refer to the manufacturer's instructions before bringing them to the dry cleaner or throwing them in the washing machine.