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Comfort and Style

Multipurpose Waterproof Blankets: From Picnics to Emergency Situations

by Franck Jehanne

When you hear the term "waterproof blanket," what is the first image that comes to your mind? Perhaps a group of friends or a family on a lush green meadow, enjoying a picnic without a care for the damp ground beneath them. Or you could envision a group of hikers sheltered in the heart of a forest, safe and dry, under a large, waterproof sheet. While these instances hold true, waterproof blankets offer so much more than just these traditional uses. They can be a genuine lifesavers in many different situations, including some you may not immediately think of.

The Versatility of Waterproof Blankets

The concept of a blanket, in itself, speaks of comfort, warmth, and security. But when you add the 'waterproof' feature, it transforms this basic item into an extraordinary, multi-purpose tool that can be used in a plethora of situations.

Waterproof blankets are typically made from materials that repel water rather than absorb it. This property makes them highly resilient and useful in different scenarios, from outdoor leisure activities to emergency situations and even day-to-day uses.

When we talk about the varied uses of waterproof blankets, we're not just considering their ability to keep us dry. Other key benefits come into play. They can provide a comfortable, dry layer to sit or lie on, even in wet conditions. They can protect items from getting wet, like furniture or car seats. They can even act as temporary shelters, creating a dry, safe space in outdoor or emergency situations.

Picnics and Outdoor Activities

One of the most popular uses of waterproof blankets is for picnics and other outdoor leisure activities. Why, you might ask? Because wet ground should never be a reason to spoil your perfect outdoor experience.

blanket with waterproof backing

Waterproof blankets provide an excellent barrier between you and the damp grass, enabling you to enjoy your picnic meals or simply relax in your favourite park, regardless of the dew or recent rain. They are designed to keep you dry and comfortable, even on the wettest of surfaces. But picnics are not the only time these handy blankets shine.

Have you ever been to an open-air concert right after a downpour or a beach trip where the sand was a bit too damp for comfort? These are the situations where a waterproof blanket can save the day. It gives you a dry spot to sit or lie on, protects your belongings from getting wet, and significantly improves your overall outdoor experience.

And let's not forget about those magical nights of stargazing. A waterproof blanket keeps you dry and comfortable, allowing you to focus on the celestial show without worrying about the morning dew.

Camping and Hiking

For those who love to venture into the great outdoors, camping and hiking are often at the top of the list. Being able to immerse oneself in the beauty and tranquillity of nature is an experience like no other. But when faced with unpredictable weather or damp conditions, it's the gear you have that can make a significant difference. This is where the value of a waterproof blanket comes into the picture.

When you're out camping, a waterproof blanket can be an essential piece of equipment. It can serve as a dry, comfortable layer to sit on around the campfire or to lie on inside your tent. Even in unexpected rain showers or dewy mornings, the waterproof blanket will keep you and your gear dry, providing that extra layer of comfort and protection.

Hiking, on the other hand, might not immediately seem like an activity where a waterproof blanket would be useful, but think again. In case of sudden weather changes, a waterproof blanket can be transformed into an emergency rain shield or a makeshift shelter, keeping you dry until the weather clears up.

There are countless stories of hikers and campers who have found waterproof blankets to be a game-changer in their outdoor adventures. When the boundary between you and the elements is a thin layer of fabric, the difference between a regular blanket and a waterproof one can be substantial. Carrying one during camping and hiking trips can provide an additional safety net, one that is certainly worth the space in your backpack.

Emergency Situations

Waterproof blankets can serve as an essential component of an emergency preparedness kit. In disasters such as floods, snowstorms, or even when you're stranded in your car due to a sudden weather change, these blankets can provide warmth, shelter, and a level of comfort.

waterproof picnic blanket saves the day

Imagine being caught in a flood situation where everything around you is getting wet. A waterproof blanket can be used to protect important belongings or create a dry spot to rest. In a snowstorm or extreme cold, the waterproof and often thermal properties of these blankets can help retain body heat and protect from hypothermia.

Even in cases of less extreme but still significant emergencies, such as a sudden leak in your home, or a child or pet having an accident, a waterproof blanket can be a quick solution to prevent further damage or discomfort.

Waterproof Blankets as Everyday Items

While they excel in outdoor adventures and emergencies, waterproof blankets can be just as useful in our everyday lives. Their versatility and practicality make them a valuable addition to any home.

One common use is protecting furniture. If you have young children or pets, a waterproof blanket can be used as a protective layer for your sofas or beds, preventing spills or accidents from staining or damaging the furniture. Similarly, they can be used to keep car seats clean and dry, particularly on rainy days or during trips to the beach.

Beyond protection, they can also be a convenient option for outdoor activities in your backyard. Whether it's lying on the grass to read a book, having a backyard picnic, or setting up a play area for your kids, a waterproof blanket creates a dry and comfortable space for you and your family.

Wool and Polyester - a Winning Combination

Wool blankets with polyester backing offer a unique combination of comfort, warmth, and waterproofing, making them an excellent choice for various applications, from outdoor adventures to everyday use.

Let's delve into some of the significant advantages of this unique combination:

Comfort and Warmth: Wool is renowned for its insulating properties. It can trap air and retain heat, keeping you warm and cozy even in colder weather. The soft texture of wool also provides a comfortable surface to sit or lie on.

Moisture Wicking: Wool has an innate ability to wick away moisture. Even when it's wet, wool can still provide warmth, making it a great option for damp or rainy conditions.

Durability: Wool is a strong, durable material that can withstand rough handling and harsh conditions. It's resistant to tearing, ensuring that your blanket will last for a long time.

Waterproofing: A polyester backing adds a layer of waterproofing to the wool blanket. This means you can use it on damp surfaces without worrying about moisture seeping through. It also makes the blanket more versatile, as it can be used in a wider range of scenarios.

Easy Maintenance: Polyester is a relatively easy material to clean. Most polyester-backed blankets can be machine-washed, making maintenance a breeze.

Versatility: Because of the combination of materials, wool blankets with polyester backing can be used in a wide range of situations, from picnics to camping, emergency situations, or simply as a cozy blanket at home.

The fusion of these two materials – the warmth and comfort of wool with the waterproof and easy-to-clean nature of polyester – results in a blanket that is not only practical but also comfortable and durable. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast, a parent looking to protect furniture, or someone in need of a warm, easy-to-maintain blanket, this combination could be the ideal choice.

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About the Author

Franck Jehanne is the co-founder of British lifestyle brand, Heating & Plumbing London. After 10 years working for Cartier and other luxury brands from the Richemont group, he started his entrepreneurial journey in 2011, leading to the creation of the brand in 2017.

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