Throws for the sofa, the bed and cold evenings

Throws are the simplest way to add warmth and texture to a sofa or a bed. A wool throw for winter evenings, a cotton or waffle weave throw for the bed all year, and a size that actually covers you when you sit down. Here is how to choose the material, the size and the care.

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Buying guide

How to choose a throw

A throw has two jobs, and the best ones do both. It should look good folded over the arm of a sofa or across the end of a bed, and it should be large and soft enough to use. The questions below cover what people ask most often before buying one.

What size throw do you need?

For sofa throws, a length that covers you from shoulders to feet matters more than width. For bed throws, choose a width that drops 20 to 30 cm over each side.

Materials and warmth

Wool is the warmest natural fibre and stays warm even when slightly damp, which makes wool throws the classic choice for a British winter. Lambswool and merino are softer than standard wool and less likely to itch. Cotton throws, including waffle and herringbone weaves, are lighter, breathe well and wash easily, so they suit beds and summer. Cashmere and cashmere blends are the softest and lightest for their warmth, but cost more and need gentle care. Faux fur and fleece throws are warm and cheap, though synthetic fibres can feel clammy and attract static.

How thick and warm is a throw?

Weight is a better guide than thickness. A heavier piece in the same fibre is usually denser and warmer. Loose, chunky knits look cosy but let air through, so they are more decorative than warm. Tightly woven wool is the warmest for its weight.

Everyday or decorative?

Most throws are made to be used. If children or pets use the sofa, a washable cotton or a durable wool blend makes more sense than a delicate knit or a pale faux fur. Keep fringed or open weave throws for a bed or a chair where they will not catch on claws.

Colour and pattern

Plain, textured weaves in oatmeal, grey, ochre or deep green sit easily with most sofas. Checks and stripes suit traditional rooms and leather. On a patterned sofa, choose a solid colour picked from the print. On a bed, a tone darker than the duvet cover gives definition without looking heavy.

Styling a throw

Fold it in three lengthways and drape it over one arm of the sofa, or lay it across the bottom third of a bed. Pick one colour from the cushions or the rug so it links them. A basket beside the sofa keeps spare blankets within reach.

How to wash throws

Always follow the care label. As a general rule, cotton throws go in the machine at 30 or 40 degrees. Wool is best hand washed or washed on a wool cycle in cool water, then dried flat away from direct heat to avoid felting and shrinkage. Cashmere needs the gentlest care of all. Faux fur can usually take a cool, gentle cycle, then shake it and leave it to air dry rather than tumble drying.

At a glance

Use	Typical size
Armchair or a single person on the sofa	130 x 170 cm
Sofa, two people sharing	150 x 200 cm
Across the end of a double bed	220 cm wide or more
Covering a king size bed	250 x 250 cm or more

Frequently asked questions

What size throw is best for a sofa?

130 x 170 cm suits one person, 150 x 200 cm suits two people sharing a sofa. The length should reach from your shoulders to your feet.

What is the warmest material for a throw?

Wool is the warmest natural fibre, and stays warm when slightly damp. Cashmere is warmer for its weight but more delicate.

How do I wash a wool throw?

Hand wash or use a wool cycle in cool water, then dry it flat away from radiators and direct sun to avoid shrinking.

Can I return a throw if it does not suit my room?

Yes. You have 14 days after delivery to change your mind on any Tove & Co order.