
Creating a pillow out of a blanket is a simple and ingenious way to add comfort to your rest without the need for an actual pillow. All it requires is a blanket or throw—preferably of soft material—and a few minutes of folding or rolling, depending on the technique you choose. In essence, the process involves folding the blanket in a way that provides enough thickness and support for your head while you sleep or relax.
Choosing Your Blanket
The type of blanket you choose will significantly affect the comfort and support level of your makeshift pillow. A thicker, fluffier blanket will generally provide more cushioning, while a thinner blanket will give less support and may require additional folding or rolling.
Material Considerations
Blankets come in a variety of materials, each with its own set of characteristics:
- Fleece: Soft and lightweight, fleece blankets are good insulators and can be quite comfortable as a pillow for warmer settings.
- Wool: Wool is a heavier and warmer material and can provide good support and insulation for a pillow. However, it may not feel as soft as other options.
- Cotton: Cotton blankets are highly breathable and soft, ideal for a comfortable sleep, especially if allergic reactions are a concern.
- Synthetic Fibers: Blankets made of synthetic fibers can vary greatly in quality, but many are soft, easy to wash, and durable enough for repeated folding or rolling into a pillow.
Consider the size of the blanket as well. A larger blanket will offer more material to work with, which can be helpful for creating a bigger or more supportive pillow.
Techniques for Making a Pillow out of a Blanket
Folding Method
One of the easiest ways to transform a blanket into a pillow is via the folding method. Here’s how to do it:
- Lay your blanket flat on the surface.
- Fold the blanket in half lengthwise to create a long, narrow shape.
- Continue folding the blanket over on itself, maintaining the lengthwise fold, until you reach the desired thickness for your pillow.
- For additional height, you can fold the blanket once more widthwise.
- If necessary, tuck the ends of the blanket in, or use a ribbon or cord to secure them so that the blanket maintains its pillow shape.
- Adjust the folds until you find the right balance of softness and support for your comfort.
Rolling Method
Alternatively, you might prefer the rolling method, which can create a firmer pillow. Here are the steps:
- Spread the blanket out flat.
- Start at one end and begin rolling the blanket tightly towards the opposite end.
- Once you have rolled the blanket entirely, wrap a soft belt, scarf, or a piece of string around the roll to prevent it from unrolling.
- You can also tuck the ends into the roll if they are long enough to hold the shape without assistance.
- Adjust the tightness of the roll to either increase firmness or allow for more softness.
Improved Comfort Variations
For those who need a more customized pillow, you could combine both folding and rolling methods or add additional items such as padding or clothing inside the folds or roll of the blanket to adjust the firmness or height of the pillow.
Additional Tips
Maintaining the Pillow Shape
Securing your blanket-turned-pillow is crucial to prevent it from unfurling during the night. Elastic bands, hair ties, or even adhesive Velcro strips can be additional tools to keep your makeshift pillow in shape.
Adjusting to Your Sleep Preferences
Your sleeping position can influence how you should make your pillow for optimal comfort. Side sleepers may need a thicker, firmer pillow to support their neck and head, while stomach sleepers might benefit from a softer, flatter pillow.
Hygiene and Care
Ensure the blanket is clean before turning it into a pillow, as it will be in close contact with your face and neck. Moreover, if you’re using the blanket as a pillow frequently, consider washing it regularly as you would with a standard pillowcase to maintain hygiene.
Use Cases
Making a pillow out of a blanket is not only useful at home but also convenient in various other scenarios:
Traveling
When you’re on a plane, train, or in an automobile for long hours, having a makeshift pillow can help you get some rest. A folded or rolled-up blanket is an excellent travel companion as it’s usually more hygienic than public pillows and can be adjusted for your personal comfort.
Outdoor Activities
For campers and outdoor enthusiasts, a blanket pillow is a lightweight and versatile option to carry. It saves space and can be used both as bedding and as a pillow when it’s time to sleep under the stars.
Unexpected Situations
Whether you find yourself needing to sleep over at a friend’s house unexpectedly or you’re dealing with a lost or forgotten pillow during a hotel stay, turning a blanket into a pillow can be a practical temporary solution.
Finishing Thoughts
The beauty of turning a blanket into a pillow lies in its simplicity and practicality. Whether it’s out of necessity or a creative moment during a camping trip, the techniques outlined above should help you create a comfortable place to rest your head without an actual pillow. Remember that the key to a good blanket pillow is to adjust the folds or rolls to meet your particular needs, considering both the material of the blanket and your preferred sleeping position. Cleanliness, firmness, and the blanket’s size should also guide you in making a cozy, makeshift pillow that can provide a good night’s rest or a quick nap in any situation.