Parents Choice Blanket

As a parent, one of the first baby items you’ll need to purchase is a soft, cozy blanket. A blanket provides warmth, comfort and security for your newborn or toddler. I still remember buying the very first blanket for my daughter – I wanted something super soft that would keep her cozy at night.

After doing a lot of research, I decided to go with the Parents Choice blanket. Parents Choice is a trusted baby brand carried exclusively at Walmart. Their blankets come in different materials, sizes and colors to suit any nursery.

If you’re considering a Parents Choice blanket, this comprehensive buying guide will cover everything you need to know, from materials to washing instructions. I’ll provide an unbiased look at the pros and cons so you can decide if a Parents Choice blanket is right for your family. Let’s get started!

What Is a Parents Choice Blanket Made Of?

An important factor in choosing any baby blanket is the material. Parents Choice blankets come in three main fabric options:

Polyester: Most of their blankets are made from soft polyester. This synthetic material is extremely durable and easy to care for. Polyester holds its shape well and resists shrinking. The downside is that polyester isn’t as breathable as natural fibers.

Cotton: Some Parents Choice blankets are 100% cotton or a cotton blend. Cotton has a very soft, cozy feel. The natural material is also quite breathable to help regulate your baby’s temperature. However, cotton tends to shrink and stain easily.

Flannel: A few Parents Choice blanket styles feature super-soft, warm flannel material. Flannel has all the comfort of cotton with added warmth. Just know that flannel also shrinks easily if not washed properly.

So polyester is the most common material due to its versatility and ease of care. But cotton or flannel may be preferable if you want enhanced softness or breathability.

Is the Parents Choice Blanket Safe for Newborns?

An absolute must for any baby blanket is safety. At first glance, Parents Choice blankets appear very safe for newborns. They have tight stitching so there are no loose threads to catch little fingers. The blankets have finished edges that won’t fray.

There are also no small detachable parts, ribbons, or decorations that could pose a choking hazard. Parents Choice blankets are free of harsh chemicals and made to meet CPSIA safety standards.

However, there are two things to keep in mind for the best safety:

No loose blankets in the crib: Experts recommend no loose bedding in the baby’s crib to reduce the risk of suffocation. Swaddle blankets and wearable blankets are safer for sleep time.

Supervise use: Always supervise baby with any blanket during awake time. Don’t cover their head or face which can impede breathing.

As long as you follow basic baby blanket safety tips, a Parents Choice blanket can be a safe choice. Just make sure to monitor use.

How Do I Wash a Parents Choice Blanket?

One perk of Parents Choice blankets is that they are fully machine washable and dryer safe for easy care. Here are the recommended washing instructions:

• Machine wash cold, gentle cycle. Use mild detergent, no bleach.
• For non-organic blankets, fabric softener is fine to enhance softness.
• For the first washing, wash the blanket alone to avoid lint transfer.
• Tumble dry low. Remove promptly to prevent wrinkles.
• Avoid ironing as the heat can damage the fabric’s softness.

It’s best to wash before first use to eliminate any chemical residue from manufacturing. After use, wash periodically to remove odors, spills, and buildup. With proper washing, a Parents Choice blanket will stay soft and cozy!

What Sizes Are Available for Parents Choice Blankets?

Parents Choice offers blanket sizes suitable for newborns all the way up to big kids:

• Newborn: 30″ x 40″ – Ideal for swaddling, strollers, and infant car seats.
• Toddler: 36″ x 45″ – Great size for toddler beds, nap time, and play time.
• Youth: 45″ x 60″ – Offers plenty of coverage for big kids to stay warm at night.

The newborn and toddler sizes are ideal baby shower gifts. Opt for the larger youth size as your little one grows for lasting use. Some blanket styles only come in one size while others have multiple size options.

Tip: Measure your crib mattress or bed when choosing a blanket size. You want something that offers ample coverage without dangerous extra fabric.

Are Parents Choice Blankets Good for Winter?

To determine if a Parents Choice blanket will keep your child cozy in colder months, you’ll need to consider the material:

• The polyester blankets provide decent warmth and insulation without being too heavy. Great for milder climates or indoor blanket forts!
• The 100% cotton blankets are light and breathable. Cotton works better in summer than dead of winter.
• The flannel blankets are by far the warmest choice. Flannel is known for its unmatched softness and heat retention. Definitely the best Parents Choice option for frigid winter temperatures!

You can also look for double layered or thermal style blankets from Parents Choice for superior warmth. Just watch for overheating indoors. For the coldest weather, I recommend using a Parents Choice blanket as an extra layer over pajamas or pairing it with a wearable blanket.

Where Can I Buy a Parents Choice Blanket?

Parents Choice blankets are sold exclusively at Walmart stores and on Walmart.com. They are a Walmart private label brand. Prices range from $5-$25 depending on size, fabric, and design.

Here are some tips for buying a Parents Choice blanket at Walmart:

• Check in-store for the widest selection of designs and colors. Stock varies.
• Feel the fabric! Examine stitches and edges for quality.
• Sign up for Walmart+ membership to get free shipping on Walmart.com.
• Watch for sales events like rollback prices or seasonal clearance for the best deals.
• Third party resellers sometimes stock select designs on Amazon, eBay, etc. but prices are often inflated. Your best value is direct from Walmart.

I recommend heading to your local Walmart or browsing online to pick out the perfect Parents Choice blanket style and size for your little one. The quality is fantastic for the affordable pricing.

How Much Does a Parents Choice Blanket Cost?

As Walmart’s in-house brand, Parents Choice blankets offer great quality at budget-friendly prices. Here is an overview of what to expect:

• Basic polyester blankets start at $5 for a newborn size and go up to $15 for a large youth size. Great bang for your buck!
• Soft cotton blankets generally range from $10-$20 depending on dimensions.
• The flannel blankets made of premium materials cost $15-$25 for toddler and youth sizes.
• Thermal and double layered blankets fall on the higher end from $20-$25.
• Special edition character/print blankets can run up to $25.

Tip: Compare prices online and in-store. Walmart.com often shows slightly higher regular pricing. Wait for sales, rollbacks, or clearance events for the best deal on any style.

While not the absolute cheapest baby blankets available, Parents Choice offers outstanding value at these affordable price points. In my experience, the quality rivals much more expensive brands!

What Colors or Designs Are Available for Parents Choice Blankets?

One fun thing about Parents Choice is that they offer tons of blanket styles to match any nursery. Here are some of the colors and cute designs you can find:

Solid Colors: Choose from all the basics like white, grey, yellow, mint, pink, blue, etc. Great for mixing and matching with decor.

Prints: Adorable prints range from polka dots to woodland creatures, elephants, dinosaurs and more.

Characters: You’ll find familiar characters like Sesame Street, Mickey Mouse, Paw Patrol, princess themes, and superheroes.

Holiday/Seasonal: Christmas prints, Hanukkah, Halloween, and other holiday-themed blankets are available seasonally.

Sports Teams: Rep your favorite sports team with licensed NFL and NCAA college blankets.

Plus, new blanket patterns and designs are introduced frequently. It’s easy to find something trendy yet timeless to suit your unique style. Mix colors and patterns as your baby grows!

Are Parents Choice Blankets Hypoallergenic?

Many parents look for hypoallergenic blankets suitable for sensitive skin. Unfortunately, Parents Choice does not specifically market their blankets as hypoallergenic.

The polyester blankets are likely the best bet for allergy issues:

• Polyester is hydrophobic so it discourages dust mites and mold growth.
• It’s synthetic, so less likely to provoke reactions compared to natural fibers.
• Polyester is easier to launder thoroughly to remove allergens.

I would still recommend pre-washing any blanket before first use. Supervise your baby closely to watch for any skin irritation, especially with cotton or flannel options. Consult your pediatrician if your child has known textile allergies.

Is the Parents Choice Blanket Suitable for Toddlers?

The versatility of Parents Choice blankets makes them a great choice as your little one enters the toddler years.

Here are some top reasons to use a Parents Choice blanket beyond the baby stage:

• They come in larger toddler and youth sizes to accommodate a growing child.
• Durable construction holds up to rugged toddler use.
• Machine washable for easy cleaning when inevitable messes happen!
• Fun prints and characters keep toddlers engaged.
• Lightweight for playtime, stroller covers, and travel.
• Provides a soothing sense of security for nap time.
• Can be used as part of a big kid fort or reading nook.

Choose a larger 36″ x 45″ blanket once your baby transitions to a toddler bed for the best fit. The softer cotton or flannel styles become even cozier as your child ages.

How Soft Is the Parents Choice Blanket?

One of the top selling points of Parents Choice blankets is the incredibly soft feel. But softness level can vary:

• The polyester blankets have a fluffy, smooth feel. Decent softness for the affordable price tag.
• Cotton blankets take softness up a notch with their breathable, snuggly texture.
• But the softest option is no doubt the flannel Parents Choice blankets thanks to the brushed, fuzzy fabric. So snuggly!

To boost softness, wash in an extra rinse cycle and use a hypoallergenic liquid fabric softener. Line or air dry instead of the dryer. With proper care, a Parents Choice blanket will retain its softness wash after wash.

What Materials Are Used in Parents Choice Blankets?

We’ve covered the main fabric options of polyester, cotton, and flannel. Here are a few other material details:

• Fill: Some of the double layered and thermal blankets feature polyester fill for extra warmth and density.
• Backing: Many Parents Choice blankets have a textured dot thermal backing on one side for added softness and insulation.
• Trim: Some blankets include trim made of polyester, faux fur, or satin edging to prevent fraying.
• Organic: Select blankets are made of certified organic cotton for natural softness free of chemicals.
• Swaddle: Muslin cotton and jersey knit are used for the swaddle blankets.

So while polyester is the standard, Parents Choice incorporates different fabrics and materials to enhance certain blankets’ performance and durability.

Can I Use a Parents Choice Blanket for Swaddling?

Parents Choice makes a few options well-suited for swaddling newborns:

Muslin swaddle blankets – These large, breathable cotton muslin blankets provide the ideal stretch and flexibility for safe swaddling.

Jersey knit swaddle blankets – The soft, stretchy jersey material contours nicely to a newborn for a snug swaddle.

Large polyester blankets – A large 30″ x 40″ or bigger polyester blanket can work for swaddling, but the material has less give.

No matter which Parents Choice blanket you use, follow safe swaddling techniques:

• Stop swaddling once baby shows signs of trying to roll over.
• Use a thin breathable blanket to prevent overheating.
• Make sure the swaddle is snug but allows room for hips and chest to expand.
• Never cover a swaddled baby’s head or face.

With the right technique, a Parents Choice blanket makes swaddling easy and affordable.

Are Parents Choice Blankets Machine-Washable?

As I mentioned earlier, the good news is that all Parents Choice blankets are machine-washable and dryer safe. Here are my top laundry tips:

Wash cold: Hot water can damage fabrics. Stick to cold on a gentle cycle.

Air dry when possible: Lay flat or line dry to preserve softness.

Treat stains promptly: Spot clean messes before washing to avoid setting in stains.

Use gentle detergent: Skip the bleach and harsh chemicals that can irritate baby’s skin.

Wash new blankets first: Give brand new blankets an initial wash before use to soften fibers.

As long as you launder with care, a Parents Choice blanket will handle many washes without fading, shrinking or pilling. Proper washing keeps the blankets fresh and comfortable.

How Durable Are Parents Choice Blankets?

Durability is another benefit of Parents Choice blankets. Here’s how they hold up:

• Minimal pilling/fraying: The blankets retain their look and feel after repeated washing.
• Fade resistant: Colors stay vibrant without fading over time.
• Tear resistant: Stitches and materials are solid enough to withstand reasonable wear.
• Shape retention: Blankets maintain their dimensions with minimal shrinking in warm water and dryers.

The polyester blankets are probably the most heavy duty. But overall, Parents Choice’s quality construction ensures exceptional durability for years of use. I’ve been impressed with how nice our blankets still look after the toddler years!

What Are the Reviews for Parents Choice Blankets?

Looking at customer reviews is hugely helpful before buying any baby product. In general, Parents Choice blankets receive consistently positive feedback:

• Hundreds of 4-5 star ratings on Walmart’s website
• Reviewers describe them as very soft, thick, and warm. Excellent for the price.
• Many parents report they hold up nicely to repeated use and washing.
• Negative reviews are very rare and usually involve an isolated defect.
• Common compliments are the cute designs, durable fabric, and super snuggly feel babies love.

Based on the overwhelmingly positive response from real parents, you can confidently choose a Parents Choice blanket that will suit your family.

Does the Parents Choice Blanket Come in Organic Options?

For parents looking to avoid chemicals and synthetic materials, Parents Choice does offer a few organic blanket options:

Organic Muslin Cotton – Available in classic solid white, this super breathable muslin blanket is ideal for summer or sensitive skin.

Organic Cotton Waffle – This textured lightweight blanket provides great airflow thanks to the waffle weave.

Organic Cotton Flannel – Extra soft organic flannel combines the best of both worlds – natural fabric enhanced with flannel’s signature coziness.

The organic blankets typically cost $5-$10 more than standard versions. But they’re an excellent choice if you prefer natural, chemical-free bedding for your baby.

How Does the Parents Choice Blanket Compare to Other Baby Blankets?

Compared to higher priced brands like Aden + Anais or Hudson Baby, Parents Choice blankets offer similar quality for a more budget-friendly price.

Some key comparisons:

• The materials, construction, softness, and durability are on par with pricier brands.
• Parents Choice has a wider range of sizes and designs for less.
• More budget brands like Tiddliwinks or Goodnight Goose tend to be thinner and pill faster.
• Higher end brands do often use more luxe organic cotton which can justify the higher cost for some parents.

Overall, when you consider the affordable pricing, Parents Choice blankets provide excellent value rivaling the quality of many premium brands. Unless organic is a must, Parents Choice is tough to beat!

Is the Parents Choice Blanket Breathable for Summer Use?

Some blankets can be too warm for hot summer weather. The good news is Parents Choice offers options perfect for the summer:

Lightweight Cotton – The natural fibers make lightweight cotton blankets ultra breathable. Great for stroller rides or play time.

Muslin – Muslin’s open weave allows lots of airflow. Ideal for swaddling or tummy time without overheating.

Waffle Weave – The textured waffle pattern creates breathability along with added texture.

Polyester – While not as airy as cotton, the thinner polyester blankets work decently for warm weather.

For the best temperature regulation, look for a lightweight Parents Choice blanket in cotton, muslin or waffle weave. The open fabrics prevent overheating indoors or outside in summer.

Are Parents Choice Blankets Available in Bulk or Multipacks?

Parents Choice doesn’t offer blanket multipacks. However, there are still ways to save on multiple blankets:

• Buy larger sizes like youth blankets to share between kids.
• Stock up on blanket basics when they go on sale or clearance.
• Save on shipping for online orders over $35 by joining Walmart+.
• Pay with a Walmart Credit Card and earn rewards to redeem on future purchases.
• Buy in-store and price match with the Walmart app if online prices are lower.

While not sold in packs, the affordable regular prices allow you to purchase multiple Parents Choice blankets without breaking the bank. Build a coordinating collection to use through the baby and toddler years.

My Top Parents Choice Blanket Recommendations

Hopefully this comprehensive guide has given you all the details to decide if a Parents Choice blanket is right for your child. Here are my top picks:

For Softness – Flannel Blanket – The flannel material provides unmatched coziness perfect for stroller naps or bedtime.

For Breathability – Organic Cotton Waffle Blanket – The waffle weave creates great airflow for warm weather.

For Durability – Polyester Thermal Blanket – Holds up wonderfully to repeated washing and rugged toddler use.

For Affordability – Polyester Newborn Blanket – Starts under $5 for a basic blanket with great quality.

For Swaddling – Jersey Knit Swaddle Blankets – The jersey material makes swaddling a breeze.

For Decor – Woodland Creature Print – Adorable fox print adds a cute touch to the nursery.

For Travel – Toddler Cotton Blanket – Lightweight for stroller, play mat, or on-the-go.

Whether you want the best blanket for winter, summer, a newborn, or toddler – Parents Choice has you covered. I hope this guide makes choosing the perfect blanket foolproof. Let me know if you have any other questions as you shop for that special Parents Choice blanket to keep your little one cozy!