What is a Turkish Throw? Find out why they are better

Recently I’ve been making some home decor changes, especially in the bedroom. Whilst I was looking for new bedding I decided I wanted a bed throw to inject some lovely colour into our room and I came across Turkish throws and so started to do some more research.

So what exactly is a Turkish throw?

An authentic Turkish throw is a decorative blanket used primarily in home decor to add style and colour to furniture and rooms. Turkish throws are manufactured in just a few areas of Turkey and are made from organic sustainable Turkish cotton.

Let’s get into the detail of what Turkish Throws are, what they are made from and why they are different from regular throws.

Let’s start with the cotton itself and why it’s better for making throws.

What is Turkish Cotton?

Turkish cotton is a plant grown exclusively in the Aegean Region of Turkey. It’s used extensively in the fabric industry to make various items such as towels, blankets, robes and throws. Products made from Turkish cotton symbolise high quality.

Different to regular cotton fibres, the fibres of Turkish cotton are extra long and thin. These fibres are what sets the Turkish throw apart from its peers – but more on the benefits later.

What is a Throw?

I’m sure you know by now that a throw is really just a small blanket. There are not designed to use as proper bedding but more as decorative items in your bedroom, lounge rooms or snugs.

So what can Turkish throws be used for?

Uses of Turkish Throws

There are three main uses when it comes to Turkish throws There’s decorative use, practical use and protective use. Let’s review each theme.

Decorative uses of Turkish Throws

Turkish throws can be used all over the house as decoration. If as mine is, your home decor base colours are neutral then these wonderful throws will inject warmth and colour into any setting.

The main areas in a home where Turkish throws are used are the bedroom where the throw is placed across the foot of the bed or lounge rooms or snugs folded and draped over the arms or backs of furniture.

Protective uses of Turkish Throws

I know many people that use throws to cover items of furniture.

That’s not to hide them away of course, but should you have a worn item of furniture such as a chair or perhaps a special item that you’d like to protect then a Turkish throw can be used to cover and protect it further.

In this scenario, the Turkish throw will also provide that decorative benefit as well.

Practical uses of Turkish Throws

Even though we tend to use throws for decorative reasons who can resist grabbing one off the couch on a cold winter’s night and snuggling up to watch a movie.

This for me is the best use of Turkish throws. One of the main benefits of these throws is their softness and I regularly find a reason to wrap myself up tight in one and relax.

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What are the benefits of Turkish Throws?

Eco-friendliness

Turkish throws are eco friendly in several ways. Firstly they are made from sustainable organic cotton. Look out for  OEKO TEX Standard 100 certification to ensure your throw is authentic.

Washing Turkish throws also comes with eco benefits. You’ll find that because of the tight flat weave of the throw it will stay cleaner for longer.

When you do need to wash your throw you’ll use fewer resources as most throw manufacturers recommend we do not use fabric conditioner or the tumble dryer.

Durability

If cared for correctly authentic Turkish throws will last you a lifetime. The type and quality of the cotton used to make these products ensure that they are incredibly durable.

Top Tip: Make sure you take this benefit into consideration when buying your next throw as the price for Turkish throws can be more expensive than regular throws.

Easy to care for

Turkish throws are easy to care for. The flat weave of the product ensures that you won’t need to wash your throw as often and when you do there are no complicated washing instructions.

Lovely designs

it used to be that Turkish throws used to come in just a few colours and patterns. Due to a massive increase in popularity, these throws now come in a huge variety of colours and styles.

Whether you have classic or traditional tastes or perhaps prefer a more contemporary style in your home you’ll find a Turkish throw to suit your personal taste.

I personally love the tasselled fringe a Turkish throw has, it’s what makes it authentic.

Common FAQs

What is the Difference Between a Turkish Throw and a Turkish Towel?

The main difference between a Turkish throw and a Turkish towel is the size. As a Turkish throw is not designed to be used as proper bedding they tend to be smaller than Turkish blankets. In terms of material, both are made from organic Turkish cotton.

Turkish throws are generally not as good for proper bedding so if you’re looking for a Turkish blanket I’d encourage you to read another article I wrote – Buying a Turkish Blanket? Our complete guide is here

How do you wash a Turkish Throw?

Washing Turkish throws is very simple. Whilst you should always check the care label of your product, the information below is general advice on how to care for your product.

• Wash on its own or with items of a similar colour at 30 degrees.
• Never use fabric conditioner on a Turkish throw
• Always allowed to air dry and never use a tumble dryer
• if you are not keen on the air dry finish you can iron your Turkish throw on the cotton setting

Turkish throws are washed in a very similar way to Turkish towels. I have another article on how to wash Turkish towels which I’dcourage you to read after this.

Conclusion

I hope in this article I’ve given you a good insight into what a Turkish Throw is, what it’s made of and how you can use them.

Personally, I think these are a wonderful addition to any home, I have several in various rooms in my house.

Finally, I would like to give you my recommendations from a couple of great suppliers.

Best UK Turkish Throw