As temperatures rise, finding the right bedding to ensure a cool and comfortable night’s sleep becomes crucial. Cooling blankets have emerged as a popular solution, offering a refreshing alternative to traditional bedding that can trap heat and disrupt sleep. This guide explores the latest trends in cooling blankets, highlights recommended products, and provides key considerations to help you make an informed decision for your summer sales needs.

Table of Contents
● Summer sleep trends: The rise of cooling blankets
● What are cooling blankets and how do they work
● What to Look for When Sourcing
● Top cooling blanket types and features

Summer Sleep Trends: The Rise of Cooling Blankets

The cooling blanket market has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by increasing awareness of sleep quality and rising global temperatures. According to Fortune Business Insights, the global cooling fabrics market, which includes cooling blankets, is projected to reach $3.56 billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 9.3% through 2028.

Consumer preferences are shifting towards bedding solutions that prioritize temperature regulation and comfort. A survey by the National Sleep Foundation found that 85% of respondents consider room temperature important for good sleep quality. This growing awareness has led to a surge in demand for cooling blankets, with social media platforms like TikTok and Instagram showcasing various cooling blanket hacks and reviews.

The market is also seeing a trend towards eco-friendly and sustainable cooling blankets, with consumers increasingly valuing products made from natural, biodegradable materials. According to a report by Grand View Research, the global eco-friendly bedding market is expected to reach $1.5 billion by 2027.

What are cooling blankets and how do they work?

Cooling blankets are designed to help regulate body temperature and provide a cooler sleeping experience. They are not meant to actively cool you down like an air conditioner, but rather to keep you cooler than a regular blanket would.

Cooling blankets typically work through one or more of the following mechanisms:

Moisture-wicking materials: Many cooling blankets use fabrics that draw sweat away from the body, helping to keep you dry and cool.
Breathable construction: Some blankets have a design that allows for better airflow, such as chunky knit patterns.
Cool-to-touch fabrics: Certain materials, like those with high Q-max values, feel cool when you first touch them.
Evaporative cooling: Some blankets work better when used in conjunction with a fan, as the airflow enhances the cooling effect.

What to Look for When Sourcing

When stocking your inventory with cooling blankets, it’s crucial to understand the key features that make these products effective for hot sleepers. By focusing on these qualities, you can curate a selection that meets your customers’ needs and drives sales.

Key Features to Look for in Cooling Blankets:

Moisture-Wicking Materials:

Prioritize blankets made from absorbent fabrics like linen, bamboo, and cotton.
These materials effectively draw moisture away from the skin, preventing heat buildup.
Highlight these natural fibers in your product descriptions to appeal to health-conscious consumers.

Breathable Weave Types:

Stock blankets with percale weaves, known for their excellent breathability.
Consider offering options with open or chunky weaves for versatility.
Educate your sales team on the benefits of different weave types to assist customers effectively.

Size Variety:

Offer a range of sizes from throw blankets to king-size options.
This variety caters to different customer needs and sleeping arrangements.

Color Options:

Provide a selection of colors to match various bedroom decors.
Consider stocking neutral tones as well as popular seasonal colors.

Environmental Impact:

If sustainability is a priority, consider blankets made from eco-friendly materials or produced using environmentally conscious manufacturing processes.
Look for certifications such as OEKO-TEX® or Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) to ensure the product meets specific environmental and social criteria.

Curating a diverse selection of cooling blankets that incorporate these features will definitely position your store as a go-to destination for hot sleepers seeking comfort. Train your staff to understand and communicate these benefits, enabling them to guide customers towards the most suitable options for their needs. Let’s explore some of the most popular types that retailers should consider stocking.

Top Cooling Blanket Types and Features

Bamboo Cooling Blankets

Bamboo cooling blankets have been making waves in the market, and for good reason. These sustainable options offer a silky-soft texture that customers love, while also providing excellent temperature regulation. They’re naturally hypoallergenic and antibacterial, which is a great selling point for health-conscious consumers.

Cotton Percale Cooling Blankets

Cotton percale blankets are another fantastic choice for hot sleepers. These blankets are made from tightly woven cotton, giving them a crisp, cool feel that’s reminiscent of high-end hotel bedding. They’re lightweight and breathable, making them perfect for warm nights. Plus, they tend to get softer with each wash, which customers appreciate for long-term comfort.

Linen Cooling Blankets

For those looking for a natural temperature regulator, linen cooling blankets are an excellent option. They’re highly absorbent and quick-drying, which helps keep sleepers comfortable throughout the night. Linen also has the unique quality of becoming softer over time, and it’s naturally antimicrobial – both features that can be highlighted to potential buyers.

Cooling Technology-Infused Blankets

If you’re looking to offer cutting-edge solutions, consider stocking cooling technology-infused blankets. These incorporate advanced features like phase-change materials that absorb and release heat, Outlast® technology for proactive temperature regulation, and Coolmax® fabric for enhanced moisture-wicking. These high-tech options can be a great draw for customers who are willing to invest in the latest sleep technology.

Eucalyptus Lyocell Cooling Blankets

Eucalyptus lyocell cooling blankets are gaining popularity as a sustainable and cooling option. They offer an exceptionally soft and smooth texture that customers love, while also providing natural cooling and moisture-wicking properties. The eco-friendly production process is another selling point that can appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.

Weighted Cooling Blankets

Lastly, don’t forget about weighted cooling blankets. These combine the calming effects of deep pressure stimulation with cooling properties, catering to those who want both comfort and temperature regulation. They typically feature even weight distribution and come in various weight options to suit different preferences.

Alternatives and complementary products

In addition to cooling blankets, people seeking temperature relief might consider several other products:

Cooling sheets or pillowcases: Made with breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics to keep the body cool throughout the night.
Cooling mattress toppers or pads: These can enhance the cooling effect of the bed, providing additional comfort and temperature control.
Fans or “bed fan systems”: Devices designed to circulate air and reduce heat buildup around the sleeping area.
Evaporative cooling techniques: Using a lightly dampened sheet can help dissipate heat through evaporation.

Stocking these alternatives can boost your profit by offering complementary solutions that address diverse cooling needs. Customers looking for comprehensive temperature control options will appreciate having multiple products to choose from, enhancing their overall satisfaction and loyalty to your store.

Additionally, consider providing bundled options or promotions that combine these products to encourage customers to purchase multiple items, further increasing sales.

Conclusion

A good cooling blanket product can significantly improve sleep quality during hot summer nights. By considering factors such as material composition, cooling technology, and personal preferences, you can find the perfect blanket to keep you customer comfortable and well-rested. As the market for cooling blankets continues to grow and innovate, staying informed about the latest trends and technologies will help you make the best choice for your summer sales needs.