The Best Mexican Blankets

When Churro sheep were introduced to Mexico and the American Southwest, the locals of each region created their own version of what we now know as Mexican blankets, aka serapes, sarapes, saltillos, or falsa blankets. The blankets became popular for many reasons, one of which is their incredible variegated colors and patterns. Some blankets have muted color schemes, reflecting the pigment available in the region in Mexico from which they came. Today many come from Tlaxcala, Mexico, and are brilliantly colorful. We use these inexpensive, durable, and versatile Mexican blankets as throw blankets, picnic blankets, yoga and meditation blankets, car blankets, rugs, camping blankets, tablecloths, decor pieces, pet blankets, etc.

Buying Guide for the Best Mexican Blankets

Why buy a Mexican blanket?

Mexican blankets come in many shapes and sizes, not to mention textiles. They’re endlessly adaptable to accommodate your activity; use a Mexican blanket at the beach, for stargazing, camping, or to hang on the wall. Use one on the couch and keep another in your car for spontaneous picnics.

What should you look for in a Mexican blanket?

• Material: Some people value sustainable products and should look for Mexican blankets that utilize recycled materials. Several of the blankets we review here are made of recycled acrylic and polyester blends. Others may be made of wool or cotton. One material is not necessarily better than another; just pick one that pleases you most.
• Color: Mexican blankets are almost always colorful and multicolored. However, not all are from the ROYGBIV color sequence. Some use beige, white, and black in their design for a more neutral scheme, while others use various bright colors. And the pattern for most all Mexican blankets consists of horizontal solid color stripes intermingled with horizontal complex patterned stripes.
• Size: Mexican blankets are typically large, though there is variety even under that general umbrella. You’ll find some Mexican blankets sized to use as table runners or as bedding. Others are quite large, up to 7 feet long and 4 feet wide.

What should you know about how to take care of a Mexican blanket?

Mexican blankets are, for the most part, quite easy to take care of. However, it’s largely advised that you hand wash rather than machine wash your blanket. Many Mexican blankets are hand-woven and possibly hand-dyed, so hand washing is gentler and can help prevent fibers from shedding. Fold your blanket up and put it in a clean space when you’re not using it. Show it some love, and it will last you for years!

Our Picks for the Best Mexican Blankets

Pros: These Mexican blankets by Benevolence LA are made of 100% recycled materials and are hand-woven by local artisans in Tlaxcala, Mexico. They’re soft and breathable, unlike many scratchy wool blankets. Each comes in twin size (50 by 75 inches) and is only 3 pounds, making it easy to store in a bag for a yoga class. There are so many ways to enjoy a soft and thick Mexican blanket like this, it’s easy to forget that they’re also great as comforters!

Cons: It sheds when you wash it and can get leave lint behind. Hand washing could help with the shedding.

Bottom Line: For each blanket purchased, LA Authentic donates money to their charity partner “Water mission.” That’s even more reason to buy a super stylish, well-made, authentic Mexican blanket to use almost anywhere.

 

Pros: This authentic, beautiful blanket is hand-crafted by Tlaxcala Mexican artisans down to each tassel. At 51 by 74 inches, the blanket can be used on a twin bed and, like many Mexican blankets, for just about anything else. In this case, it’s often used for yoga. Use it as a bolster to relieve pain from joints and ease into different poses.

Cons: You may be disappointed if the blanket you receive isn’t the same color as what you see online. They are hand-made and therefore subject to variations.

Bottom Line: This is hands-down one of the more popular rugs used by yogis and yoga centers, but don’t forget that it can be much more than that! Use the hand-crafted blanket wherever you want to add a nice blanket.

 

Pros: Many people use these blankets for horse riding, yoga, camping, as a car blanket, and as vibrant home decor pieces. At 71- by 47-inch, one of these colorful striped blankets is large enough to cover your shoulders and those of a friend on a cold night in front of a bonfire. Each blanket is made with 60% recycled acrylic and 40% recycled polyester.

Cons: The weave is on the looser side, so make sure you wash it in a gentle cycle.

Bottom Line: These large multipurpose Mexican blankets are made with 100% recycled material and are as authentic as they are stylish. Pick from many amazing color options to please your eye.

 

Pros: This extra-large Mexican blanket can add a fresh touch of festivity to your home or family gatherings. Made with an acrylic and polyester blend, this radiant blanket won’t make your skin itch; it’s so soft, you’ll just want to hold it tighter. This 84- by 62-inch Mexican blanket is made to be seen. Since it’s nearly as large as a king-size bed comforter, it will work well as a wall decoration or a sleeping companion.

Cons: Because each blanket is hand-crafted, expect slight variations in color and patterns. This may be a drawback for some. In this case, however, tiny inconsistencies prove authenticity.

Bottom Line: Choose from 19 different color combinations to find the perfect one for you. They’re all multicolored, but specific colors are highlighted to provide variety. Pick your favorite and enjoy.

 

Pros: Large Mexican blankets can serve more uses than the usual bedspread, yoga bolster, and throw blanket. This 84- by 59-inch dazzlingly colorful blanket makes a great tablecloth for a birthday party or family reunion—almost any large gathering in which you want your closest friends and family together. The cotton Mexican blanket is hand-woven with hand-wrapped tassels; even the finished edges are hand-sewn. The fabric is easy to clean but should be hand washed.

Cons: The main complaint about this blanket is just that it’s very thin. This makes it a little better as a tablecloth than as a blanket.

Bottom Line: This is a fantastic blanket for festivities. But don’t think you have to wait for annual celebrations to bring it unless you want to reserve it as special decor. The colors express the rich Mexican culture in an array of six different colors.

Final Thoughts

Mexican blankets have so many uses, from yoga cushioning to campfire warmth to daily comfort to car seat coverings to wall decoration to party tablecloths to pet blankets, and more. Each is a unique display of colors and patterns. Get one of these affordable, useful, and attractive blankets for yourself or a loved one to enjoy its beauty and versatility.