7 Best Erosion Control Blankets for Managing Soil Erosion That Prevent Runoff

Soil erosion can devastate landscapes, wash away valuable topsoil, and damage property—but the right erosion control blanket offers an effective solution to this common problem. Whether you’re managing a steep slope, protecting a construction site, or stabilizing a riverbank, choosing the appropriate erosion control product makes all the difference in successful land management.

In this guide, you’ll discover the 7 best erosion control blankets on the market, helping you make an informed decision to protect your soil and preserve your landscape for years to come.

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Understanding Erosion Control Blankets: What They Are and Why You Need Them

Erosion control blankets are protective coverings made from biodegradable or synthetic materials designed to shield exposed soil from wind and water erosion. These specialized mats typically consist of straw, coconut fibers, wood, or synthetic materials woven together to create a protective layer that stabilizes soil while allowing vegetation to grow through. By placing these blankets over vulnerable areas, you’re providing immediate protection while creating conditions for long-term stabilization through plant growth.

Erosion control blankets work by absorbing rainfall impact, slowing water runoff, trapping soil particles, and creating microenvironments for seed germination. The blankets’ mesh or fiber structure holds seeds and soil in place on slopes where they would otherwise wash away during rain events. As vegetation establishes itself, the roots further stabilize the soil, creating a sustainable erosion control system that continues working long after biodegradable blankets decompose.

You need erosion control blankets whenever you’re dealing with exposed soil on slopes, construction sites, drainage channels, or recently seeded areas. They’re particularly valuable for protecting freshly graded slopes, highway embankments, shorelines, and riverbanks from erosion forces. Without proper protection, these vulnerable areas can lose inches of topsoil during a single heavy rainstorm, resulting in sediment pollution, landscape damage, and expensive remediation work.

7 Best Erosion Control Blankets for Managing Soil Erosion

1. North American Green S75 Straw Blanket

The North American Green S75 Straw Blanket offers cost-effective, biodegradable erosion control for gentle slopes with minimal rainfall. This lightweight option promotes seed germination while providing short-term protection against soil displacement. As it breaks down naturally, it enriches your soil with valuable organic matter, making it ideal for temporary erosion management projects.

2. Tenax Multimat 100 Erosion Control Mat

The Tenax Multimat 100 combines natural and synthetic fibers to create a durable erosion control solution for medium to long-term applications. This versatile mat adapts to various environmental conditions and terrain types, making it suitable for challenging erosion control scenarios. Its balanced design provides reliable soil stabilization while still allowing vegetation establishment.

3. AEC Premier Straw/Coconut Fiber Blanket

AEC Premier’s Straw/Coconut blend delivers the perfect balance between affordability and longevity for medium-term erosion control. The mechanically stitch-bonded construction ensures durability across a range of slopes and rainfall conditions. This hybrid blanket combines straw’s cost-effectiveness with coconut fiber’s extended protection, creating a versatile solution for most erosion control projects.

4. East Coast Erosion Blankets Coir Mat

East Coast’s Coir Mat uses 100% coconut fibers to create a highly durable erosion control solution for harsh environments. Perfect for steep slopes and heavy rainfall areas, this biodegradable mat excels at moisture retention while suppressing weeds. The robust coconut construction provides long-term protection, making it ideal for critical erosion control challenges where durability matters most.

5. DeWitt Erosion Control Blanket

The DeWitt Erosion Control Blanket effectively stabilizes soil while supporting vegetation establishment for comprehensive erosion protection. This versatile option significantly reduces rill, sheet, and wind erosion on vulnerable surfaces. It creates an ideal environment for seed germination and plant development, delivering both immediate protection and long-term stabilization through established vegetation.

6. American Excelsior Curlex Biodegradable Blanket

American Excelsior’s Curlex blanket uses natural aspen fibers to create an eco-friendly erosion control solution for temporary to medium-term applications. This biodegradable option excels on slopes and areas requiring both soil stabilization and vegetation establishment. The unique excelsior construction creates protected microenvironments for seeds while effectively dispersing water flow to prevent soil displacement.

7. ErosionControlBlanket ECB-2 All Natural Jute Mat

The ECB-2 All Natural Jute Mat provides lightweight, biodegradable erosion control ideal for low-rainfall environments. Perfect for shallow slopes, embankments, and garden beds, this natural option decomposes within months while enriching your soil. The open-weave jute construction makes installation simple while providing effective temporary protection against soil displacement.

Key Factors to Consider When Choosing an Erosion Control Blanket

Selecting the right erosion control blanket requires understanding several critical factors that determine effectiveness for your specific site conditions. When evaluating your options, focus on these four essential considerations:

Material Composition

The material of your erosion control blanket directly impacts its performance and suitability. Straw blankets offer cost-effective protection for gentle slopes, lasting up to 12 months. Coconut fiber (coir) provides robust, long-term protection for up to 36 months, excelling on steep slopes. Wood fiber (excelsior) blankets deliver medium-term protection with balanced durability and cost. Hybrid options like straw/coconut mixes combine affordability with extended protection periods.

Degradation Timeline

Your project’s duration dictates the ideal blanket degradation timeline. Short-term projects (up to 12 months) work well with straw and jute blankets that break down relatively quickly. Extended projects requiring longer protection (24-36 months) need coconut fiber or straw/coconut blends. The degradation process is beneficial—as blankets break down, they enhance soil health and create optimal conditions for vegetation establishment, providing natural, long-term erosion protection.

Slope Gradient Compatibility

Match your blanket to your slope’s steepness for optimal erosion control. Gentle slopes with minimal rainfall can be effectively managed with lightweight straw, jute, or burlap blankets. Moderate slopes require medium-weight options like wood fiber or straw/coconut blends that provide greater stability. Steep slopes demand heavy-duty coconut fiber blankets that can withstand significant gravitational forces and prevent soil displacement during heavy precipitation events.

Water Flow Velocity Tolerance

Water flow intensity dramatically affects which blanket will perform effectively in your specific conditions. Areas with low water flow velocities can use basic straw or jute blankets that provide adequate protection against mild runoff. Sites experiencing moderate to high water flow need coconut fiber or double-netted blankets capable of withstanding stronger water forces without tearing or displacement. For channels or areas with concentrated water flow, reinforced options with synthetic netting or higher-density natural fibers are essential.

Installation Tips for Maximum Erosion Control Effectiveness

Prepare the Site

Proper site preparation is crucial for erosion control blanket effectiveness. Start by removing rocks, sticks, and other debris from the area to create a smooth, even surface. Grade the soil to eliminate any high spots or depressions that could prevent the blanket from making full contact with the ground. Apply seed and fertilizer according to your project specifications before installing the blanket to ensure optimal vegetation establishment.

Roll Out the Blanket

Rolling out erosion control blankets correctly ensures maximum soil protection. Always begin at the top of the slope and unroll downward, keeping the blanket in continuous contact with the soil. Maintain slight tension as you unroll to prevent wrinkles or air pockets that could compromise effectiveness. For channels or ditches, start at the downstream end and work upstream, overlapping each section shingle-style to prevent water from getting underneath.

Secure the Blanket

Properly anchoring your erosion control blanket prevents failure during rainfall events. Use U-shaped staples or pins spaced according to manufacturer recommendations—typically every 3-5 feet along seams and 1-2 feet apart around the perimeter. On steeper slopes, increase staple density to provide greater security against slippage. Drive staples flush with the ground surface to avoid creating trip hazards or damaging maintenance equipment.

Bury the Ends

Securing blanket edges prevents undercutting by runoff water. Dig a 6-inch deep trench at the top of the slope, place the leading edge of the blanket into it, backfill with soil, and compact firmly. This anchoring technique creates a seamless transition that prevents water from flowing beneath the blanket during heavy rainfall. Apply the same technique at the bottom edge of slopes or where the blanket meets structures or hardscapes.

Check and Maintain

Regular maintenance ensures long-term erosion control success. Inspect blankets after significant rainfall events to identify areas needing repair or additional staples. Look for signs of undermining, displacement, or damage from wildlife or foot traffic. Address any issues promptly by adding staples or overlaying damaged sections with new material. Remove accumulated sediment or debris that might prevent vegetation establishment or redirect water flow.

Additional Considerations

Match your installation approach to your specific blanket type for optimal results. Heavier coconut fiber blankets often require additional anchoring compared to lightweight straw varieties. On sites with concentrated water flow, consider adding check slots (perpendicular trenches) every 25-50 feet down the slope to prevent water from traveling beneath the entire blanket length. For permanent installations, supplement with strategic plantings of deep-rooted native vegetation to enhance long-term stability.

Maintenance Requirements for Erosion Control Blankets

Maintaining your erosion control blankets is crucial for their long-term effectiveness in preventing soil erosion. Each type of blanket requires specific attention to ensure optimal performance. Here are the essential maintenance practices you should implement:

1. Regular Inspection Schedule

Establish a consistent inspection routine for your erosion control blankets, especially after heavy rainfall or strong winds. Check for any signs of displacement, tearing, or undercutting at the edges. For biodegradable blankets like straw or jute, increase inspection frequency as they decompose more quickly—typically every 2-4 weeks depending on weather conditions.

2. Securing Displaced Sections

When you notice sections of your erosion control blanket becoming loose or displaced, immediate re-staking is necessary. Use U-shaped staples or erosion control stakes to secure the blanket back in place, ensuring proper soil contact. For steep slopes, you might need additional stakes placed in a diamond pattern (4-5 per square yard) to provide extra stability during the re-securing process.

3. Repairing Damaged Areas

Address tears or damage promptly by overlapping a new piece of blanket over the damaged section. Ensure the overlay extends at least 3-4 inches beyond the damaged area in all directions. Secure the patch with stakes around the perimeter and along the center to prevent water from getting underneath the repaired section.

4. Managing Vegetation Growth

Monitor vegetation growth through your erosion control blankets. For biodegradable blankets like straw or coconut fiber, ensure growing vegetation is establishing properly through the material. Remove any invasive weeds that might compete with your desired vegetation, being careful not to disturb the blanket’s position during removal.

5. Sediment Accumulation Management

Check for sediment buildup on top of your erosion control blankets, especially after storm events. Excessive sediment can prevent vegetation growth and reduce the blanket’s effectiveness. Gently remove accumulated sediment without displacing the blanket. For synthetic blankets, you may need to clear sediment more frequently to maintain their performance.

6. Replacement Planning

Understand the lifespan of your specific erosion control blanket to plan for timely replacement. Straw blankets typically last 6-12 months, jute blankets decompose within months, coconut fiber blankets can last 2-5 years, while synthetic blankets have the longest lifespan. Schedule replacement before complete deterioration occurs to maintain continuous erosion protection.

7. Seasonal Maintenance Adjustments

Adapt your maintenance approach based on seasonal changes. During rainy seasons, increase inspection frequency and be prepared for more frequent re-staking. In dry periods, check for proper moisture retention beneath the blankets and consider supplemental irrigation if vegetation appears stressed, especially for newly established plants under biodegradable blankets.

Environmental Benefits of Using Erosion Control Blankets

Soil Stabilization and Protection

Erosion control blankets provide immediate stabilization for vulnerable soil surfaces, preventing erosion caused by rainfall impact, wind, and water runoff. These protective layers absorb the energy of falling raindrops, preventing soil particles from dislodging and washing away. By maintaining soil integrity, these blankets help preserve valuable topsoil that might otherwise take centuries to replace naturally.

Enhanced Vegetation Establishment

These specialized blankets create ideal microenvironments for seed germination and plant growth. They shield seeds from being washed away while retaining crucial soil moisture that supports germination. The protective covering also moderates soil temperature fluctuations, creating stable conditions for root development and vegetation establishment that will provide long-term erosion control.

Reduced Sedimentation in Waterways

By preventing soil erosion, these blankets significantly reduce the amount of sediment entering nearby streams, rivers, and lakes. Excessive sedimentation can harm aquatic ecosystems by clouding water, reducing oxygen levels, and damaging fish habitats. Properly installed erosion control blankets help maintain water clarity and protect the health of downstream water bodies.

Soil Enrichment Through Biodegradation

Natural fiber blankets like straw, coconut, and jute gradually decompose over time, incorporating organic matter back into the soil. This natural biodegradation process improves soil structure, enhances water retention capabilities, and increases nutrient availability for growing plants. The decomposition timeline varies by material, with straw blankets breaking down within months while coconut fiber blankets can last 2-3 years.

Wildlife Habitat Support

By facilitating native plant growth and using eco-friendly materials, erosion control blankets support local ecosystems rather than harming them. The established vegetation creates habitats for insects, birds, and small mammals, contributing to biodiversity. Natural fiber blankets are particularly beneficial as they don’t introduce synthetic materials into the environment.

Improved Water Quality

Erosion control blankets filter pollutants from runoff water as it passes through the material, removing sediments and associated contaminants before they reach water systems. This filtration function helps maintain water quality standards and protects aquatic life from harmful pollutants that might otherwise be carried by sediment-laden runoff.

Climate Change Mitigation

The vegetation established through erosion control blankets helps sequester carbon in plant material and soil, contributing to climate change mitigation efforts. Additionally, by preventing topsoil loss, these blankets help preserve carbon stored in soil organic matter that would otherwise be released into the atmosphere when erosion occurs.

Conclusion: Selecting the Right Erosion Control Blanket for Your Needs

Choosing the right erosion control blanket is crucial for effective soil management and environmental protection. The seven options we’ve explored offer solutions for various scenarios from gentle slopes to challenging waterways.

Remember that successful erosion control depends not just on selecting quality materials but also on proper installation and maintenance. Consider your specific site conditions including slope gradient water flow and project duration when making your decision.

By investing in the appropriate erosion control blanket you’ll protect valuable topsoil prevent costly property damage and contribute to healthier ecosystems. Your efforts in soil conservation today will yield long-term benefits for both your land and the environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is soil erosion and why is it a problem?

Soil erosion is the displacement of topsoil by wind, water, or human activities. It’s problematic because it degrades landscapes, reduces agricultural productivity, and damages property. When topsoil erodes, it can cause sediment pollution in waterways, compromise structural stability of slopes, and lead to costly remediation efforts. Without intervention, vulnerable areas can lose significant amounts of soil during heavy rainfall events.

What are erosion control blankets?

Erosion control blankets are protective coverings made from biodegradable or synthetic materials designed to shield exposed soil from wind and water erosion. They stabilize soil while allowing vegetation to grow, absorb rainfall impact, slow water runoff, and create microenvironments for seed germination. These specialized mats provide immediate protection while fostering long-term stabilization through plant establishment.

Which erosion control blanket is best for gentle slopes?

The North American Green S75 Straw Blanket is ideal for gentle slopes. It’s a cost-effective, biodegradable option that effectively promotes seed germination while providing adequate protection against mild erosion. This blanket is perfect for projects with moderate rainfall and slopes that aren’t too steep, offering a good balance of performance and value.

How do I choose the right erosion control blanket for my project?

Select your blanket based on four key factors: material composition (straw, coconut, or synthetic), expected degradation timeline (matching your project duration), slope gradient compatibility (steeper slopes need stronger materials), and water flow velocity tolerance. Also consider your budget, climate conditions, and whether you need temporary protection or longer-term stabilization.

How are erosion control blankets installed properly?

Proper installation involves thorough site preparation (removing debris and grading soil), rolling out the blanket following the direction of water flow, securing it with staples at recommended intervals, and burying the edges to prevent undercutting. Overlap seams by 3-6 inches, and ensure good soil contact throughout. For slopes, start at the top and work downward, anchoring the top edge in a small trench.

How long do erosion control blankets last?

Lifespan varies by material: straw blankets typically last 3-12 months, wood fiber blankets 1-2 years, coconut fiber (coir) blankets 2-5 years, and synthetic mats 5+ years. Biodegradable options gradually break down and enrich the soil, while synthetic options provide more permanent solutions. Environmental factors like rainfall intensity, sunlight exposure, and slope steepness can affect longevity.

What maintenance do erosion control blankets require?

Maintain blankets by establishing a regular inspection schedule, especially after heavy rainfall. Secure any displaced sections with additional staples, repair damaged areas promptly, manage vegetation growth, and address sediment accumulation to prevent water flow disruption. Plan for timely replacement of biodegradable blankets when they reach the end of their effective lifespan.

What environmental benefits do erosion control blankets provide?

Erosion control blankets offer multiple environmental benefits: they immediately stabilize soil, enhance vegetation establishment, reduce sedimentation in waterways, and enrich soil through biodegradation (for natural materials). They also support wildlife habitats, improve water quality by filtering pollutants, and contribute to climate change mitigation by promoting plant growth that sequesters carbon.