I have a cotton/poly gingham quilt that is probably nearly as old as I am.. It has been used for everything you can imagine.. I love that silly quilt because I can wash anything that ever gets on it out... It never fades and wears like iron. Cotton is a wonderful fabric, but blends are also wonderful in a different way. I wouldn't hesitate to lay this quilt I have on the ground for a picnic, or to wrap up a sick child, to work on a broken down car along side the highway, whatever it's needed for it works for... Then I wash it and away we go. I sure would not toss one of my cotton quilts on the ground for any reason.
It's like the difference between comfy jeans with a t-shirt and a beautiful evening dress.. both have a needed place to fill.