Hydrogel blends were prepared from water-soluble polymers of poly(vinyl alcohol-vinyl acetate) and poly(vinyl pyrrolidone). The method of preparation was optimized and different compositions of blends were characterized. The effect of thermal treatment and the introduction of an aldehydic crosslinking agent in the blend was also studied. The swelling characteristics of the various compositions, their thermal behaviour and the state of water was examined. Mechanical properties of the hydrogels were determined and it was observed that blends containing glutaraldehyde produced materials with good mechanical integrity and high water contents.