Weighted blankets have gained popularity in recent years due to their potential benefits in helping to manage anxiety and improve sleep quality.
These blankets, which are filled with materials such as glass beads or plastic pellets, provide gentle pressure on the user’s body, simulating a calming hug or swaddling sensation. Often used as a natural solution for those experiencing stress, anxiety, or sleep difficulties, weighted blankets can be a game-changer for many individuals seeking better rest and relaxation.
We understand the importance of finding the right weighted blanket to suit your personal needs and preferences. With numerous options available on the market, it can be overwhelming to determine which one is the best for you.
In this article, we will explore some of the top-rated weighted blankets in 2023, offering insights into their unique features and benefits, as well as discussing considerations such as weight, materials, and overall durability.
Our goal is to help guide you in making an informed decision so that you can experience the comforting embrace of a weighted blanket that is tailored to your needs.
Top 10 Picks for Best Weighted Blankets
In this section, we will discuss our top picks for the Best Weighted Blankets on the market. We have carefully tested and considered various factors, such as comfort, quality, and price, to present you with our top recommendations.
Gravity Blanket
The Gravity Blanket is a popular choice for its even weight distribution and quality materials. This blanket provides deep pressure stimulation to help improve sleep and reduce anxiety. It is available in various weights and sizes, allowing you to choose the one that best suits your needs.
Calm Weighted Blanket
Another great option is the Calm Weighted Blanket, which is made of soft, breathable cotton material. The blanket offers excellent temperature regulation, ensuring you stay comfortable throughout the night. It also comes in various weights and sizes to accommodate individual preferences.
Baloo Living Weighted Blanket
The Baloo Living Weighted Blanket is designed with luxurious materials and unique, discreet stitching that ensures even weight distribution. The all-natural cotton-filled pockets make this blanket environmentally friendly and ensure maximum comfort.
Luna Weighted Blanket
Luna Weighted Blanket is another top pick, featuring a high-quality construction and a range of weight options to choose from. Made with Oeko-Tex-certified cotton, this blanket guarantees comfort and durability.
Babo Weighted Blanket
The Babo Weighted Blanket is designed to provide a relaxing and comfortable sleep experience. It is made with a soft and cozy fabric and filled with hypoallergenic glass beads that are evenly distributed throughout the blanket.
The weight of the blanket ranges from 5 to 30 pounds, with options for both adults and children.
The Babo Weighted Blanket is designed to help reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.
YNM Weighted Blanket
YNM Weighted Blanket offers a great combination of affordability and quality. With various weight options and a soft, comfortable feel, this blanket makes for an excellent addition to your sleep routine.
Saatva Organic Weighted Blanket
Made with top-quality organic materials, the Saatva Organic Weighted Blanket is a luxurious and environmentally friendly option. Available in multiple weights and sizes, this blanket provides excellent weight distribution and comfort.
Luxome Cooling Weighted Blanket
The Luxome Cooling Weighted Blanket is designed to provide a comfortable and restful sleep experience. It is made with a cooling 100% lyocell bamboo fabric that is breathable and perfect for hot sleepers. The blanket comes in a variety of sizes and weights, ranging from 8 to 30 pounds.
The Luxome Cooling Weighted Blanket is engineered to be cool and breathable while providing all the benefits of a weighted blanket, making it an excellent choice for anyone looking to improve their sleep quality.
Nuzzie Knit Weighted Blanket
Nuzzie Knit weighted blanket is designed to improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and provide comfort after a stressful day. The blanket is made with a breathable woven design that keeps you cozy in any climate and is machine washable and resistant to fading.
Unlike traditional weighted blankets, Nuzzie Knit’s chunky knit design promises to keep you feeling cozy without overheating or sweating. Also, we wrote a Nuzzie Knit Weighted Blanket review to make it easier for you to know more about this product.
Aricove Weighted Blanket
The Aricove Weighted Blanket is a premium quality blanket designed to promote restful sleep and improve sleep quality. It is made with a cooling material made from bamboo viscose, which is soft and silky to the touch.
The blanket is filled with micro glass beads and is available in five different weight options ranging from 10 to 20 pounds. It is designed to help you fall asleep quicker, stay asleep longer, and wake up feeling refreshed. Read more on our review.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Weighted Blanket
Weight Options and Body Weight
One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a weighted blanket is its weight. The general rule of thumb is to select a blanket that is approximately 10% of your body weight, or the closest option available to that percentage. For couples, a weighted blanket should be around 7.5% of their combined body weight. Weighted blankets typically range between 5 and 30 pounds, so make sure to choose the one that provides optimal comfort for your specific needs.
Materials Used and Breathability
When it comes to materials, you’ll want to consider both the outer fabric and the inner fill of the weighted blanket. Common outer fabric options include 100% cotton, organic cotton, bamboo, and lyocell. Cotton is popular for its breathability, softness, and durability. Organic cotton has the added benefit of being more environmentally friendly, while bamboo and lyocell are known for their naturally moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating properties.
Duvet Covers and Ties
Many weighted blankets come with a removable duvet cover that makes it easier to clean and maintain your blanket. These covers may be made from the same materials as the blanket itself, or they could feature different fabrics such as plush microfiber, cooling fabrics, or even weighted fabric for added pressure. Look for a duvet cover that complements your needs and preferences, whether you prioritize warmth or breathability.
Additionally, ensure that your chosen weighted blanket has ties or attachment points that securely connect the blanket to its duvet cover, preventing unwanted shifting during use.
Designs and Construction
The design and construction of a weighted blanket also play a significant role in its effectiveness and durability. Look for blankets that are evenly filled with beads or pellets, as well as those that feature double-stitched or reinforced seams to prevent leaks or punctures. Some weighted blankets also come in various patterns, colors, and textures to match your personal style and home decor.
Price and Warranty
Price is an important consideration when selecting a weighted blanket. While high-quality options might be more expensive, they are often worth the investment for their durability, comfort, and effectiveness. However, there are also affordable alternatives on the market that can provide similar benefits. In addition to price, be sure to also review the warranty and return policy provided by the manufacturer, as these can offer peace of mind and additional value.
Benefits of Weighted Blankets
Weighted blankets have become increasingly popular due to the numerous benefits they offer. One of the primary advantages of these blankets is their ability to help reduce anxiety. By applying gentle pressure, weighted blankets work through a method called deep pressure stimulation, which has been linked to a calming effect on the nervous system.
Individuals dealing with insomnia can also benefit from using a weighted blanket. The gentle pressure stimulates the production of serotonin, a hormone that plays an essential role in regulating sleep. As a result, the body can naturally produce more melatonin, the sleep hormone, supporting a healthier sleep pattern.
Furthermore, weighted blankets can be a helpful addition to individuals with autism. The deep pressure stimulation promotes a sense of relaxation and security, which can be especially beneficial for those who struggle with sensory processing or self-regulation.
In addition to addressing anxiety and sleep-related concerns, weighted blankets may also be useful in medical settings. For example, they can provide comfort and a sense of security during dental procedures or chemotherapy treatments.
It is important to note that the benefits of weighted blankets may vary from person to person. However, the overall consensus is that they can positively impact one’s well-being by promoting relaxation and improving sleep quality.
How Weighted Blankets Work?
Weighted blankets are specifically designed to provide relaxation and calming effects on the nervous system. They do this through a combination of deep pressure stimulation, effects on serotonin levels, and promoting the production of melatonin. Let’s explore these concepts in detail.
Deep Pressure Stimulation
Deep pressure stimulation (DPS) is a therapeutic technique that is achieved through the use of a weighted blanket. The pressure from the extra weight of the blanket, which can range from 5 to 30 pounds, creates a comforting sensation that mimics a gentle hug or being swaddled. This pressure helps to reduce anxiety and improve relaxation by activating certain areas of our nervous system.
Effects on Serotonin
Using a weighted blanket can also have an influence on serotonin levels within our bodies. Serotonin is a neurotransmitter that is closely linked to mood regulation and overall feelings of well-being. Deep pressure stimulation provided by the weighted blanket is known to increase serotonin levels, resulting in a calming and positive effect on our mood.
Melatonin
Another benefit of weighted blankets is their ability to promote the production of melatonin. Melatonin is a hormone that is primarily responsible for regulating our sleep-wake cycle. When we use a weighted blanket, the calming sensation, and increased serotonin levels can lead to an increase in melatonin production, which in turn aids in achieving more restful sleep.
How to Care for Your Weighted Blanket?
Proper care for your weighted blanket is crucial to maintaining its durability and effectiveness. In this section, we will provide some tips on how to care for your blanket, covering aspects such as washing, drying, and following the manufacturer’s care instructions.
First, it is essential to determine whether your weighted blanket is machine washable or requires dry cleaning. Most blankets come with care instructions, so make sure to follow them closely. Some models have removable covers that can be machine-washed separately, while others may require spot cleaning or professional dry cleaning for the entire blanket.
When machine washing your weighted blanket, be sure to use cold water and a gentle cycle. Avoid using bleach or fabric softener, as these chemicals can damage the materials and reduce the lifespan of your blanket. Instead, opt for a mild detergent to preserve the quality of both the fabric and the fill materials.
It’s essential to consider the weight capacity of your washing machine before cleaning a weighted blanket. Some home washing machines may not be able to handle the extra weight, potentially causing damage to your appliance. If you are unsure whether your machine can accommodate your weighted blanket, you may want to consider visiting a laundromat with commercial-grade machines.
When it comes to drying your weighted blanket, it is generally best to air dry it. This method helps maintain the quality and longevity of the materials. If you’re short on time, you can also use a tumble dryer on the lowest possible heat setting. Once again, it’s essential to follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer to avoid damaging your blanket.
In conclusion, caring for your weighted blanket is a simple yet vital process. By following the appropriate washing, drying, and care instructions, you can ensure that your investment provides you with the best sleep possible for a long time.
Weighted Blankets for Various Sleepers
Choosing the right weighted blanket can be a game-changer for a good night’s sleep. Let’s take a look at the best options for different types of sleepers, including adults, kids, couples, and hot sleepers.
Adults
We recommend Waowoo Weighted Blanket Queen Size for adults, as it provides a range of weight options from 15 to 25 lbs. Its shell is made from GOTS-certified organic cotton, which is eco-friendly and gentle on the skin. Consider your body weight when selecting the blanket’s size, as it should be around 10% of your total weight for maximum comfort.
Kids
For children, safety is paramount when selecting a weighted blanket. A lighter option, such as the Gravity Cooling Blanket, would be suitable as it comes in a 7 lbs. weight. Additionally, its cooling feature ensures that the child remains at a comfortable temperature throughout the night.
Couples
Couples often have different sleep preferences, making it essential to find a blanket that addresses both partners’ needs. The YnM Weighted Blanket is an excellent choice, as it offers various sizes and weight distributions. This feature accommodates both partners’ body weights and allows for temperature regulation to keep both partners comfortable.
Hot Sleepers
If you’re a hot sleeper, the Baloo Weighted Blanket can help you stay cool during the night. This cooling weighted blanket is designed with breathable materials, ensuring proper ventilation and keeping you at a comfortable temperature. Additionally, its temperature-regulating feature prevents overheating and promotes restful sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
How to Choose the Right Weight?
Choosing the right weight for a weighted blanket is crucial for its effectiveness and comfort. As a general rule, we recommend selecting a blanket that is approximately 10% of your body weight. This will provide a gentle, calming pressure without feeling too heavy. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, a 15-pound blanket would be suitable.
Weight options might vary between different brands, but typically, weighted blankets range from 5 to 30 pounds for adults. If you are uncertain, it is better to choose a lighter option initially and adjust as needed.
Read more: Picking the Right Weight & Size for Your Weighted Blanket
Are Weighted Blankets Safe for Children?
Weighted blankets can be beneficial for children as well, providing the same soothing effects as for adults. However, it is essential to choose the right weight and size for kids. For a 30- to 70-pound child, a small weighted blanket should weigh from 5 to 8 pounds, while a 30- to 130-pound child might need one weighing 5 to 15 pounds.
It is important to note that young children should never be left unsupervised with a weighted blanket, particularly those made for adults. Ensure the blanket is safe for your child’s age and consult a healthcare professional if necessary.
Read more: Would Your Child Benefit from a Weighted Blanket?
Can Weighted Blankets Be Used in Summer?
Weighted blankets can still be used during warmer months, but it is essential to choose a cooling weighted blanket designed with breathable materials, such as open-knit designs, which are found in some newer models.
This will help keep you comfortable without overheating. Additionally, you can look for blankets made with moisture-wicking and temperature-regulating fabrics, which can provide relief on hot summer nights.
Read more: Hot Sleeper? Buying the Right Weighted Blanket for Maximum Comfort
How to Clean and Maintain a Weighted Blanket?
Cleaning and maintaining your weighted blanket properly will ensure its longevity and hygiene. Many weighted blankets come with a machine-washable cover, making it easier to keep clean. Simply remove the cover and follow the care instructions provided by the manufacturer. In most cases, you can safely wash the cover in your washing machine.
However, the inner weighted blanket itself should generally be spot cleaned only. If it becomes necessary to wash the entire blanket, make sure to check the manufacturer’s recommendations and consider using a large, industrial-sized washing machine to prevent damage.
