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Do you sometimes get the urge to cozy up in bed like a burrito and sleep like a baby? On busier days, I’ve certainly thought of that. It’s that soothing embrace of a weighted blanket that feels like a gentle hug, melting away all the stress. If you’re looking to reduce stress and anxiety or fall into a deep sleep, have a look at the best weighted blanket options here!
What is a Weighted Blanket?
A weighted blanket is a type of blanket that is designed to create a pleasant hugging sensation and provide relief for insomnia, stress, and anxiety. It uses “deep-touch pressure” as a physical therapy to help regulate emotions and behaviors. This pressure also gives you the feeling of being hugged, swaddled, stroked, or held [1], stimulating the production of serotonin and melatonin.
Benefits of Weighted Blanket
Besides giving you the feeling of being hugged or held, the main benefits of using a weighted blanket include:
Anxiety and stress relief
Everyone may experience anxiety at any point in time, some with more severe symptoms than others. When this happens, your heart rate and breathing increase. This causes stress to the body, putting it in a ‘fight or flight’ response.
With a weighted blanket, it puts your body into a ‘resting’ mode. This helps to reduce anxiety symptoms and provides an overall sense of calmness [2].
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Improved sleep quality
The comfortable pressure that comes with the weight of the blanket makes it feel as though you are being embraced. The feeling of being hugged can slow down heart rate and decrease the level of cortisol, the stress hormone in the body.
This causes our body to feel relaxed and calm, improving sleep quality at night.
Pain relief and relaxation
Those who live with chronic pain may find that a weighted blanket can help relieve pain through gentle, evenly distributed pressure.
In a 2022 study that involved 94 adults with chronic pain, it was found that a heavy weighted blanket could reduce the perception of chronic pain.
Another 2023 study that involved trauma patients found that using a weighted blanket for consecutive days resulted in less opioid use, pain, and anxiety compared to those who hadn’t used a weighted blanket.
This shows the effectiveness of using a weighted blanket for pain relief and relaxation.
How We Chose The Best Weighted Blanket To Feature
When it came to choosing the list of best-weighted blankets, we had to make careful considerations based on the key factors that stood out. It wasn’t about picking the heaviest one on the shelf but rather what made them exceptional.
Below are some of the factors that we included in our decision process.
Material and fill
The type of material and fill was especially important to us. It had to be made with comfortable and breathable materials such as cotton, bamboo, or lyocell.
Another thing we considered was also the type of fill that was used, whether it was glass beads or plastic pellets.
These considerations were important as certain materials or fills could disrupt sleep and cause irritation. If it is not made from breathable materials, this would also cause problems for those who get hot and flushed easily at night.
Weight and size
We also considered the weight and size options when picking these blankets out. They had to have a variety of sizes and weights to choose from. Some may prefer a lighter blanket while others may prefer a heavier blanket.
This ability to choose is important.
Comfort and Durability
Comfort was another top priority in our selection process. We looked at texture and softness to ensure that it would be comfortable for use.
A great weighted blanket should feel like a gentle hug, not a heavy burden, so we focused on these qualities.
Durability was also crucial. We selected blankets with high-quality stitching and materials that would be able to last years, if not longer. If you are going to pay a good amount for a blanket, it would make sense for it to be made from long-lasting materials.
User Ratings
Lastly, we also took user feedback and ratings into consideration. We assess reviews on the individual brand’s website and other platforms to understand the experiences that people have had.
Blankets that consistently received comments about their great comfort level, effectiveness, and satisfaction with the product, were what we looked for. Blankets that scored relatively high from a rating of 1-5 stars were more likely to make it into our final list.
8 Best Weighted Blankets To Choose From
1. Mosaic Minky Weighted Blanket
Mosaic’s Minky Weighted Blanket is made to provide you with the best comfort. The blanket is designed with premium materials to ensure that users do not overheat while using it. In addition, it is also hypoallergenic, catering to users who may have sensitive skin or allergies. This is a huge plus point for me, as someone who has sensitive skin and suffers from eczema.
Overall, this blanket is rather versatile. It can be used in bed, on a couch, or anywhere of your choosing.
User Rating: 4.8/5 Stars
Fill Material: Plastic pellets, polyfill
External Material: Polyester Minky
Size: Kids, Throw, Twin, Full
Weight: 5lbs, 8lbs, 10lbs
Feel: Soft and soothing
Price: $149.95-$249.95
2. Gravity Weighted Blanket
Gravity Blanket’s gravity-weighted blanket touts itself as the only weighted blanket scientifically proven to improve sleep quality. According to their findings, many users reported being able to fall asleep faster, get better sleep and feel less stressed and anxious upon using it.
I like that this blanket comes with a removable duvet cover. All you need to do is to unzip the cover and throw it into the wash. The inner blanket is hand-wash only. Some users have claimed that the blanket feels too heavy and a little too short for those who are tall in height.
These may be factors that you’d like to consider before getting yourself one.
User Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Fill Material: Fine-grade glass beads
External Material: Microfiber
Size: Single, Queen/King
Weight: 12lbs, 20lbs, 35lbs
Feel: Soft
Price: $200-$300
3. Bearaby Cotton Napper Weighted Blanket
The Bearaby Cotton Napper is a hand-knitted weighted blanket, made of 100% organic cotton to help you fall asleep quicker naturally. One of the best features of this blanket is that is highly breathable, meaning that it is perfect to use for all seasons.
One of the biggest worries that I would have is overheating when using it in the summer. However, it seems like with this blanket, it wouldn’t be the case at all!
A bonus is that Bearaby offers free shipping and a 30-day return policy.
User Rating: 4.8/5 Stars
Fill & External Material: OrganicCotton
Size: Fits the use for one person
Weight: 10lbs, 15lbs, 20lbs, 25lbs
Feel: Soft and chunky
Price: $199-$279
4. Luna Luxe Cotton Weighted Blanket
This Luna Blanket’s weighted blanket is designed to help you reduce anxiety and sleepless nights. It is evenly distributed with reinforced seams to ensure it lasts for a long time. You can also include attaching your duvet cover to the blanket as it comes with corner loops.
It’s worth noting that it is made with a 300-thread count fabric that is hypoallergenic, making it safe for sensitive skin. Considering the price of this blanket, I’ll say it’s of rather decent quality.
User Rating: 5/5 Stars
Fill Material: 8% Polyester Padding & 92 Glass Beads
External Material: 100% Cotton
Size: Full, Queen, King
Weight: 15lbs, 20lbs, 25lbs
Feel: Soft and cozy
Price: $99.99-$129.99
5. Luna Cooling CoolLuxe Weighted Blanket
This Luna Blanket CoolLuxe Weighted Blanket is a cooling weighted blanket made with premium-grade glass beads and fabric to effectively disperse body heat. This allows you to stay comfortable throughout the night. It is also specially made with a quilted pattern to ensure that the glass beads do not shift and stay evenly distributed while you sleep.
This blanket is perfect for hot sleepers or when the temperature is warm. It is versatile for use all year round.
User Rating: 4.9/5 Stars
Fill Material: Premium glass beads
External Material: Cooling fabric and minky velvet
Size: Full, Queen
Weight: 12lbs, 15lbs
Feel: Soft and silky
Price: $99.99-$109.99
6. YNM Exclusive Cotton Weighted Blanket
This YNM Weighted Blanket is one of the best-weighted blankets that has been engineered for overall softness, breathability, and even weight distribution. It comes with a unique seven-layer system to help users reduce stress and improve their sleep quality.
Some users have said that this blanket is comfortable and it helps them to get restful sleep at night. What I find great is that there is a 1-year warranty to cover any defects as well as a 30-day return and exchange policy. That way, you won’t have to commit too early if you decide it’s not for you.
User Rating: 4.5/5 Stars
Fill Material: Premium glass beads and hypoallergenic synthetic fiber fill
External Material: Cotton
Size: Kids Twin, Twin, Full/Queen, King, California King
Weight: 7lbs, 10lbs, 12lbs, 15lbs, 17lbs, 20lbs, 25lbs, 30lbs, 40lbs
Feel: Silky soft and breathable
Price: $69.99-$209.99
7. Saatva Weighted Blanket
Saatva’s all-natural weighted blanket is yet another blanket that promotes deeper and more restful sleep. It’s made with a diamond quilted cotton velvet cover and all-natural glass beads to provide gentle pressure, to encourage relaxation.
Saatva is also one of the most highly reviewed sleep brands since 2010 so you are sure that this would be made with high quality. One of the things that I must highlight though, is the price point. It is priced quite steeply with a throw blanket retailing for $345.
If you are strapped for cash, there are other alternatives that are affordably priced with decent quality. Otherwise, do consider making this part of your wishlist!
User Rating: 5/5 Stars
Fill Material: All-natural glass beads
External Material: Natural cotton velvet
Size: Throw, Queen/King
Weight: 12lbs, 20lbs
Feel: Soft, cozy and breathable
Price: $345-$495
8. Layla Weighted Blanket
The Layla Weighted Blanket delivers Deep Touch Pressure (DTP) for a relaxing and gentle pressure across your body, making you feel warmly embraced. This soothing blanket helps you to relax and alleviate restlessness for a better peace of mind at night.
The top side of the blanket is made with soft, mink-like fur while the other side is 100% cotton. This leaves a pleasant feeling on your skin, ensuring it doesn’t get irritated.
This blanket provides security and comfort, perfect for people with anxiety and ADHD. There is also a 30-day night trial and return policy. So if you are not satisfied, you can always return it.
User Rating: 4.7/5 Stars
Fill Material: High-density microglass beads
External Material: 300 thread-count cotton on one side and 100% polyester/mink on the other side
Size: Fits the use of one person
Weight: 15lbs, 20lbs, 25lbs
Feel: Soft, cozy and breathable
Price: $199-$239
Testing Weighted Blankets
When it comes to testing weighted blankets and finding a suitable one for you, you have to ensure that you are using it!
What I mean by that is actually using them in bed or when you are lying on the couch. Some people may find that weighted blankets do not help because they may not be using them long enough.
Depending on the individual, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks to get used to a weighted blanket. So before you decide it is not comfortable, give it at least a couple of weeks.
It is also extremely important to choose a weighted blanket that is around 10% of your body weight, not too heavy and not too light. It should feel comfortable and cozy to use.
Weighted Blanket Care and Maintenance
When you have received your weighted blanket for the first time, it’s important to take note of these things:
- Washing and Drying: When it comes to washing and drying, always follow the care instructions that come with your weighted blanket. Check if it can be machine-washed and dry-cleaned.
- Avoid over-washing or drying: It is important to avoid over-washing or over-drying your weight blanket so that the quality does not get compromised. Doing this in the long term may spoil your blanket faster.
- Use a duvet cover: If you want to protect and maintain the quality of your blanket well, consider using a duvet cover as a protective measure.
- Avoid ironing or steaming your blanket: Follow the care instructions, do not iron or steam your blanket as that could spoil the material.
Conclusion
Weighted blankets can provide those with anxiety or stress, a sense of security and comfort. It is also a great option to try if you are trying to improve your sleep quality and stop feeling restless. With that said, when choosing the right blanket for you, make sure to consider key factors such as materials, fills, and comfort. That way, you can get the proper sleep you need.
For those who struggle with sleep problems at night, check out ShutEye®! ShutEye® is a patented sleep-tracking app that offers personalized sleep reports and tips to improve your sleep score and sleep quality.
More Resources
Benefits of Sleeping With A Weighted Blanket
