What is a weighted blanket? Why is it advised to use one?

The term ‘weighted blanket’ itself says it is heavier than standard blankets. These blankets are specially designed to reduce anxiety and promote a feeling of calmness, which actually helps with better sleep. 

The extra weight comes from the extra filling material, which is plastic pellets, glass, metal beads, and fabrics stuffed inside the blanket. However, these materials are evenly distributed all over the blanket, so it doesn’t feel heavy on the top of your body parts and settles down evenly over your body. 

In terms of health, a weighted blanket is suitable for people because it creates a sensation like a tight hug, which actually feels better and reduces anxiety. Studies have found that a weighted blanket is quite beneficial because it provides a deep pressure touch (DPT). DPT is a type of therapy that feels like a hug and is useful in promoting calmness and improving sleep quality. 

However, Research has put limitations on using weighted blankets in certain cases, such as asthma, Depression, PTSD, etc. So, before buying a weighted blanket, it is wise to consult a medical person and get the right suggestions for yourself. 

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Pros and Cons of a Weighted Blanket

Limitations of Using a weighted blanket

A Weighted blanket can increase some preexisting health issues. Before using weighted blankets, try consulting your physician or avoid using it entirely. Health conditions that may get affected are as follows:

• People having breathing issues like asthma or COPD(chronic obstructive pulmonary disease)
• Low blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and circulation issues all affect the cardiovascular system, so avoid using it in those conditions.
• A blockage in the airways avert air from moving through the windpipe while asleep. This symptom is known as OSA(Obstructive Sleep Apnea), which can cause you to wake up repeatedly to get enough oxygen. So do not use it if you are having such issues.
• If you fear getting into a small area or closed space and feel suffocated, avoid a weighted blanket. The term used to narrate this type of phobia is claustrophobia.

Is It Recommended that Children Use a weighted blanket?

Well, it is safe to use a weighted blanket for kids over 3 years old whose weight is at least 50 pounds. But in any case, it would be a good idea to consult a doctor before using a weighted blanket for your kids. 

Due to its heavy weight, a weighted blanket can cause suffocation among younger children under 3 years of age.

Certainly, as a rule, a weighted blanket shouldn’t weigh more than 10% of your kid’s weight. So, if you are thinking of buying a weighted blanket for your kid because your kid is having sleeping or anxiety issues, we would suggest taking advice from their pediatrician, as there might be other ways to improve sleep and relaxation. 

How to Select a weighted blanket? – Buying Factors to Choose the Right One.

If you have finalized that a weighted blanket is the solution for you to get enough sleep and helps you to relax. There are some factors to look for, including weight, size, price, ease of cleaning and breathability. 

Ideal Weight 

Although a recommended weight for a healthy adult is between 5 & 12 percent of body mass. Here, have a look at this chart to find out which blanket weights are the right match for different weights of customers. 

Blanket Weight(IBS)	Sustainable Weight Range(IBS)	Absolute Weight(IBS)
5	25 – 60	50
7	35 – 84	70
10	50 – 120	100
12	60 – 144	120
15	75 – 180	150
17	85 – 194	170
20	100 – 240	200
22	110 – 264	220
25	125 – 300	250
30	150 – 360	300

Another key point to remember is that the 10% rule doesn’t suit every human being. Some prefer a light blanket instead of a weighted blanket because they tend to feel hot during sleep. 

If there’s any confusion in mind before purchasing a weighted blanket, try to get one with a sleep trial so that you can return back if it is not suitable for you. 

Size

Not always available in standard sizes as traditional blankets. In fact, there are models that are only one size. 

Usually, weighted blankets are manufactured for a single person use, however, some brands create larger sizes for double persons or couples. 

Moreover, if you are buying for your couch then using a throw is the best choice instead of a weighted blanket.

Do Not use a blanket for kids if it’s made for adults, as it may feel heavier and can cause problems like pressure on the body.

Price

The average price of a weighted blanket is $100 to $300. But, some luxury blankets might be costly due to special material used in it. 

There is a saying that higher the price, higher the quality, but it is not always true. You should be able to identify the material then you might be able to get one at a reasonable price. 

Most importantly, proper manufacturing is essential to keep the filling in place. So that you feel even weight all over your body. 

Further, you can search for discounts and promo codes during festive seasons such as black friday. 

Fill Material

Fill material decides the quality of the blanket, a weighted blanket which is best in quality uses thick fabrics or glass beads. Both of these provide durability to the blanket. 

Cheap fabric material or plastic pellets doesn’t last long and tears easily. Especially if you wash your blanket at home.

Cover Material

The cover of the blanket plays a vital role in offering comfort and warmth on your body. Also, it is essential to choose cover fabric that is breathable, soft, and has a texture that you like and is good for your skin. Such as cotton, bamboo – viscose and microfibre.

Wash Friendly

If you are an everyday blanket user, then it is important for you to choose a blanket considering its cleaning process. 

Further, there are blankets that are entirely made from fabric, it is easy to wash these blankets in your household washing machine. Other models of blankets have an surface cover that can easily be removed and washed separately in the washing machine or by hand . 

Additionally, you have a choice to consider a weighted blanket that you don’t need to wash instead, and can be spot cleaned. But these blankets are quite difficult to manage. They are exquisite. 

Absorbent and Cooling Features

A weighted blanket should provide warmth and insulation without causing you to overheat. A weighted blanket’s ability to sleep cool, like that of a conventional blanket, is mostly determined by its materials and design.

If you prefer a weighted blanket that is less hot, an open-knit type would be pleasant. These blankets are exceptionally breathable due to their large ventilation openings. 

If you want more coziness or heat, look for a weighted blanket with a thicker outer cover. Quilted shells or blankets with extra batting provide increased protection. 

Cotton and bamboo viscose are the most porous materials used in weighted blankets: Microfiber, a brushed polyester, likely to be more warmer than others.

Adult vs Kid

Understanding that kids and adults have different requirements and capacities. Consider buying the weighted blanket which is especially made for kids as well as for adults. 

With that being said, if your child is over 100 pounds then standard weight blankets might be suitable for them.

How to Shop for a weighted blanket? 

When looking for a weighted blanket, you may find it useful to look over a few crucial factors:

• Brand reputation: Purchasing from a well-established firm will ensure that you receive a high-quality product and prompt customer support.
• Reviews: Look for verified reviews from actual consumers who may have insights that might help you make a buying decision.
• Delivery: You should generally receive free delivery, but double-check to avoid surprise fees.
• Returns: A sleep trial or no-risk return window can help you avoid being stuck with a weighted blanket you don’t like.

Shopping Online vs Offline for weighted blanket

Buying online or in store experience may vary in different areas. While shopping online you have the freedom to access huge varieties at a low price. You can choose and compare according to your comfort. 

Whereas in store shopping, you are able to touch and feel the fabric, but there are limitations of choice. 

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