Best Weighted Blankets

We all have anxieties. It’s a completely natural, if unfortunate, part of life. We all struggle with it and when it can prove to be particularly damaging is in the bedroom. Everyone knows that feeling of tossing and turning all night long, desperate and unable to get to sleep. It’s awful and can seem like an insurmountable problem. Thankfully, there is an affordable and instant solution to anxiety-provoked insomnia and one that you may never have considered: a weighted blanket.

Yes, it really is that simple. Cynics might be inclined to doubt the powers of a weighted blanket, but many studies have proven just how effective these unique products can be at helping with sleep issues and anxiety. They really are as simple as the name suggests. These are blankets that have been weighted to offer a gentle sense of pull and pressure throughout the night. Some describe the experience as feeling as though you are gently hugged from dusk till dawn. How could anyone possibly deny the appeal of that sensation?!

While weighted blankets have recently taken off as a sleep culture trend, they have been around for a while. That means that there are many weighted blankets available on the market to tempt anxious sleepers into a new way of being lulled into dreamland. The only problem is that with so many wonderful weighted blanket options available, it can be difficult to determine which one is right for you.

That’s where our Sleep Judge experts come in. We’ve taken the time to research and experience all of the finest weighted blankets on the market. Now, we’re ready to pass that knowledge onto our readers. Below you’ll find our picks for the finest weighted blankets currently available. Below that, you’ll find a definitive guide to weighted blankets in general, so that you’ll have a firm grasp of how they work and what to look out for. In other words, by the time you’re done reading this article you’ll grow from being a weighted blanket neophyte into someone ready to bring home the weighted blanket that they deserve.

Our Picks for the Best Weighted Blankets

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Things To Look Out For

Here are some things to consider when choosing which weighted blanket is right for you.

Glass Or Plastic

Once you start researching weighted blankets, the first thing that you’ll notice is that there tend to be two different types of filling. Most weighted blankets are either comprised of glass beads or plastic pellets. The glass beads tend to be about the same size as sand and are heavier that plastic pellets. This means that the blankets with glass beads will tend to be a little thinner than the competition. There’s no huge difference between the two types of blankets on than this blanket thickness and the fact that weighted blankets with plastic pellets are a little cheaper. So determining which blanket is right for you depends entirely on whether your find a thick or thinner blanket more satisfying.

Warming Polyester

There is one other type of weighted blanket fill and that’s polyester. However, weighted blankets that use polyester fiberfill tend to have one distinct quality that makes them worth discussing separately. These blankets are much warming than the glass or plastic fill option. So if you are in a cool climate or tend to sleep cool and need added heat, this is the blanket for you. However, if you tend to sleep hot and need a more breathable blanket, definitely avoid polyester weighted blankets at all costs.

Cover Time

While some weighted blankets come with a cover included, most weighted blankets are sold without a cover. You’ll need to find your own cover if you plan on using your weighted blanket regularly. Regular blanket covers will work just fine, but make sure they are made from a durable material by a reputable company to ensure that they don’t quickly break down from the added weight. It’s also recommended to seek out a cotton cover for added comfort and breathability that helps compensate for the weighted blanket within.  If this blanket is for a child or elderly individual, then it may also be worth considering getting a waterproof cover to avoid excess washing after accidents.

Body Weight And Dimensions

Weighted blankets offer a unique sleep experience that won’t be the same for every sleeper. The way that these blankets feel offers different comfort levels for people of different body weights and dimensions. A 50 inch weighted blanket will feel dramatically different for someone who is five foot two and someone who is six foot two. So, if possible, it’s a good idea to try a few weighted blankets before committing to one as the correct weight is different for every sleeper and an entirely personal preference. Weighted blankets are recommended for those with conditions like autism or sensory processing disorder and they will also have different needs based the certain parts of the body that they like covered. This should also be respected and play a role in picking out a weighted blanket for those individuals.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How much should my blanket weigh?

Obviously this is a personal preference. However, in general, experts recommend choosing a blanket that represents ten percent of your body weight. Most adult blankets weigh either ten, fifteen, twenty, or twenty-five pounds (while children’s blankets start at five pounds). The ten percent guideline is worth keeping in mind as it will help you find a blanket that provides that calming sensation without it feeling like it inhibits your body in any way.

Is it safe for a child to use a weighted blanket?

In general, yes. In fact, weighted blankets are often even more effective for children than adults. However, it depends on the size of the child in question. No child under the age of two or under the weight of twenty pounds should use a weighted blanket under any circumstances. It could be dangerous for them as they do not have the developed motor skills to pull the blanket from them when it becomes entangled or pull it away form their face when it is blocking their breathing. For similar safety reasons, no child should ever use an adult size weighted blanket. It’s similarly important not to give a particularly heavy weighted blanket to an elderly person.

What size of weighted blanket should I buy?

This may sound counterintuitive relative to your previous blanket buying habits, but you actually should avoid a blanket that is the same size as your bed.  That’s because if your weighted blanket stretches out over the edge of your mattress, the weight will likely cause it to fall off of your bed during the night. Ideally, you’ll want a blanket that completely covers your body with a little extra space to spare, but is still too small to stretch over the edge of your mattress.

How much will my weighted blanket cost?

This varies depending on the size, shape, and style of weighted blanket. However, in general you should expect to pay between $40-$300 for your weighted blanket.

How do I wash my weighted blanket?

This depends on the weight. If you are talking about a blanket that weighs below ten pounds, a regular washing machine should be fine (though it might be wise to wash it separately from your other sheets). If the blanket weighs above ten pounds, then you’ll either need to wash it by hand or seek out a more powerful commercial washer and dryer. Otherwise, you may damage your machine.

Can I share a weighted blanket with my partner?

This depends entirely on how similar in size you are with your partner. The ten percent rule still applies and you don’t want a blanket that’s too heavy. So if you’re of a similar weight, then you should be fine. Otherwise, it might be a better to either average out your weight and apply the ten percent rule to that number, or to simply buy two separate and smaller weighted blankets.