The Weighted Blanket – What Does It Do and Which Ones Are Best?

When most people think about choosing the perfect blanket for their bed, they think of colors, patterns, and sizes. However, there’s another factor to consider: your health.

Weighted blankets are used to help those who are in need of improved sleep quality due to stress, mental issues or other health issues. It is filled with glass beads to provide a weight that encapsulates a person as they sleep.

The weighted blanket has the unique ability to provide therapeutic healing to someone who might be going through a temporary experience such as a panic attack or a stress-filled evening. The weight simulates the sensation someone experiences when they receive a hug or massage.

It works by providing a barrier to the body so that a person is less likely to toss and turn throughout the night. Typically, weighted blankets weigh 10% of a person’s body weight. It might not seem like a lot, but when you’re used to light blankets, a fifteen-pound blanket will definitely feel different.

There are mixed reviews regarding the validity of the weighted blanket. There are plenty of teachers who keep weighted blankets in their classrooms when they’re teaching children with special needs. There are plenty of people who can’t wait to get under their weighted blanket after a long, stressful day at work. However, there are others who don’t feel or experience a difference when they use a weighted blanket. It really depends on the person and their particular needs.

Benefits of Weighted Blankets

They Decrease Stress

So many people deal with debilitating stress and anxiety for a number of reasons. Unfortunately, stress and anxiety can easily get in the way of a person’s ability to sleep peacefully. As a result, this will directly impact a person’s quality of life. The weighted blanket or also known as “anxiety blankets” are calming and help with stress. They will encourage a better sleep experience, too.

They Alleviate Loneliness

Some people feel alone, and they really want to feel like someone is in bed with them. The weighted blanket is amazing because it tends to feel like a hug. There are people who struggle with anxiety, and they ask their spouses or loved ones to hold them until they’ve calmed down.

They Decrease Symptoms Related to Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless leg syndrome can seem a lot like a nervous tick, but it’s one that many individuals struggle with. When they’re unable to relax, this impacts everything. When a person uses a weighted blanket in the midst of having restless leg syndrome, the heavy weight encourages a person’s ability to remain still for longer periods of time.

Best Weighted Blankets for Anxiety and Depression

1. Good Knight Weighted Blanket

This weighted blanket is both hypoallergenic and made of 100% cotton material. Whether you have an adult man or a teenage girl using the blanket, it’s the ideal size for everyone. If you’re not in love with the blanket, there is a 100% money-back guarantee. That’s how confident they are in their product. You can also enjoy two different sizes: 15 pounds or 17 pounds.

Buy it here: Good Knight Weighted Blanket

2. Luna Adult Weighted Blanket

If you or someone in your household struggles with anxiety, this weighted blanket is a great option to consider. It comes in a range of sizes. It also ranges in weight. Options from 10 lbs up to 30 pounds are available. This blanket comes in twelve different colors. It’s made of 100% cotton and is comprised of seven layers. Not only is it hypoallergenic, but it is made of eco-friendly materials. When it’s time to clean this blanket, you can opt to hand wash it or place it in the washer on a cold and gentle setting.

Buy it here: Luna Adult Weighted Blanket

3. YnM Weighted Blanket

This weighted blanket ranges from sizes as small as 36 inches by 48 inches to sizes as large as 80 inches by 87 inches. It’s a very versatile weighted blanket that starts at five pounds and goes up to 30 pounds. The efficient design allows you to use your own duvet cover for styling purposes while the inner layer is weighted. The weighted inner layer comes in a range of colors such as brandied apricot, sprout green, and light gray. This blanket is easy to clean, and it’s made of breathable cotton for a comfortable night’s sleep.

Buy it here: YnM Weighted Blanket

4. YEMYHOM 100% Cotton Weighted Blanket

Promising the feeling of a great hug, the YEMYHOM weighted blanket provides interesting honeycomb stitching on top of glass beads that are dispersed throughout the interior of the blanket. As you move throughout your sleep, the beads mold and fit the body for a comfortable rest. This blanket is made of 100% breathable cotton. With ten years of experience with weighted blankets, you’re guaranteed to experience fine craftsmanship and durability.

Buy it here: YEMYHOM 100% Cotton Weighted Blanket

5. Weighted Idea Bamboo Cooling Weighted Blanket

In this category, the blankets are mostly made of 100% cotton. This is a different blanket in that it’s made of 100% bamboo. It’s extremely soft to the touch and feels a lot like silk. With the combination of the soft-touch, cooling element and the weight, it’s easier to fall asleep faster and experience deeper sleep. The pellets in this blanket are lined multiple times to avoid any leaks. When it’s time to clean this blanket, manufacturers recommend a spot-cleaning treatment.

Buy it here: Weighted Idea Bamboo Cooling Weighted Blanket

Best Weighted Blankets for Adults

1. Waowoo Adult Weighted Blanket

Filled with premium glass beads, the Waowoo Adult Weighted Blanket is available in weight starting at four pounds up to 25 pounds. If you’re struggling with sleep deprivation or other sleep-related problems, this blanket promises to provide the hug you need to sleep comfortably through the night. While it’s best to hand wash this blanket, you can also clean it on the gentle cycle in cold water and air-dry it. If you have a question or need assistance with your blanket, this company provides 24-hour customer care.

Buy it here: Waowoo Adult Weighted Blanket

2. Smartqueen Adult Weighted Blanket

Made out of premium cotton and filled with natural glass beads, this blanket is available as a 15-pound option up to a 25-pound option. With numerous sizes, you can purchase the blanket to best suit an adult with sleeping problems. However, the blanket is best for adults who weigh anywhere from 130 pounds to 170 pounds. Known for its seven-layer structure, the Smartqueen blanket is easy to clean, dry and maintain. A full refund is available if you’re not satisfied with your purchase.

Buy it here: Smartqueen Adult Weighted Blanket

3. Hypnoser Weighted Blanket 2.0 for Kids & Adults

The Hypnoser blanket works well for full or queen-sized beds. The technology behind this blanket prevents the leakage of the glass beads that provide the weight. It is both double-lined and double-stitched. It also maintains a removable duvet cover which makes the cleaning process so much easier. There is also a three-year warranty that comes with the blanket. If the mending comes undone anytime with the three years, you can get free mending. Between the 100% breathable fabrics and the 100% customer satisfied service, this blanket is a great gift for any adult in your life.

Buy it here: Hypnoser Weighted Blanket 2.0 for Kids & Adults

4. WarmHug Weighted Blanket

This 100% cotton blanket comes filled with cool glass beads that promise to help any adult get a great night’s sleep. The glass beads are evenly distributed for maximum comfort and sleek design. Because a weighted blanket can sometimes require an adjustment period, the manufacturer encourages customers to use the blanket for two weeks before making a judgment call. Weighted blankets do provide their own aesthetic which can be weird at first. If you decide that you don’t like the blanket, you can get a refund without any issues. WarmHug is committed to your satisfaction.

Buy it now: WarmHug Weighted Blanket

5. Esinfy Weighted Blanket

This blanket is unique in that it promises to provide pressure irritating therapy. This method allows an individual to experience the therapeutic properties of deep pressure touch stimulation. It’s also a great therapy option to help improve one’s sleep quality. The quilted design is also essential in helping the blanket maintain uniformity without any leaking of beads. Between the glass beads and breathable fabric, this gravity blanket is a great option to help individuals experience the best rest possible.

Buy it here: Esinfy Weighted Blanket

6. Ourea Adult Weighted Blankets

Ranging from five pounds to 30 pounds, the Ourea blanket is made from 100% organic cotton. It’s a great option to use when you’re ready to fall asleep, but can also be used for comfort during leisure activities. With twelve color choices, you can find an option that works with your decor perfectly. It promises to reduce the restless tossing and turning during sleep up to 90%. It also promises to help individuals fall asleep much faster. Constructed with a total of seven layers, the manufacturer guarantees that the glass beads won’t leak out of the seams.

Buy it here: Ourea Adult Weighted Blanket

Best Weighted Blankets for Kids

1. Roore 5 LB Weighted Blanket for Kids

The five-pound blanket is the best option for any child who is between 40 to 60 pounds. In addition to providing two vibrant color choices, the material is extremely soft and durable. The durability of the fabric allows you to comfortably throw the blanket in the washing machine without worries of deterioration. The premium glass beads, the hypoallergic material, and the two-design construction are just a few of the stand-out qualities of this children’s weighted blanket option.

Buy it here: Roore 5 LB Weighted Blanket for Kids

2. Sonaice Weighted Toddler Blanket

Whether your toddler has ADHD or autism, the Sonaice weighted blanket can provide maximum comfort through the night with natural glass beads, premium cotton and more. It is recommended for a toddler who is between 40 to 60 pounds. It also promises to help children fall asleep faster with a decreased rate of restlessness at bedtime. This blanket also contains the unique seven-layer structure in order to prevent the glass beads from leaking.

Buy it here: Sonaice Weighted Toddler Blanket

3. Hiseeme Weighted Blanket for Kids

Whether your little one loves dinosaurs, pink moons or solid colors, there’s an option to choose. It promises to provide a cooling sensation throughout the night. This weighted blanket also helps to provide a consistent temperature. When kids are comfortable with the temperature of their bedding, they’re less likely to toss and turn. This is an interesting blanket because it contains restraints that are gentle yet prevent a child from removing the blanket during the night. It provides the weighted hug so many children prefer to experience throughout the night.

Buy it here: Hiseeme Weighted Blanket for Kids

4. Quility Premium Kids Weighted Blanket & Removable Cover

This particular weighted blanket is actually a seven-pound option. It’s ideal for a child who is between 70 to 90 pounds. It’s best used on a single-size bed. It’s made of premium glass beads as well. Made of 100% cotton that’s extremely breathable, this option allows a child to enjoy a great night’s sleep. It’s also a fan favorite out of all the weighted blankets on the market.

Buy it here: Quility Premium Kids Weighted Blanket & Removable Cover

5. Weighted Idea Kids Weighted Blanket

Made of 100% natural cotton, this blanket is a seven-pound option that works best for children and teenagers. It’s easy to clean and comes in a range of styles. It’s crafted in a way that allows kids to feel comfortable using it in both the cooler months as well as the warmer months.

Buy it here: Weighted Idea Kids Weighted Blanket

6. Fabula Life Weighted Blanket

The Fabula Life blanket is crafted in such a way to reduce the noise when a child is moving through the night. It’s also crafted to protect the glass beads inside of the blanket. The even bead distribution, non-toxic materials, and the comfortable seven-layer system make this blanket a fabulous favorite among many who purchase it.

Buy it here: Fabula Life Weighted Blanket

7. Florensi Weighted Blanket for Kids

This weighted blanket comes complete with a removable bamboo duvet cover. This is ideal for cleaning purposes. The blanket comes in two exciting designs: Blue Constellations and Grey Chevron. This blanket was specific crafted for children who suffer from anxiety as this was the experience of the founder/creator.

Buy it here: Florensi Weighted Blanket for Kids

Best Weighted Blankets for Toddlers

1. The Maxtid Weighted Blanket

This blanket is specifically created for children who weigh anywhere between 19 to 40 pounds. It works well as an infant blanket because of the soft fabric. If you have a toddler who is restless or hasn’t been able to sleep through the night yet, this blanket is an excellent natural sleep aid. It’s also great with focus. This will also allow you, as the parent, to get more rest every night. There’s no hand-washing required. When it’s dirty, throw the blanket in the washing machine with cool water.

Buy it here: The Maxtid Weighted Blanket

2. Lovife Weighted Blanket

This blanket is perfect for snuggle time with a toddler. It’s made of soft fabrics, and it comes with a five-layer design to keep the glass beads sealed. In order to make sure this blanket stays in great shape, focus on hand washing and hanging the blanket to dry. If you need to store the blanket or pack it for travel, it comes with a convenient gift bag.

Buy it here: Lovife Weighted Blanket

3. TerriTrophy Kids Weighted Blanket

If you have a toddler who is a huge fan of dinosaurs, the TerriTrophy blanket is a perfect choice. It’s 100% cotton and comes with seven layers. The material feels breathable which works well for body temperature control. There are three options to choose from when it pertains to weight. Choose between five, seven or ten pounds. Just be sure that you choose an option that’s 10% of the toddler’s body weight.

Buy it here: TerriTrophy Kids Weighted Blanket

4. Maxtid Weighted Lap Pad Blanket

Whether your toddler loves pink, turquoise or cobalt blue, there’s an option for them with this weighted blanket. It’s made of 100% polyester. It’s actually a smaller option that weighs two pounds. Since the toddler body is typically small, two pounds can work well for naptime or bedtime. Because of the size of this blanket, a toddler can easily carry it to school or other locations for naptime.

Buy it here: Maxtid Weighted Lap Pad Blanket

5. Rosmarus Child Weighted Blanket

One of the reasons why the Rosmarus blanket is perfect for a toddler is because it simulates the feeling of getting a hug at night. This feeling can help a child fall asleep much faster. Plus, toddlers can potentially sleep longer and deeper with this blanket. It’s crafted with eight secure tie loops and smooth, breathable 100% natural cotton. This blanket is ideal for toddlers who weigh between 40 to 60 pounds.

Buy it here: Rosmarus Child Weighted Blanket

6. Franco Weighted Blanket

On one side of this weighted blanket, there is a soft micro plush material. The other side is made of a soft micro mink plush material. The soft, soothing textures are filled with glass beads that create a sensation that helps the body relax for bedtime. The inner pockets safely encapsulate the beads so that your toddler remains safe. Whether your toddler loves Paw Patrol, Frozen or the Disney Princesses, there’s a blanket option to choose from. Other designs include Batman, Jurassic World, and Baby Shark.

Buy it here: Franco Weighted Blanket

7. Sweetzer & Orange Weighted Blanket

The blanket comes in a variety of prints such as Sleepy Dinosaurs, Yawning Unicorns, and Sleepy Animals. The imagery is perfect for the toddler who needs to fall asleep. This weighted blanket is crafted with non-toxic, odorless glass beads that are perfectly distributed for maximum comfort. One of the standout qualities of this blanket is that it comes with a cover. During the warmer months, use the blanket on its own. During the cooler months, add the mink-textured cover for more warmth and plushness.

Buy it here: Sweetzer & Orange Weighted Blanket

8. Buzio Kids Weighted Blanket

This weighted blanket is specifically perfect for hyperactive children who struggle with sleeping through the night. With the weight and 100% breathable cotton, this blanket provides a seven-layered design with locked-in beads. It’s also non-toxic and maintains eight corner straps. This is a great weighted blanket to choose because it’s not only functional, but it’s also beautiful to look at.

Buy it here: Buzio Kids Weighted Blanket

9. Hazli Super Soft Calming Weighted Blanket

The Hazli Weighted Blanket is made of 100% breathable cotton. Choose from four colors: blue, pink, turquoise or gray. It is filled with micro glass beads. It also contains a layer of microfiber. This sensory blanket has the ability to improve the sleep quality of a toddler because of the pressure it provides. It’s also extremely comfortable as it has a fluffy cover.

Buy it here: Hazli Super Soft Calming Weighted Blanket

Best Cooling Weighted Blankets

1. Syrinx Cooling Weighted Blanket

The Syrinx Cooling Weighted Blanket provides six layers of breathable fabrics yet remains one of the most effective cooling blankets. Choose from eight different colors. This weighted blanket starts at five pounds and goes up to 30 pounds. Once you’ve used this blanket, you’ll increase your chances of sleeping peacefully and deeply.

Buy it here: Syrinx Cooling Weighted Blanket

2. ZonLi Adults Weighted Blanket

Bamboo is known to provide the cooling agent that so many blankets need in order to feel the maximum amount of comfort. The Zonli blanket contains cooling bamboo and comfortable cotton. Choose from twelve different colors with options like dark grey, purple and white. It’s a great option to use throughout the seasons to enjoy deep sleep without the discomfort of overheating.

Buy it here: ZonLi Adults Weighted Blanket

3. MG Mulgore Cooling Weighted Blanket

The MG Mulgore Cooling Weighted Blanket provides double stitches that support the even distribution of the glass beads. For those who are looking to increase their sleep quality, this cooling blanket provides a hug-like sensation that helps a person to relax and sleep deeply. It comes with a breathable fiber cover as well as a three-year warranty.

Buy it here: MG Mulgore Cooling Weighted Blanket

4. Degrees of Comfort Weighted Blanket

The Degrees of Comfort weighted blanket has so many interesting elements that make it great. First, it has a 10-point weight distribution which employs the power of deep pressure stimulation. It also contains nano-ceramic bead technology to keep the beads inside of the blanket for an impactful sleep experience. It also comes with two duvet covers. Lastly, Degrees of Comfort maintains an exclusive partnership with Coolmax. This means that this blanket is made with fabric blends that are perfect for maintaining coolness and comfort.

Buy it here: Degrees of Comfort Weighted Blanket

5. Weighted Idea Cool Weighted Blanket

This sleek weighted blanket comes in ten colors. The Weighted Idea is also great because of how easy the cleaning process is. The creators of the Weighted Idea actually encourage the use of a weighted blanket that’s about 7% of your overall body weight when you’re first getting started. This blanket provides breathable layers, maximum comfort, and hypo-allergenic quality. It’s also odorless and non-toxic.

Buy it here: Weighted Idea Cool Weighted Blanket

6. CoziRest Cooling Weighted Blanket Deluxe Set

This deluxe blanket set comes with a weighted blanket and a dual-sided duvet cover. The set is made out of 100% cotton. It also has a bamboo removable cover. The creators of CoziRest intentionally incorporated deep touch pressure therapy concepts in order to make sure individuals experienced restorative rest. In addition to having a 400-thread count, silent glass beads and a thick poly filling, this blanket provides 15 to 25-pound options.

Buy it here: CoziRest Cooling Weighted Blanket Deluxe Set

7. AuraBlankets Cooling Weighted Blanket

If you’re looking for a silky smooth sensation when you slip under the covers, this blanket provides the bamboo fabric that will make that dream a reality. It is easy to clean by removing the outer blanket for a routine wash in the washing machine. The quilted pockets allow the beads to remain secure yet evenly distributed throughout the blanket. This particular blanket is beloved by many fans.

Buy it here: AuraBlankets Cooling Weighted Blanket

8. Pine & River Chilled Bamboo Weighted Blanket

If you’re conscious of your carbon footprint, this blanket is made of sustainable fabrics to help preserve the planet. It’s made from bamboo as well. Bamboo is also known to regulate the body’s temperature. It’s easy to wash in the machine, plus it’s just as snuggly as it is cool to the touch.

Buy it here: Pine & River Chilled Bamboo Weighted Blanket

Frequently Asked Questions about Weighted Blankets

While it’s not uncommon to spend a little more on a king-sized comforter, the higher price tag on weighted blankets can raise some eyebrows. Consider some of the many questions people ask before they pull out their wallets to spend.

What are weighted blankets made of?

In most cases, the fabrics and materials used for the construction of the blanket depend on the preference of the particular manufacturer. Some manufacturers prefer to use 100% cotton. Others like to use a polyblend of fabrics. The fabric of a standard weighted blanket will feel different than the fabric of a cooling weighted blanket because of the sensation a cooling weighted blanket provides. Some of the best cooling weighted blankets are made from a bamboo viscose fabric that has the ability to provide a moisture-wicking quality. While cotton and bamboo viscose are two of the fabrics found in weighted blankets, there are many more. Some weighted blankets are made from flannel materials. If you’re looking for maximum coziness and warmth, that might be a great option. Other weighted blankets are made with fabrics like rayon, linen, and polar fleece. Before purchasing a weighted blanket, it’s always wise to take a look at the type of fabric before purchasing.

What are weighted blankets filled with?

In most cases, weighted blankets are filled with plastic poly pellets. Weighted blankets are constructed in the style of a quilt. When you make a quilt, you have various patches. Instead of stuffing each patch with cotton, a weighted blanket is stuffed with plastic pellets. The number of plastic pellets depends on the desired weight of the blanket. There are different weights of different body types. Some weighted blankets are fifteen pounds. Other blankets weigh eight pounds. It all depends on the person’s body weight and what they need in order to get the desired results.

It’s also possible to purchase a weighted blanket that’s filled with micro glass bead fillings. This is an option many people love because plastic tends to be toxic and bad for the environment. When people opt to make their own weighted blankets, they tend to fill them with interesting options such as dried beans or grains. While this is a resourceful option for someone who needs to keep the cost low, the dried beans or grains can end up molding in the blanket over time.

What size do I need?

When you’re looking for a suitable weighted blanket for your body, it can be hard to choose when you’re perusing different websites. When you’re shopping online for a weighted blanket, it’s challenging to figure out which size feels best and most comfortable. Besides, weighted blankets are supposed to be a source of comfort. When the sizing is off, it can be really uncomfortable. When you’re dealing with adults and weighted blankets, there’s one rule you can consider. Look at who is using the blanket. If you and another adult will be sharing the weighted blanket, consider the size of your bed. There are plenty of king, queen and full-sized weighted blankets to consider. If you’re sleeping in the same bed, but want a weighted blanket for yourself, you can always choose a twin-sized weighted blanket. When it’s time to make the bed, just fold it up as a throw blanket on top of the bed. If a child will be using the weighted blanket, choose an option that’s the perfect size for the bed they’re currently sleeping in.

What weight should I get?

When you’re purchasing a weighted blanket, the weight obviously matters. If you pick a blanket that’s too light, you’re going to miss out on the benefits. If you purchase a blanket that’s too heavy, it can be more cumbersome and uncomfortable instead of effective. There is a general rule of thumb when you’re trying to figure out which weight to purchase. Typically, it’s best to purchase a weighted blanket that’s about 10% of your body weight. If you weigh 200 pounds, purchase a 20-pound weighted blanket. If you weigh 150 pounds, purchase a 15-pound weighted blanket. However, if your weight falls in between numbers where the exact 10% option is available, choose the size up. It’s better to have a heavier blanket than a lighter blanket. For example, if you weigh 215 pounds, instead of purchasing the 20-pound blanket, get the 25-pound blanket.

Do weighted blankets work?

If you examine whether or not weighted blankets actually work, it truly depends on the person. After closely looking at various studies and statistics, it’s clear that the effectiveness of weighted blankets is on a case-by-case basis. After studying children with autism, researchers found that the weighted blankets didn’t make a significant difference in the amount of time or quality of sleep the children experienced. When children have autism, they often struggle to sleep through the night. However, there was a preference to sleep with the weighted blanket rather than sleep without it. This shows that the weighted blanket can often serve as a form of comfort for those who struggle with various issues such as autism, anxiety, and ADHD. In order to know if weighted blankets will work for an individual, it’s best to try it to see. There are plenty of people who love weighted blankets, but there are many others who don’t see the benefits.

Why do weighted blankets work?

When an individual is suffering from anxiety, they often crave comfort. Sometimes, a person might share that when they experience a panic attack or an anxiety attack, one of the most calming treatments is a big, bear hug from a loved one. Sometimes, that long-lasting, tight hug can really be the sensation a person needs on their body to calm down. Weighted blankets are supposed to operate in a similar way. Deep pressure touch stimulation is a therapeutic treatment option that medical researchers suggest for those who suffer from anxiety and similar issues. Deep pressure touch stimulation (DPTS) provides the calming touch that a person needs to calm down and relax the nervous system. Weighted blankets fall under the category of effective DPTS methods. Other comforting options include swaddling for children or a full body massage.

What are weighted blankets used for?

Weighted blankets are used for a number of reasons. The main reason is to provide relaxation when it’s time to go to sleep. During therapy sessions with patients, occupational therapists incorporate weighted blankets. They’re used for decreasing the impact of the symptoms experienced by those who have autism. They’re also effective for those who suffer from depression or anxiety. They’re even great for people who have sensory processing disorder or restless leg syndrome.