Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets promote relaxation, reduce stress, and improve sleep, making them a valuable tool for boosting persistence and well-being. Learn more about how weighted blankets work and how to buy the right one for you.

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How Do Weighted Blankets Work

Weighted blankets are blankets filled with materials like glass beads, plastic pellets, or other weighted objects to add extra pressure across the body. This mimics the sensation of a firm hug.

The key idea behind a weighted blanket is that it provides deep touch pressure stimulation (DTPS), which has a calming and soothing effect on the nervous system. It helps your body produce serotonin (the feel-good hormone), reduce cortisol (the stress hormone), and even boost melatonin (the sleep hormone). This combination can help:

  • Reduce anxiety: The pressure promotes a sense of calm, making it easier to relax.
  • Improve sleep: By enhancing melatonin production, a weighted blanket can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
  • Improve focus: For people with conditions like ADHD or autism, the blanket’s calming effect can also improve focus and attention.

Types of Weighted Blankets

Not all weighted blankets are the same, and different styles suit different preferences and needs. Here are the key types:

1. Material Type

  • Cotton: These are breathable and great for year-round use. Cotton weighted blankets are soft and natural, making them ideal for most people.
  • Fleece/Minky: This type is softer and warmer, better for colder climates or people who tend to feel chilly at night. The plush material adds a cozy, comforting feel.
  • Cooling Bamboo: For hot sleepers, cooling weighted blankets made from bamboo or moisture-wicking materials help regulate temperature, so you don’t overheat under the extra weight.

2. Weight and Size

  • Weighted blankets come in various weights, generally ranging from 5 to 30 pounds. The common recommendation is to choose one that’s about 10% of your body weight. However, personal preference can influence this choice.
  • Lightweight (5-10 pounds): Best for children, teens, or people who prefer a gentler pressure.
  • Medium weight (10-20 pounds): Suitable for most adults, providing a balanced amount of pressure.
  • Heavy (20-30 pounds): Ideal for larger adults or those who enjoy a firmer, more pronounced pressure.

3. Weighted Filling

  • Glass Beads: These blankets feel smoother and distribute weight more evenly, creating a less bulky feel.
  • Plastic Pellets: These tend to make the blanket feel bulkier and are often less expensive.
  • Steel Shot Beads: These are less common but provide a heavier, more evenly distributed weight while being thinner than plastic pellets.

Best Types for Different People

  1. Anxiety sufferers: A medium-weight (10-20 pounds) cotton or fleece blanket is great for relaxation and stress relief.
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  2. People with ADHD/Autism: Deep touch pressure stimulation helps with focus, so a mid-to-heavy weight blanket would be beneficial. A calming, plush material like minky fleece might also be ideal.
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  3. Hot Sleepers: A bamboo cooling blanket with glass beads would help regulate body temperature while providing the same calming effect.
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  4. Children: Lightweight (5-10 pounds) blankets made from soft, breathable cotton or plush materials are perfect for promoting a sense of security without being overwhelming.
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Article Published: September 25, 2024 | Last Modified: September 27, 2024

Disclaimer: Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided "as is" and is subject to change or removal at any time. Some links on our website are affiliate links. Please note that we may earn commissions through affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. For more information about our content and participation in affiliate programs, please see our Terms of Use.