Can a weighted blanket be too heavy?

These days, missing out on weighted blankets is tough as you can find them everywhere on the market. They might seem like your average blanket, but they have some science behind them. 

These weighted blankets have a gentle feel from your shoulders to your toes. But what purpose do they serve, and more importantly, do you need one? 

These blankets are expensive, and you might have to find the right ones based on various factors. Weight is one of them. 

Hence, we have developed this guide to help you out in your decision on whether a weighted blanket is the right option for you or not. So, give it a read and learn everything you need. 

Can It Be Too Heavy?

People dealing with claustrophobia might ask how heavy it is and if they feel congested. You can find the right one that makes you feel comfortable as ample options are available that can be heavier and lighter. It is up to you what to choose for yourself. 

What is a Weighted Blanket & What Do They Do?

These weighted blankets might seem similar to their conventional counterparts. But you will immediately notice the difference when you pick up one. These blankets range in weight from 5 lbs to 30 lbs, but they can go beyond that too. The most commonly available blankets available on the market are:

• 5 lbs
• 7 lbs
• 10 lbs
• 12 lbs
• 15 lbs
• 17 lbs
• 20 lbs
• 22 lbs
• 25 lbs 
• 30 lbs

You need to understand that all the weight of these blankets doesn’t hit you at just a single spot. It evenly spreads across, so your entire body will notice a slight compression as soon as you lay underneath it. 

These blankets come with deep pressure stimulation, known as deep touch pressure. The human body has a fight-or-flight mode that our nervous system activates. This model is designed to keep you out of danger. But stress, anxiety, and other disorders can keep your body in survival mode. 

The impression you get from a weighted blanket enables your body to switch from the sympathetic nervous system to the parasympathetic nervous system or PNS. This PNS turns on the relax mode in your body, slows down your heart rate, and releases good endorphins so your body can calm down. 

People with autism deficit or other anxiety disorders and high-stress levels prefer using these weighted blankets. This calming effect can be useful anytime but works better when you sleep. 

Types of Weighted Blankets

All weighted blankets are not the same, so there are different designs and types. They all have pros and cons, and certain weighted blankets are more expensive than others.

Standard-fill weighted blanket

These blankets come stitched with squares or baffles and are filled with plastic or glass beads or pellets. These baffles prevent the beads from pooling into one area, so the overall weight of the blankets stays evenly distributed. 

Some high-quality standard fill weights blankets also come with an advanced design where they have 2 or 3 beads in smaller hexagonal baffles. 

There is no chance of pooling in this sort of a standard-fill weighted blanket. These blankets are easy to wash by hand, and you can spot clean them too. 

Many of these weighted blankets are machine washable. However, their manufacturers suggest you hand wash them as it helps make these blankets last even longer. 

Knitted weighted blankets

Another choice you can make is the knitted weighted blankets. These are made using heavy and thick yarn; when knitted, their weight can be around 15 lbs to 25 lbs. The yarn itself adds to the weight.

These blankets don’t have any fillers, stitching, or baffles, but they come with a stretch of their own and enable you to get a tighter fit. 

This type of blanket is aesthetically pleasing; if you are after looks, you should consider going for these blankets. They are heavy enough for you to fold them up and use them as your footrest. 

Cooling weighted blankets

With additional weight, these blankets bring in more heat. And this is some bad news for people who are hot sleepers (also check the top rated cooling mattresses for hot sleeper). So, you won’t be able to use these blankets in summer. 

Another type of these weighted blankets comes with a cooling effect. They can either be knitted or have standard fill. They also come with natural fibres such as bamboo, cotton, and other moisture-wicking and breathable properties. 

Some of these blankets might have synthetic fibres, so they can improve moisture evaporation. You must remember that a blanket is a blanket, and it will be warmer than other types of covers you might like to use while sleeping. 

Weighted comforters

If you want something that can cover your bed without the additional heat, consider going for a weighted comforter. They fit all standard bed sizes and are pretty massive. But they do look more like a comforter than blankets. 

Duvet covers

These duvet covers can significantly affect how your weighted blankets feel. Cooling covers are soft, and they prevent overheating. With the help of these covers, you can keep your blanket clean and make them look luxurious with different colors and textures. 

But weighted blankets can easily shift inside a cover. Therefore, your blankets must have tabs that you can use to tie to your duvet cover. You need to look for duvet covers with multiple ties. You should look for at least four, but eight is ideal for making your cover secure to the blanket. 

Breathable fabrics such as bamboo and cotton would be a good choice if you want them to be cooler. However, it would be better for you to buy a couple of covers so you can still use one while the other is being washed. You can go for a warmer one for winter and a cooler one for summer. 

Weighted Blanket Budget

These blankets can be expensive, especially if you compare them with regular ones. There are various affordable options available on the market too. The cheaper options are smaller ones, and they can weigh around 5 lbs to 15 lbs. 

These cheaper options might not come with a duvet cover, so you must purchase a separate one. The expensive ones come filled with plastic or glass beads. And some of them come with bamboo or cotton covers to increase their overall breathability. 

Mid-range weighted blankets don’t come with duvet covers, but they are available in different weights and sizes. So, you will have to wear a duvet cover to go with your mid-range weighted blanket. These blankets are more likely to have glass or plastic beads.  

Who Needs a Weighted Blanket?

If you are dealing with anxiety and stress and frequently stay up at night, you should consider buying a weighted blanket. But these blankets are not just there to cure your stress and anxiety. They come in handy for autism spectrum, restless leg syndrome, and other conditions. People with sensory issues find these blankets useful to calm minds, bodies, and senses. 

Key Takeaways: Understanding Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets are a modern sleep aid gaining popularity everywhere. Unlike typical blankets, they have a unique scientific construction that offers therapeutic benefits. These blankets provide even pressure from the shoulders down, serving purposes beyond just warmth. However, they come with a price tag, and weight is a pivotal factor to consider. If you’re contemplating investing in one, this guide will enlighten you on all the aspects of weighted blankets.

What is a Weighted Blanket?

At first glance, weighted blankets might seem like regular covers, but their weight sets them apart. They can range from 5 lbs to 30 lbs or even more. The weight is not concentrated but spread uniformly. This even distribution ensures that the user experiences slight compression over the entire body. The key feature of these blankets is deep touch pressure, which induces a switch from the body’s fight-or-flight mode to a relaxed state. Consequently, this transition results in a lowered heart rate and a release of positive endorphins, making them an excellent choice for people with anxiety disorders, high-stress levels, and autism.

Different Types of Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets come in various designs and structures. Standard-fill blankets have either plastic or glass bead fillings held within squares or baffles. Advanced designs may contain hexagonal baffles with a few beads, ensuring even distribution. Many prefer knitted weighted blankets made from heavy yarn, with weights averaging between 15 lbs to 25 lbs. For those concerned about the warmth, cooling weighted blankets are available, integrating breathable fibers such as bamboo and cotton. Furthermore, weighted comforters and duvet covers add versatility to the use and maintenance of these blankets.

Cost Considerations

Weighted blankets, in comparison to regular ones, can be expensive. The market, however, does provide affordable options, usually weighing between 5 lbs to 15 lbs. Higher-end blankets might come with supplementary features like bamboo or cotton covers, enhancing breathability.

Who Should Use a Weighted Blanket?

While primarily associated with stress and anxiety relief, weighted blankets cater to a broader audience. They are beneficial for individuals on the autism spectrum, those with restless leg syndrome, and sensory issues. The deep pressure touch they provide soothes the mind and body, making them a valuable asset for many.

Conclusion:

Weighted blankets can be extremely beneficial for improving your sleep quality. And the best part is they are available in different sizes, weights, and materials. Some of them are expensive while you can find cheaper options. 

They incredibly improve your sleep quality. Make sure you go for the right one based on your preferences and start enjoying deeper sleep as you never had before.