When choosing the size for a weighted blanket, it's important to consider both your personal preference and your body weight. Generally, it is recommended that a weighted blanket should be around 10% of your body weight to provide optimal comfort and therapeutic benefits. However, some people prefer slightly heavier or lighter options depending on their comfort levels. In terms of dimensions, the blanket should cover you comfortably but not be so large that it hangs off the sides of your bed. Some people choose a blanket that correlates with their bed size (twin, full, queen, etc.), but others prefer a more snug fit that contours to their body. It's also important to think about how you plan to use the blanket, whether for sleeping or using while lounging, as this can influence your decision on size and weight.
Best Weighted Blankets of February 2025
What features to look for in a weighted blanket?
When selecting a weighted blanket, there are several features to consider to ensure that it meets your needs in terms of comfort, safety, and durability:
- Weight: Choose a blanket that is approximately 10% of your body weight. This is a general guideline to ensure the blanket provides the right amount of pressure for comfort and potential therapeutic benefits without being too heavy.
- Size: Weighted blankets come in various sizes corresponding to twin, full, queen, and king mattresses. Choose a size that fits your bed or personal space, but remember it should mainly cover you and not hang over the sides of the bed to avoid it sliding off.
- Material: Consider the fabric of the blanket cover. Common materials include cotton, bamboo, flannel, and microfiber. Cotton and bamboo are breathable options, ideal for hot sleepers, while flannel and microfiber can be warmer options for cooler weather.
- Fill Materials: Weighted blankets are filled with materials such as glass beads, plastic pellets, or natural fillers like sand or rice. Glass beads are more compact and often quieter, whereas plastic pellets are larger and sometimes noisier. Choose a fill that suits your preference for texture and noise levels.
- Construction: Look for blankets with good stitching and design to prevent the fill from bunching up. Quilted or grid stitching can help distribute the weight evenly across the blanket.
- Removable Cover: Some weighted blankets come with a removable and washable cover, which can be convenient for cleaning and maintenance.
- Temperature Regulation: If you tend to overheat, look for blankets designed for better breathability or those specifically marketed as cooling weighted blankets.
- Durability: Check for high-quality stitching and materials to ensure the blanket will withstand regular use and washing.
- Allergen-Free Options: If you have allergies, look for hypoallergenic materials and fillers to avoid potential reactions.
- Warranty/Return Policy: Consider brands that offer a warranty or easy return policies in case the blanket is not a good fit for your needs.
By evaluating these features, you can choose a weighted blanket that best meets your comfort preferences and therapeutic needs.
How to pick a weighted blanket for couples?
Choosing a weighted blanket for couples involves a few considerations to ensure both partners experience comfort and benefit from its therapeutic properties. Here are some tips to help you pick the right one:
- Combined Weight: The general rule for selecting a weighted blanket is to choose one that is about 10% of the individual's body weight. For couples, consider one that is roughly 7.5% to 10% of your combined body weight. Some may prefer a blanket on the heavier or lighter side depending on personal comfort preferences.
- Size: Ensure the weighted blanket is large enough to cover both partners comfortably. Standard sizes like Queen or King should fit regular beds well. Avoid a twin size as it may not provide adequate coverage for two people.
- Material: Look for a blanket made from materials that both partners find comfortable. Options include cotton, flannel, bamboo, or microfiber. Consider any allergies or sensitivities to materials when choosing.
- Weight Distribution: Check the construction of the blanket to ensure even weight distribution. Quality blankets often use glass or plastic beads that are evenly sewn into pockets to prevent shifting and clumping.
- Split Weight Options: Some companies offer dual-weight options, where one side of the blanket is heavier than the other. This is ideal if one partner prefers a heavier or lighter blanket.
- Breathability: If one or both partners are hot sleepers, consider a blanket designed for breathability. Options include those made with cooling materials or featuring a removable, breathable cover.
- Easy Maintenance: Check if the blanket is machine washable or if it has a removable cover that can be washed easily. This helps maintain hygiene and prolongs the blanket's life.
- Return Policy: Buying a weighted blanket is a significant investment. Look for a product that offers a good return policy or trial period to ensure you can return it if it does not meet your needs.
- Budget: Weighted blankets can vary widely in price. Set a budget and look for options within that range, keeping in mind that the cheapest option may not always offer the best quality or durability.
- Customer Reviews: Reading reviews from other couples can provide insights on comfort, durability, and real-world usability.
By considering these factors, you can find a weighted blanket that accommodates the needs and preferences of both partners, ensuring a restful night's sleep.
What is the best filling for a weighted blanket?
Choosing the best filling for a weighted blanket depends on your personal preferences and needs. Here are some popular options:
- Glass Beads: These are small and dense, providing a smooth, even weight distribution. They’re often preferred for their quieter nature compared to other fillings.
- Plastic Poly Pellets: These are a budget-friendly option and are larger than glass beads. They can be slightly noisier and bulkier, but they are durable and easy to wash.
- Steel Shot Beads: Known for being extremely dense, these beads allow for a thinner blanket. They have a smooth feel but might make more noise than glass beads.
- Micro Glass Beads: Even finer than regular glass beads, these provide excellent weight distribution and are less cumbersome.
- Sand: While it's inexpensive and offers good weight distribution, sand can clump together if the blanket gets wet and may not be suitable for machine washing.
- Organic Materials: Some eco-friendly options include fillings like rice, beans, or grains. These aren’t typically washable and are less common due to hygiene concerns.
The choice of filling also depends on factors like noise level, washability, and texture preference. It's essential to consider these aspects when selecting the best filling for your weighted blanket.
How to tell if a weighted blanket is too heavy?
Determining if a weighted blanket is too heavy involves considering several factors related to comfort and safety. Here are some key points to help you assess whether a weighted blanket is excessively heavy for you or someone else:
- General Guidelines: A common recommendation is that a weighted blanket should be about 10% of your body weight. For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, a 15-pound blanket is often suggested. However, personal comfort varies, and you might find that a weight slightly above or below this guideline works better for you.
- Breathing and Comfort: You should be able to breathe comfortably under the blanket. If you find it difficult to breathe or feel any pressure on your chest that makes breathing harder, the blanket might be too heavy.
- Ease of Movement: You should be able to freely adjust your position under the blanket. If you feel trapped or find it challenging to move or get out from under the blanket, it might be too heavy.
- Temperature Regulation: If the blanket causes you to overheat or sweat excessively, it may be too heavy, as heavier blankets can trap more heat.
- Sleep Quality: Notice how the blanket is affecting your sleep. If you're waking up frequently, feeling restless, or experiencing discomfort, the blanket's weight could be a factor.
- Physical Discomfort: Look out for any physical discomfort, such as joint pain, soreness, or feeling pressure points. These could indicate that the blanket is applying too much weight on certain areas.
- Personal Preference: Ultimately, personal comfort is key. If you simply feel the blanket is too heavy for your liking, it's important to prioritize your comfort and well-being.
- Age and Health Considerations: Consider the user's age and health status. Children, the elderly, or individuals with certain health conditions, such as respiratory or circulatory issues, may need a lighter blanket to ensure safety.
If you determine that your weighted blanket is too heavy, you might consider exchanging it for a lighter one that fits your preferences better, allowing you to enjoy its benefits without discomfort or safety concerns.
What is the best way to dry a weighted blanket?
Drying a weighted blanket requires some care to maintain its quality and integrity. Here are some general steps to follow:
- Check the Care Label: Always start by checking the care instructions on the label. Different materials and filling types might have specific drying requirements.
- Use a Large Dryer: If the care label allows for machine drying, use a large-capacity dryer to ensure there is enough room for the blanket to move and dry evenly.
- Low Heat Setting: Set the dryer to a low or gentle heat setting. High heat can damage the fabric or filling materials.
- Add Dryer Balls or Clean Tennis Balls: Adding these can help keep the filling evenly distributed by preventing it from clumping together during the drying process.
- Check Periodically: Stop the dryer periodically to fluff up the blanket and ensure it's drying evenly. This also prevents overheating.
- Air Dry if Necessary: If unsure or if the blanket is particularly delicate (like those with glass bead fillings), consider air drying. Lay the blanket flat on a clean surface, turning it over occasionally to ensure it dries evenly.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: If air drying outside, keep the blanket out of direct sunlight to prevent fading and material degradation.
Remember, the specific method may vary based on the materials and construction of your weighted blanket, so always consult the manufacturer's instructions when available.
What is the lifespan of a weighted blanket?
The lifespan of a weighted blanket can vary based on factors such as the quality of materials, frequency of use, and how well it is cared for. Generally, a high-quality weighted blanket can last anywhere from 3 to 5 years or even longer with proper care. Regular use and washing can cause wear and tear over time, so following the manufacturer's care instructions can help extend the lifespan of the blanket. If you notice signs of significant wear, such as leaking beads or a decrease in the effectiveness of the weight distribution, it might be time to consider replacing it.
