what are the benefits of using a weighted blanket

5 Benefits of Using a Weighted Blanket

1. Raise Serotonin and Calm Down. Using a weighted blanket can lower your stress levels and improve your ability to relax. ...
2. Reduce Cortisol and Sleep Better. A better night’s sleep might be just one weighted blanket away. ...
3. Increase Oxytocin and Feel Relaxed. ...
4. Improve Attention Span in Kids. ...

Full Answer

What are weighted blankets and their top benefits?

Who may benefit from a weighted blanket?

• Autism. One of the symptoms of autism, especially in children, is trouble sleeping. ...
• ADHD. There are very few studies that examine the use of weighted blankets for ADHD, but a similar study was performed using weighted vests.
• Anxiety. ...
• Insomnia and sleep disorders. ...
• Osteoarthritis. ...
• Chronic pain. ...
• Medical procedures. ...

How much weight should be in a weighted blanket?

Recommended weights for a weighted blanket can vary between 5% and 12% of their body weight, with most people preferring a weighted blanket that weighs approximately 10% of their body weight. Regardless of its weight, a proper blanket should allow for comfort and movement.

What are weighted blanket and what are the benefits?

• Best Weighted Blanket Overall: Gravity Blanket
• Best Organic Weighted Blanket: Bearaby Cotton Napper
• Best Weighted Blanket For Anxiety: Brooklyn Bedding Dual Therapy Weighted Blanket
• Best Cooling Weighted Blanket: Aricove Cooling Weighted Blanket
• Best Budget Weighted Blanket: YnM Weighted Blanket

More items...

Do Weighted blankets really actually work?

Weighted blankets have been popular for so long, and now you know why. Not only do they work, but they’re so much better than anything else on the market right now when it comes to helping people sleep. The weight of the blanket creates a soothing feeling that has been scientifically proven to help people sleep.

Is it OK to use a weighted blanket every night?

Adults and older children can use weighted blankets as bed covers or for relaxing during the day. They are safe to use for sleeping throughout the night. However, they are not for everyone. They are not recommended for children under the age of 2, for example.

Who should not use a weighted blanket?

A weighted blanket may be unsuitable for people experiencing chronic respiratory issues, circulatory issues, low blood pressure, claustrophobia, asthma, and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, children under age 2, children with breathing issues, and children with epilepsy aren't recommended to use them.

What are the pros and cons of a weighted blanket?

Pros: using a weighted blanket offers a drug-free way to help you cope with anxiety, fall asleep easier, sleep deeper, and wake up feeling restored. Cons: conventional weighted blankets can be too hot to sleep under and aren't eco-friendly.

Why shouldn't you sleep with weighted blankets?

The pellets or glass beads can fall out and become a choking hazard. The heavy blanket could cover a child's face while they sleep. If you have sleep apnea, breathing problems, or any chronic health condition, check with your doctor before you use a weighted blanket.

Can you sleep on your side with a weighted blanket?

For best results, we recommend sleeping on your back. This way, it covers your entire body with an even pressure. You can sleep on your side, but this means less area covered by the blanket.

How long does it take for a weighted blanket to work?

roughly 14-21 daysOnce the week is up, you can slowly move the blanket up each day until it covers you completely. It can sometimes take up to 14 days for your body to full adjust to the new added weight. It takes roughly 14-21 days for us to form new habits, so give your body time to adjust to the weight and to the benefits.

Do you use sheets with a weighted blanket?

When using a weighted blanket, it can be helpful to include cozy sheets to complete the perfect, dreamy sleep set.

Do weighted blankets affect blood pressure?

Another study published in the journal Occupational Therapy in Mental Health revealed that participants who used weighted blankets had lower blood pressure, pulse rates and pulse oximetry — all signs of reduced stress levels.

Can you wash a weighted blanket?

Weighted Blanket Care Guidelines Machine Wash and Dry: When machine washing, choose a bleach-free, gentle detergent, and wash your blanket in cold or warm water on a gentle cycle. Avoid fabric softeners. Choose a light or medium dryer setting and periodically fluff the blanket while it's drying.

Do weighted blankets help with back pain?

A Weighted Blanket Could Be A Game-Changer. To fight back pain, many people are turning to a natural solution to eliminate their pain: weighted blankets. Weighted blankets have a unique ability to use therapeutic pressure to reduce pain while improving our overall health.

Does a weighted blanket make you hot?

The short answer is yes, weighted blankets can definitely help keep you warm in the winter. However, the true warmth of your weighted blanket primarily comes down to three things: filler material, fabric and construction.

Are weighted blankets good for arthritis?

Conclusion. People suffering from arthritis, fibromyalgia, and other painful conditions have found relief in sleeping with a weighted blanket. By promoting the 'calming' hormones and neurotransmitters, a weighted blanket helps to calm both the body and the brain.

What is weighted blanket?

The science behind using a weighted blanket is a well-known and proven relaxation therapy that is frequently used for people with stress and anxiety.

Why are weighted blankets good for sensory processing?

Weighted blankets may help adults and children with sensory processing disorder feel calmer and more relaxed. 5  Persons with this disorder have difficulty processing sensory information such as textures, sounds, smells, tastes, brightness, and movement.

Why is a weighted blanket not good for claustrophobic people?

In addition, a weighted blanket may also be unsuitable for those people who are claustrophobic, as it may cause anxiety rather than ease it.

How many deaths from weighted blankets?

There have been at least two reports of deaths in children due to weighted blankets, one in a 7-month-old baby and one in a 9-year-old boy who had autism. 17  Parents should consult their pediatrician before using a weighted blanket for children of any age.

How much does a weighted blanket weigh?

Today, they have gained mainstream popularity with those who believe that the pellet-filled blankets, which weigh anywhere from 5 to 30 pounds, can relieve stress, improve sleep, calm children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) or autism spectrum disorder (ASD), and aid in the treatment of anxiety disorders.

Why do people snuggle under blankets?

Many adults associate snuggling under a comfy blanket with a sense of security, which harkens back to “security blankets” they may have had as a child. Blankets are often referred to as “comfort objects” by child psychologists—that is, an item used to ease frustration or anxiety at times of stress. 1 

How many children are attached to a blanket?

An older study by psychologist and security object expert Richard Passman, now retired from the University of Wisconsin at Milwaukee, found that approximately 60% of children are attached to a toy, blanket, or pacifier during the first three years of life. 2 . More recent studies have examined adult attachment to transitional objects, ...

Why do people use weighted blankets?

From easing the symptoms of autism spectrum disorder to helping insomniacs get the sleep they need, weighted blankets may help address a host of health problems. Here are 20 reasons to buy yours today. 1. Eases Insomnia. Until you’ve experienced insomnia, it’s easy to dismiss it as a mere bump in an otherwise smooth road of easy sleep.

What is a weighted blanket?

A weighted blanket is a lot like getting a firm but gentle hug — except you don’t have to bribe your roommate or significant other to give you one. Even better, you can get the benefits just about anywhere, from the sofa to your bed. Some people even use weighted wraps (which are smaller and more portable) in the office or the car!

How to contact Weighted Blanket Therapy?

Questions about weighted blanket therapy? We’re happy to help. Just give us a call at 855-736-7222 or use our contact form to get in touch.

Why do teachers use lap pads?

Research shows that the firm but gentle pressure helps kids feel less anxious and more focused.

How to improve sleep hygiene?

Some experts refer to sleep quality as sleep hygiene . One way to improve your sleep hygiene is by using a weighted blanket. Because deep touch pressure stimulation boosts serotonin, sleeping under firm but gentle pressure can help you fall asleep faster, sleep longer and wake feeling more rested. 9. Boosts Mood.

Why do people use weighted blankets?

There is some research that shows that the use of a weighted blanket before stressful events may help calm the nervous system, potentially lowering anxiety levels. This is one of the most appealing weighted blanket benefits we have seen.

How Do Weighted Blankets Work?

A weighted blanket is often used in occupational therapy, or sensory integration therapy, designed for those who have sensory processing disorder like autism. The blanket promotes deep touch pressure or DTP that helps patients to regulate their emotions as well as their behavior.

Why do weighted blankets help with heart rate?

This is because the body releases oxytocin, which has been found to reduce one’s blood pressure, creates that feeling of relaxation, and even slows down the heart rate. This is the same feeling that you get when you are using a weighted blanket, which helps your body go into a calm and relaxed state.

Does a weighted blanket help with insomnia?

However, it may be alleviated with the use of a weighted blanket heavy on your body as it has been found to stimulate your feel-good hormones called dopamine; hence, potentially reducing cortisol levels in your body.

Is a weighted blanket good for sleep?

But there is more to a weighted blanket than just helping to give you a good night’s sleep. Here are 10 benefits that not everyone ...

Does a blanket help with sleep?

One study that was published in the Journal of Sleep Medicine and Disorders showed that the use of a heavy blanket prevented the participant from moving around, which improved their sleep.

Should a weighted blanket be as big as a bed?

Should the blanket be as big as your bed? The answer to this is no. It should only cover your body, or that of your partner too if you both like to use a weighted blanket at the same time. Weighted blankets are relatively harmless when used correctly, but take caution when using the blanket on very young children.

Who might benefit from using weighted blankets?

A weighted blanket will provide both tactile and proprioceptive input throughout a child’s body to increase his/her body awareness and comfort , and promote a calm body.

What does a weighted blanket do?

When used, a weighted blanket provides deep pressure to your body’s joints and muscles, known as “proprioceptive input.” That means the joints and muscles receive sensations that help you be more aware of your body and understand where it is in space. Some activities can have the same effect, such as weight bearing activities, pushing or pulling heavy items, or through consistent deep pressure, like that of a weighted blanket.

Why use a weighted blanket?

One of the primary uses of a weighted blanket is for the treatment of anxiety. Past research has shown that deep pressure stimulation can help reduce autonomic arousal. This arousal is responsible for the symptoms of anxiety, such as increased heart rate.

Why do people wear weighted blankets?

For many people, weighted blankets have become a routine part of stress relief and healthy sleep habits, and for good reason. Research suggests weighted blankets may benefit people with anxiety, autism, and insomnia, among other conditions.

Why is a weighted blanket not good for sleep?

A weighted blanket may also be unsuitable for people with certain conditions, including: obstructive sleep apnea, which causes disrupted breathing during sleep. asthma, which can cause difficulty breathing at night. claustrophobia, which the tightness of a weighted blanket may trigger.

What is weighted blanket therapy?

The bottom line. Weighted blankets are a type of at-home therapy that can provide similar benefits to deep pressure therapy. These blankets have shown positive results for several conditions, including autism, ADHD, and anxiety. They can help calm a restless body, reduce feelings of anxiety, and improve sleep troubles.

How much weight should a weighted blanket be?

As a general rule, a weighted blanket should be 5 to 10 percent of your body weight. The weighted blanket should also fit snugly to the size of the bed. Adults can use medium-large weighted blankets ranging from 12 to 30 pounds. For a 20- to 70-pound child, a small weighted blanket should weigh from 3 to 8 pounds.

How much should a 20 pound baby blanket weigh?

For a 20- to 70-pound child, a small weighted blanket should weigh from 3 to 8 pounds. For a 30- to 130-pound child, a medium weighted blanket should weigh from 5 to 15 pounds. Older adults may want to use small or medium weighted blankets ranging from 5 to 8 pounds.

How much does a mosaic blanket cost?

Mosaic. Mos a ic carries a full line of weighted blankets for every age. Mosaic weighted blankets start at roughly $125.

Who May Benefit From a Weighted Blanket?

Studies also show that weighted blankets provide symptom-relieving benefits to people with conditions such as insomnia, autism, ADHD, and more.

Why do people use weighted blankets?

1. Creates a Calming Effect. People who use weighted blankets often report a calming modality, and for this reason, it’s often used for people who are stressed or have a disorder that makes them hyperactive. Weighted blankets have been helpful for calming everyone from college students to animals.

Why are weighted blankets used in social interactions?

Weighted blankets have been found to improve social interactions during the day for users, mainly because they are able to get restful sleep the night before.

Why are weighted blankets so popular?

Weighted blankets — also known as gravity blankets — have grown in popularity in recent years because of the many benefits they possess. If you’re someone who struggles with sleep, anxiety, autism, ADHD, Alzheimer’s, or PTSD, a weighted blanket is definitely worth a shot.

Why is a weighted blanket good for children?

This is due to the feeling of comfort and security they provide . The therapeutic relief of a weighted blanket can also extend to those with other developmental disorders.

How much weight is a weighted blanket?

Usually between five and 30 pounds, weighted blankets are filled with plastic pellets or glass beads. The added weight is designed to produce a calming effect when placed on the body. Our comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about weighted blankets including: How weighted blankets work.

What is a Casper weighted blanket?

The Casper weighted blanket is tailored to you with three different weight options so you can choose a size that works best for your body. It is also made with quilted channels that keep weight evenly distributed so you can experience the best results. When using a weighted blanket, it can be helpful to include nice soft sheets and a fluffy pillow to round out the perfect, cozy sleeping situation.

Who Can Benefit from a Weighted Blanket?

Weighted blankets are often used in occupational therapy for people with mental health issues or those who have a sensory processing disorder, such as autism spectrum disorder. Although heavy blankets have been used for these patients for years, weighted blankets have recently become attractive to the general population and people with other medical conditions for a wide variety of other benefits. Here’s who a weighted blanket can benefit and how.

Why do people use weighted blankets?

DPS was first used for people with disorders that keep them in the sympathetic nervous system state for too long, but weighted blankets have become popular in recent years as a tool to help reduce stress and improve sleep habits for the overworked, exhausted, and more.

What is a Weighted Blanket, and How Does it Work?

A weighted blanket is a therapeutic blanket that usually weighs between five and thirty pounds. The firm-yet-gentle pressure applied by the blanket is said to mimic a therapeutic technique called deep pressure stimulation.

What are the Risks of Using a Weighted Blanket?

While weighted blankets are appropriate for most adults and children, there are a handful of risks associated with weighted blankets to be aware of.

What hormones are in weighted blankets?

Stress Hormone Reduction—Cortisol (the stress hormone) is a necessary hormone for the human body, but too much of it can wreak havoc. Weighted blankets work to decrease cortisol and increase oxytocin (the feel good hormone).

How much weight is a Baloo blanket?

The Baloo Cool Cotton Weighted Blanket has a 15- to 25-pound weight range and is made with a quilted cotton cover that makes it especially warm for winter. It’s priced very affordably considering its quality, and the cotton makes it breathable for summer. It’s filled with lead-free glass microbeads and is free from harmful chemicals.

What is gravity blanket?

The Gravity Blanket, available on Amazon, is sold in 15 pound, 20 pound and 25-pound options and comes in three neutral colors. It has a gridded stitching for even weight distribution and an eco-friendly micro glass bead filling. The cover features a velboa plush that’s soft and warm for people who sleep cold. If caring for the environment is one of your primary concerns, take a look at our best organic mattresses.

Why do weighted blankets help?

A weighted blanket imitates a hug, which is why a weighted blanket may lead to a rise in oxytocin, also known as the “love” hormone, which helps to lower our heart rate and blood pressure. This is a key reason why a weighted blanket is said to have such a calming effect.

How to use weighted blankets?

To use a weighted blanket, it can be placed over the entire body while lying down or it can be draped over the shoulders. It can be used while sleeping or while awake when seated. The best way to use it depends on your healthcare provider’s recommendation as well as your personal preference.

Why do weighted blankets have a weighted filling?

Because the blankets have a weighted filling, there is an added light pressure that you wouldn’t experience with your average blanket. A weighted blanket is commonly described as having a “grounding” effect on the body that leads to an increased sense of relaxation.

How much weight can a weighted blanket be?

Makers typically use materials like glass beads or plastic pellets for weighted blankets’ filling. Weighted blankets can be anywhere from four to thirty pounds. The appropriate blanket weight depends upon the weight of the user (more on that shortly).

What material is used in weighted blankets?

Weighted blankets can be entirely filled with a material liked pellets, beads, discs or even flaxseeds. They can also be filled with a mix of one of these materials and a lighter, softer material like cotton. If you’re looking for a more traditional feel, you may want to opt for a blanket that has a blend of fillings.

What are the conditions that require weighted blankets?

Fragile skin, a rash or an open wound. Claustrophobia. Clei throphobia. If you are looking to purchase a weighted blanket as a supplemental treatment for a medical condition, check with your healthcare provider for the correct weight, size and recommended duration of use.

Why are blankets good for you?

They’re good for deeper psychological reasons, too, with potential benefits for those suffering from depression and, as previously mentioned, autism.”.

What are the Benefits of Using a Weighted Blanket?

By their very nature, most weighted blankets provide a greater degree of warmth and comfort than their more traditional counterparts. This extra pressure is also intended to promote both relaxation and happiness while reducing stress . However, some weighted blankets perform better than others.

How Do Weighted Blankets Work?

By using heavy fill, weighted blankets gain extra heft that separates them from traditional options. As a direct result of the additional weight, most weighted blankets are naturally warmer and cozier. However, some cooling models are designed for breathability, making them appropriate for year-round use.

Why do people put weight on blankets?

The theory behind the added weight is that it helps to reduce anxiety and encourage sleep by promoting melatonin (a sleep hormone). Some experts also claim that weighted blankets may stimulate other natural hormones, such as dopamine and serotonin, which are directly related to happiness.

How much weight should a weighted blanket be?

The general guideline is that a weighted blanket should be around 10% of the user’s weight. If a weighted blanket isn’t heavy enough, then it might feel insignificant to the sleeper. A blanket that’s too heavy may restrict movement and feel uncomfortable.

What is weighted blanket?

A weighted blanket is a blanket that contains glass beads, plastic pellets, ball bearings, or other materials that add to the blanket’s overall weight. The intent behind the extra pressure is to reduce anxiety and help stimulate sleep.

Does a weighted blanket help with relaxation?

It’s through this added pressure that a weighted blanket may promote relaxation by essentially simulating a full-body hug.

Do weighted blankets help you sleep?

While some weighted blanket manufacturers claim health benefits, you should talk to your doctor before use if you have an underlying medical condition. That said, many individuals enjoy weighted blankets and feel that they enhance the sleep experience.