Weighted blankets are the trendiest way to help poor sleepers get a good night's rest.
They were first introduced by occupational therapists as a treatment for behavioral disorders, but are now more mainstream for anyone who wants to relax. Experts refer to it as "deep-pressure therapy" – the idea is that the pressure from the blanket can increase serotonin, a chemical in your body that makes you feel happy and calm.
How heavy should a weighted blanket be?
For adults, the blankets themselves are heavy, but not so heavy that you’ll feel like you’re being crushed under them. The blankets are typically filled with tiny glass or plastic beads to provide pressure. Glass beads are most popular because they're denser than plastic pellets. Here's how to pick:
Do the math. Most manufacturers recommend choosing a weighted blanket that’s roughly around 10% of your body weight. So if you weigh around 150 pounds, a blanket at 15 pounds is ideal. Don't worry about it being exact; within the 7-12% range is considered good.
Avoid oversized blankets. The blanket shouldn't hang off the side of your bed: The weight can make it fall off during the night. Also, larger size means the weight is more spread out so you'll feel less pressure. Even if you have a larger bed, you may want to use a twin or individual-sized weighted blanket.
Caution: Weighted blankets shouldn’t be used by anyone that can’t move freely beneath the weight. Though they’re sometimes used as a therapeutic means for children, it’s important to speak with their pediatricians first.
from Lexie Sachs
UNIQUE 7-LAYER STRUCTURE: Weighted blanket has a unique 7-layer structure to prevent the beads from leaking out. Smaller diamond pockets (only 4 x 4 inches) make the glass beads evenly distribute over your body for a comfortable sleep.
HOW TO CHOOSE: Usually 7-12% of your body weight is the weight you should choose, 86" x 92" size is for couples sharing in a king-size bed, 20 lbs weighted blanket is intended for individuals weighing about 90-160 lbs couples
CARE INSTRUCTION: Machine wash in cold water at gentle speed, Tumble dry and air dry hang dry or flat dry. A same-sized weighted blanket duvet cover is highly recommended for easy cleaning.