Weighted Blanket Reviews: 25 Year Mattress Industry Pro Tests And Reviews Best Brands

Weighted blankets have gained popularity in recent years for their potential therapeutic benefits, promoting relaxation and alleviating anxiety. Typically ranging from five to 30 pounds, these blankets are filled with materials such as plastic pellets or glass beads, distributing the weight evenly across the body. The added pressure is thought to stimulate the release of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine, which contribute to a sense of calm and well-being.

Weighted blankets were initially designed with the intention of providing therapeutic benefits, particularly for individuals with sensory processing disorders, anxiety, or conditions like autism. The concept of deep pressure stimulation has long been recognized as a method to promote relaxation and alleviate anxiety in various populations.

While the origins of weighted blankets trace back to occupational therapy practices, where deep pressure stimulation is commonly used, their use has expanded beyond just autistic children. Today, weighted blankets are embraced by a broader audience seeking relief from stress, anxiety, insomnia, and other related issues.

Weighted blankets can range from 15 lbs. to as heavy as 40 lbs. depending on individual needs.

Weighted blankets come in a variety of fabrics, offering users the opportunity to choose one that suits their preferences. Common options include cotton, minky, and bamboo fabrics. Cotton is breathable and suitable for those who prefer a cooler feel, while minky provides a plush and cozy sensation. Bamboo fabric is known for its moisture-wicking properties, promoting temperature regulation.

The cost of weighted blankets can vary depending on factors such as size, weight, and the quality of materials used. Generally, prices range from affordable options to higher-end, more luxurious blankets, providing a range of choices for consumers based on their preferences and budget constraints.

The benefits of a weight blanket are pretty impressive, according to Irina Zhdanova, MD, CEO of a company called Clock Coach, a wellness web site that specializes in optimizing your health. The American Academy Of Sleep Medicine cites that using a weighted blanket can reduce insomnia and sleep quality.

“Being hugged is a very powerful stimulus. When you’re hugged, you feel more secure”, says Zhadanova. Weighted blankets are used during wisdom teeth extraction to reduce anxiety, with studies demonstrating that the blankets reduce brain stress signals to near normal levels.

Elementary school students who wore weighted vests were notably calmer during class, and weighted blankets or pads have been in use to reduce anxiety in children with autism, benefiting from the compression effects of the devices.

Plenty of research has shown that individuals with autism benefit in many ways from using weighted blankets, including experiencing heightened calmness, improving sleep patterns, and reducing restlessness.

Elder care providers and family members of those in hospice care often report that a weighted blanket helps their older loved one rest more calmly and sleep more deeply and restfully. If you provide care for someone with dementia or age-related insomnia, a weighted blanket may be an effective  way to manage symptoms and provide relief and comfort.

A weighted blanket creates a swaddling and snugging sensation that cradles and hugs your body. Research suggests that our bodies respond positively to this effect, reducing anxiety, promoting deeper sleep, and offering an overwhelming sense of calm and safety.

The good news is that the benefits for healthy individuals are even more beneficial than you can imagine.

You don’t have to have any health issues to take advantage of the benefits weighted blankets can bring. Everyone loves a hug, and a good dopamine spike is great for your body.

The effects are deeply soothing and highly therapeutic for your body and your mind.

Clearly, they have overwhelming calming and anxiety reducing effects. It’s well known in the bedding industry, but for a long time weighted blankets were kind of a niche item, not a popular or fast moving element, kind of like sleep masks.

Weighted blankets can offer relief to individuals suffering from obsessive compulsive disorder, anxiety, insomnia, and autism as well, according to The Weighted Journal.

Our weighted blanket reviews covered several manufacturers using different textiles and weights as well as a variety of price points.

As a relief for insomnia, researchers note that the brain has neurotransmitters or chemicals responsible for various bodily functions. He states that an imbalance of neurotransmitters may lead to several conditions, including insomnia. With insomnia, the levels of serotonin decrease.

This neurotransmitter or chemical that helps relay messages from one brain area to another, including the brain cells associated with mood, appetite, sleep, learning, social behavior, and memory.

Weighted blanket benefits are delivered in the form of warmth and the feeling of being hugged. They help your body release serotonin, which can promote relaxation and sleep. Also, heavy covers will help the body to naturally increase the levels of melatonin, an essential hormone that controls the circadian rhythm. It’s the body’s internal clock, telling it when to sleep or wake up.

Of course, sleep masks and weighted blankets have rocketed to the forefront of popular products as more and more people are taking charge of their sleep hygiene in order to optimize their overall health. Weighted blanket reviews for various brands are often found in the bedding or sleep accessory areas of mattress web sites.

WHAT MAKES A WEIGHTED BLANKET HEAVY?

Weighted blankets are typically made with several layers which are sewn together, forming a quilted like duvet. The interior layer is a compartmentalized sleeve, stitched together in a waffle like pattern typically, and contains weighted pellets, usually resin or plastic based, but ideally made using glass beads. 

Glass beads are ideally the best media to use, according to most bedding product designers. They are inert, and by volume, weigh the most, and also, they tend to make zero noise when shifting or moving while using a weighted blanket. Glass beads are typically used in better quality blankets, which vary in size and in weight.

guidelines for choosing a weighted blanket

It’s also important to note that there is a recommended guideline for determining which weight to choose when buying a weighted blanket. The general formula is one pound for every 10 pounds of body weight, so a 20 lb person should use a 12 pound blanket, and a 200 lb person should employ a 20 pound blanket.

Here’s a chart which provides typically guidelines for one manufacturer who builds various sizes and weights of weighted blankets. Our weighted blanket reviews generally incorporate options that are not necessarily full size, but will cover up most of your body area.

HOW TO SIZE UP A WEIGHTED BLANKET TAILORED TO YOUR BODY

Note that weighted blankets don’t have to be fitted to your mattress size, but rather to your body weight to allow for body movement. Look carefully at weighted blanket dimensions before you buy, though they are generally cut smaller than typical mattress dimensions.

While we conducted our weighted blanket reviews, we tested several weighted blanket configurations. I weigh typically around 185 pounds and do a lot of tossing and turning.

I found that using weighted blankets that were on the 18 lb. side were too heavy.

We tested several 12-15 lb. unit and found them to offer enough compression and body contact to reduce tossing and turning, and we felt cuddled and cradled.

There are two ways to approach a weighted blanket setup. For one, you can choose to buy a weighted blanket that is designed to cover your body but not take up the entire mattress, as shown above.

However, many sites sell weighted blankets that are the size of the mattress dimensions and have a slight amount of drape at the edges.

You will also find that the weighted areas of the blanket do not extend all the way to the edge, and that there is a flange or border with not weighted cells.

Either way, your results should be similar. If you find a fully fitted weighted blanket too restrictive, you can switch to the “body size” version which may be sold on a more limited basis.

The reason for this is that Americans is highly accustomed to having our comforters, blankets, and sheets conform exactly to the sizes of our beds, but as we put together our weighted blanket reviews, we discovered that most weighted blanket users generally preferred the smaller body size rather than full blanket or sheet size options.

This largely has to do with the fact that the full size weighted blankets are much heavier, and most areas are not actually lying on top of your body This makes them difficult to move around and manage.

EVEN SMALL CHILDREN AND TEENS CAN BENEFIT, THOUGH WEIGHTED BLANKETS ARE DESIGNED FOR ALL OF US.

For small blankets, ideal for children or very petite individuals, to determine the weight of a properly fitted blanket, use 10 percent of your body weight and add one pound for an ideal feel. A small blanket might measure 34 inches by 50 inches and work for children between 1 and 6 years old.

Don’t use a weighted blanket on a child under one year of age. Before using a weighted blanket for a child, have a chat with your health provider.  You can read our recommendations below in our weighted blanket reviews section.

For children between the ages of six and twelve, use a weight that factors in 10 percent of the user’s body weight plus two pounds. A medium size blanket might be roughly 38 inches by 62 inches and is appropriate for children between the ages of 6 and 12.  

For taller teens and most adults, use 10 percent of the person’s body weight and then add three pounds. These blankets might ideally measure 38 inches by 72 inches.

Even I’ve notices that as a very light sleeper and a tosser and turner, I tend to remain in one place longer and sleep far more soundly with a weighted blanket than without. “ I slept much deeper with the blanket than without. If I don’t use my weighted blanket now, I wake up more frequently and don’t get the restorative rest I need”.

Experts say that despite their huge benefits, purchasing the correct weighted blanket requires some considerations. First, they can be very warm because of the liner required to contain the specialized beads, which needs to be durable and heavier. Often times, the fabric used is not very breathable.

Choose a manufacturer or brand that has a breathable fabric interior, along with fabrics and materials that ventilate effectively.

The best way to research a weighted blanket is to simply read a brand’s weighted blanket review section to hear from actual owners. Check out Google, Yelp, TrustPilot, or other third party reviews, and as we always mention, avoid weighted blanket reviews that appear to be written by the web site themselves and cherry picked so that only the good reviews are in the top tier.

 
 

WHERE TO BUY THE BEST WEIGHTED BLANKETS

1. Nolah Weighted Bamboo Blanket

The Nolah Bamboo Weighted Blanket is our #1 choice for best weighted blanket. It comes in two sizes, 48″ x 82″, with weight options of either 15 or 20 lbs, and a larger size, 80″ x 87″ at 25 lbs.

Outfitted with a double sided bamboo cover, the fill material is glass beads contained within quilted compartments to prevent shifting.

The blanket sleeps cool and comfy, with a silky feel that is smoother than organic cotton and other natural textiles.

We tested both 15 and 20 lb versions and our team found that the 20 lb option was a bit heavier, while the 15 lb option felt just right. Not too compressive, but enough weight to provide a snug, tucked in feeling.

The Nolah Weighted Blanket is priced at just $199, which includes free shipping and returns if you’re not satisfied.

Because bamboo is naturally anti-bacterial and wicks away moisture, it’s a healthier option to synthetic components.

Using a weighted blanket has been shown to increase serotonin levels resulting in deeper sleep and a more calm feeling upon wakening.

The Nolah Bamboo Weighted Blanket also delivers on construction quality and curb appeal, too. We liked the neatly tailored edging and the quilted design.

We found that the standard size was more than generous for covering your body, though you do need to tuck a little bit.

Opt for the full size option is you sleep lengthwise on your back or you are a taller or larger person.


3. MOSAIC WEIGHTED BLANKETS

Mosaic Weighted Blankets was started by Laura Lemond. Laura struggled with sensory issues, and designed a full line of weighted blankets and accessories that help with a variety of issues.

Laura LeMond is the owner and cofounder of Mosaic Weighted Blankets. Laura is a native of Austin, Texas, and a graduate of The University of Texas at Austin.

After years of trying to identify a solution to calm her system and rest her mind, she began to discuss with her girlfriends a way to help herself and others.

Her first weighted blanket experiments involved using weighted sand. That was 2010. Today, her brand is the most popular on the web. I love the concept she created.

Choose from many styles, all with free shipping. She offers a kid’s line, cotton and microfiber blankets, and even a really cool sale section that has great deals.

Use my link and you can get a 15% off code when you visit the Mosaic site. Each blanket is made in Laura’s Austin, Texas based facility, by hand.

Because The Mosaic Weighted Blanket lineup has a great program for children as well as unique fabrics and weight options, we give them our 5 out of 5 star rating.

Mosaic offers a variety of adult, children’s, and even a specialty line of weighted blankets for seniors. A lot of science goes into the thought process before their products are designed.

Weighted blankets have been used for years to increase serotonin levels (which promotes calmness) while reducing cortisol levels (increased levels cause anxiety).

The selection of fabrics and weight options make Mosaic’s lineup worth checking out.

Mosaic Weighted Blankets are made by sewing a grid of pockets of hypoallergenic BPA free pellets into the fabric, evenly distributing the increased weight across the entire blanket.

When draped naturally and evenly across your body, or part of your body, it provides just enough gentle pressure to reduce cortisol, a stress hormone, and release a few different chemicals into your system: oxytocin, melatonin, and serotonin. Collectively, these chemicals relax the body, reduce stress, and induce a general feeling of happiness and security.


3. Puffy Weighted Blanket

The Puffy Weighted Blanket is an option we’ve reviewed and have recommended for years. For a queen size (measures 60″ x 80″), the price is $179, and you can choose between three weight options.

Unlike other brands, The Puffy Weighted Blanket features two sides in different fabrics. One side is cotton twill that has a more organic, natural fee.

Flip it over and you’ll experience the velvety soft, “micro-mink” luxury that stimulates skin, calming and soothing your body and mind.

You can try The Puffy Weighted Blanket for 101 nights and return it for a full refund, at no cost to you. It ships out within 1-3 days after ordering via FedEx. Crafted using hypo-allergenic, non-toxic, and fragrance free materials.

The Puffy Weighted Blanket earns a 4.8 out of 5 star review for it’s unique ceramic bead content, the dual fabric option, excellent pricepoint, and 101 night no questions asked trial.

The Puffy Weighted Blanket cover removes with ease and is machine washable. Filled with weighted ceramic beads, it can be washed at home by following Puffy’s gentle care instructions to protect the quality of the beads and fabric.

Reviewers describe the gentle hug and the feel of the quilted fabric cover offering calm and stress reducing sensations.


Weighted Blankets: Background And Benefits

Over the last few years, weighted blankets have come up on the radar as the best non-pharmaceutical sleep aid on the market. Sales have skyrocketed as more and more companies bring products on board.

A lot of mattress companies whose mattresses we review began making them and because they have access to some unique textiles like bamboo, microfiber, faux fur, and other “sensory fabrics” They’ve hit a level of popularity that no other item in the wellness category can match.

Originally invented by a company called Magic Weighted Blankets who started selling them in 1997, weighted blankets were typically sold to autistic persons and people with sensory issues. Most likely, weighted blankets were an extrapolation of something called a “squeezebox”, invented by Temple Grandin, noted animal science researcher upon whom a movie is based.

The squeezebox concept involves climbing inside of a box which is outfitted with a compression sleeve that can be controlled by the occupant to increase pressure agains the trunk of the body, creating an immediate sense of calm and a reduction in stress.

For almost two decades, the weighted blanket market was a tiny category of products sold in retail stores

While purchasing weighted blankets for their children, parents quickly realized how comfortable and soothing weighted blankets were for themselves. This led to rapid market expansion to include people with anxiety, PTSD, depression, insomnia and other conditions.

       
Although the market has exploded, our time spent researching weighted blanket reviews has shown that the product is primarily purchases as a tool for helping individuals with neurological conditions.

As weighted blankets have soared in popularity for their use with people dealing with mental illnesses, they’ve started to show up everywhere from special education classrooms to mental health treatment centers.

It seems that a mainstream interest in and understanding of the autistic community has grown as well.

The concept now has a huge audience in the mainstream bedding accessory lineup, much like white noise machines, masks, specialty sheets, and other products have found.