The Best Weighted Blankets for Calm and Comfort
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I am nothing if not anxious—whether it's something in particular or a constant sense of panic. So I'm always searching for products and tips to bring me back to Earth. Being smushed under a 20-pound weighted blanket seems to help. I've searched high and low to find the best weighted blankets to quell my anxiety, and throughout my years of testing, I've found not only blankets but also robes, eye masks, and other calming accessories.
Touch releases oxytocin in your brain. This hormone contributes to our overall well-being and our ability to handle stress. It's one of the reasons why we swaddle newborns. But we don't always have someone to squeeze us. Weighted blankets use pressure to simulate the feeling of being gently held. It's similar to the hug machine, invented by Temple Grandin, that uses pressure to calm those on the autism spectrum who don't like physical touch from others. Full disclosure: A weighted blanket isn't a medical cure. If you suspect that you have a neurological or mood disorder, you should consult your doctor.
Be sure to check out our other guides, including our guide on the Best Mattresses, Best Sheets, Best Pillows, Best Sound Machines, Best Sunrise Alarm Clocks, and some gadgets (or gifts) for people who just need to sleep.
Updated March 2024: We've added new weighted eye masks from Baloo, Luna, and Nodpod. We've also added blankets from Luxome and Sleep Number to our honorable mentions.
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Consider the cost. Weighted blankets are usually expensive. We recommend a few affordable options, but there is a lot of junk out there. If you can get a prescription from a doctor, your insurance might cover the cost, but it might be a fight. Some health savings accounts can be used to purchase weighted blankets.
Think about the material. Do you sleep hot? You probably don't want a super-plush blanket. Opt for an open knit or cool cotton.
Choose your weight. Most companies advise that the weight should be around 10 percent of your body weight; for example, if you're 150 pounds, that would be a 15-pound blanket. But we often wanted a much heavier blanket. The 10 percent rule is just a guide. Do you like to be tightly cuddled while you sleep? You probably can go with a heavier blanket. Kids or elderly folks should go with something lighter.
What about the size? The bigger the blanket, the less heavy it feels because the weight is distributed over a larger area. So a 12-pound throw might feel more weighty than a 15-pound queen-size blanket.
Who shouldn't use a weighted blanket? Babies, animals, or anyone who can't physically remove it. If you or a family member has a motor impairment, compression shirts may give you the same result—consider talking to a physician.