GROUPON GUIDE TO LOS-ANGELES

Is a Weighted Blanket the Key to Better Sleep?

BY: Shannon Grilli |Feb 26, 2019

Have you ever looked at a swaddled infant and wished you could sleep as soundly? Or at a formerly-anxious dog wearing a calming vest and thought, “Man, that would be nice”? Or maybe you find yourself feeling envious of just how well-rested your lunchtime burrito seems. If so, you just might benefit from trying a weighted blanket.

What’s a Weighted Blanket?

Unless you’ve been comfortably hibernating this winter (and we’re guessing you haven’t been, since you’re reading this article), you’ve probably noticed at least a handful of your social media friends raving about them (we even recommended them on our holiday gift guides). More and more folks seem to be turning to a weighted blanket for anxiety, insomnia, generalized stress, and a whole host of other conditions, but is the hype to be believed?

If the reviews on our site are any indication, the answer is a resounding YES! Here are a few of our favorites:

“Got this for my boyfriend’s birthday. He’s passed out after 30 seconds with this blanket!” - Kathryn

30 seconds? That’s like… the same as counting 28.5 sheep… tops. Impressive! Also, that’s a really creative way of getting out of throwing your SO a birthday party.

“This blanket is AMAZING. Initially bought it for my kids to stay in their bed at night (small kids, heavy blanket). However, I let them sleep in my bed (with mom), so I can enjoy the comfort of this blanket. Perfect for winter time as well” - Travis

“Really enjoying this blanket. Might need another, my mother might steal it.” - K

We’re not sure what makes us LOL more: the thought of parents trying to get their kids to stay in bed by weighing them down, or the idea of moms sneaking into their kids rooms to steal their blankets from them. But we do know that moms will basically give up anything for their kids, so if they’re stealing blankets from them, those blankets must be really good.

Shop Weighted Blankets

All kidding side, these reviews are undeniable proof that people really, really, really love their weighted blankets. But just what makes them so much better than regular blankets? Below, we attempt to break down the science behind weighted blankets and explain why so many people seem to be bonkers for them.

How Do Weighted Blankets Work?

According to the folks at Psychology Today, the added weight in a weighted blanket provides deep pressure stimulation that mimics the feeling of being cocooned or receiving a hug from a loved one. They do not, however, describe it as feeling like you’re being hugged by a cast member from Cocoon, but you’re free to imagine whatever scenario sounds most comforting to you.

They also suggest that the weighted material also produces a stroking sensation when you move, which can make you feel like you’re being gently caressed as you drift off to sleep. The theory is that this added pressure can help your body release more serotonin, the chemical that makes you feel calm and relaxed. Yay, chemicals!

What Are Weighted Blankets Made Of?

Just like regular blankets, weighted blankets can be made out of all sorts of materials, from light-weight fabrics like linen to heavier materials like flannel or faux fur. The added weight component comes in the form of a filler—usually some type of plastic pellets or glass beads.

One company will even make a custom weighted blanket for you. SensaCalm, which uses hypo-allergenic, non-toxic polypropylene pellets in its weighted blankets, will create a blanket for you, letting you choose the material, size, and even how heavy you want your blanket to be.

CLICK HERE FOR A DEAL FROM SENSACALM

What Are Some Weighted Blanket Benefits?

Rumored benefits of weighted blankets include:

Decreased anxiety and stress
Deeper, more restful sleep
Increased concentration and sharper focus
Reduced fibromyalgia pain
Easing of symptoms related to restless leg syndrome
Other home blankets feeling svelte by comparison (we assume)

While anyone may benefit from the feeling of calm weighted blankets provide, they may prove especially beneficial to those with Autism, ADHD, PTSD, and sensory processing disorder.

Of course, not everyone may benefit from the therapy in the same way. If you’re wondering if a weighted blanket may be beneficial for you, consider asking your doctor or physical therapist about it.

Shop All Blankets

Just How Heavy Are They?

Weighted blankets come is varying weights ranging from about 3 pounds to 40 pounds. If you aren’t sure what size is right for you, experts—such as the folks at SensaCalm—recommend calculating 10% of your body weight, then adding another 1 or 2 pounds to that number. Or more if you’re looking to get hulking biceps just by making your bed.

Because the amount of weight that’s right for you varies from person to person, children and adults should not share the same weighted blanket (sorry, blanket-stealing moms!).

Furthermore, children under one year of age should not use weighted blankets at all, so stick to a classic swaddle until then if your little one needs some extra comforting.