Weighted blankets might just seem like another trendy item that you're unsure about. After all, they do come with a higher price tag than many other viral trends and require you to use them to see the benefits! But we're here to explain exactly what weighted blankets do. They have so many benefits that are often overlooked, and tend to get labeled as a just a 'heavy blanket.'
Read on to see what weighted blankets do and how one might help you.
So What is a Weighted Blanket?
Technically, a weighted blanket is a heavier-than-normal blanket, but it's when we dig deeper where we get into what makes it so different. While it can be used as a normal blanket to keep you cozy and warm, or placed on a bed as a quilt would, it has some unique properties.
Weighted blankets are filled with materials that make them hold weight. This could be sand or grains, but is most often a type of bead. At Luna, we use micro glass beads because they're machine-washable, distribute weight evenly, and are more dense so they require less product overall. If you want to learn more about filling, read our guide to what weighted blankets are made of here.
What Do Weighted Blankets Do? Are There Symptoms They Help With
Above all, weighted blankets provide a sense of comfort and support to those who use them. Most commonly, these products help people get better sleep and reduce overall anxiety.
That filler we mentioned above serves a purpose — it creates something called Deep Pressure Touch Stimulation, which is best described as that feeling you get when someone hugs you. That sense of comfort? Yep, that's what a weighted blanket does. Consider the fact that a baby calms when it's swaddled. A weighted blanket is like an adult swaddle *wink*.
Now let's take a look under the sheets. Pun intended.
When we lay under that gentle, but firm, weight for a period of time, our bodies release serotonin (the feel good chemical), reduce cortisol (the stress hormone), and promotes melatonin (the chemical that helps you get deep REM sleep). Put it all together and it makes for a full body calming effect and better night's rest.
What to Consider When Buying a Weighted Blanket
If you're ready to lower your stress and get a better night's sleep, it's time to decide which weighted blanket is right for you. With so many on the market, it can be a bit overwhelming but we're here to guide you through what to consider.
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Weight: Experts recommend that a weighted blanket should be about 10% of your body weight to get the best deep pressure effect. If that sounds like too much, that's okay. At Luna, we tell customers to use it over your original comforter across the legs for the first week. Then, move it over half the body for a few days. Finally, over the entire body. Over or under the comforter is up to you. Still unsure? Follow our individual weight chart for weighted blankets.
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Sizing: Sizing can be tricky, but think about where you'll be using the weighted blanket most. On your couch? Consider a throw (50 x 60). For naps? Opt for a weighted blanket for kids (36 x 48). In need of deep sleep each night? Go with your bed sizing, from twin (41 x 60) to king (80 x 87). Take a look at our detailed weighted blanket sizing chart here.
- Materials: You know your sleeping habits best and what will make you the most comfortable. For those who run hot, go with a cooling fabric, like our Cooling Bamboo Weighted Blanket. If you blast the AC all year long or always have freezing hands and feet, customers love the Sherpa Fleece Weighted Blanket for its super soft minky fabric. And, if you're in the middle, you can't go wrong with traditional cotton for a breathable and soft fabric.
Get Your Weighted Blanket Today
So now you know what weighted blankets do and how they can help you make the most of your day and night. Ready to dive into a cozy bed? Shop one of Luna's weighted blankets to find the best choice. They're machine-washable, cost-friendly, and made from Oeko-TEXT Certified materials.
