Best Weighted Blankets Consumer Reports
Are you looking for a way to get the restful sleep you deserve? Weighted blankets are becoming an increasingly popular choice for those who have difficulty settling in at night. Not only can they help improve sleep quality and reduce tossing and turning, but they could also provide some calming relief from stress or anxiety. In this blog post, we’ll walk you through what to consider when selecting the best weighted blanket for your needs, along with top product recommendations!
Top 10 Best Weighted Blankets
What are weighted blankets?
Weighted blankets are blankets filled with glass beads or plastic pellets to add weight. These types of blankets weigh anywhere from five to thirty pounds, and resemble a duvet. Weighted blankets can be used for both adults and children, as they create a feeling of security and comfort. Research shows that weighted blankets help improve sleep quality by reducing tossing and turning during the night. They may also reduce anxiety levels and provide calming effects for those who suffer from autism or other disorders. Weighted blankets are becoming increasingly popular due to their health benefits and ability to promote relaxation. If you’re looking for an alternative way to get better sleep, look no further than weighted blankets!
Factors to consider before weighted blankets
Size: For best results and comfort, the blanket should cover you from head to toe. It should be large enough so that you can tuck it under your shoulders and hips without feeling confined. If you are using the blanket on a child, make sure it is big enough so they aren’t exposed at any point during the night.
Weight: The weight depends on what works best for you. Many people find that 7-10% of their body weight works well for helping them sleep better. You can find this percentage by dividing your body weight by 100 then multiplying by 1-3 pounds depending on how heavy or light you’d like the blanket to be. Keep in mind that some people may feel uncomfortable if they are too heavy or light because of their condition or other factors such as height/weight ratio differences within families (i.e. a father who is 6 feet tall versus a daughter that’s 4 feet tall).
Brand: There are many different brands of weighted blankets available and it can be difficult to know which one will work best for you. Make sure to do your research and read reviews online before making a purchase. Some factors to consider when choosing the right brand of blanket include customer service, warranty information, price, construction materials (such as quilted cotton or polyester fill), and design/style options.
Price: The cost of weighted blankets can range from $50-$300 depending on size, weight, material, brand, etc. It’s important to find a balance between what works for your budget and what meets your needs in terms of quality and comfort.
Design/Style: Weighted blankets come in many different colors, patterns, textures, and sizes to fit your personal style. You can find one that matches your bedroom or living room decor or choose a fun pattern to add a little extra flair.
Warranty: Make sure to check the warranty information for any weighted blanket you are considering buying. Some brands offer lifetime warranties while others may only cover a certain period of time (usually 6 months-1 year). This is an important factor to look into before making a purchase since having some coverage in case of defects will give you peace of mind.
Customer Service: It’s also important to research customer service policies for different brands so you know what to expect if you need help after the purchase. Different companies offer different levels of service and some may not even have a customer service number or contact page at all.
Material: The material used in the construction of weighted blankets is important for comfort and durability, so make sure to research what materials are best for the type of blanket you’re looking for (cotton, polyester, etc.). In addition, it’s important to look into any special care instructions that come with each blanket since some may require more frequent washing than others.
How to use weighted blankets?
- Choose the right size: The most important step in using weighted blankets is to choose the right size for your body type and height. Most manufacturers provide guidelines as to which sized blanket would be suitable for different sizes of individuals.
- Place the blanket on top of you: Once you have chosen the correct size, place it on top of you while lying down or sitting up. Make sure that it is even distributed all over your body without putting too much weight on any one area.
- Wrap the blanket around you: After placing it on top of yourself, tuck in the edges or wrap them around you depending upon how comfortable you are with having a heavy item resting on your body.
- Enjoy the weight and comfort: Once you have secured the blanket, it is time to enjoy the added pressure while you relax or get a good night’s sleep. The sensation should be soothing and calming instead of uncomfortable. If you feel any discomfort, try adjusting your position until you find a comfortable spot for using the weighted blanket.
- Washing instructions: To ensure that your weighted blanket stays clean and in top shape, follow the washing instructions provided by the manufacturer before each use. This will help extend the life of your investment.
- Check-in with yourself: Take occasional breaks throughout using this device to check-in with yourself about how it feels or if anything changes in your emotions/body sensations. If you experience any discomfort, remove the blanket and seek professional help if needed.
Benefits of weighted blankets
Here are just some of the benefits that weighted blankets can provide:
-Improved Sleep Quality: Weighted blankets can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer, which means you’ll wake up feeling more rested. A study conducted by researchers at the University of Michigan found that people who experience insomnia tend to sleep better when they lay down under a weighted blanket.
-Reduced Stress Levels: A recent study also showed that using a weighted blanket reduced cortisol levels by an average of 23% in participants who had high stress levels before using the blanket. Cortisol is a hormone released by your body when you’re stressed out or anxious about something—so if you’re feeling stressed out about something important (like work or school), this could be helpful for reducing those negative feelings!
-Anxiety Relief: Weighted blankets can also be beneficial for people suffering from anxiety, as the pressure provided by the blanket helps to relax tense muscles and reduce stress levels. One study found that participants who used a weighted blanket reported feeling calmer and more relaxed than those who didn’t—which could make it easier to fall asleep or stay asleep at night.
-Pain Relief: The deep pressure stimulation provided by the weight of the blanket has been shown to help reduce pain in people with conditions like fibromyalgia, arthritis, or chronic fatigue syndrome. This type of therapy uses gentle pressure on specific areas of your body to provide relief from painful symptoms and promote relaxation.
-Improved Mood: Studies have also found that using a weighted blanket can help improve mood and reduce symptoms of depression. The pressure of the weighted blanket has been found to increase serotonin and endorphins (two hormones associated with happiness) in people who use it, which could explain why many people report feeling more relaxed or even happier after laying down under one.
-Improved Focus: Finally, some research suggests that weighted blankets can help improve focus and concentration in both adults and children. This is likely due to the deep pressure stimulation provided by the blanket, which helps create a sense of calmness and relaxation—allowing your mind to stay alert but relaxed enough to be productive.
Pros and Cons of weighted blankets
Pros:
-They’re a good way to help people with anxiety and PTSD feel more relaxed, because the weight of the blanket makes you feel like you’re being hugged.
-They can help with sleep issues. Some people are soothed by the weight of a blanket on top of them, and it helps them fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
-They can be used as an aid in occupational therapy for children with learning disabilities or autism. The weighted blanket gives the child something to hold onto that doesn’t move around, which helps them focus on their tasks.
-They’re also great for kids who have sensory processing disorders—they’ll enjoy the feeling of being underweighted, but will also benefit from the extra weight when they need it (for example, when they’re anxious).
Cons:
-Weighted blankets can be expensive and not everyone can afford them.
-They’re usually large, which means they take up a lot of space and are difficult to store.
-Some people find the weight too restrictive or uncomfortable.
-If the blanket is too heavy for you, it could cause circulation issues. It’s important to pick one that has the right amount of weight for your body type.
-Since they’re made with weighted beads, they can be noisy when moved around. This might interrupt sleep if it’s too loud or distracting.
Types of weighted blankets:
Weighted blankets are available in a variety of materials, sizes and weights to suit different needs. When selecting a weighted blanket, it is important to choose one that offers therapeutic benefits while also being comfortable and durable. Here are some types of weighted blankets you may want to consider:
- Cotton Magic Weighted Blankets: These lightweight blankets provide gentle pressure while being soft and breathable. They come in various weights, ranging from 5 to 25 pounds, making them suitable for both adults and children.
- Fleece Magic Weighted Blankets: With their cozy texture, these blankets provide deep pressure stimulation to help promote relaxation and reduce stress levels. The extra layer of fabric helps keep the weighted beads evenly distributed throughout the blanket.
- Waterproof Weighted Blankets: These heavy-duty blankets are designed to withstand spills and wear, making them an ideal choice for those with incontinence issues or medical needs. They come in a variety of sizes and weights, ensuring you can find one to suit your needs.
- Minky Weighted Blankets: With their smooth texture and vibrant colors, these blankets are both stylish and comforting. They offer a gentle form of pressure therapy that soothes both children and adults alike.
Common mistakes when using weighted blankets
When you’re using a weighted blanket, it’s important to remember that there are some common mistakes you can make.
- Failing to clean your blanket regularly- if you don’t clean your blanket regularly, you’ll risk mold and mildew growth, which can cause allergies or asthma.
- Not choosing the right size for your body- if your blanket is too small, it won’t be able to provide the proper amount of pressure relief. If it’s too big, it won’t be as effective at providing pressure relief and may even feel uncomfortable or dangerous if it falls off while you’re sleeping.
- Using an unbalanced blanket- if one side of the blanket is heavier than the other side, this can lead to uneven distribution of weight across your body. This can cause neck pain and back pain in some people who use such blankets regularly over time (also known as “Sleeping on one’s own terms”).
- Not knowing how long to use a weighted blanket- some people like using these blankets every night for years at a time while others prefer using them only periodically because they find them too heavy or uncomfortable when they sleep with them every night (or morning). Depending on your needs, you should consider how long to use a weighted blanket when deciding which type would be best for you.
- Not allowing enough air circulation- it’s important to keep the weight of the blanket evenly distributed so that air can circulate underneath and around the edges of the blanket. If there are too many layers or if your sheets are not breathable, this can trap heat and make it difficult for you to sleep comfortably.
- Not considering other factors- aside from size and material, factors like climate conditions and allergies should also be taken into account when choosing a weighted blanket. Some people may find that certain fabrics cause them skin irritation or sweat more than others in higher temperatures, for example. Additionally, some people who suffer from allergies may find that certain materials can make their symptoms worse. Taking all of these factors into consideration will help you to choose the right type of weighted blanket for your needs.
- Using too much weight- it’s important not to use a blanket that is heavier than 10% of your body weight, as this can cause discomfort and even injury if you move around in your sleep. Additionally, using a weighted blanket can sometimes be dangerous for those with medical conditions or serious injuries such as spinal cord injuries, so it’s always important to consult with a doctor before using one.
- Not allowing enough wiggle room- when you’re choosing the size of your weighted blanket, it’s important to leave some space between the edges and your body so that you can move around freely in your sleep. If the blanket is too tight, it can be uncomfortable and make it difficult to move around without waking up.
- Not listening to your body- if you start feeling any pain or discomfort while using a weighted blanket, then it’s important to stop using it immediately and consult a healthcare professional for further advice. Weighted blankets should never cause pain – they should instead provide comfort and relaxation – so if you find yourself experiencing anything other than this, then it’s time to reassess the type of blanket you are using.
- Not doing your research- there are many different types of weighted blankets available on the market today, so it’s important to do some research before investing in one. Look into the different sizes, materials, and weights of blankets to find the best one for your needs and also read reviews from other people who have used them before to get an idea of how they feel. This will help you make sure you are choosing the best possible weighted blanket for you.
FAQs:
For what conditions are weighted blankets helpful?
Weighted blankets can be beneficial for people who experience various conditions, such as anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), insomnia and sleep disruptions, restless legs syndrome, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), depression, sensory processing issues, and chronic pain. The deep pressure stimulation that weighted blankets provide is believed to help relax the body by activating the nervous system in similar ways to a hug or massage. This calming effect may reduce feelings of anxiety and help people with certain conditions have better quality sleep. Weighted blankets are also sometimes used to calm children with special needs during therapy sessions. Additionally, they may provide relief from chronic pain due to their ability to apply even pressure across the body. However, more research is needed to verify these potential benefits. Before using a weighted blanket, it is important to discuss with your healthcare provider to ensure its appropriate for your condition and symptoms.
Are weighted blankets safe for everyone?
Weighted blankets can be a great source of comfort for many, but it is important to note that they may not be suitable for everyone. If you have any pre-existing respiratory or circulatory problems, it is recommended that you consult with your doctor before using a weighted blanket. Additionally, people who are prone to overheating should avoid the use of weighted blankets as they retain body heat and could lead to discomfort. Small children should also avoid using weighted blankets as the added weight may pose a risk of suffocation. Finally, individuals with physical limitations or mobility issues should use caution when handling a weighted blanket and consider opting for lighter versions if available.
Conclusion:
The 10 best weighted blankets of 2020 are a great way to get started finding the perfect one for you. With so many different types and brands available, it’s important to find the right fit. These 10 options are all top-rated by customers and offer a variety of features to suit different needs. If you’re not sure where to start, this list is a great starting point. From there, you can narrow down your selection based on factors like price, size, material, and more. Once you’ve found the perfect weighted blanket, you’ll be able to enjoy the many benefits they have to offer.
I’m Ella Andrews, owner of the website https://bestconsumerstips.com/
I give you valuable information about good products to help you choose the best product.