Weighted Blankets 101: What You Need to Know Before Buying
Weighted blankets have a plethora of benefits, but you have to know how to use them right.
You’ve probably already heard of weighted blankets, and if not, that’s basically what they are—heavy blankets weighing around 10 to 25 pounds for adults, depending on the size. You’re probably thinking, “Why on earth would I want something heavy on me when I sleep?” Well, there is a learning curve of sorts and you need a few days to get used to the weight, but several studies have noted that these blankets can actually help you sleep faster and better, and are often used to aid those who are dealing with anxiety and insomnia.
How does a weighted blanket work?
According to a feature on Healthline, weighted blankets mimic “deep pressure stimulation,” which is basically what hugs and snuggles are. Firm and gentle squeezes help your nervous system relax, which in turn, calms you down.
While having another person offer deep pressure stimulation is great, there are tools that can help you get almost the same results. Weighted blankets are one of them.
What is a weighted blanket made of?
Weighted blankets are often made from what your usual blankets are made of: breathable fabric. There are, however, a few additions such as inner pockets which contain the filling that would make it heavy. Here are some of the most common fillings used:
1. Plastic poly pellets
If you’ve owned a stuffed toy before or remember what Beanie Babies are, then there’s a good chance that you’ve come across plastic poly pellets. According to Weighted Blanket Guides, these are made from 100% polypropylene, and are considered non-toxic and safe to wash.
Many manufacturers opt for plastic poly pellets as these, when put into pockets, can evenly be distributed and can seamlessly follow the form of your body without annoying lumps.
2. Micro glass beads
Micro glass beads are smaller and heavier than plastic poly pellets, which means your weighted blanket won’t contain as much to get the same weight. It’s also more cooling and more environmentally-friendly, plus you’ll get less lumps.
3. Steel shot beads
These are tiny steel balls are super durable and their smooth surfaces keeps them from accumulating dirt. They’re also bigger than the other choices as well, which makes it easier for you to remedy any tear should it happen. A downside, however, is that they’re noisier than the previous two, so if you’re sensitive to sounds, you may want to opt for a weighted blanket with a different material.
How much should your weighted blanket weigh?
According to CNET, a great way to know what blanket weight is best for you is “to pick one that’s 10 percent of your body weight.” So if you weigh 140 pounds, 10 percent of that is 14 pounds. If your preferred weight is in between range, go for the next size up: so a 15-pound blanket is good for you.
How do you care for a weighted blanket?
It can be pretty difficult to launder a weighted blanket, especially is you only have a small washing machine. A blanket weighing 15 pounds can go heavier when soaked in water, which is why when cleaning it, you can opt to either hand-wash (which can be very tiring), chuck it in a heavy-duty commercial machine on gentle, or have it dry-cleaned.
To keep your blanket cleaner for longer, get a duvet cover. Some online weighted blanket shops offer these, but you can also check out your regular linen store for more picks.
How much do weighted blankets cost?
Depending on the size, the brand, and the make those for adults usually go from P2,500 to P8,000.
Where can I buy weighted blankets?
There are now a growing number of online stores that offer weighted blankets in the Philippines. Here are some of them:
Blanket Hugs
Linen and Homes
Cuddle Buddy
IMPORTANT REMINDER: Do not buy or use a weighted blanket if:
- You have sleep apnea;
- You’re claustrophobic; or
- You have breathing issues.
Most importantly, do not use a weighted blanket on a child below three years old, and if you do need to use one on an older child who is on the spectrum or is having anxiety issues, make sure that it’s the right weight and it’s with parental supervision. According to Live Science, there have already been two child deaths—a 9-year old boy and a 7-month-old baby—due to the misuse of weighted blankets.
As long as you get the right weight and use your weighted blankets as instructed, you’ll get to enjoy its many calming benefits.
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