This may come as a surprise, but weighted blankets come in different weights. So the first question you're likely to ask is, "How heavy should a weighted blanket be to suit me?”
A good rule of thumb is your weighted blanket should at least be ten percent of your body weight. Unlike comforters filled with wool or feathers, weighted blankets are often filled with steel shot beads, plastic poly pellets, and micro glass beads. At Sunday Citizen, we fill our weighted blankets with crystals and glass pearls.
Plus, unlike most weighted blankets that are found on the market, our weighted blankets are quilted in a way that keeps the weight evenly distributed.
Different weighted blankets weigh differently, thus you need to choose one based on your body weight. Here is a quick weighted blanket weight chart and guide for quick reference.
What is a Weighted Blanket?
As the name suggests, a weighted blanket is a heavyweight blanket intended to calm and soothe your body as you sleep. Professionals often recommend a weighted blanket because the feeling of the heavy blanket on your body is almost similar to a relaxing hug—snug and comforting. Hugs are known to produce feel-good hormones like serotonin and oxytocin, so the idea is you can enjoy a sound sleep with a pleasant feeling.
Weighted blankets are also referred to as anxiety blankets because these blankets have calming effects on people who experience sleep disorders and sleep anxiety.
Weighted blankets are also recommended for depression, PTSD, insomnia, anxiety, restless leg syndrome, and autism spectrum disorder - all thanks to deep touch pressure technology.
These blankets require minimal care than regular blankets and most come with a removable cover that can be machine washed.
Weighted Blanket Weight Chart for Adults
Weighted blankets are not one size fits all. To determine the size and weight of the blanket that is right for you, it is important to consider your body type and sleep habits. However, most people prefer the blanket weight to be 10% of their body weight.
For example, if you weigh 150 pounds, you should get a 15-pound weighted blanket. If you are a side sleeper, you may want to choose a lighter-weight blanket so that it does not pull on your shoulders.
Importance of Getting the Right Weight and Size
A weighted blanket should ideally feel like a hug. So, when buying a weighted blanket, it is vital that it serves its purpose of doing this and not serve as just another blanket.
Getting the right size and weight will help you achieve that hugging feeling to induce calming effect, reduce your anxieties, and experience a good quality of deep sleep. This entire process helps you feel better and well-rested in the morning.
Sure, there are always exceptions because if you don't feel comfortable with your weighted blanket's recommended weight, you may opt for something lighter or heavier. But just so you know, doing this might not provide you with the same benefits.
Now, coming to the correct size, it depends on your personal preference. The bed size and height will help you get the ideal dimensions.
A king-size weighted blanket is a good weighted blanket for couples. If you've got a queen size bed, choose a weighted blanket that's of the same size or that of a throw if you don't want your weighted blanket moving around outside the bed.
Benefits of Using a Weighted Blanket
If you're looking for a way to reduce stress and promote relaxation, you may want to consider trying a weighted blanket.
While more research is needed to understand the potential benefits of weighted blankets, evidence suggests that they could improve sleep quality, relieve pain, provide calming sensory input, and promote relaxation. This snuggle companion benefits those who have trouble sleeping and those undergoing chemotherapy.
Here are some advantages of weighted blankets:
- It uses deep-pressure stimulation to help relax your nervous system and relieve stress.
- It relieves sensitivity and pain.
- It helps alleviate the symptoms of depression and can soothe anxiety.
- It reduces autonomic arousal, thereby reducing palpitation and hyperventilation.
- It helps aid individuals with down syndrome.
- It improves attention and reduces hyperactive movements for those with ADHD.
- It assists in easier and calmer breathing and lowers the heart rate.
- It helps pregnant women.
- It aids people experiencing restless legs syndrome.
- It reduces in individuals with chronic pain conditions while significantly improving the quality of life for those with osteoarthritis.
- It helps individuals with genetic disorders such as down syndrome.
If you want to learn more about weighted blankets don't forget to browse our ultimate guide to weighted blankets.
Risks When Using A Weighted Blanket
Although weighted blankets can be a great help for various issues such as insomnia and anxiety, it is important to choose the right size and weight based on your needs. There are some risks associated with the use of inappropriately heavy weighted blankets, such as overheating and suffocation.
Certain vulnerable populations may also want to avoid weighted blanket use. For example, small children should not use weighted blankets as they can be a hazard. Additionally, using a weighted blanket can pose a risk for people with asthma, sleep apnea, epilepsy, and claustrophobia. If you are using a weighted blanket and experience any difficulty breathing, immediately remove the blanket and seek medical attention.
Overall, if you have any doubts, you can always consult with your doctor to see if a weighted blanket is right for you!
Frequently Asked Questions
How is it possible for a weighted blanket to be so heavy?
A weighted blanket is usually filled with glass beads, plastic pellets, glass pearls or polymer beads. Some premium ones include natural crystals. These materials add weight to the blanket, which in turn provides pressure and sensory input to the user.
To ensure the weight is distributed evenly, the blanket is stitched in a special pattern. Also, at Sunday Citizen, the cover employs fastening mechanisms like zippers and buttons. Thus, the weighted insert doesn't move around when you do. That's why all our weighted blankets are recommended by medical professionals from different medical associations.
What if my weight falls between two weight recommendations?
Say your weight is 145 pounds, which falls between two standard weights. What size would you fall under? It is recommended that you round up the number to the nearest tens because your body may prefer the additional weight. So in this case, you would best opt for the 15-pound option (the heavier blanket).
However, this is the time to use your best judgment and decide based on your personal preferences. Note that the recommended weighted blanket weight chart is not set in stone while you're looking for the best weighted blankets to buy. These are just general guidelines to ensure you're in the right ballpark.
Can a weighted blanket be too heavy?
Yes, it can be if you buy a weighted blanket without adhering to the general rule of thumb. The heaviest weighted blanket available on the market today weighs 35 pounds, which can be too heavy, causing your movement to be restricted and trouble falling asleep.
If instead of feeling hugged, you feel like you are being crushed, then your choice of a weighted blanket is too heavy for you. And it can pose some health risks.
Choosing a lighter blanket, in this case, will help you to fall asleep and stay asleep in this case.
Is my height a factor to consider when buying?
No, your height has no bearing when it comes to choosing a weighted blanket. Of course, you'd want your toes to be covered, so you may want to get the blanket size that is best suited for you.
How heavy should my weighted blanket be in kg?
Follow the chart that we've provided above. You simply need to convert pounds into kgs. 1 pound equals .454 kg. If it falls in between two standard values, you can go for the heavier ones.
So, if you weigh 130 lbs. a 5 kg weighted blanket should suffice your needs.
Is a 9 kg. weighted blanket too heavy?
A 9 kg. weighted blanket is on the heavier side. However, it can vary depending on a person's body weight. If the blanket's weight meets the general weight guidelines, then it's perfectly fine.
Some people find that a heavier weighted blanket provides more relief, while others find that a lighter weighted blanket is more comfortable. Ultimately, it is up to the individual to determine what weight is best for them.
Conclusion
A weighted blanket is perfect if you want increased relaxation, improved sleep, or symptom relief. Being cuddled is a relaxing feeling that can make you secure, so, take advantage of these weighted blankets because everyone deserves a good night's sleep.
There are many factors to consider when choosing the right weighted blanket, including weight, size, and fabric type. By considering these factors, you can be sure to find a weighted blanket that will help provide the optimum level of comfort and support.