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The best weighted blankets for a soothing night’s sleep
A good weighted blanket is a helpful aid for relaxation after a long day. Also known as a “wellbeing” or “anxiety blanket,” it works by applying gentle pressure to your body and can simulate the feel of a warm hug.
Once seen as specialist therapy equipment to soothe adults suffering from stress and children with special educational needs such as autism or ADHD, weighted blankets are now a staple in many home shopping aisles. This is due to anecdotal evidence that they can help anyone calm their nerves.
While there is limited data to prove their benefits, studies from the likes of the National Library of Medicine show that sensory touch can lessen physical responses to anxiety and put us at ease.
Prices climb from around £20 to over £300, so there’s a range of styles, finishes and qualities to choose from. We tested 13 weighted blankets, with the best eight reviewed below to help you find the right fit. You’ll also find an FAQ section on how they work. Here’s a quick look at my top five:
The best weighted blankets: At a glance
How to choose the best weighted blanket
“Weighted blankets often contain weight-adding materials that deliver deep pressure stimulation,” says sleep expert and psychologist Dr Lindsay Browning. “These have pockets filled with materials such as glass beads, plastic pellets or chains, evenly distributed across the blanket.”
For safety reasons, a weighted blanket should be around seven to 10 per cent of your bodyweight. So if you’re 70kg, seven kilograms is plenty. Aesthetics, budget and sizing all play a role too, but the other key consideration is how you plan to use the blanket:
- For warmth on the sofa, consider a fluffy, fleecy or knitted design.
- For summer months, look for cooling features or fabrics like bamboo or cotton which will regulate your body temperature.
- To ground yourself while you sleep, choose a slimmer, less bulky design.
- For convenience, look for weighted blankets that come with removable covers for easy washing and breathable, hypoallergenic fabrics.
Note, weighted blankets should only be used by an individual who can move it off themselves freely. This means they may not be suitable for:
- Young children under 22.5kg
- Anyone pregnant
- Those with strength and mobility issues
- People with respiratory conditions such as asthma, sleep apnoea, low blood pressure or circulation issues
While some can be used to induce sleep, this should be avoided with children, and if you’re unsure whether a weighted blanket is right for you or your family, consult your GP for advice.
