Trying to sleep when you're scared isn't fun or a game.
If you are scared, you will surely recognize the image. It's late at night and you're in bed. You've been trying to sleep for hours, but you have too many thoughts buzzing around in your head for your brain to just "shut down" and let you drift away.
The more you try, the harder it gets. So you face additional anxiety because you are nowchickenssleep.
It's a common problem. In fact,There are an estimated 6 million people in the UK who suffer from an anxiety disorder.
No wonder the average sleep time in the UK falls somewhere between5.78 and 6.83 hours. This is under the lot8 hours of sound recommendeda night we should have.
But the good news is thisThe less you sleep, the worse your anxiety gets.
Oh, did I say great news? I lied. This is not good news. It's a vicious cycle of sleepless nights and worsening anxiety symptoms. The only way to improve this is to break the cycle. And while we don't have a magic cure for anxiety, we do have tips to help you sleep better at night.
The best thing you can do to help you sleep when you're anxious is a weighted blanket. We will explain why and which weighted blankets you need more information on.
What are weighted blankets?
Weighted blankets are essentially exactly what they sound like. They are blankets to which additional weights are attached.Also known as gravity or anxiety blankets, the weight is designed to put pressure on your body, creating a calming and comforting effect.
They are usually made from heavy materials like plastic pellets sewn on the inside which are made from a softer material like traditional blankets. They are designed to distribute pressure evenly throughout the body.
It's like being physically hugged by your own blanket.
Not only does that feel good, it also stimulates your body to release serotonin, making you feel good. In addition, this will also help youbody produces more melatoninwhich is responsible for sleep.
In short, weighted blankets are designed to help you feel good and sleep better.
They come in a variety of sizes and weights, but the general rule of thumb is that they should be around 10% of your body weight. This ensures that you get enough pressure to feel the benefits, but not so much that you actually get crushed by the weight.
Which Weighted Blanket Is Right For You?
Answer 4 simple questions below to get a personal recommendation on which weighted blanket brand is best for you:
Do weighted blankets help with anxiety?
Yes, weighted blankets have been shown to help reduce anxiety symptoms. Like everything else, there is no magic cure that will get the clutter out of your life.
The research revealedthat deep pressure stimulation created by weighted blankets is reducedautonomic arousal, or the "fight or flight" responses. This is one of your body's alarm systems that produces common anxiety symptoms such as increased heart rate or palpitations, hyperventilation and nausea.
So putting pressure on your body prevents it from going into panic attacks caused by anxiety and helps you feel calmer.33% of participants showed immediate improvement.In another study63% of adultsshowed an overall decrease in anxiety after using weighted blankets.
Now that's a strong blanket.
But that's not the only way a weighted blanket can help with anxiety.
Heavy blankets improve sleep
The more comfortable you feel, the more likely you are to fall asleep.
When it comes to comfort, nothing beats a weighted blanket. It's like a hug or a gentle massage. You tend to get away with it. It's the same feeling as when a baby is changed before bed.
As mentioned, they also help to stimulate the release of serotonin andMelatonin, leaving you happier and ready for sleep.
But that's not all, they toodecrease the amount of cortisolin your bodyThis is the main stress hormone, which means weighted blankets also help to reduce feelings of stress – another factor for restful sleep.
They help with restless legs syndrome
restless legs syndromeit is a condition where people have an overwhelming and overwhelming urge to move their legs. If you've ever sat next to someone who can't seem to stop bouncing their legs, this is the cause.
The condition can also cause an uncomfortable "crawling or crawling sensation in the feet, calves and thighs", which is often worse at night. This means that restless legs syndrome can prevent people from falling asleep at night or even wake them up in mid-sleep with involuntary twitching of the limbs.
It can be quite common in people suffering from depression and anxiety and it can also trigger the conditions.
By creating a comfortable weight on the legs, weighted blankets can ease Restless Legs Syndrome symptoms and calm the urge to move. This, in turn, will also help improve sleep and reduce anxiety.
How long does it take for a weighted blanket to work?
You will immediately feel the weight and comfort of the weighted blankets.
But when it comes to sleep and mental illness, it can take longer to get an accurate picture of how it's affecting you. For this reason, we recommend trying a weighted blanket for at least a few weeks to see how it works for you.
Don't worry, it won't be long before you're asking if it's okay to sleep with a heavy blanket every night.
The answer: Of course it is.
Heavy blankets make you hot?
Mostly not. You should not overheat heavy blankets.
It's easy to see where this question comes from. The idea of being under a big, heavy blanket sounds like a winter dream. But on those hot summer nights, that's really the last thing you want.
Ultimately, it all comes down to the fabric it's made of.If you choose wool or flannel, it can feel uncomfortably warm underneath. Because although these materials are beautiful and soft, they are not breathable. They trap body heat under the blanket, making it nearly impossible to cool off.
To avoid getting too hot underneath, you need to choose one with breathable fabric that allows cool air to circulate in the summer.
As we will see later in this article,Mela Comfort Blanketare a great example of breathable anxiety blankets. They're made from a breathable, machine-washable fabric, which means you won't get too hot underneath.
Are there any risks to using weighted blankets?
There are almost no risks to using a weighted blanket.
However, there are some precautions you need to be aware of. A weighted blanket is great for creating comfortable pressure for most of us, but not everyone. If you suffer from any of the following conditions, anxiety blankets may not be right for you.
- obstructive sleep apneaas the extra pressure can make your symptoms worse and disrupt your sleep even more;
- Asmaas pressure in the chest or throat can make breathing difficult at night;
- claustrophobiaas the pressure and feeling of "hugging" can feel like you are being locked in and trigger your phobia.
In addition, you need to pay attention to the weight of the ceiling. As mentioned earlier, you should aim for around 10% of your body weight.
It is not recommended that children under 2 years old use one.If you are unsure about getting one for your children, ask your pediatrician for advice first.
Top 3 weighted blankets you need to know
Ready to try weighted blankets and see how they can improve your anxiety and sleep? Good news!
Now all you have to do is find the right one for you. Whether they are called fear, gravity or comfort blankets, there are many options for your weighted blankets.
To make things a little easier, we've gatheredthe heaviest blankets on the marketfor you. Here are our top 3 picks to consider.
Top rated weighted blankets:
| weighted blanket | Quality | Cost benefit | our assessment | analysis | Official Page |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Great | intestine | 9.4 | read review | Visit website | |
| Great | Average | 9.1 | read review | Visit website | |
| Average | Average | 8.8 | read review | Visit website |
see it all
1. Mela Comfort Weighted Blanket - Our Rating: 9.4/10
OMela Comfort weighted blanketit's one of the more expensive options on the market, costing an impressive £159.99. If that's not in your budget, skip this review for now.
But if you can stretch that far, the Mela Blanket is definitely worth your attention.
Like the Isaac Weight Blanket, the Mela Comfort also uses glass inserts instead of plastic. However, Mela Comfort's glass beads are SGS certified and completely noise-free, providing a premium night's sleep.
It also has a wider range of weights (5.5kg, 7kg, 9kg and 11kg) and sizes, including double and king. This means you can get one that fits perfectly in your bed or stop your partner from trying to take it away from you. There is room to share in the king size option.
It's expensive, but you don't have to stick to your decision.Mela Comfort offers an incredible 100-night trial.If you're not convinced it's worth the price after sleeping in it for 100 nights, you can get a full refund.
Our official Sleep4Beginners rating: 9.4/10.
Read the full review of the Mela Comfort Weighted Blanket here.
2. Isaac Weighted Blanket - Our Rating: 9.3/10
JUNE 2020 UPDATE:
Unfortunately, Isaac Sleep is closed. Isaac's heavy blankets are no longer available. This review is maintained for historical purposes only. We encourage you to choose from ourtop rated weighted blanketsinstead.
Instead of using plastic pellets, the Isaac Weighted Blanket is made from glass pellets.
Using glass instead of plastic is not only better for the environment, but also ensures that the weights are distributed more evenly. In addition, it increases the thermoregulation capacity of the quilt, helping to keep it cool in summer and warm in winter.
You can also remove the lid for greater temperature control, making it a great year-round choice.
Best of all, the Isaac Weighted Blanket is one of the less expensive options on the market. It really goes to show that more money doesn't always guarantee better quality.
It's available in 10lb, 15lb, and 20lb weights and fits most double beds, making it a great choice for couples. The downside? You only have one color option. So if you don't like gray, you're out of luck here.
Overall, this is a fantastic weighted blanket for anyone who wants to try it out but doesn't want to spend a fortune.
Our official Sleep4Beginners rating: 9.3/10.
Read Isaac's full weighted blanket review here.
3. Sommio Weighted Blanket – Our Rating: 9.1/10
Unlike the other options thatSommio weighted blanketoffers something completely different to ensure you get the perfect fit for you.A unique Build a Blanket service.
Yes, that means you can fully customize the weighted blanket you need. First choose from 6 different weights, ranging from 1kg (perfect for kids) to 12kg. Then complete it with your choice of 8 different fabric patterns, topping the single gray option of the Isaac Weighted Blanket.
If you don't want a blanket, Sommio also offers a weighted comforter, which might be a better option for some people.
They also offer some standard options to choose from, as well as a premium upgrade. This update offers a smaller inner pocket to distribute weight more evenly. The downside? You have many options to choose from. If you want something simple, sticking with an Isaac or Mela Comfort blanket might be the right choice for you.
Now, at Sommio, you don't have the luxury of 100 nights, but you do get a 21-night exchange policy if it doesn't work out for you.
Our official Sleep4Beginners rating: 9.1/10.
Read the full review of the Sommio Weighted Blanket here.
Get a better night's sleep with weighted blankets
The pressure caused by aweighted blanketcreates one of the most comfortable and relaxing throws in the world and makes you want to be hugged.
Blankets are proven to make you feel better, lower your stress levels and reduce anxiety while helping you sleep better. It does this by increasing the production of serotonin and melatonin in your body, reducing the stress hormone cortisol.
Plus, the simple comfort of the blanket will also help your sleep, improve your mental health, and ease your anxiety. It's an overall winner and well worth a try today, using our reviews above to get you started.
Need more tips for better sleep?You can find more useful tips here.
FAQs
Do weighted blankets really work for anxiety? ›
Weighted blankets may help anxiety. While more research is needed, 2020 research reported that weighted blankets may be helpful in relieving anxiety by helping with emotional and physical regulation. In another study, 63 percent of participants reported lower levels of anxiety after using a weighted blanket.
What weight of weighted blanket do I need? ›Both Fish and LeMond agree that the ideal weighted blanket is 10 percent of your body weight so that it fits your frame. For children or older adults, the formula is 10 percent of body weight plus 1 to 2 pounds.
What is the best non shifting weighted blanket? ›The Luna Weighted Blanket is our pick for the best overall weighted blanket because it's super soft and heavy without being overwhelming. It also doesn't shift around when you sleep. The Luna Weighted Blanket is designed with a patented layer construction that promotes breathability.
Is Hush or Gravid better? ›At a lower price point, with a much higher-quality blanket and instant customer support, Gravid Weighted Blankets are a clear winner over the Hush Blanket. Winner: At about half the price, with a much higher-quality blanket and instant customer support, Gravid Weighted Blankets are a clear winner over the Hush Blanket.
What pound weighted blanket is best for anxiety? ›Start with a blanket that's between 5 and 10 percent of your body weight, or 10 percent for children, plus 1 to 2 pounds. Before you get started, however, we suggest speaking with a doctor or occupational therapist to find out whether a weighted blanket is the best option for you.
Are weighted blankets okay for side sleepers? ›Weighted blankets work equally well for both side sleepers and those who sleep on their back or stomach. For side sleepers who are choosing between two weights that are otherwise the same - for instance our Full/Queen 15lb or 20lb options - we would suggest trying the lighter weight.
Do weighted blankets restrict breathing? ›Those with sleep apnea should likely avoid the use of weighted blankets, as they can further restrict breathing. Those with chronic respiratory or circulatory conditions should also typically avoid using weighted blankets.
What is so special about hush blankets? ›Hush blankets have been proven to reduce stress and anxiety by activating our body's natural response to compression and touch. Hush blankets reduce cortisol (stress hormones) with Deep Touch Pressure Stimulation (DTPS) to release serotonin (happy hormones) and melatonin (sleep hormones).
Is the Hush blanket worth it? ›With its variety of size and weight selections, the Hush Classic is a good option for sleepers who desire blankets that are lighter or heavier than those offered by brands with more limited choices. It may also be ideal for shoppers who have an aesthetic preference for blankets that fully drape over the bed.
What size hush should I get? ›You should choose a weight that is 7-12% of your body weight or the combined weight of you and your partner if you are sharing. For example, if you're 160 lbs, then the 15 lbs Hush will be perfect for you.
Is a 20 lb weighted blanket too much? ›
Usually, a weighted blanket should be between 12 to 20 pounds for adults. This ensures that the blanket creates a hugging feeling on your body — causing a sense of calmness, reducing stress, and helping you fall and stay asleep more easily.
Is it better to go heavier or lighter with weighted blanket? ›Recommended weights for a weighted blanket can vary between 5% and 12% of their body weight, with most people preferring a weighted blanket that weighs approximately 10% of their body weight. Regardless of its weight, a proper blanket should allow for comfort and movement. 25-60 lbs.
Is it OK to use a weighted blanket every night? ›Should Everyone Use a Weighted Blanket? Adults and older children can use weighted blankets as bed covers or for relaxing during the day. They are safe to use for sleeping throughout the night.
Do doctors recommend weighted blankets? ›There is some limited evidence that weighted blankets and the pressure they can provide can help patients combat sleep conditions like insomnia, chronic pain and certain disorders, such as ADHD. In nursing homes, nurses have also seen these blankets boost the health experience of elderly patients.
How long does it take for a weighted blanket to work? ›Finally, to answer the titular question and give you a more concrete number, it usually takes around two weeks for the weighted blanket to start giving results. Human body usually takes between 14 and 21 days to get used to big new changes, so around 15 days is the most realistic expectation.
Should weighted blanket cover feet? ›Your feet can be covered or uncovered, whichever you prefer. It might be a good idea to just use it on certain parts of your body first, to allow you to adjust to the feeling of it. To reap the long-term benefits, incorporate your weighted blanket into your daily routine.
Do weighted blankets affect blood pressure? ›Since they mimic the sensation of being held, weighted blankets also have the same health-promoting benefits of hugging, such as decreased stress, lower blood pressure, and improved mood. Weighted blankets are also considered a form of deep pressure therapy (DPT).
What happens if you sleep with a weighted blanket that's too heavy? ›It Can Be Uncomfortable
A blanket heavier than 35 pounds is more likely to cause discomfort because: It will place too much pressure on your joints throughout the night. It will make you feel restricted. The blanket begins to cause your body temperature to rise.
The pressure of weighted blankets puts your autonomic nervous system into “rest” mode, reducing some of the symptoms of anxiety, such as a quickened heart rate or breathing. This can provide an overall sense of calm.
Who should use a 20 lb weighted blanket? ›If you or the person you're buying it for are tipping the scales at between 165 to 200 lbs, you could choose either a 15 lb or a 20 lb weighted blanket. Adults who weigh more than 200 lbs might want to go with a 20 lb or 25 lb+ adult weighted blanket to get the calming effects that deep pressure touch can bring.
Who should use a 15 lb weighted blanket? ›
The golden rule is that a weighted blanket needs to weigh around 8-12% of your body weight. So when asking yourself what size for a weighted blanket do I need, think about your weight. A 15 lb weighted blanket will work better for you if you weigh around 130lb than a 20 lb one.
What is the best position to sleep with a weighted blanket? ›Cover your entire body: For full relaxation, cover your entire body from your shoulders down to your feet. If needed, you can use just half of the blanket (over your legs) for the first few days to let your body adjust. Lying on your back can help evenly distribute the weight, but by no means is it required.
Why am I sore after sleeping with a weighted blanket? ›The position you sleep in makes a difference when choosing a weighted blanket. Stomach sleepers, for instance, will likely find that using a weighted blanket increases the pressure on their lower spine, which can cause low back pain throughout the day.
Why you shouldn't keep one leg outside the blanket? ›If you stick out your feet out of your blanket in the winter season then it might make you feel cold and you might have to get the feet back inside your blankets, this can eventually lead to disturbance in sleep.
Can you wash a weighted blanket? ›Weighted Blanket Care Guidelines
Machine Wash and Dry: When machine washing, choose a bleach-free, gentle detergent, and wash your blanket in cold or warm water on a gentle cycle. Avoid fabric softeners. Choose a light or medium dryer setting and periodically fluff the blanket while it's drying.
Pros: using a weighted blanket offers a drug-free way to help you cope with anxiety, fall asleep easier, sleep deeper, and wake up feeling restored. Cons: conventional weighted blankets can be too hot to sleep under and aren't eco-friendly.
Can you become dependent on a weighted blanket? ›but there's always the risk that your weighted blanket will turn into a crutch and you'll become dependent on it. “They can become so strongly associated with falling asleep that a person might eventually have a hard time falling asleep without the weighted blanket,” says Schneeberg.
What makes Hush blanket heavy? ›Hush Blankets uses glass sand as a filler. This is similar to micro glass beads but even smaller. This glass sand is contained within your weighted blanket in more densely packed pockets in order to offer even weight distribution across your body.
Can you put Hush blanket in dryer? ›Note: We don't recommend machine drying your Hush Blanket. If you do use the dryer, make sure you use the lowest heat setting possible. You don't want to melt the fabric, fibers, or any of the filler. Make sure to place the blanket in the dryer for the shortest length of time possible.
What's inside Hush weighted blanket? ›Here at Hush Blankets, we fill our weighted blankets with glass sand, which is basically like micro glass beads, but EVEN smaller. This glass sand is contained within your weighted blanket in more densely packed pockets, in order to evenly spread the weight across your body.
Are weighted blankets worth the hype? ›
One of the most important benefits of weighted blankets is the improvement of your sleep. The weight of the blanket cradles you and may even decrease the number of times you wake up in the middle of the night. All of the above benefits help to lull you to sleep, and weighted blankets are said to improve that sleep.
Are calming blankets worth it? ›Generally, studies have shown that weighted blankets might be effective in some situations for reducing anxiety. In one study of 32 adult volunteers, 63% reported lower anxiety after lying under a 30-pound blanket for 5 minutes.
How do you choose the best blanket? ›- Find the Perfect All-Purpose Throw. There are all sorts of bedding to choose from. ...
- Choose the Right Fabric. ...
- Consider Specialty Fabrics. ...
- Look For a Weave Style You Like. ...
- Go For a Personalized Size. ...
- Color Choice Matters. ...
- Variety is Key.
How Heavy should a weighted blanket be for a couple? The correct weighted blanket weight for a couple sharing a weighted blanket ranges from 7 to 7.5 percent of the combined body weight. This rule applies if the weight difference between both of you is not that significant.
How do you wash a silent night weighted blanket? ›Thankfully, both the inner weighted blanket and cover are machine washable at 40C – but check that your washing machine can take the weight of your blanket. It can also be tumble dried on a low heat, which is a brilliant help because weighted blankets can take days to air dry.
Are weighted blankets hot? ›Do weighted blankets make you sleep hot? They do not have to. Weighted blankets are heavy, so they can trap heat and moisture, making a person sleep hot. However, some weighted blankets are breathable and have a heat-wicking material to keep the body cool during sleep.
How long does it take for a weighted blanket to help anxiety? ›Finally, to answer the titular question and give you a more concrete number, it usually takes around two weeks for the weighted blanket to start giving results. Human body usually takes between 14 and 21 days to get used to big new changes, so around 15 days is the most realistic expectation.
How heavy should a weighted blanket be for anxiety? ›Usually, a weighted blanket should be between 12 to 20 pounds for adults. This ensures that the blanket creates a hugging feeling on your body — causing a sense of calmness, reducing stress, and helping you fall and stay asleep more easily.
Do therapists recommend weighted blankets? ›Furthermore, a small study in the journal Occupational Therapy in Mental Health found a 30-pound weighted blanket is a safe and effective way to reduce anxiety in adults. Out of a total of 32 adults, 20 reported lower anxiety after use.
Should you sleep with a weighted blanket every night? ›They are safe to use for sleeping throughout the night. However, they are not for everyone. They are not recommended for children under the age of 2, for example. If you have conditions including obstructive sleep apnea, asthma, or claustrophobia, you should consult with a doctor before pulling up the covers.
What is the best position to sleep in with a weighted blanket? ›
Cover your entire body: For full relaxation, cover your entire body from your shoulders down to your feet. If needed, you can use just half of the blanket (over your legs) for the first few days to let your body adjust. Lying on your back can help evenly distribute the weight, but by no means is it required.
What is the best brand of weighted blankets? ›Weighted blankets provide deep compression many people find soothing as they drift off to sleep. We've selected the Bearaby Cotton Napper as our top weighted blanket of 2023.
Can you sleep on your side with a weighted blanket? ›Weighted blankets work equally well for both side sleepers and those who sleep on their back or stomach. For side sleepers who are choosing between two weights that are otherwise the same - for instance our Full/Queen 15lb or 20lb options - we would suggest trying the lighter weight.
How do you know what type of weighted blanket to buy? ›Weighted Blanket Weight Chart. Recommended weights for a weighted blanket can vary between 5% and 12% of their body weight, with most people preferring a weighted blanket that weighs approximately 10% of their body weight. Regardless of its weight, a proper blanket should allow for comfort and movement.
What do doctors say about weighted blankets? ›There is some limited evidence that weighted blankets and the pressure they can provide can help patients combat sleep conditions like insomnia, chronic pain and certain disorders, such as ADHD. In nursing homes, nurses have also seen these blankets boost the health experience of elderly patients.
Are weighted blankets really worth it? ›Generally, studies have shown that weighted blankets might be effective in some situations for reducing anxiety. In one study of 32 adult volunteers, 63% reported lower anxiety after lying under a 30-pound blanket for 5 minutes.
What scientist say about weighted blankets? ›Becklund and two researchers from Saint Leo University in Florida investigated if weighted blankets helped with anxiety in psychiatric patients. Measuring how their patients responded to questions about their emotional state, the researchers found evidence that weighted blankets had a marked calming effect.
Why is my body sore after sleeping with a weighted blanket? ›Whether the blanket is too heavy and restrictive or causes them to sleep in a position they normally wouldn't, the result is the same: They wake up feeling tired, achy, and sometimes in pain. Because of these issues, a weighted blanket may not be the best option for everyone.
How often can you wash a weighted blanket? ›If you use the blanket every night while sleeping, wash it once every few weeks to prevent the build-up of sweat and body oils. If you only use it occasionally as a lap blanket on the couch or at a desk, cleaning your weighted blanket three to four times per year should suffice.