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Sleepers who sometimes wake up feeling like they’ve wrestled their comforter all night or feel more exhausted than they were the night before might find a weighted blanket improves their sleep. If you suffer from insomnia, experience fitful sleep, or merely enjoy the sensation of being hugged to sleep, a weighted blanket could be the missing puzzle piece for a full night of regenerative slumber.
Since weighted blankets are popular sleep aids, finding what you need in a sea of similar-looking products can be overwhelming. The best weighted blanket is a question of personal taste, but also of quality materials and design. Read on for our top tips and recommendations.
- BEST OVERALL: WONAP Cooling Weighted Blanket
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: YnM Weighted Blanket, Heavy 100% Certified Cotton
- BEST FOR ADULTS: Quility Weighted Blanket for Adults
- BEST COOLING: Degrees of Comfort Cotton Cooling Weighted Blanket
- BEST PLUSH: rocabi 25 lbs Adult Weighted Blanket & Cover Set
- BEST DUAL SIDED: OMYSTYLE California King Size Weighted Blanket
- BEST ORGANIC: LUNA Adult Weighted Blanket
- BEST FOR KIDS: Sivio Weighted Blanket for Kids
- BEST FOR ANXIETY: Weighted Idea 15lb Cooling Weighted Blanket
Before You Buy a Weighted Blanket
Weighted blankets are not for the faint of heart, literally. Anyone suffering from chronic respiratory or circulatory issues should think twice before purchasing this product. Excessive weight can restrict airflow or blood circulation. When in doubt, consult a doctor first.
According to their manufacturers, weighted blankets reduce anxiety, stress, and insomnia. With that said, weighted blankets should never replace therapy or treatment. You should treat the blanket as another tool in your sleep-aid kit, not as a cure.
Finally, children under the age of 3 years or weighing less than 50 pounds should avoid using weighted blankets entirely. The weight can lead to suffocation and even choking if filler beads leak. Always be mindful of age and weight when purchasing a blanket for your child.
Types of Weighted Blankets
Fabric is a weighted blanket’s first line of defense. It’s what users will snuggle with at night, and texture is a merciless deal breaker. Before saying aye to the textile, pay attention to the properties of each option.
Cotton
Cotton is classic. It’s inexpensive, strong, and easy to clean. It’s convenient for manufacturers and for customers who want an affordable and machine-washable product. Plus, cotton is natural and breathable, which is great for sensitive skin and hot sleepers alike.
Some might deem cotton—dare we say—boring. That would, however, disregard cotton’s versatility. It can be morphed into anything, from ringspun cotton to chenille.
Flannel
Speaking of cotton’s versatility, flannel is yet another fabric derived from the material. It stands out as a softer, comfier, and warmer alternative. Flannel’s insulating properties keep it breathable, and—contrary to popular belief—it comes in solids and patterns other than plaid.
Of course, flannel proves less convenient for warmer climates and hot sleepers. Also know that pilling can be an issue with flannel blankets.
Minky
Minky is what dreams are made of—or at least, what you subconsciously remember from your naps as a child. It’s the fleece material used often in baby blankets, and it’s known for being soft, warm, and the epitome of comfort.
Minky is, however, more fragile than traditional sturdy cotton. You will have to follow washing instructions carefully to prevent shedding or fraying. Choose minky weighted blankets for chilly nights, but not necessarily for hot sleepers.
Fleece
Fleece is a synthetic fabric with all the warmth and coziness of minky and flannel. It typically offers more print variety than minky, and is more machine washable than flannel. If you display any skin sensitivities, however, a natural alternative might be more prudent.
Rayon
Rayon is a fiber made from wood or agricultural products. It is soft, silky, and breathable. Rayon proves a wise choice in a weighted blanket for warmer months, but possibly feels too cool for chilly nights. If you love the feel of silk or wool but don’t want to break the bank, rayon provides a great alternative.
Linen
Linen is known for being lightweight and breathable. It is perfect for warmer climates. Like cotton, linen is a plant-based, natural, and low-maintenance fabric. That being said, it wrinkles easily, and is also not the ideal option for freezing weather.
Microfiber
Microfiber is not only plush and cozy, but flexible, durable, and wrinkle resistant. It is washing machine friendly and it dries quickly. The flipside? Microfiber is a synthetic material. As a result, this isn’t the best choice in a weighted blanket for buyers with sensitive skin. Plus, if you cherish sustainable development, microfiber production ties to fossil fuels, so no brownie points there.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Weighted Blanket
Weighted blankets are on the pricier side as blankets go, so buyers should make sure their investment is worth the price they’re paying. Before adding a product to your cart, check the following.
Weight
These blankets are not one-weight-fits-all products, and though that complicates the selection process, it is good news for sleep and comfort. Most weighted blankets on the market range from 5 to 30 pounds. Manufacturers typically recommend a blanket that runs between 5 and 10 percent of the sleeper’s weight. This is not a hard and fast rule. It’s been suggested that heavier blankets—typically around 12 percent—provide more calming effects.
The key? Be Goldilocks. You want your weighted blanket to feel neither too light nor too heavy: you want it just right. Try different weights until you find the right one for you by taking advantage of trial periods when available. Make sure you can move under the blanket and that your airflow is unrestricted. It should feel like a cozy embrace, not a gripping hold.
Filling
No reasonable amount of feathers or cotton will make a blanket weigh 20 pounds. Manufacturers of the best weighted blankets use much heavier filler materials than traditional bedspreads. Common types of filling include:
- Plastic poly pellets: Cost-effective and flexible, plastic poly pellets are a popular choice. They are non-toxic and usually safe to wash. The pellets are not, however, ideal for sensitive skin. In addition, plastic poly pellets are not the most durable nor the quietest option.
- Micro glass beads: As a smoother and natural alternative, micro glass beads get a much better rap. They are eco-friendly, hypoallergenic, and usually machine washable. Glass bead filling costs more, but also ranks heavier—and thus more efficient—than plastic poly pellets.
- Steel shot beads: Like glass beads, steel shots are smoother and heavier than plastic. Larger in size, they also are less likely to slip through the stitches. The beads do not collect dirt, hence keeping the blanket durably clean. The main drawback? They might be the noisiest option on this list.
- No filling: Some weighted blankets use no filling at all. Instead, they derive weight from a massive amount of thickly knitted yarn. It makes for more consistent weight distribution and for a clean and crisp look. Unfortunately, they are among the most expensive weighted blankets on the market.
In the end, it comes down to your budget, your personal preference on texture, and any skin or auditory sensitivities you might have.
Cooling
Most weighted blanket designs favor breathability, but some people are walking radiators. If you experience unpredictable hot flashes or just break into a sweat during the night, you’ll want a blanket with cooling properties.
Fabrics such as cotton, rayon, or linen are better choices for hot sleepers and warm evenings. Knitted blankets (with no filling) also tend to be more breathable due to their chunky-knit design. Synthetic fibers and quilted blankets, on the other hand, cannot circulate air as well. If the one you like proves a little too warm, adding a removable cover in a lighter fabric might solve your problem.
Padding
Some designs include additional padding between the outer layer and filling. This adds plush and comfort and helps to silence noisier fillers like plastic poly pellets or steel shot beads. In general, thicker blankets are better suited to colder climates, and thinner ones are more suitable for warmer environments.
Common materials used for padding include cotton, polyester, fleece, and chenille. Since the padding does not come in direct contact with your skin, you need to consider the padding’s breathability and durability.
Cotton is breathable and cool, but also absorbent—which is bad news if you have pets or if you sweat profusely. Polyester, on the other hand, is water-resistant, and just as breathable. Fleece and chenille are both moisture-proof choices, but probably too warm for hot sleepers. Chenille, like cotton, is a plant-based material.
Size
Some brands offer one size at multiple weight points, and others provide a wider range of options. Decide if the weighted blanket is for your bed, the couch, or both. Think about whether it will stay in one place, or travel with you. Size also matters when deciding whether the weighted blanket is for your use only, or to share with your special someone.
Multiple brands provide sizes in line with mattress dimensions. If you share a blanket with a partner, make sure both of you are comfortable with the same weight. Also note that larger blankets mean a more widely distributed weight. If you are indecisive, check if the company offers a trial period to set your mind at ease.
Removable Cover
You’ve found the perfect blanket, but you have mixed feelings about the fabric. Or maybe you have pets and the blanket is dry-clean only. Either way, a removable cover might solve your dilemma.
Some blankets already come with one, but in most cases, you will buy it separately. Before buying, make sure that the size is right and the fabric is machine washable.
Our Top Picks
With these shopping considerations in mind, it is time to get down to business. This list of recommended weighted blankets considers material, filling, cooling properties, and more to help you select the best weighted blanket for your sleep comfort.
Best Overall
WONAP Cooling Weighted Blanket
The WONAP Cooling Weighted Blanket is an all-natural choice, with bamboo on the outside, and cotton on the inside. The bamboo material is cool to the touch, supports airflow, and compensates for humidity for year-round use. It is also noiseless, with a diamond-shaped compartment design for the filling, preventing glass bead movement.
The WONAP weighted blanket sells without a cover, which lessens its versatility and aesthetics, but the entire blanket is machine washable, which is a great plus. It also offers an extra-wide range of sizes and weights for a customized experience.
Product Specs
- Materials: Bamboo, cotton, glass beads
- Weight: 7 to 30 pounds
- Sizes: 41 by 60 inches, 48 by 72 inches, 60 by 80 inches, and 86 by 92 inches
Pros
- Breathable bamboo fabric
- Machine washable
- Evenly distributed weight
Cons
- Some users experienced glass beads leaking from blanket
Get the Wonap weighted blanket on Amazon.
Best Bang for the Buck
YnM Weighted Blanket, Heavy 100% Certified Cotton
With the YnM Weighted Blanket, “economical” does not equate to low quality. Its composition of cotton and glass beads—all natural and breathable materials—is suitable for those with sensitive skin and hot sleepers alike. Its seven-layered design is built for optimal comfort, but also durability.
With this budget pick, practicality meets a little levity, since it comes in such a wide range of colors and patterns. Shoppers also can purchase a removable cover separately for additional warmth and coziness. With YnM, buyers can customize their affordable purchase according to their taste and needs.
Product Specs
- Materials: Cotton and glass beads
- Weight: 5 to 30 pounds
- Sizes: 36 by 48 inches, 41 by 60 inches, 48 by 72 inches, 60 by 80 inches, and 80 by 87 inches
Pros
- Affordable
- Wide color range
- Small bead compartments for better distribution
Cons
- Does not come with removable cover
Get the YnM weighted blanket on Amazon (48-inch by 72-inch size) or at The Home Depot (60-inch by 80-inch size).
Best for Adults
Quility Weighted Blanket for Adults
The Quility Weighted Blanket for Adults is snug, made of quality materials, and customizable in its size, weight, and color. Removable covers usually need to be purchased separately but not with this Quility blanket, which includes the cover. The cotton of the inner blanket makes it breathable, but the soft minky cover will keep you warm at night. It is also a breeze to wash.
The Quility design is layered for optimal temperature control and to prevent leaks of the premium glass beads that make up the filling. The temperature can be further adjusted by removing the cover on warmer nights. Take note, however, that the cover is machine washable, whereas the inner blanket is not.
Product Specs
- Materials: Cotton, polyester, and glass beads
- Weight: 5 to 30 pounds
- Sizes: 36 by 48 inches, 41 by 60 inches, 48 by 72 inches, 60 by 80 inches, and 86 by 92 inches
Pros
- Soft minky texture
- Removable cover
- Easy to clean
Cons
- Can be difficult to reattach cover
Get the Quality weighted blanket on Amazon.
Best Cooling
Degrees of Comfort Cotton Cooling Weighted Blanket
Covers usually cost extra, but not with the Degrees of Comfort Cotton Cooling Weighted Blanket. The company offers not just one, but two, duvet covers with each purchase. One cover is made of warm fleece material for chilly nights, while the other consists of CoolMax microfiber technology, which is designed to keep you cool and ventilated until morning. With the choice of either cover, this weighted blanket can work for hot sleepers—and cold weather too.
The blanket filling is nano-ceramic beads, an unconventional choice, but one that is more durable than plastic, and cozier than glass. If you have sensitive skin, note that the blanket itself is made of polyester. If you consistently use the duvet covers, this might not be an issue at all.
Product Specs
- Materials: Polyester blend and nano-ceramic beads
- Weight: 5 to 30 pounds
- Sizes: 36 by 48 inches, 41 by 60 inches, 48 by 72 inches, 60 by 80 inches, and 80 by 87 inches
Pros
- Includes 2 covers
- Covers are machine washable
- Unique, durable nano-ceramic filling
Cons
- Beads can pool
Get the Degrees of Comfort weighted blanket on Amazon.
Best Plush
rocabi 25 lbs Adult Weighted Blanket u0026 Cover Set
The rocabi 25-pound weighted blanket is made of breathable cotton and fine glass beads, but its best feature might be the duvet-style minky cover that comes with the blanket. The finish is soft, plush, and luxurious. The design includes corner ties to prevent clumping, and double-stitched pockets to prevent leaks. The cover is machine washable and dryer-friendly.
This weighted blanket offers a decent variety of weights from which to choose, although its range of sizes is slightly more limited than with some competitors. It does, however, display some of the largest sizes on the market, making it a plush choice for owners of king-size beds.
Product Specs
- Materials: Polyester, cotton, and glass beads
- Weight: 5 to 30 pounds
- Sizes: 41 by 60 inches, 60 by 80 inches, and 80 by 86 inches
Pros
- Luxurious texture
- Removable machine-washable cover
- Double-stitched pockets to prevent leaks
Cons
- Pricey
Get the Rocabi weighted blanket and cover set on Amazon.
Best Dual-Sided
OMYSTYLE California King Size Weighted Blanket
It can be tough to settle on a texture, especially for a year-round weighted blanket, but this reversible option from OMYSTYLE offers two very different feels in a single blanket. One side is warm, soft, and velvety, while the other is made of cool Tencel fabric.
With seven layers of cotton, a premium outer layer, and polyester padding, this blanket is not 100 percent natural, but it makes up for that in design. With its smaller pockets, high-density stitch, double-threaded sewing, and polyester padding, the dual-sided blanket eliminates leaks and noise for quiet and hassle-free comfort. The blanket offers several size and weight choices and also comes with a practical packing bag for easy storage and travel.
Product Specs
- Materials: Polyester, Tencel, and glass beads
- Weight: 10 to 45 pounds
- Sizes: 41 by 60 inches, 48 by 72 inches, 60 by 80 inches, 80 by 87 inches, and 88 by 104 inches
Pros
- Dual-sided comfort
- Included carry bag
- Wide size and weight range
Cons
- Larger sizes are hard to wash
Get the Mystyle weighted blanket on Amazon.
Best Organic
Luna Adult Weighted Blanket
The LUNA Adult Weighted Blanket is made of 100 percent Oeko-Tex certified cotton. This means it is not only organic but hypoallergenic and eco-friendly as well. Plus, the fabric ticks breathability and cooling boxes and can be washed in a machine in cold water or by hand.
The glass beads are held within the fibers of the blanket, to distribute weight, and to reduce noise better than some other weighted blanket designs. This weighted blanket also works well for couples, with sizes designed for safe sharing. Just be mindful that sizes are smaller than you might anticipate. A queen size blanket will not overhang on your queen mattress. You also can choose from a wide variety of weights and patterns, including some designed for kids.
Product Specs
- Materials: Cotton and glass beads
- Weight: 10 to 25 pounds
- Sizes: 48 by 72 inches, 60 by 80 inches, and 80 by 87 inches
Pros
- Made from 100 percent Oeko-Tex-certified organic cotton
- Machine washable
- Wide range of patterns
Cons
- Limited size and weight range
Get the Luna weighted blanket on Amazon.
Best for Kids
Sivio Weighted Blanket for Kids
For little ones with sleeping struggles, a weighted blanket can provide much-needed comfort into the night. The best weighted blankets for kids come in safe weights for younger and older children. With a large size and weight range, and a variety of fun patterns, the Sivio Weighted Blanket for Kids is the best choice for most kids.
With weights ranging from 2 to 10 pounds, this blanket is suitable for kids weighing more than 20 pounds. It’s made from 100 percent natural cotton and glass beads, ensuring it is hypoallergenic and nontoxic.
Design options range from a pastel unicorn pattern to an eye-catching superhero pattern—with several other options that kids can’t wait to cuddle with. Best of all, it’s machine washable, so there’s no need to fear spills or messes.
Product Specs
- Materials: Cotton and glass beads
- Weight: 2 to 10 pounds
- Sizes: 19 by 22 inches, 20 by 30 inches, 36 by 48 inches, and 41 by 60 inches
Pros
- Safe weight range for children
- 100 percent cotton
- Several fun pattern options
Cons
- Patterns can fade with too much washing
Get the Sivio weighted blanket on Amazon.
Best for Anxiety
Weighted Idea 15lb Cooling Weighted Blanket
Weighted blankets can do more than encourage better sleep. The pressure and warmth of a weighted blanket can provide a grounding effect for anxiety sufferers. With a comprehensive weight range and cozy feel, the Weighted Idea Cooling Weighted Blanket is an excellent choice for people with anxiety.
Unlike many weighted blankets, which offer a weight range in 5-pound intervals, this blanket comes in several in-between weights, including a 7-, 12-, 17-, and 22-pound option. This allows shoppers to choose their ideal weight to find the perfect amount of pressure for a calming effect.
This blanket is soft to the touch and has evenly distributed glass beads inside. For easy care, it’s machine washable.
Product Specs
- Materials: Fabric and glass beads
- Weight: 7 to 30 pounds
- Sizes: 41 by 60 inches, 48 by 78 inches, 60 by 80 inches, and 80 by 87 inches
Pros
- Excellent weight options
- Even weight distribution
- Warm but breathable
Cons
- Weighted Idea does not specify the blanket material
Get the Weighted Idea weighted blanket on Amazon.
Our Verdict
Made from breathable, all-natural bamboo fabric and with an evenly distributed, nontoxic glass-bead fill, the Wonap weighted blanket is a comfortable choice. Coming in as a close second, the YnM weighted blanket is a more affordable option that comes in several colors and patterns, ideal for those who want a stylish and practical weighted blanket.
How We Chose the Best Weighted Blankets
Since weighted blankets can cost a fair bit more than regular blankets, it’s important to find the best option for one’s needs. When choosing the best weighted blankets, the two main criteria points we considered were performance and durability.
When judging performance, we considered the blanket materials, keeping in mind breathability and how the fabric feels. We also considered the fill material, often opting for blankets with glass beads because that is a comfortable and nontoxic option. We also looked for blankets with stitched pockets to distribute weight evenly, since an even weight is necessary to get the full weighted-blanket benefits. To suit a variety of shoppers, from young kids to adult couples, we included products with a wide weight and size range.
Durability was another important feature we considered. A weighted blanket should hold up to daily use and occasional cleaning without losing its fill (which would render the blanket useless). Through extensive product research and taking shopper reviews into account, we looked for features such as double stitching and thick materials to ensure longevity.
The Advantages of Owning a Weighted Blanket
Why buy a weighted blanket in the first place instead of a fluffy comforter? There are multiple reasons why you would opt for a weighted alternative.
The most obvious reason is comfort. A weighted blanket can help you fall asleep by simulating a soft, reassuring embrace, and helps you stay asleep by reducing restless movement. Beyond mere comfort, some studies also suggest that weighted blankets increase serotonin and dopamine levels, which in turn improve your mood and concentration.
Going one step further, early research shows that weighted blankets might improve the sleep quality, stress levels, and concentration of people who have anxiety, insomnia, or attention deficit disorder. Research on the matter remains in its early stages, however.
Nonetheless, even in studies where results were inconclusive, one constant remains: subjects consistently prefer sleeping with weighted blankets, in spite of what the data might say. The anecdotal evidence is overwhelmingly positive.
- It feels like a soft cuddle at night.
- It restores restful sleep.
- It improves mood and concentration.
FAQs
There is a lot to think about when shopping for the best weighted blanket. If you still have questions trotting through your mind, worry not. Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions by alert shoppers like you.
Q: Which weight should you choose for a weighted blanket?
Manufacturers recommend selecting a weight between 5 percent to 10 percent of your body weight. Studies, on the other hand, show that heavier blankets, reaching around 12 percent, tend to be more effective. Ultimately, it all boils down to personal preference.
Q: Do weighted blankets make you hot?
Most blankets are designed to be somewhat breathable. If you are a hot sleeper, opt for a thinner blanket made of cooling materials like cotton, rayon, or linen.
Q: How do you clean a weighted blanket?
It depends on the composition. Some are machine washable and dryer-friendly, others are more finicky in nature. Always follow washing directions. Note that you might have to clean heavier blankets at a laundromat in a commercial-size machine.