Weighted Blankets; What you need to know

Weighted blankets can provide a better night’s sleep for those who may suffer from insomnia, anxiety, stress or other conditions. So how do they help, and where can you buy one? Read on..

Introduction

If you suffer from anxiety, insomnia, or simply want to feel more relaxed and comfortable, a weighted blanket may be the perfect solution for you. Weighted blankets are gaining popularity for their ability to provide a deep sense of calm and comfort. Often used in therapy, weighted blankets are said to help improve sleep quality and reduce stress and anxiety. In this blog post, we’ll explore the detailed benefits of weighted blankets and see who may benefit from them. Keep reading to learn more!

What does a weighted blanket do for you?

Weighted blankets are said to provide a deep pressure touch stimulation, which can have a calming effect on the body. The theory is that this type of stimulation can help to lower the production of cortisol, aka the stress hormone.

 In addition, weighted blankets are often used as a form of therapy for people with Autism or SPD (Sensory Processing Disorder). The deep pressure touch is said to help these individuals feel more relaxed and ease anxiety through a sense of being hugged or held.

“Pressure therapy doesn’t have to be completely hands-on. With weighted blankets, the pressure comes not from another person but from having the blanket wrapped around the body.”

healthline.com

 The following are some notable benefits of weighted blankets:

Relieve Anxiety

Weighted blankets are often used to relieve anxiety. The pressure from the blanket can help to release feel-good chemicals in the brain, such as serotonin.

Improve Quality of Sleep

If you have trouble sleeping, a weighted blanket may help. The gentle, evenly distributed pressure from the blanket can help your body relax and make it easier to fall asleep. They also reduce tossing and turning around at night, so you can sleep more soundly.

Ease Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless leg syndrome is a condition that causes an overwhelming urge to move your legs. It can cause discomfort and make it difficult to fall asleep. Weighted blankets have been found to ease symptoms of restless leg syndrome by providing gentle, evenly distributed pressure on the legs.

Reduce Stress and Depression

Weighted blankets are also effective at reducing stress and depression. When you use a weighted blanket, your body releases serotonin, which is a feel-good chemical. This helps to improve your mood and reduces stress and anxiety.

How much do weighted blankets weigh?

Weighted blankets are usually between five and thirty pounds. They are often made with a material that has pockets to hold the weight, like beads or sand. The extra weight provides deep pressure input which can help people feel more relaxed.

 If you’re considering buying a weighted blanket, it’s important to choose one that is the right weight for you. A good rule of thumb is to pick a blanket that is around ten percent of your body weight. So, if you weigh 150 pounds, a 15-pound blanket would be a good choice. It’s also important to consider the size of the blanket.

How do weighted blankets work?

Weighted blankets are therapeutic tools that are designed to provide deep pressure touch stimulation, which is a calming and relaxing sensation. The blankets are typically filled with plastic pellets or glass beads, sometimes they have an additional inner blanket, and they come in a variety of weights.

 Weighted blankets have been shown to be effective for people with anxiety, autism, ADHD, insomnia, and more. The deep pressure touch stimulation provided by the weighted blanket can help to reduce anxiety and promote relaxation. The weighted blanket can also help to improve sleep quality by providing a sense of security and comfort.

Anxiety

Undoubtedly, anxiety and stress can wreak havoc on our bodies, minds, and daily lives. Thankfully, weighted blankets can combat these negative effects and help to reduce autonomic arousal and promote a sense of calm.

Autism

Often, children with austim can face sleep disorders and have a hard time falling asleep. Again, the deep pressure touch provided by a weighted blanket helps to relax the body and ease the mind into sleep by a sense of massage, squeezing, and brushing. The rhythmic input from the blanket also helps to soothe and calm.

(ADHD) Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

There are many benefits that have been found from using weighted blankets for people with ADHD. The added weight of the blanket provides a calming effect for those who often feel overstimulated. It has also been shown to help reduce psychiatric disorders, those who are falling off task, fidgeting, and leaving their seat.

 Weighted blankets can even help reduce hyperactive movements and improve attention span and focus.

Sleep Disorders & Insomnia

Weighted blankets have been shown to be an effective treatment for insomnia and other sleep disorders. It increases the production of serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate sleep. Weighted blankets have also been shown to reduce the amount of time it takes to fall asleep, as well as improve the quality of sleep.

What are the side effects of a weighted blanket?

Undoubtedly, weighted blankets are indeed a blessing, providing people with much-needed relief from stress, anxiety, and insomnia. However, like any other product, they also come with a set of side effects that one must be aware of before using them.

 The following are some common side effects of a weighted blanket:

Overheating

One of the most common side effects of a weighted blanket is overheating. This is because the additional weight from the blanket can cause your body to heat up, leading to sweating and discomfort.

Allergies

Another potential side effect of weighted blankets is allergies. Some people may be allergic to the materials used in the construction of the blanket, such as the fabric, stuffing, or even the weighting material itself.

Compression Asphyxia

In rare cases, weighted blankets have also been known to cause sleep apnea or compression asphyxia. This is a condition where the weight of the blanket prevents you from taking deep breaths, leading to oxygen deprivation and eventually unconsciousness. While this is a very rare side effect, it is still important to be aware of it.

Dangerous for Toddlers

Weighted blankets are not recommended for children under the age of two, as they can cause suffocation. If you must use a weighted blanket for a child in this age group, be sure to supervise them closely and never leave them unattended.

 If you experience any of these side effects while using a weighted blanket, it is important to stop using the blanket and consult a doctor.

“Some sleepers should take extra precautions and speak to their doctor before using a weighted blanket. A weighted blanket may be unsuitable for people with certain medical conditions, including chronic respiratory or circulatory issues, asthma, low blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and claustrophobia. Experts also recommend that people with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) avoid using weighted blankets, because the weight of a heavy blanket may restrict airflow.”

sleepfoundation.org

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Can you wash weighted blankets?

Yes, you can wash most weighted blankets but you need to follow certain guidelines depending on the manufacturing material of the blanket. For instance, if the weighted blanket is made with beads, you will need to be careful not to rip the stitching that holds the beads in place.

 Here are some tips on how to wash your weighted blanket:

 ●      Wash on a gentle cycle using cold water and mild detergent.

●      Hang dry or dry on a low heat setting.

●      Do not bleach or iron your weighted blanket.

●      If your weighted blanket has a washable cover, take it off and wash it separately.

 Be sure to follow the care instructions that come with your weighted blanket to ensure longevity. With proper care, your weighted blanket can last for years.

Is it OK to sleep with weighted blankets every night?

Most of the sleep experts say that it is perfectly fine to use a weighted blanket every night. In fact, many people find that their quality of sleep improves when they do so.

 There are a few things to keep in mind, however. First, make sure that the blanket is not too heavy for you. Second, if you have any medical conditions that could be aggravated by the weight of the blanket, be sure to consult your doctor before using one. And finally, make sure the blanket is evenly distributed over your body to avoid any discomfort.

 Overall, weighted blankets can be a great way to improve your sleep quality. Just be sure to use them safely and consult with your doctor if you have any concerns.

Do weighted blankets make you hot?

For hot sleepers, there are a few things to consider when thinking about whether or not a weighted blanket will make you hot.

 The first is the material of the blanket. The best weighted blankets will be made from breathable materials such as cotton, which shouldn’t make you too hot. However, if the blanket is made of a non-breathable material, like polyester, it could trap heat and make you hot.

 The second thing to consider is the weight of the blanket. A heavier blanket will obviously be warmer than a lighter one. So, if you’re worried about getting too hot, you might want to choose a lighter-weight, or cotton weighted blanket.

 Finally, consider how you’ll be using the blanket. If you’re using it in a hot climate or during the summer, you might want to choose a lighter-weight blanket or one made of breathable material. On the other hand, if you’re using the blanket in a cold climate or during the winter, a heavier blanket will probably be more suitable.

How long have weighted blankets been around?

The first weighted blanket was made by Keith Zivalich in the year 1997 and sold in the next year. He was motivated to make such blankets based on the benefits of deep pressure touch therapy. Since then, weighted blankets have become increasingly popular as people learn more about their potential benefits.

 There are now many different types of weighted blankets on the market, made with a variety of materials and filled with everything from microfiber beads to rayon. They come in a range of sizes, weights, and colors, so there’s sure to be one that’s perfect for you.

How much do weighted blankets cost?

Weighted blankets can cost anywhere from $50 to $250, depending on the brand, features, and retailer. When considering a weighted blanket, it’s important to consider the quality of manufacturing materials and the size of the blanket. A good quality weighted blanket will usually cost more, but it will last longer and provide more comfort. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide how much you’re willing to spend on a weighted blanket.

Where can I buy a weighted blanket?

Weighted blankets are available for purchase at many retailers, both online and in physical stores. Some popular retailers that sell weighted blankets include Amazon, Target, Walmart, and Bed Bath & Beyond. There are also many smaller, independent retailers that sell weighted blankets.

Conclusion

Weighted blankets can be a great way to improve your sleep quality. Just be sure to use them safely and consult with your doctor if you have any concerns. If you’re considering purchasing a weighted blanket, be sure to consider the size, weight, and material of the blanket to ensure that you are choosing the best weighted blanket for you, just as you would choose the right mattress for you. Weighted blankets are available for purchase at many online and in-store retailers.

 Do you use a weighted blanket? What are your thoughts on them? Let us know in the comments below!