Weighted Blanket Buying Guide:
How Heavy Should a Weighted Blanket Be?
8/18/2020 | Casper Editorial Team
A weighted blanket is a heavy blanket that is meant to have a calming effect on the body when you go to sleep. Weighted blankets have grown in popularity in recent years as a form of therapy. They can mimic the feeling of a hug — causing a surge of feel-good hormones like oxytocin and serotonin.
Weighted blankets are also called “anxiety blankets” because of the calming effects they can have on those that experience sleep anxiety and other sleep disorders. They can help a variety of different people who experience any of the below symptoms:
Weighted blankets come in a variety of weights from five to 30 pounds. You may be wondering, how heavy should a weighted blanket be?
We recommend choosing a weighted blanket that is 10 percent of your body weight for optimal comfort. For more information on how to choose the perfect weighted blanket for you, read our buying guide below.
Weighted Blanket Weight Guide
Weighted blankets are filled with plastic poly pellets, steel shot beads, and micro glass beads. They typically weigh around 15 pounds. However, it’s recommended to choose one that will work the best for your body weight, size, and age.
How Heavy Should a Weighted Blanket be for Adults?
Determining how heavy your weighted blanket should be is fairly easy. The general weighted blanket guidelines for adults is 10 percent of your own body weight.
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. The perfect sized weighted blanket will allow your body to achieve deep sleep, so you wake up feeling well-rested.
You get the idea. Remember that there are always exceptions to every rule. If you don’t feel comfortable with the weighted blanket you have, look for something a little lighter and vice versa. However, it may not provide the same benefits.
What if you fall between two weight recommendations? Many experts recommend rounding up and adding one to two pounds. One study found that more than 10 percent of your body weight can actually be quite calming. However, it’s always best to use your best judgment and choose your personal preference.
You’ll also want to consider your body type. If you’re super petite, you may want to opt for a weighted blanket that is on the lighter side (one to two pounds lighter than the recommended weight). If you’re a bit heavier, choose a heavier blanket.
How Heavy Should a Weighted Blanket be for a Child?
The general weighted blanket recommendation for children is 10 percent of your body weight, plus one to two pounds. It’s important to choose the right weight for children so that they stay safe and get the most benefits.
Generally, a weighted blanket that is 10 to 25 pounds is too heavy for very young children, and it should go without saying that weighted blankets should be avoided for babies. If you have a child under five years of age, consult a doctor before using a weighted blanket.
How Heavy Should a Weighted Blanket be for Older Adults?
The same guideline you use for kids, should be used for older adults as well: 10 percent of your body weight, plus one to two pounds.
As you get older, your age can cause problems with your sleep. If you’re an older adult with respiratory problems or other health conditions like sleep apnea, a blanket that is 10 to 25 pounds may be too dangerous. Always consult your doctor beforehand to make sure you’re choosing the correct size for you.
Can a Weighted Blanket be Too Heavy?
Yes, a weighted blanket can be too heavy if you don’t get the correct size. Weighted blankets that are 35 pounds and over should generally be avoided. If you feel like you can’t move under your blanket, look for one that is lighter.
What About Height?
Height doesn’t play as large of a role as your body weight does in what weight of blanket you should get. It matters more for determining overall size. Just like when choosing the size of your bed, you’ll want a blanket that will work for your height.
If you’re over six feet tall, a twin-sized blanket will likely be too small for you. If you’re on the shorter side, a king-sized blanket would likely be too heavy for you. A good rule of thumb is to choose a weighted blanket that is the same size as you or slightly larger. You want a weighted blanket that will cover your entire body.
How to Choose a Weighted Blanket: General Guidelines
If you can, it’s important to choose a weighted blanket that is 10 percent of your body weight or one to two pounds heavier. This ensures you’re getting the most out of your blanket and experiencing the deep touch pressure that will leave you calm and relaxed.
It’s important to note that if you’re someone that sleeps hot, a weighted blanket will likely make you sleep even hotter. If you can, look for one that has moisture-wicking properties and find other creative ways to stay cool at night.
Weighted blankets have a plethora of benefits that can keep you calm and relaxed while falling asleep. If you’re someone who experiences anxiety, restless leg syndrome, or insomnia, or you just love to be as snug as a bug in a rug, then you’ll likely love the effects of a weighted blanket.
The Casper weighted blanket is designed to hug your body and create a cozy, calming feel. It has quilted channels that keep weight evenly distributed and includes breathable cotton that will circulate air away from your body, keeping you cool.
