Weighted blankets may be the answer to your sleep problems. Besides curing insomnia and increasing focus, the blankets promise benefits like pain relief and mood enhancement. But blanket shopping is tricky; with these sleep aids filling store shelves. It’s not uncommon to ask yourself questions such as, can a weighted blanket be too heavy? Like any purchase, research is paramount before picking a weighted blanket. Whether you’re getting your blanket or shopping for your children, here’s how to choose a weighted blanket.
1. Weight
As their name suggests, weighted blankets are heavier than traditional alternatives. The idea is to offer enough pressure to soothe your nervous system and put you to sleep. But can a weighted blanket be too heavy? While light covers lack enough stimulation, bulky ones make you sweaty and uncomfortable.
Your body weight influences your blanket choice. Get bedspreads that are approximately 10% of your weight. Supposing you’re 200 pounds, the perfect blanket will be 20 pounds. However, couple blankets can be 7.5% of you and your partners’ combined mass. Provided you’re comfortable; the blanket can be slightly heavier or lighter. Again, consider comforter and duvet weights when using your blanket with other bedspreads.
2. Fillers
Weighted blankets need fillers to provide deep touch pressure. The fillers take different forms. For starters, micro-glass beads are luxury fillers resembling white sand. In addition to their hypoallergenic properties, the beads are machine-washable and environmentally friendly. Another option is poly pellets. The fact that they contain 100% polypropylene makes your blanket non-toxic.
Moreover, poly pellets outline the body to offer a therapeutic hug. Not forgetting steel shot beads that guarantee your blanket’s durability with their steel construction. Their smooth surface also prevents dirt build-up, making your bedspreads allergen-free.
3. Cover
Weighted blankets include fillers and an outer shell. Apart from temperature control, outer shells enhance cleaning and allow you to swap duvet colors and fabrics without purchasing a new blanket. Covers come in different materials. For example, organic cotton covers are hypoallergenic because they’re free of pesticides and artificial softeners.
On the other hand, microfiber bedspreads promise comfort because they’re soft and absorbent. Not forgetting satin that enhances temperature regulation for a cool night. Unlike microfiber and cotton, satin doesn’t dry out hair or skin.
4. Size
The ideal weighted blanket should run from your neck to your feet. Otherwise, it will slide off if it swings over the foot of your bed. As such, buy a blanket smaller than the mattress. For example, you can use a twin-size blanket on a queen-size mattress. For couples, the weighted blanket should cover you both without slipping off the bedsides.
Another option is buying separate blankets for maximum comfort. The good news is manufacturers have sizing charts to guide your purchase. Personal preferences also determine blanket sizes. For example, some people only want a blanket that covers their feet.
Your Blankets Need Care
Your blankets’ lifespan depends on how you care for them. While some require machine-washing, you can spot-clean or hand-wash some blankets. However, read the blankets’ care instructions to avoid damaging them. Do you own a weighted blanket? Share your experience with these covers and tips on how to choose a weighted blanket.
