Has the effectiveness of weighted blankets been scientifically proven? New research provides answers.

Many of our customers are already convinced of the effect of our Gravity Blanket weighted blankets. They notice a clear difference when they use the heavy blanket, are more relaxed, can sleep better and relax. On the other hand, some people, hearing about the concept of a weighted blanket for the first time, are skeptical and can hardly believe it. Not infrequently the question arises whether the effectiveness of the weighted blankets has been proven at all or whether the body is simply being fooled.

More and more scientific research into weighted blankets

Until now it was a challenge to scientifically record the effect of weighted blankets. Science has long shown an interest in this topic and the therapeutic professions are also very involved. Not without reason, because not only the patients themselves report good things, specially conducted tests also show that the positive effects of a weighted blanket actually turn out to be true.

Often, high standards and criteria stand in the way of measuring well-being in science, and previous studies tend to yield vague results rather than tangible results.

A new study sheds light on the matter

Now that the study by Ekholm, Spulber and Adler from the Karolinska Institute in Stockholm has been published in 2020, there are promising scientific findings. They investigated the effect of weighted blankets on insomnia in people with psychiatric disorders such as depression, bipolar disorder, generalized anxiety disorder and ADHD. A total of 120 patients received a lightweight duvet or a weighted blanket for four weeks. Several self-assessment questionnaires tried and tested in psychology were used to measure this. The results clearly showed that people who used a weighted blanket slept better, had more energy during the day, and struggled less with common daytime symptoms such as fatigue, depressed mood, and anxiety.

After 12 months, the clinical neuroscientists returned and still found positive effects on sleep in the users of the weighted blanket. The conclusion is that heavy blankets can be used effectively and safely for the treatment of sleep disorders in patients with the above conditions, and as positive side effects that daytime symptoms are reduced and daytime activity is improved. Of course you don't have to have a condition to benefit from all the benefits of a weighted blanket. A Gravity Blanket weighted blanket is therefore for everyone. Anyone who thinks about their health and well-being should use a Gravity Blanket. A must-have for everyone!

Why is it important to scientifically prove the effect of weighted blankets?

The study scientifically confirms what we have already been able to determine for ourselves personally. This does not mean that a weighted blanket will work for everyone. However, its effectiveness has been officially recognised, the knowledge can be shared and used by therapists specifically in the treatment of patients.

So there is still hope that weighted blankets will be included in the catalog of aids of the health insurance companies as a result of the increased scientific evidence. This would allow more people to purchase a weighted blanket, which can contribute to mental and physical health. This can reduce costs for health insurers in the long term. Our blankets are officially recognized as a medical device.

Read the full study here . Our science page also provides an overview of other weighted blanket studies that have been conducted.