Why weighted blankets are not suitable as double blankets
What is a weighted blanket?
A weighted blanket is a special blanket that is heavier than a standard blanket, thanks to the addition of materials such as glass beads or plastic granules. This extra heaviness provides a calming effect through deep pressure stimulation (Deep Touch Pressure, DTP). This type of pressure gives the feeling of a firm embrace and can calm the nervous system, which helps you fall asleep faster and sleep more deeply.
Weighted blankets are often recommended for people who suffer from sleep problems, anxiety, stress, or neurological disorders such as autism or ADHD. The deep pressure helps the body relax by promoting the production of serotonin, which is then converted into melatonin, the sleep hormone. The result is a calmer feeling and a better night's sleep.
However, to experience the maximum benefit from a weighted blanket, it is essential to choose a blanket that is tailored to the individual user. This means that both the weight and size of the blanket are crucial to its effectiveness.
Size does matter: The importance of the right size
Although weighted blankets come in various sizes, 150x220 centimeters remains the best size for adults. Why is the right size so important? To optimally benefit from the advantages of deep pressure stimulation, the blanket must rest well on your body and fall on both sides of the mattress at the same time. This ensures that the weight of the blanket is evenly distributed and the pressure feels balanced everywhere.
If the blanket is too big or too small, the weight can be distributed unevenly, which is detrimental to the calming effect. For example, a blanket that is too big can easily shift during the night, which means that the pressure points on your body are not stimulated properly. This is exactly why we advise against choosing a double weighted blanket. The size is an important factor for maintaining an even pressure and optimal comfort. In addition, we advise you to choose a blanket that is 10% of your body weight. In many cases, you need a different weight than your partner. Therefore, always choose a blanket that is tailored to your weight.
The problems with a double weighted blanket
The idea of using a double weighted blanket may seem appealing, especially if you and your partner want to sleep under the same blanket. However, a weighted blanket works differently than a standard blanket, and this presents unique challenges. The biggest problem is the blanket shifting when one person moves during sleep.
When a weighted blanket shifts, the weight shifts to one side. This means that one person may experience too little pressure, while another may suddenly feel much more pressure. Not only can this be uncomfortable, but it also disrupts the calming effect of the blanket. The even weight, which is so important for deep pressure stimulation, is then no longer guaranteed.
There is also the issue of weight distribution. Weighted blankets are recommended based on your body weight. For example, a blanket usually needs to be about 10% of your body weight to be effective. If two people are under the same blanket, the weight may be too light for one person and too heavy for the other. As a result, no one gets the optimal effect of deep pressure stimulation, which defeats the main function of the weighted blanket.
The importance of individual weight distribution
Using a weighted blanket is a personal experience that depends greatly on your body type, weight and sleeping needs. Choosing a blanket that is specifically tailored to your body weight will give you the best results. The pressure must be evenly distributed over your body to ensure the most relaxing effect.
However, this is not possible with a double weighted blanket. Imagine that one person weighs 60 kg and the other 80 kg. The blanket would then need a weight of 6 to 8 kg for the lighter person and about 8 to 10 kg for the heavier person. However, choosing an average weight will ensure that it is not optimal for either person. One person may find it too light and not experience the desired pressure, while the other may find it too heavy and oppressive.
A single weighted blanket therefore offers the possibility to choose the right pressure and support for each user. This results in a better sleeping experience for both people, without losing the benefits of deep pressure stimulation by sharing one blanket.
Personal experiences of our customers: Why two blankets work
We spoke to customers who initially opted for a large weighted blanket to use with their partner, but eventually switched to two single blankets. Here’s what they said:
"At first it seemed nice to lie together under one weighted blanket, but we soon noticed that it didn't work. My husband moves a lot in his sleep, and every time he turned over, I could feel the weight shifting. It was like I was waking up again and again from that shifting blanket. Eventually we decided to each get our own weighted blanket. It really made a world of difference! Now the pressure stays the same everywhere, and we both sleep much better."
"My wife and I have different sleep patterns. She sleeps very peacefully, while I sometimes change positions. When we used the weighted blanket together, she often felt 'suffocated' when the blanket shifted to my side. Now we each have our own weighted blanket, and it gives us the space to sleep comfortably without disturbing each other."
These experiences emphasize that choosing a separate blanket per person ensures a better night's sleep and prevents the discomfort associated with a shared blanket.
Advice for buyers: Always choose single
Choosing the right weighted blanket can make a huge difference to your sleep quality. That’s why we always recommend using a weighted blanket per person, tailored to your weight and preferences. This way, you get the right amount of pressure to help you relax and achieve a deep, restorative sleep.
If you have any questions about which weight or size blanket is best for you, we are here to advise you. Whether you are looking for a breathable blanket for the summer or an extra warm one for the winter, we are happy to help you find the perfect weighted blanket that meets your needs.
Conclusion
Although a double weighted blanket may seem like a romantic idea, in practice it does not offer the benefits you expect. By choosing a blanket per person, you ensure an even distribution of pressure, prevent discomfort and improve the quality of sleep for you and your partner.
Don't be fooled by larger sizes. The real secret to a good night's sleep with a weighted blanket lies in the personal approach. Therefore, choose a blanket that suits you, so that you can enjoy the peace and relaxation that a weighted blanket has to offer.
Do you have any questions or need advice? Please feel free to contact us. We are happy to help you make the right choice for your sleeping comfort.
