A weighted blanket is a special blanket that adds a sense of weight, which can contribute to a deeper and more restful sleep. This type of blanket is filled with heavy materials such as cotton, glass beads or microfibers, which provides a light pressure on the body while sleeping. This pressure, also called 'deep pressure stimulation', is often experienced as calming and can help reduce stress and anxiety.
Table of contents
- What is a weighted blanket?
- What are the benefits of a weighted blanket?
- How does a weighted blanket work for a better night's sleep?
- What material is used in weighted blankets?
- How do you choose the right weight of a weighted blanket?
- Summary of the benefits of a weighted blanket
What is a weighted blanket?
A weighted blanket is a special blanket that adds a sense of weight, which can contribute to a deeper and more restful sleep. This type of blanket is filled with heavy materials such as glass beads, which provides a gentle pressure on the body while sleeping. This pressure, also called 'deep pressure stimulation', is often experienced as calming and can help reduce stress and anxiety.
What are the benefits of a weighted blanket?
- Stress Relief: The weight of the blanket exerts gentle pressure on the body, which can contribute to a relaxed feeling. This allows the body to relax more quickly and reduces stress.
- Better sleep quality: The weighting effect of the blanket can improve sleep quality by helping people fall asleep faster and sleep more deeply.
- Reducing Anxiety: A weighted blanket can provide a sense of security, similar to wrapping a baby. This can help reduce anxiety and promote a sense of calm.
- Pain Relief: For some people with chronic pain, such as fibromyalgia, a weighted blanket can help relieve physical symptoms and improve overall comfort during sleep.
- Support for Sensory Processing Disorder (SPD): Weighted blankets can be beneficial for people with sensory processing issues, as they can help improve focus and find more rest during sleep.
Why would you sleep better with a weighted blanket?
Scientific research suggests that the light pressure of a weighted blanket causes the production of calming hormones such as serotonin and endorphins. These substances have a relaxing effect, which helps to calm the nervous system and put the brain in a resting state. The body feels safer and can relax better, resulting in a deeper and more restful sleep.
What material is used in weighted blankets?
A weighted blanket often consists of multiple layers for extra comfort and weight. The layers can vary, but Gravity weighted blankets contain:
- Outer layer: Soft and breathable material. Our blankets come standard with a plush four-season cover or durable cotton, for a comfortable feel.
- Filling material: Non-toxic micro glass beads or stainless steel to give desired weight.
- Midlayers: Layers of polyester and cotton for extra comfort and even pressure distribution.
All our blankets come with the following certifications: CE, Oeko-Tex 100, Medical Device
How do you choose the right weight of a weighted blanket?
The recommended weight of a weighted blanket is usually 10% of your own body weight. The following table can help you make a suitable choice:
| Body weight | Blanket Weight |
|---|---|
| 30 - 70 kg | 6kg (135x200cm), 8kg (150x220cm) |
| 71 - 90 kg | 8kg ( 135x200cm), 10kg (150x220cm) |
| 91 - 110 kg | 10 kg (135x200cm), 12kg (150x220cm) |
| 110+ kg | 12 kg ( 135x200 cm), 12 kg (150x220cm) |
When in doubt, it is usually recommended to choose the lighter weight, especially if you are using the blanket for the first time.
Benefits of a weighted blanket
A weighted blanket offers a number of benefits that help to:
- Fall asleep faster and sleep deeper
- Wake up refreshed and energetic
- Improve concentration and focus during the day
- Significantly reduce stress and anxiety
- To improve your overall well-being
- To accelerate muscle recovery
The right weighted blanket can be a valuable addition to many people's sleep routine, helping them achieve deeper, more restful, and relaxed sleep.
