Weighted blanket: what is it and why should you use it?
A weighted blanket is a heavy blanket that weighs about 10% of your body weight. Because the blanket is heavier than your regular quilt, more pressure is put on your body. You feel like you are being hugged permanently.
But why would you want to?
What are the benefits of a weighted blanket?
A weighted blanket can help you sleep better, especially if you suffer from stress, anxiety, restlessness or insomnia. The pressure of the blanket stimulates a sensation of touch (superficial feeling) and of muscles and joints (deep feeling). This stimulates the production of hormones that make you feel relaxed and calm, such as serotonin and melatonin. Your sleep becomes deeper, allowing you to wake up more rested.
A weighted blanket can also have other benefits for your body and mind, such as:
- Reducing pain symptoms, such as those caused by fibromyalgia or arthritis.
- Improving your concentration and mood, by lowering cortisol (the stress hormone).
- Supporting people with autism, ADHD, PTSD or dementia, by creating a sense of safety and security.
How do you choose a weighted blanket?
If you want to buy a weighted blanket, there are a few things to look out for:
- The weight: a weighted blanket should weigh about 10% of your body weight. If you are unsure about the right weight, keep about 10% of your body weight. Too light is not effective; too heavy can be oppressive.
- The size: a weighted blanket should fit your bed and body well. It should not be too large, because then the weight will be lost on the sides. It shouldn't be too small either, because then it won't cover enough of your body. A weighted blanket is usually meant for one person, but there are also double blankets available.
- The material: a weighted blanket should be comfortable and breathable. It should not be too hot or too cold for the season. A variety of materials are available, such as cotton, bamboo, fleece or polyester. Some materials are hypoallergenic or antibacterial. A weighted blanket usually has a filling of glass beads or plastic pellets, which provide the weight. Glass beads retain less body heat than plastic beads.
- Maintenance: a weighted blanket should be easy to wash and dry. Some weighted blankets have a removable cover, which you can wash separately. Other weighted blankets you can wash in their entirety, but pay attention to the maximum weight of your washing machine.
Where can you buy a weighted blanket?
There are several web shops where you can order a weighted blanket. An example is Thuiszorgwebshop.be, where you can find different types and sizes of weighted blankets. You can choose from different weights, from 2.5 kg to 13 kg. The weighted blankets from Thuiszorgwebshop.be have a filling of glass beads and a cover of cotton. They are suitable for both summer and winter.
A weighted blanket costs between 100 and 200 euros, depending on the weight and size. This is an investment in your sleep and your health that can pay off in the long run.
