Aug 09, 2021
How Heavy Should a Weighted Blanket Be?
Whether you’re struggling with anxiety, feeling extra stressed lately (who isn’t right now?) or simply looking to improve your nightly rest, you might be thinking about buying a weighted blanket. Equal parts cozy and functional, weighted blankets have skyrocketed in popularity thanks to their anxiety- and insomnia-reducing effects. They work by applying gentle pressure to the body to mimic the feeling of being hugged, which triggers a cascade of feel-good hormones that calm the mind and body.
Most weighted blankets on the market weigh between five and 35 pounds. But you may be wondering what size weighted blanket you should get and how heavy it should be. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about choosing the right blanket weight so you can find your perfect fit.
Choosing a Blanket Weight: The General Rule of Thumb
In order to enjoy the full benefits of weighted blankets, it’s important to choose the right blanket weight based on your bodyweight. At Gravity Blankets, we recommend the general rule of thumb of selecting a blanket weight that is 10 percent of the intended user’s body weight. This will ensure that the blanket provides enough deep pressure to trigger a sense of calm and encourage a more restful night’s sleep.
If you’ve never used a weighted blanket before, the 10 percent rule is a great place to start. However, keep in mind that we all have different needs and preferences. Some people like their weighted blanket to be slightly heavier, while others prefer a lighter blanket weight to avoid feeling claustrophobic.
What If I’m In-Between Weight Recommendations?
If you’re in-between sizes, we recommend going with the lower of the two weights. People tend to overestimate the heaviness of a weighted blanket, causing them to buy a blanket that feels more suffocating than soothing.
When choosing a weighted blanket, you’ll also need to consider your body type. If you’re on the petite side, for example, you may want to select a weighted blanket that is one or two pounds lighter than the recommended weight. If you’re on the heavier side, consider opting for a heavier weighted blanket.
Is There a Maximum Weight Limit?
It’s relatively difficult to find a high-quality weighted blanket that exceeds 35 pounds, and there’s a reason for that — weighted blankets in the 40- and 50-pound range are plain unnecessary and may do more harm than good.
The highest maximum blanket weight for a single person is 30 pounds, which research has shown to be a safe weight for healthy individuals. If you’re sharing a weighted blanket with another person, the maximum weight is 35 pounds.
How Heavy Should a Weighted Blanket Be for Children?
Like adults, kids also have their fair share of sleep issues. According to the American Family Physician Journal, up to 50 percent of children will experience a sleep problem at some point in their life. Thus, a weighted blanket could be the perfect solution for kids and teens with sleep issues.
When it comes to buying weighted blankets for kids, selecting the right weight is especially important. The general rule of thumb is to choose a weighted blanket that is 10 percent of the child’s bodyweight, plus one or two pounds. So, if your child weighs 40 pounds, you would want a 4- to 6-pound weighted blanket.
How Heavy Should a Weighted Blanket Be for Couples?
Planning to share a weighted blanket with your better half? Great choice! Investing in a single, high-quality weighted blanket can help you save money while enhancing the overall look of your bedroom.
If you’re going to share your weighted blanket, make sure that you choose a size and weight that works for both you and your partner. Our Queen/King-size weighted blanket weighs 35 pounds — the ideal size for most couples — and drapes nicely over the sides of your queen- or king-sized bed.
Find Your Perfect Fit at Gravity Blankets
Without a doubt, weight is one the most important factors to consider when choosing a weighted blanket. You want your blanket to be heavy enough to provide you with that hug-like feeling, yet not so heavy that you feel like you’re trapped or imprisoned in your blanket.
Ready to experience the benefits of weighted blankets for yourself? Order your Gravity Weighted Blanket today and give yourself the gift of a better night’s sleep.
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