A weighted blanket is a heavy blanket — usually between 10 and 20 pounds — that uses deep touch pressure to produce a calming effect when placed on the body.

Weighted blankets — also known as “anxiety blankets” or “gravity blankets,” boast several health benefits, including helping people fall asleep faster, easing symptoms of restless leg syndrome, decreasing nervous system activity, increasing serotonin, and easing symptoms of anxiety.

Before buying a weighted blanket, there are crucial questions you should ask yourself. Read our guide below to learn how to choose a weighted blanket for you or someone else.

Weighted Blankets for Children

If you’re buying a weighted blanket for a child, take note of their size, weight, and age.

Weighted blankets should not be used for children under two years of age and a doctor should be consulted if you’re buying a blanket for a kid that is under five years of age.

Weighted Blankets for Couples

If you’re picking out a weighted blanket for a couple or yourself and your sleeping partner, it’s important to note any height and weight differences.

If you and your partner are around the same height and weight, picking one out should be pretty easy.

However, if for example, you weigh 130 pounds and your partner weighs 200 pounds, the weighted blanket you choose may be too heavy for you and too light for your partner.

Also, note your height and the size of your bed. The weighted blanket should be able to cover each of your bodies entirely but should not hang over the side of the mattress.

Weighted Blanket for Adults

Buying a weighted blanket for adults is relatively easy. Just make sure to note their weight, height, and the size of their bed. This will help you pick out the correct weighted blanket. Buyers also visit the Veterans Discount Code.

How Heavy Should Your Weighted Blanket Be?

It’s recommended to buy a weighted blanket that is 10 per cent of your body weight or 10 per cent of the person weight who you are buying it.

This ensures that the weighted blanket is the right weight for your body and will provide you with the best benefits.

What Size Weighted Blanket Should You Get?

Once you know the weight of the weighted blanket you’re looking for, it’s time to choose the correct size. You want the weighted blanket to cover the body entirely, but it shouldn’t be so big that it drapes off the side of the bed. 

Generally, you should choose a weighted blanket that is similar to the size of the mattress you or the person you are buying it for to sleep on.

For example, if you sleep on a twin or full-size mattress, you should buy a weighted blanket that has similar dimensions. The same thing goes for a full or queen mattress. 

When it comes to height, you should buy a weighted blanket that is the same size or slightly larger than the person you’re buying it for.

Think of a weighted blanket as a throw blanket — it should be big enough to cover you entirely, but not too big that it hangs over the side of the bed.

Which Filling Should You Get?

The fillers inside of a weighted blanket are largely what contributes to its weight. The blankets are made with several different types of fillers. However, the most popular options are plastic poly pellets, micro glass beads, and steel shot beads.

• Plastic poly pellets: This material is made from 100% polypropylene and is considered to be completely safe, non-toxic, and safe to wash. Plastic poly pellets are considered one of the “cheaper” weighted blanket fillers.  
• Microglass beads: Microglass beads are an eco-friendly alternative to poly pellets. They are hypoallergenic and machine washable. 
• Steel shot beads: These beads are larger and heavier than glass beads and they are extremely durable. Because of their size, it takes fewer beads to achieve the desired weight — making them a cost-effective option.

Choosing which filling you like will come down to personal preference. The Casper weighted blanket is filled with microglass beads and polyester batting.

We recommend looking for quality weighted blankets — like the Casper weighted blanket — that are made with quilted channels that keep the filling in place so the weight is evenly distributed. Customers also view NHSDiscountCode.

Are Weighted Blankets Safe?

If you’ve chosen the correct weight and size, weighted blankets are generally safe. However, there are a few instances where these blankets can pose a risk.

• Weighted blankets should not be used on children who are less than 20 pounds or under the age of two. 
• Weighted blankets are not safe for children with breathing problems, epilepsy, blood circulation problems, or heart problems.
• Weighted blankets should not be used for people with underlying health issues such as sleep apnea, claustrophobia, asthma, chronic health conditions, or other breathing problems.

A good rule of thumb for children: If they aren’t able to remove the weighted blanket on their own, it is probably unsuitable for them.

For older adults or adults with underlying health issues, always contact your doctor beforehand to make sure a weighted blanket is right for you.

How to Pick the Best Weighted Blanket for You

Weighted blankets are like being hugged all night long. They make a great gift for anyone with sleep problems or anxiety. 

The most important thing to keep in mind when shopping for a weighted blanket is weight. If you’re an adult, make sure you choose a blanket that is 10 per cent of your body weight.

If you’re shopping for a child, it’s recommended to find a weighted blanket that is 10 per cent of their body weight, plus one to two pounds. Always contact your blanket manufacturer or doctor if you are unsure if a weighted blanket is right for you.

Once you’ve chosen the correct weight and size, take note of any additional features the blanket possesses.

The Casper weighted blanket is made with quilted channels that evenly distribute weight, breathable cotton that circulates air, and three different weight options so you can find the blanket that is just right for you.