You may have heard the claims about weighted blankets – lowering anxiety, conquering fidgety sleep, comfy hug, and so much more. If all of that sounds good but you are still confused about what it is and how to use and care for one, read along. This article will hopefully answer your most pressing questions to determine if a weighted blanket is for you.

How Heavy Should A Heavy Blanket Be?

It’s in the name, but as you might have guessed, there are weight options to choose from. Generally speaking, a weighted blanket should be about 10% of an individual’s body weight plus one or two extra pounds. This is particularly important when shopping for children as they should be able to move it around without restraint.

How To Wash A Weighted Blanket?

With regular use, your weighted blanket will eventually require cleaning, considering its prolonged contact with sweat and body fluids. This might seem like a daunting task at first, but there are plenty of options to wash a weighted blanket:

• Machine wash is the simplest, but you need to make sure your washer can handle the heavy load.
• You can hand-wash your weighted blanket in the tub if it’s too big or heavy for your washing machine. In either case, you need to ensure it dries properly which, depending on weight, might take a while.
• Alternatively, take it to a Laundromat with industrial-sized machines, or drop it at the dry-cleaners. 

Are Weighted Blankets Hot?

The short answer is “no”, or at least, not hotter than your usual blanket. However, if you’re a hot sleeper or someone who suffers from hot flashes, you need to check the materials. Just like with normal blankets, the exterior fabric determines whether it gets too hot for comfort underneath. Go for breathable materials that wick moisture away, but avoid polyester types. Traditionally warm fabrics, such as flannel, are also best to be avoided.

Is A Weighted Blanket Suitable For Sweaty Sleepers?

The unquestionable benefits of weighted blankets are for everyone even if you consider yourself to be a hot sleeper. You shouldn’t be deterred from buying one solely on this basis, instead, focus on finding a comfortable one. Be sure to adjust the temperature in your bedroom and look for cooling materials taking your sleeping habits into account.

What’s A Cooling Weighted Blanket?

The fact that a hot, sweaty sleep is usually synonymous with restlessness is the reason behind so many cooling technologies. Cooling effects have been applied to weighted blankets to attract sensitive sleepers. In regards to the filling, you can opt for glass beads which are cooler, and more environmentally-friendly than plastic. However, the outer material is, of course, the most important, holding plenty of options. From classic cotton to cooling bamboo and fresh eucalyptus, there surely is a weighted blanket out there for you.

Takeaway

There are many proven advantages to weighted blankets that are worth considering. If a soothing, restful sleep is what you’re looking for, go for one of these snuggles. Always do your research and read customer reviews before making an informed buying decision.