Chances are, you'll have had a discussion about the best weighted blankets in the last 12 months.
Yes, because we've barely been able to leave our house and what else is there to do but have such conversations like, what's the best weighted blanket? But also because it seems like all of a sudden everyone is talking about weighted blankets and their benefits.
At the very least you've probably had one served to you as advert, or had a little browse. There's so much choice - weight, price, materials... so here's our guide to the best weighted blankets...
What does a weighted blanket do?
Lovers of weighted blankets say they can help with anxiety, sleep issues and on the whole just feel really relaxing and comfortable.
According to sleep experts at MELA, ‘Deep Pressure Therapy (DTP) is a term for when pressure is applied equally across the body, which is proven to have a calming effect on the nervous system. The technique, applied through a hug, or say, a weighted blanket, has been shown to increase the release of dopamine and serotonin by around 30%, and decrease the stress hormone cortisol by the same amount, promoting the production of melatonin, the hormone that helps sleep.’ The blanket also can help increase the levels of oxytocin, a hormone that helps provide a feeling of relaxation, making you feel at ease.
What are the benefits of a weighted blanket?
‘DTP has been shown to have powerful benefits for those with insomnia, anxiety, depression, autism, tourettes, restless leg syndrome, ADHD and PTSD,’ say MELA.
A Study from Journal of Sleep Medicine & Disorders (2015) found that a weighted blanket helped those with insomnia sleep better, simply because it helped them feel more settled before bed.
How do weighted blankets work? What are they filled with?
Usually, they’re filled with glass beads of plastic pellets to get them to the desired weight.
How heavy should a weighted blanket be?
A weighted blanket should weight between seven and 12 per cent of your body weight. Around 10 per cent is recommended by most places.
How do you use a weighted blanket?
You can use it however you like, whether it’s to destress on the couch after a long day, or in bed as a duvet or over your sheet/duvet. It’s recommended you have the blanket up to your chest neck area, and sleep on your back to get the full, calming affect.
What are the best weighted blankets?
Best weighted blanket - Grazia
Koala Therapeutic Weighted Blanket, set from £116.99
The Koala Blanket is a therapeutic weighted blanket that uses deep touch technology to calm the central nervous system to help stabilise your stress levels, increase relaxation and improve sleep. It includes the duvet and a very cosy and plush bamboo cover.
Baloo Soft 9kg Weighted Blanket, £168
The company says the 'soft white colour was chosen for its properties of calmness, comfort, and hope based on colour psychology'.
Wayfair Melik Teddy Fleece Weighted Blanket, from £29.99
We love the plush colour and also the teddy fleece. And the price, of course...
Mela Chill Eucalyptus Weighted Blanket, from £129.99 for a single
A weighted blanket for hot sleepers, using cooling 100% Eucalyptus thread. Every purchase protects 25 trees in the Amazonian rainforest.
John Lewis & Partners Synthetic Collection Weighted Blanket with Removable Cover, £100.00 - £120.00
The soft and luxurious cover is removable for machine washing and it is so, so, lovely and soft that it's calming in itself.
Aldi Light Grey Weighted Blanket 4.5kg, £29.99
Aldi's cheaper offering is a great place to start if you're wanting to test out the feel of a weighted blanket - available in different colours and weights.
Mela Weighted Blanket, around £129.99
Includes a double sided removable cover. Bottom: 100% cotton to keep you cool. Top: super soft quilted minky to snuggle up under.
Sommio Knitted Weighted Blanket, 169.99
We love the look and colour of these weighted blankets that come in some incredible tones. Probably the most Instagram friendly, for sure.
Simba Orbit Weighted Blanket Single 9KG, £169
This blanket uses the comforting weight of nan-beads to help you drift off to a restful sleep.
Eve Sleep The Weighted Blanket, £199
This weighted blanket iteration is 100% cotton and pretty good looking too wouldn't you agree?
Therapy Premium Weighted Blanket, £144
This weighted blanket has a two-sided cover, with one side made from cooling bamboo fabric.