Weighted blankets have been used for a long time by people with special needs, helping individuals who have been diagnosed as being on the autism spectrum. It wasn’t until companies started releasing their own variations on these curious bedding accessories, that interest grew. If you are interested in learning more, you’ve come to the right place as we are going to discuss the most important things you should know before buying a weighted blanket.
What Are Weighted Blankets?
There is no point really in starting the subject anywhere else. The picture you have in your head if you have not seen one yet is probably very accurate. A blanket willed with very small objects, like polypropylene beads or discs, pellets or even glass that makes it heavier than usual to provide the user with a comforting and gentle hug. You will find that some are made using softer materials incorporated with the weights, such as cotton, to give it a more conventional blanket-feel.
Generally, weighted blankets weigh between 10 and 30-pounds, but there are lighter options available too. While younger versions exist in lighter forms, infants are not recommended to use weight blankets.
As they are normally sized to individuals, they are not really used as an alternative to the comforter you already have. The main aim is for it to provide a soft and balanced amount of pressure on your body, which works best when it fits you tightly. There are though, weighted blankets you can get that are made to fit specific mattress sizes.
What Are the Benefits?
Weighted blankets can be of benefit to just about anyone, but the people who will get the most out of them are fitful and restless sleepers. This is because the weight of the blanket presses gently on them and keeps them supported and still until they wake in the morning. The pressure provides a soothing reduction of cortisol levels in the body, our main stress hormone and increases serotonin production, the hormone that is associated with well-being and happy feelings.
A study conducted showed that the blanket’s form of deep touch pressure provided users with feelings of comfort, relaxation, and safety. While further studies found weighted blankets reduced stress dramatically.
Another huge benefit of weighted blankets is that they have been shown to help reduce the symptoms people who suffer from restless leg syndrome, chronic pain conditions and insomnia suffer from. It is also thought they could be effective on an even deeper level psychologically with benefits to those suffering from depression. TruHugs, for example, have weighted blankets with the “hyper sensitives” of the world in mind.
How to Choose A Weighted Blanket
There are various factors you need to consider when choosing one of these weighted blankets. You first need to choose one that is around 10% of your total body weight. As they are available in various fabrics, you are best to choose the one you like the best, as is the case with the filling.
