Weighted blankets are experiencing a surge in popularity, most likely because they are a drug-free way to reduce anxiety and improve sleep. These blankets are precisely what they appear to be. They are heavy comforters that derive their weight from micro pellets, beads, metal chains, or grains. This material is then segregated into grids that allow the pressure to be distributed proportionally over your body.
Weighted duvets come in an assortment of weight options, with weights as low as 5 pounds and as heavy as 35 pounds. The heft of these comforters gives you the feeling of receiving a warm hug. As a result, you feel calm, and your anxiety is eased.
How Do Weighted Blankets for Anxiety Work?
Weighted blankets for anxiety work by employing a therapy known as Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS). DPS functions by applying pressure to the body, which results in the release of serotonin and dopamine in the brain. These are chemical substances that produce a feeling of calm within your nervous system. Subsequently, you will experience a reduction in your blood pressure and heart rate and an increase in endorphin levels (also known as happy hormones).
How to Choose a Weighted Blanket to Reduce your Anxiety
When shopping for a weighted blanket to reduce your anxiety, you first need to find the right weight for you. You should start by looking for a weight that’s approximately 10 percent of your body weight. If, for instance, you weigh 170 pounds, you can choose a weight of 18 pounds, or you want something lighter, 15 pounds is also available. You could even select a weight of 20 pounds if you like a lot of pressure. The amount of pressure you need is subjective, so it’s a good idea to start with a weight closest to your body weight and then decide whether you need more or less pressure. As it may take you several tries to find the right heft, it’s essential to be aware of a manufacturer’s return and exchange policies.
The next thing you need to consider is fabric. Weighted duvets come in a variety of materials. Most commonly, you will find comforters made out of cotton, bamboo, wool, silk, flannel, and plush Minky. If you get cold easily, then you will want a warmer fabric like flannel or plush Minky. If you find that you’re hot at night, you should choose a breathable fabric like cotton or bamboo.
Lastly, you should read customer reviews. There’s a lot of options on the market, so take advantage of the popularity of weighted comforters and find out about other people’s experiences. Reviews are the best way to know what to expect, as most weighted duvets are only sold online. Additionally, reviews help you narrow down your choices. We’ve already done some of the work for you by rounding up the four best blankets for anxiety according to customer reviews.
The Gravity Blanket
The Gravity Blanket was named one of TIME Magazine’s best inventions of 2018. It consists of a weighted pure cotton shell and a removable, machine-washable velboa plush duvet cover. The weighted filling consists of non-toxic glass beads sewn inside a cotton shell. This filling is contained within grids to distribute the pressure of the comforter evenly over the body. This comforter also offers internal clasps that attach the blanket to the cover.
It’s available in weights of 15, 20, and 25 pounds. The original comforter measures 72 x 48 inches, and the Queen/King duvet measures 90 x 90 inches. There is also a travel-sized throw that measures 66 x 42 inches and weighs 10 pounds. Additionally, the company offers a 30-night free trial.
Calmfort
The Calmforter uses a CloudSoft Polyfil and Stardust Microbead weighting system that evenly distributes the comforter’s weight across the body. It measures 60 x 80 inches and is available in 12 or 15 pounds. This duvet comes with a removable and machine washable cover that is available in seven color variations. The duvet cover is made of Minky fabric with SensaDot texture that many reviewers find soothing. Additionally, blankets are returnable within 30 days.
This duvet is weight versatile. This means that the comforter can be folded to increase or decrease the pressure on your body. For example, if you want to double the pressure on your body, you can fold the comforter in half. If you’re using a 12-pound duvet, this will approximate the pressure of 24 pounds.
Ynm
The YnM weighted blanket is one of the highest-rated manufacturers of weighted duvets on Amazon. It comes in two options: 100% cotton and bamboo viscose. However, the majority of reviewers prefer the bamboo viscose option because it’s stronger and more breathable. The comforter is constructed of seven layers. Additionally, it employs honeycomb fabrics, which help to wick away moisture from the body. They also offer a 30-night sleep trial.
This comforter contains micro-glass beads that are hypoallergenic, non-toxic, and odorless. This filling is sewn into pockets and surrounded by polyester fill, which keeps the material from shifting. It also allows for the even distribution of weight across the body.
Duvet covers are not included with the purchase of this comforter. They are sold separately and are available in cotton, bamboo, and Minky fabric.
Zonli
The ZonLi blanket is constructed of several individual layers. The top and bottom layers consist of microfiber and solid polyester. These layers surrounded the middle layer, which is a weighted filling containing hypoallergenic glass beads. Enveloping these layers is a cotton shell. All materials used in this duvet are natural and environmentally friendly. As a result of this multi-layered construction, the comforter provides excellent insulation. Reviewers also state that the weighted filling conforms better than average to the body.
This comforter is available in weights of 5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 17, 20, 22, 25, and 30 pounds. However, this duvet doesn’t come with a cover; covers must be purchased separately.