Weighted blanket

A blanket designed to provide comfort and therapeutic benefits

A weighted blanket is a type of blanket that is heavier than a standard blanket, typically filled with materials such as plastic pellets, glass beads, or other weighted substances. These blankets are designed to provide a sensation of being held or hugged, which can have calming effects on the user.

Design and Construction

Weighted blankets are constructed with a variety of materials to achieve their weight. The outer fabric is often made from soft, breathable materials such as cotton or fleece. The inner filling, which provides the weight, can consist of plastic poly pellets, glass beads, or steel shot beads. The weight is evenly distributed across the blanket by sewing it into small, quilted pockets.

A DIY weighted blanket made with fabric and poly pellets

The weight of the blanket is typically chosen based on the user's body weight, with recommendations often suggesting a blanket that is about 10% of the user's body weight. This ensures that the blanket provides enough pressure to be effective without being too heavy.

Therapeutic Benefits

Weighted blankets are often used as a therapeutic tool for individuals with anxiety, autism spectrum disorder, insomnia, and other conditions that can benefit from deep pressure stimulation. The pressure from the blanket is thought to increase the production of serotonin and dopamine, neurotransmitters that promote relaxation and a sense of well-being.

Anxiety and Stress

The use of weighted blankets can help reduce symptoms of anxiety and stress by providing a comforting and secure feeling. This is similar to the sensation of being hugged, which can trigger the release of oxytocin, a hormone associated with relaxation and stress relief.

Sleep Disorders

For individuals with sleep disorders such as insomnia, weighted blankets can improve sleep quality by promoting relaxation and reducing nighttime movement. The deep pressure stimulation can help regulate the sleep-wake cycle by influencing the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep.

A DIY knitted weighted blanket providing a cozy texture

Considerations and Precautions

While weighted blankets can be beneficial, they are not suitable for everyone. Individuals with certain medical conditions, such as respiratory or circulatory issues, should consult with a healthcare professional before using a weighted blanket. Additionally, weighted blankets should not be used for infants or very young children due to the risk of suffocation.

Related Pages

• Occupational therapy
• Sensory processing disorder
• Deep pressure therapy