Weighted Blankets – A Heavy New Trend?

Ever heard of weighted blankets? No? You're not alone – this sleep innovation flew right under my radar, too. All the more reason to take a closer look now.

So, what exactly is a weighted blanket?

It’s a specially designed blanket filled with materials like glass beads, plastic pellets, or metal balls to add weight and apply gentle pressure to your body. They're also known as gravity blankets, therapeutic blankets, or simply “those heavy blankets everyone suddenly loves.”

But what’s the point?

The idea is that the even pressure helps create a sense of calm and security – a bit like a full-body hug. It’s said to reduce stress and support better sleep. That’s why weighted blankets have already become popular among people with anxiety, ADHD, or autism.

Sounds nice – but is it for everyone?

Not necessarily. If you’re the type who tosses and turns at night like a human burrito, a heavy blanket might be a bit of a challenge. And let’s face it – not everyone enjoys constant pressure while they sleep.

How heavy should it be?

A general rule of thumb: about 10% of your body weight. Weighted blankets come in various weight classes, usually ranging from around 3 to over 10 kilograms (that’s roughly 7 to 22 pounds). So if you weigh 70 kg (about 154 lbs), a 7 kg (15 lb) blanket is your sweet spot.

Bottom line:A weighted blanket might not be a miracle cure for all sleep problems, but if you're looking for more calm, security, or just a cozy “hug-like” feeling at night, it could be a great upgrade to your bedtime routine – no fancy features, just comforting weight.