Weighted Blankets: Top 10 Benefits for Better Well-Being

Why Weighted Blankets Help with Sleep Problems

Weighted blankets are an effective solution for people who have trouble sleeping due to stress, pain, or restlessness. Do you suffer from sleep problems and are you looking for a way to improve your sleep? Weighted blankets can help you with this.

• Relaxation: Weighted blankets apply a constant deep pressure, which helps to relax and fall asleep faster.
• Security and safety: The weight of the blanket provides a feeling of safety and comfort, similar to a firm hug.
• Deep pressure stimulation: This deep pressure helps to calm your nervous system and can lower your stress levels.

Many people notice that with a weighted blanket they not only fall asleep faster but also sleep longer and deeper. This can lead to a better overall quality of life.

What are weighted blankets?

A weighted blanket is a special blanket that is heavier than a regular blanket. This extra weight comes from materials such as plastic or glass microbeads that are evenly distributed across the blanket. This weight provides a calming effect on the body through deep pressure stimulation (DPS).

Who are weighted blankets suitable for?

Weighted blankets can work wonders for different groups of people and medical conditions. Here are some specific cases where a weighted blanket can be useful:

Sleep problems

People with sleep problems such as insomnia or restless nights can benefit greatly from a weighted blanket. The deep pressure stimulation helps you fall asleep faster and sleep longer.

ADHD

Children and adults with ADHD often find it difficult to relax. A weighted blanket can help by providing a calming effect, which improves concentration and makes it easier to find moments of rest.

Autism

For people with autism, a weighted blanket can help reduce overstimulation. The deep pressure provides a sense of security, similar to a warm hug, which helps to process stimuli better.

Anxiety Disorders and Depression

Anxiety disorders and depression are often accompanied by increased stress levels. Weighted blankets can help reduce these feelings by providing a sense of safety and security.

Stress

Daily stress can have a significant impact on your well-being. Weighted blankets help you relax by stimulating the production of happiness hormones like serotonin and lowering the stress hormone cortisol.

Children and Adults

Weighted blankets are not just for adults; even children can benefit from them. Especially children with ADHD, autism, or anxiety disorders can greatly benefit from the calming effect of a weighted blanket.

Diabetes and Asthma

Although there is no direct link between diabetes or asthma and the use of weighted blankets, people with these conditions can still benefit from improved sleep quality and reduced stress.

Breathing problems

In case of breathing problems, you should be cautious with the use of a weighted blanket. It is important to consult your doctor first to determine if a weighted blanket is safe for you.

Pregnancy

During pregnancy, the use of a weighted blanket is not always recommended. The extra weight can cause discomfort, and it is important to seek medical advice first.

How do you choose the right weighted blanket?

Weight and size of the weighted blanket

Choosing the right weighted blanket starts with determining the right weight and size. A commonly used guideline is that the blanket should be about 10% of your body weight. This provides the right amount of deep pressure without feeling too heavy.

For adults:

• Body weight 45-60 kg: 5 kg blanket (120×180 cm)
• Body weight 60-75 kg: 7 kg blanket (150×200 cm)
• Body weight 75-100 kg: 9 kg blanket (150×200 cm)
• Body weight 60-85 kg: 11 kg blanket (200×220 cm)
• Body weight 75-100 kg: 13 kg blanket (200×220 cm)

For children up to 12 years:

• Body weight 19-24 kg: 2.4 kg blanket (90×120 cm)
• Body weight 24-36 kg: 3.6 kg blanket (100×150 cm)

Materials and fillings

Materials

The fabric of the weighted blanket is important for comfort and durability. Many blankets are made of cotton, but cotton is not always sustainable. An alternative is organic cotton, which is less harmful to the environment.

An even more sustainable option is bamboo. Bamboo fabric absorbs 60% more moisture than cotton, has antibacterial properties, and feels cool in the summer and warm in the winter.

Fillings

The filling of the blanket determines the weight. Traditionally, plastic granulate is used, but there are more sustainable options such as hypoallergenic glass beads and micro glass beads. These are non-toxic and do not cause allergic reactions.

Color and style

Choose a color and style that matches your bedroom. At Ella Sleeps, you will find a wide range of colors and styles, so you can tailor the blanket to your personal preference.

How do you use a weighted blanket?

Tips for getting used to a weighted blanket

Getting used to a weighted blanket can take some time. Here are some tips to help you:

• Give it time: It can take up to 10 nights for your body to get used to the deep pressure of the blanket. Some people adjust faster, but give yourself the time.

• Gradually build up: Start by using the blanket for a few hours each night. Slowly increase this until you can sleep under the blanket all night. This helps your body adjust to the extra weight.

• Use before bedtime: Try the blanket first during a moment of rest before going to sleep, such as while reading or watching TV. This helps your body to relax and prepare for sleep.

• Create a routine: Use the weighted blanket every night at the same time. This helps your body and mind develop a consistent sleep pattern.

• Try different materials: If you are too hot or too cold, experiment with different covers. A bamboo cover cools you down during warm nights, while a minky fleece cover keeps you warm during cold nights.

• Combine with your duvet: You can place the weighted blanket on top of your regular duvet. This can be especially useful during colder nights.

• Listen to your body: If you notice that you wake up very tired, remember that this is because you are sleeping deeper and catching up on sleep. This feeling will disappear after a few days.

• First rent a blanket: If you are unsure whether a weighted blanket is right for you, you can first rent one. This gives you the opportunity to experience the effect without making an immediate purchase.

Frequently asked questions about weighted blankets

What is the purpose of a weighted blanket?

Weighted blankets offer several benefits that contribute to better sleep and overall well-being. They work through deep pressure stimulation, which has a calming effect on the nervous system. This helps reduce stress and anxiety, resulting in more relaxation and a sense of security.

Research shows that deep pressure stimulation leads to the production of happiness chemicals such as serotonin and melatonin, while the stress hormone cortisol is reduced. This results in a better sleep and a more refreshed feeling upon waking.

Who should not use a weighted blanket?

Although weighted blankets offer many benefits, there are certain groups that should better avoid using them:

• Children under 6 years: For young children, the weight of the blanket may be too heavy, which can potentially be dangerous.

• Pregnancy: Pregnant women should be cautious and consult their doctor before using a weighted blanket.

• Night Sweats: People who sweat a lot at night may get too warm under a weighted blanket, especially if it is not made of breathable materials.

What is the best weight for a weighted blanket?

The correct weight of a weighted blanket is crucial for maximum comfort and effectiveness. A general rule of thumb is that the blanket should be about 10% of your body weight. Here are some examples:

• 'For someone who weighs 70 kg, a blanket of 7 kg would be ideal.'
• 'For children or people with a lower weight, there are lighter options such as blankets from 2.5 kg to 5 kg.'

"It is important to choose a weight that feels comfortable and is not too heavy, so that you can move and breathe easily."

Conclusion

At Ella Sleeps, we believe that everyone deserves a good night's sleep. Our weighted blankets are designed to help you relax, reduce stress, and promote deeper, calmer sleep.

We are committed to creating sustainable products that improve both your well-being and that of the planet. Our blankets are made from 100% organic cotton and filled with hypoallergenic micro-glass beads, so you can sleep worry-free. Moreover, we offset our CO2 emissions by planting trees through Trees For All.

A better night's sleep leads to a healthier and happier life. We hope that our weighted blankets can contribute to your well-being and give you the rest you deserve.

Thank you for reading our guide. We wish you delightful, restful nights!