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For those dealing with anxiety, stress, or just needing a little extra heft to their covers, weighted blankets are a godsend. Warm, comforting, and such a simple idea that it’s hard to believe they’ve only recently become popular, their only issue is that there’s so many out there, it can be tough to know where to start. To help you figure it out, we’ve rounded up the best weighted blankets for every occasion.
Even the best comforters need a little extra help sometimes, so for a really cozy addition, try Threshold’s microplush offering. “This weighted blanket offers full coverage with a comfortable touch,” says Snisar. “You’ll enjoy it greatly as it keeps you warm during the chilly months.” As a bonus, it has a removable cover for easier washing.
An exceptionally comfortable, warm, weighted blanket for those who like to snuggle.
For those looking to get their money’s worth, Zonli’s weighted blanket is a must-have. Harris praises its “affordable price point without sacrificing quality,” and the fact that there are multiple weight and color options. To really tip it over the edge, though, is the fact you can get a heated option, making this the warmest, coziest weighted blanket out there. (If you want warmth without the weight, check out our list of the best heated blankets.)
A versatile weighted blanket with the option to heat things up if required.
If you’ve tried the best cooling comforters and found them lacking, try a cooling weighted blanket instead. “This weighted blanket features soft, breathable microfiber material, coupled with 0.8-1 mm non-toxic hypoallergenic glass beads,” says Snisar. “It offers a cooling sensation in the summer and a breathable warmth in the winter.”
A reasonably-priced and breathable weighted blanket for people who want security, but run hot.
For those who crave softness, give this knit weighted blanket from Brooklyn Bedding (who made our lists for the best latex mattress toppers and best hybrid mattresses), a try. Gorgeously soft and luxuriously heavy, it’s also extremely breathable, thanks to its open, hand-knitted design. Speaking from personal experience, this is an endlessly comforting addition to any bed or couch.
A beautiful, soft, and stylish weighted blanket, and a great alternative to the traditional styles.
The blanket most people probably think of when you mention weighted blankets, and still one of the most coveted, the Gravity blanket is Harris’ recommendation for a luxury option. “It has cashmere-like softness with a microbead filling for ultimate comfort and temperature regulation,” she says. Yes, it’s on the pricey side, but that’s what you expect with a luxury item.
A classic weighted blanket that’s still wildly popular for a reason.
As we’ll cover later in this article, it’s vital to make sure that a weighted blanket for kids is the right size, as anything too heavy can be a legitimate health hazard. This option, recommended by Harris, weighs in at just nine pounds, making it a good option for older kids. Harris also likes the fact that it’s, “cozy and breathable, with secure ties to stay put.” It’s also made with “clean” ingredients—and if that is a priority for you, consult our guides to the best organic mattresses, best organic sheets, and best organic pillows for an eco-conscious bedroom.
A soft, machine washable weighted blanket that, at just nine pounds, is suitable for older kids.
As we’ll get to shortly, one of the major downsides of a weighted blanket is how difficult they can be to clean, especially since many are too heavy–or too delicate–to be tossed in the washing machine. That’s why this one is a good option for those looking for easy maintenance: “It has the option of purchasing a removable, machine washable cover, making cleaning a breeze,” says Harris. Or, take a look at the list of the best duvet covers.
A cozy, reasonably-priced weighted blanket with the option of a machine washable cover to make cleaning easier.
If you’re trying to decide on a weighted blanket, consider the following criteria:
Dr. Shelby Harris, licensed clinical psychologist and board certified sleep specialist, recommends choosing a weighted blanket that weighs roughly 10% of your body weight, and is either full size (for maximum body pressure) or a little smaller (for targeted areas).
“The material of the outer cover and inner filling is crucial,” warns Mariya Snisar, head of interior design at Renowell. “Common options include cotton, minky fabric, microfiber, and cooling fabrics. Opt for a breathable material if you tend to sleep hot, and check the filler material, ensuring even distribution and secure stitching.”
“Weighted blankets are usually filled with materials such as glass beads, plastic pellets, steel beads, or grains like rice and buckwheat,” explains Byron Golub, vice president of product and merchandising at Saatva. “Cleaning a weighted blanket can be challenging since many of them cannot be washed in a washing machine due to their high weight and the nature of the materials. Therefore, it's essential to know how to properly clean them to avoid any damage.”
Our selections were made through a blend of personal experience, listening to the advice of our bedding and sleep experts, and scouring customer reviews for all products to make sure they’re universally popular, especially in terms of comfort, longevity, and value for money.
Even the best mattresses can leave you restless sometimes, which is where weighted blankets come in handy. “Weighted blankets can help you fall asleep faster, sleep deeper, and stop tossing and turning, leaving you feeling refreshed and energized,” says Harris. “The gentle pressure also soothes anxiety, reduces pain, and improves sensory regulation, even helping with conditions like fibromyalgia and autism.”
“Studies have shown that weighted blankets can have a soothing and calming effect, which can help reduce insomnia and increase relaxation,” adds Golub. “This is because the pressure from the blanket creates a sensation similar to being hugged, a scientific phenomenon called ‘deep pressure stimulation.’ As a result, the autonomic nervous system enters a state of rest, which helps to reduce anxiety symptoms such as a quickened heart rate or breathing. This overall sense of calmness leads to more restful sleep.”
“Every weighted blanket is unique,” says Golub. “They are made of different materials and vary in weight, requiring different types of care. To properly clean your weighted blanket, it is essential to read the care label and follow the manufacturer's cleaning instructions.”
“If your weighted blanket weighs 15 pounds or more, it will likely not fit in your home washing machine and could potentially damage it,” warns Golub. “In this case, it’s recommended to go to a laundromat and use a commercial washing machine. That said, there are often instances when you can spot-clean your blanket with a solution of warm water and mild detergent as needed. For weighted blankets that can be put into a washing machine, you should take special care and only use cool water and a gentle cycle, as materials like plastic poly beads inside the blanket could melt or warp if the water is too hot.”
“The frequency of cleaning your weighted blanket depends on how often you use it and whether or not you use a barrier such as a cover,” says Golub. “If you use your blanket daily and it comes into direct contact with your body, washing it once every few weeks is recommended to prevent the buildup of sweat and body oils. However, if you don't use your weighted blanket frequently, or use a sheet as a barrier between your body and the blanket, then once a season should be sufficient. It's important to keep in mind that washing your weighted blanket too often can impact its feel and durability. To extend the life of your blanket, consider investing in a cover that can be easily removed and washed.”
“Cotton is a breathable and natural fabric, making it a popular choice for weighted blankets,” says Snisar. “It allows for good air circulation, preventing you from feeling too hot. Another popular material for weighted blankets is minky. This plush, soft fabric provides a cozy and tactile experience, making it suitable for individuals who enjoy a softer texture.”
“Avoid weighted blankets if you have sleep apnea, are pregnant, or have certain medical conditions, and always prioritize safety over comfort,” says Harris.
“Individuals who experience claustrophobia or have a strong aversion to feeling confined may find the added weight uncomfortable,” adds Snisar. “Individuals with medical conditions such as respiratory or circulatory issues should exercise caution using a weighted blanket as the added pressure could affect breathing or circulation.”
“Weighted blankets and weighted sacks are not recommended for babies,” warns Golub. “The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) in 2022 revised its sleep recommendations and included in the statement that weighted blankets are not considered safe for babies. Weighted sacks can lead to overheating, which is a known risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS). There is a concern that if a baby rolls, they may not be able to roll back, which can lead to suffocation.”
“The 10% of your body weight rule applies to children and adults in terms of finding the best option,” says Golub. “Weighted blankets shouldn’t be used by anyone who can’t move freely beneath the weight. Because weighted blankets come in limited weight options, it’s best to err on the side of being lighter to avoid any risks or mobility issues.”
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