Adding a weighted blanket to your bedding just might help you relax and drift off more easily. (Luxome)
If you find yourself regularly falling short when it comes to getting your nightly shut-eye, it may be time to take a look at your bedtime habits. Limiting screen time, trying a white noise machine or hanging blackout curtains could help you optimize your sleep hygiene for a better night's rest, but those aren't your only options. If you find yourself lying awake replaying your day or thinking about your to-do's, a nonpharmaceutical sleep aid like a weighted blanket could be the key to helping you relax.
Weighted blankets were originally used as a therapeutic tool for people with autism and other sensory processing disorders, but around 2017 this comfort item started making its way into bedrooms everywhere. "I think they've become so popular because they offer a natural, simple way to help people feel more grounded and calm," says Elizabeth Grojean, founder and CEO of Baloo Living, a weighted blanket retailer.
Plus, they work. Research indicates that the gentle, distributed pressure of weighted blankets activates the parasympathetic nervous system, triggering the release of calming hormones like serotonin and melatonin, which help regulate sleep cycles. While more research is needed to assess the benefits and applications across a wider range of demographics, they're a reasonably affordable and safe tool that may be worth trying. "The deep pressure stimulation offers the same comforting feeling as being held or even swaddled as a baby," says Grojean.
While Grojean notes that "weighted blankets can be great for anyone who has trouble sleeping or who would like to optimize their sleep," finding the right one takes some research. We tested eight options to help you find the perfect match.
Update, May 30, 2025: We checked all product prices and availability. Our No. 1 pick for best weighted blanket changed, as the previous selection is no longer available.
Sizing options: 4 | Fabrics/materials: Bamboo Lyocell | Filling material: Glass beads | Number of colors: 4 | Weight(s): 8 lbs., 15 lbs., 18 lbs., 25 lbs. | Care instructions: Machine washable
The Luxome delivers a sleek combination of comfort, style and price, earning its place as the best value in weighted blankets. While most weighted blankets prioritize function over comfort, the Luxome excels with a bamboo lyocell finish on one side and a plush minky finish on the other that's uncommonly cozy.
Unlike weighted blankets with slick finishes, the Luxome stays in place all night, delivering ideal pressure. The glass beads and smart construction maintain even weight distribution, even when tossing and turning. Bonus: It's machine washable.
The main hiccup noted during testing was that the 15-pound blanket ran pretty warm. For cold sleepers looking for something cozy, this feature enhances its appeal. However, hot sleepers might want to consider another option.
Sizing options: 1 | Fabrics/materials: 100% organic cotton | Filling material: N/A | Number of colors: 2 | Weight(s): 15 lbs. | Care instructions: Dry clean and spot clean only
Although Italic is known for stylish clothing, jewelry and home goods, its weighted blanket surprised us. The chunky knit design uses 100% organic cotton, creating excellent airflow and earning our top spot for cooling weighted blankets.
During testing I stayed cool throughout the night — all the way down to my feet — a feature I particularly appreciated as someone who tends to sleep hot.
Negatives about the Italic blanket were limited to its scent and color. There was a slight chemical odor straight out of the box, although it dissipated quickly. Also, the color offerings are limited.
Sizing options: 1 | Fabrics/materials: 100% Cotton | Filling material: Polyester, glass microbeads | Number of colors: 3 | Weight(s): 10 lbs., 15 lbs. and 20 lbs. | Care instructions: Spot clean only
For those on a tighter budget, Casper's entry into the category does much of what other weighted blankets do without straining your purse strings.
The 100% cotton twill outer shell feels surprisingly silky on the skin despite its modest 205-thread count, and stays put during sleep. Quilted channel design keeps the microbeads evenly distributed, even when tossing and turning.
We found the 15-pound version easy to handle and position, while still providing effective deep pressure.
The main drawback during testing: Despite Casper's claims that the cotton cover promotes airflow, the blanket runs quite warm.
Sizing options: 2 | Fabrics/materials: Cotton, microfiber | Filling material: Glass beads | Number of colors: 3 | Weight(s): 5 lbs., 7 lbs. | Care instructions: Machine wash, dry flat or tumble dry on low
Aricove stands out in the kids' weighted blanket market with thoughtful design choices that go beyond simply downsizing adult versions. Its kid-friendly animal kingdom prints each reverse to a complementary solid color. Plus, each comes with a matching carry bag, which we loved for the sleepover potential. Another win for this weighted blanket is that it's machine washable, something all parents would appreciate.
Aricove's kid blankets come in 5- and 7-pound weights, ideal for older children. But before you tuck your kiddo in, know that weighted blankets are only safe for children 3 and up and who weigh at least 50 pounds. Never place any kind of a weighted blanket on a baby, as it can place dangerous pressure on chest and lungs, according to the American Academy of Pediatrics.
Sizing options: 2 | Fabrics/materials: CoolTech (50% nylon, 50% polyester shell) | Filling material: Glass beads | Number of colors: 1 | Weight(s): 40 lbs. | Care instructions: Spot clean only
Looking to share a weighted blanket? The Big Blanket Co. doesn't just solve a couple's coverage problem — it revolutionizes it!
True to its name, Big Blanket's TrueSnooze weighted blanket delivers impressive scale. We tested a queen size and found that the blanket extended well beyond the sides of the bed. The silky outer shell and quilted pocket design ensure even bead distribution, highlighting quality construction.
Here's the catch: At 40 pounds, this blanket is a genuine workout. (I needed help maneuvering it.) And thanks to the heft, this blanket did run hot. So, while TrueSnooze is perfect for couples and larger individuals, the substantial weight creates notable heat retention and might prove challenging for some users to manage.
Choosing the right weighted blanket can make all the difference in your comfort and sleep quality. Here's what to consider:
Weighted blankets come in two distinct styles, each offering unique benefits. Traditional designs sandwich glass beads between fabric layers, creating a thin, evenly weighted profile. In contrast, chunky knit blankets, a newer entry to the market, create weight through heavy yarn rather than added beads. Their thick, textured appearance makes a bold style statement, though their function differs from traditional weighted options. Keep in mind that these blankets are typically designed for individual use — even queen-size options can't replace a standard comforter.
While the ideal heft of your weighted blanket depends on what feels right to you, the Sleep Foundation notes that it should be about 10% of your body weight, though preferred weights can vary between 5% and 12%. Importantly, Grojean urges shoppers to pay attention to the weight-to-size ratio, which can profoundly affect how heavy a blanket feels. For example, she notes that a 12-pound throw can feel heavier to lay under than a 25-pound king blanket because those 25 pounds are spread out across a greater area. If you're having trouble deciding on the perfect weight, Grojean recommends "erring on the lighter side, especially for senior citizens, those who may have joint pain in knees, back or hips or for side sleepers." (Remember, weighted blankets of any weight are not safe for a child under 3 years old and/or under 50 pounds.)
When shopping for weighted blankets, look for natural, breathable materials like cotton or bamboo. Hot sleepers might also consider chunky knits since their open weaves can promote airflow, keeping you cool. For those who tend to sleep cold, look for a blanket made with warm materials like fleece or sherpa.
Weighted blankets are, on average, pretty pricey. For those who may question why, Grojean says, "The technology of a weighted blanket is simple, so price ranges are explained by the quality of the materials, construction and customer service." The TL;DR here? Higher prices typically reflect better materials, construction quality and customer support.
If you have obstructive sleep apnea, low blood pressure, a respiratory disorder or type 2 diabetes, experts recommend you speak to your doctor before using a weighted blanket. You also might want to skip, or opt for a lighter blanket, if you have any mobility concerns. "It is important that whoever uses the blanket is able to easily move it off of themselves," says Grojean.
Our comprehensive evaluation began with extensive market research and expert consultation with Elizabeth Grojean, founder and CEO of Baloo Living. As a certified sleep coach, I also used my own expertise when identifying the best options to test, ultimately selecting eight weighted blankets, then dedicating one full night of sleep to each option. The assessment focused on key performance factors: weight distribution, maneuverability, temperature regulation, fabric quality and maintenance requirements. Each blanket was evaluated for practical functionality and overall value.
Layla Weighted Blanket: While Layla's weighted blanket offers even pressure distribution and unexpected cooling properties — despite no cooling claims from the manufacturer — it falls short of standout status. Though comfortable, its basic design and features were underwhelming.
Bare: Despite its promising price point and manageable weight, Bare's weighted blanket fails on a fundamental level: comfort. The scratchy fabric texture made it impossible to recommend, regardless of its practical design and accessible cost.
Sunday Citizen Snug Crystal Weighted Blanket: This weighted blanket received high marks across the board and was actually our original "best overall" selection. Unfortunately, at the time of this update it was out of stock, although it's worth checking the site periodically to see whether it's available.
Choose a weighted blanket that's approximately 10% of your body weight, so a 15-pound blanket if you weigh 150 pounds, for example. While personal preference matters, straying too far from this guideline may result in either insufficient pressure for therapeutic benefits or a blanket that restricts comfortable movement during sleep.
While the research on weighted blankets is still limited, some evidence suggests that deep pressure stimulation may promote the release of serotonin (the happy hormone) and reduce cortisol (the stress hormone). In particular, recent research suggests weighted blankets may help manage anxiety, insomnia, depression and fatigue.
No. The American Academy of Pediatrics reports that weighted blankets are dangerous for infants, urging parents to avoid using weighted blankets, sleepers and swaddles. These products can place too much pressure on your little one's chest and lungs. Experts go on to say that you should hold off trying a weighted blanket on any child under 3 or weighing less than 50 pounds. Weighted blankets may also be an issue for older adults or anyone with limited arm strength, as well as individuals with sleep apnea, low blood pressure, a respiratory disorder or type 2 diabetes.
Care instructions for weighted blankets vary based on materials and construction — some are machine washable, some are spot clean and some are dry clean only. To avoid surprises, manufacturers often outline care instructions on their websites so you can make an informed decision before buying.
Elizabeth Grojean, founder and CEO of Baloo Living
Our health content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as professional medical advice. Consult a medical professional on questions about your health.
