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The best weighted blankets for better sleep this winter, expert tested

Calm stress, soothe anxiety and drift off faster with these cosy throws

This article was updated in January to reflect the latest prices and deals.

Life can be stressful and overwhelming at the best of times, but given everything going on in the world right now, from the cost of living crisis to climate doom, it’s hardly surprising that many of us are feeling more anxious than ever.

Lots of us are having trouble nodding off , too – research shows that nearly three quarters of UK adults (three quarters!) don’t get the recommended seven to nine hours of slumber a night. Given that sleep plays a major role in just about every function of the body, from cognitive processing to hormone production, this is really not ideal.

Enter the best weighted blankets to save the day night. While a range of sleep aids have recently entered the market, these heavy throws have proved particularly popular for their stress-busting qualities. Whether you’re after a better night’s sleep or you simply need some help relaxing, scroll on for the best weighted blankets you can buy in 2023, as tested by our experts in the Women’s Health Lab .

Best weighted blankets 2023

Best weighted blanket

Oodie weighted blanket.

Runner-up weighted blanket

The mela weighted blanket.

Best value for money

Kuddly weighted blanket.

Best for range of weights

John lewis & partners specialist synthetic weighted blanket.

Best premium weighted blanket

Emma hug weighted blanket.

Best for hot sleepers

Kudd.ly cooling weighted blanket.

Best for warmth

Silentnight wellbeing weighted blanket.

Best budget weighted blanket

Amazon basics all-season cotton weighed blanket.

Best for easy cleaning

Simba orbit weighted blanket.

Best for storage

Kally sleep anxiety weighted blanket, what is a weighted blanket.

Originally designed to help comfort hospital patients, weighted blankets tend to have glass or plastic beads stitched into their quilting to offer heavier 'deep touch pressure' that feels like a big, reassuring hug. They're usually made from a soft fabric in a neutral colour, adding to their calming impact.

The scientific evidence around weighted blankets remains vague, but the 'safe' feeling people get when lying under them has been shown to boost the production of serotonin, aka 'the happy hormone'.

The best weighted blankets should improve sleep quality, soothe anxiety and help ease the symptoms of restless leg syndrome.

How heavy should a weighted blanket be?

This comes down to personal preference but as a guide, we recommend looking for a blanket that weighs between 7% and 13% of your body weight. Note that using a blanket that's too heavy can cause stress, especially if you're claustrophobic — the opposite of what it's meant to do!

You may also sleep poorly if your blanket makes you uncomfortably hot — again, that's not the intention here. That said, some anxiety sufferers prefer using a heavier blanket for a stronger 'grounding' effect. Many brands offer a trial period so that you can find the right weight for you.

Who shouldn't use a weighted blanket?

Children under the age of three (due to the risk of suffocation), pregnant women and anybody with a respiratory or chronic medical condition should avoid using weighted blankets. It should never feel like it's trapping or crushing you. If in doubt, check with your GP before buying one.

How do you wash a weighted blanket?

Check the washing instructions on your weighted blanket's label. They tend to be machine washable on a cool, gentle cycle, but some are air dry only. Others come with removable covers for easy cleaning. If yours is too big for your machine, spot clean it with a soft, damp cloth.

How we test

Not sure where to start in your search for the perfect blanket? Don’t sweat it! Our Women's Health Lab experts have sought out the best weighted blankets on the market and put them to the test, so you can buy with confidence.

Our panel of seasoned weighted blanket users tested a range of heavy throws, with each one sent to at least three people who used them for three days and nights. Following this trial period, our testers provided feedback on their experiences, awarding scores for comfort, design and whether or not their weighted blanket aided relaxation.

Only the top-performing products made our final roundup. Peaceful sleep, incoming...

Our winning weighted blanket from Oodie – the brand behind those viral hooded blankets flooding TikTok and Insta – earned glowing reviews from our panel. They couldn’t get enough of the soft fleecy material, saying it kept them oh-so-warm and cosy on chilly winter eves in front of the telly and when snuggled up in bed.

It earned top marks for weight distribution and sound, with no unwelcome clumping or rustling reported overnight, and it moulded to testers’ bodies nicely, mirroring the sensation of a loving hug. Best of all, you can fling the whole thing in the washing machine (using cold to warm water on a gentle cycle) for easy cleaning.

Nearly everyone reported improved sleep quality, with one tester describing the blanket as a 'total game-changer' and many saying they’d recommend it to all their friends and family.

Key specifications

Free hugs? Yes please! Well, not exactly free, but for under £90, this velvety blanket is designed to mimic the comforting sensation of a hug and replace stress with relaxation. It impressed our panel by improving their sleep quality and helping them drift off quicker. One tester, who was a self-proclaimed sceptic, loved how it didn’t make them feel suffocated or claustrophobic, which is a common issue with weighted blankets.

The luxurious and soft design was also commended, and if grey isn’t your colour, you can buy additional covers to suit your space. Aeyla has considered all aspects of experience in this blanket, from ‘beautifully packaging’, to the ultra-silent glass beads.

If quality is what you’re after then the Mela won’t disappoint – but if it does, Aeyla offers a 30-night money back guarantee. Now there’s confidence in a product.

Product specifications

Behind most great workouts is an even greater night’s sleep, and our panel had no problem drifting off with this ultra-cosy weighted blanket. The super-soft fleecy outer felt like a warm hug, helping us unwind on the sofa, while the glass beads were so fine we could barely feel them. In summary: we loved it!

It only comes in one weight – 5kg – which is on the lighter side, but our testers still found it heavy enough to feel the soothing benefits. Add in the fact that it’s machine washable, comes with a handy carry case and is one of the most affordable blankets around, and there’s very little not to like.

John Lewis & Partners Specialist Synthetic Weighted Blanket

Looks can be deceiving, and this proved to be the case with John Lewis’s understated offering. Our panel rated its simple grey design that fits any bedroom scheme, but this throw really excelled when it came to comfort.

Testers said it helped to soothe stress when used on top of their duvet, and the incredibly soft outer material made it a comfy Netflix binging companion on the sofa. It’s available in four different weights, so you're sure to find one that suits, but it's sadly not machine-washable.

When it comes to fitness, sometimes it’s best to keep things simple (case in point: the humble squat is hard to beat if you’re after a tough leg workout). This is also true of weighted blankets — the chic, understated design of this throw earned it plenty of fans among our panel.

It performed well too, providing even weight distribution that helped ground our testers, making them feel more relaxed. There’s only one weight to choose from, but 7kg is a happy medium for most people. Consider investing in the optional bamboo cover, which makes the blanket cosier and easier to clean.

If you want a weighted blanket for its calming qualities but you’re worried about waking up in a pool of sweat, look no further. This cosy Kudd.ly design is made with the brand’s unique HydroCool material and is super lightweight, to keep you cool as you catch some Zs. Sure enough, the sweaty sleepers among our panel said it did a top-notch job of regulating their body temp, with no overheating reported. ‘It didn’t make me feel claustrophobic and it helped me fall asleep straight away,’ said one well-rested tester.

The micro glass sand beads are encased in pockets to keep the weight spread evenly for maximum comfort. As a result, our team didn’t have to rearrange it overnight, leaving them to snooze peacefully. They also enjoyed cosying up under the throw for Netflix sessions on the sofa, however they would have liked it to be double the size to fit two people underneath comfortably. As a bonus, we found it super easy to clean – just bung it in the washing machine on a cold gentle cycle – and leave it to air dry.

Constantly feeling chilly in bed? Us too. Luckily, this weighted blanket provided more warmth than most, keeping our panel snug on freezing winter evenings. The clean, quilted design looks smart when folded up and the soft material earned it the top score for cosiness, helping our testers get comfortable and drift off in no time.

Our testers found the lighter 6.8kg option super easy to pull into place without feeling claustrophobic. If you tend to run hot at night, probably try another throw from our list, but the whole thing's machine-washable if you merely suffer the odd hormonal night sweat.

If you’re looking to save some cash (aren’t we all right now?) but still want a top-qual weighted blanket to snuggle up with, you won’t do better than this understated Amazon option. It gave all our testers a first-class night’s sleep – in fact, they found it so comfy, they 'didn't want to get out of bed'.

The glass beads (barely noticeable, FYI) are sewn into internal pockets for even weight distribution, while the cotton outer will ensure you stay cool, and its generous size means the blanket will easily cover you and bae in bed.

OK, so the material isn’t the softest, but you can purchase a removable cover – try this Amazon Basics option – to boost its cosy credentials. It will help you keep it in good nick, too.

If your washing machine is on the smaller side, it may not fit some of the bigger weighted blankets on this list. Happily, this single Simba throw has a removable cover, so it's much easier to keep it smelling fresh.

With its duvet-like feel, it wasn’t quite as cosy as our fleecy blankets when curling up on the sofa. That said, our panel found it super comfy for sleeping under, with the nanobead filling barely noticeable.

Chilly nights will be a thing of the past with this cosy design — it kept our testers toasty and helped soothe them into a peaceful slumber. They were impressed with its overall quality, too, commenting on the perfect weight distribution, generous size and useful instructions.

The cotton fabric wasn’t the softest to snuggle up under, and it was a smidge too warm for our hot sleepers, but this is a fantastic mid-range option to whip out during the colder months.

Plus, unlike many blankets that are a faff to lug around, it comes with a handy zip-up bag so you can easily store it away or take it with you on the go. Not a fan of grey? It's also available in cream or light blue.

Priyankaa is our senior health and wellness writer, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones. Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist ’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges.

She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour , Bustle, Metro , HuffPost UK , gal-dem and more.  

Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills. 

Yanar has spent 15 years as a health and wellness editor and writer for national titles such as Women’s Health, Men’s Health and Runner’s World. Yanar is a 580-hour yoga therapist, 200-hour yoga teacher and level 3 personal trainer at Yanar Mind & Movement. After years of running races and marathons, she discovered CrossFit and Olympic lifting in her mid-30s and fell in love with training and competing. She now advocates strength training for women to build a stronger body for life and the benefits of nervous system regulation for better physical and mental health. When not training, teaching or writing, she can be found experimenting in the kitchen.

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All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission.

23 best weighted blankets to help you sleep through the night

According to sleep experts, using a weighted blanket can ease your nervous system, release oxytocin and boost serotonin levels (also known as the happy hormone), resulting in a calming effect on even the most anxious sleepers. This deep pressure therapy served up by snuggling under a weighted blanket emulates the stress-busting feeling of being enveloped in a comforting hug–that’s high-quality calming rest for the body and mind alike.

There are a range of weights to try, across options that span breathable and cooling weighted blanket buys. There are even picks for hot sleepers. Fillings also range from glass beads and nano-beads to microfibre options, alongside heavier blankets which are knitted or woven.

Of course, a good night’s sleep begins by finding the best mattresses , pillows and duvets for your specific needs, so a weighted blanket is really the cherry on top. If you are dipping your toe into the world of weighted blankets, whether for anxiety or in pursuit of the greatest night's sleep possible, we’ve put together a handy guide with everything you need to know to find the best weighted blanket for you.

How heavy should a weighted blanket be?

To select the very best best weighted blanket for you, look for a weight around 10% of your total body weight. To optimise the deep touch pressure, the filling chosen should be stored in quilted pockets to ensure even weight distribution.

Best weighted blanket at a glance

We've compiled an in-depth guide to the best weighted blankets below, but for ‘at a glance’ information our top recommendations are:

If you’re looking to enjoy the kind of high-quality sleep weighted blankets can help promote, we’ve put together a guide of our top picks. Spanning across king size , organic cotton, reversible, quilted, breathable and those with removable covers which can be popped in the washing machine, read on for our comprehensive round up of the best weighted blankets.

Read on for our comprehensive round up of the best weighted blankets at varying price points, to offer happy hormone-help and year-round breathable comfort.

What is the best weighted blanked to buy?

Best for: The original weighted blanket There are eight shade options to choose from, with something for everyone from a year-round velvety-looking pick or a lightweight summer cover. The different weights range from 4kg to 12kg, while integral glass micro beads are found in its pockets. This offers even weight distribution for nappers, providing optimum pressure stimulation comfort.

Best for: Reliable products and great customer reviews With over two thousand 5* reviews on their website, Mela truly deliver on their promises. They have one of the most stylish ranges going, with chunky knit options, alongside luxe breathable cotton and even eucalyptus silk. This means you needn't be stuck with only the standard quilted velvety look that most brands seem to offer. Though we think the  The Dreamer Weighted Blanket is the best looking (it could pass for a bedspread with ease), we'd opt for the original Mela Weighted Blanket. It's made using anti-rustle glass quartz pellets, which move silently throughout the night so as not to disturb. Plus, the inner blanket comes with a double-sided cover offering you either a cotton option or a cosy fleece, so you can swap it around depending on whether you want to be snuggling down during the winter, or enjoy breathable cotton in the summer.

Best for: The most luxurious weighted blanket going Created with hot sleepers in mind, this is a cooling weighted blanket with a temperature regulating eucalyptus silk cover which can be cleaned in the washing machine. The filling comprises quartz pellets, and we think this heavy blanket would pair well with a silk duvet cover, other regular blankets to layer textures and your best pillows for a truly luxe bedding set-up.

Best for: Restless sleepers Bed-in-a-box expert Eve’s 100% cotton weighted blanket is an excellent choice for those who toss and turn in the night. Unlike other weighted blankets, Eve’s blanket foregoes the use of glass beads or sand and instead opts for a heavy 100% cotton material, so the weight is evenly distributed regardless if you’re a back sleeper, side sleeper or a total night-time acrobat.

Best for: Temperature regulation We love Sleep Number’s True Temp Weighted Blanket, which is the perfect choice for those who tend to overheat in the night. This cooling weighted blanket has a temperature-regulating cotton cover that keeps your sleeping temperature at exactly 37.5 degrees, so you can say goodbye to night sweats and hello to year round good sleep. Said to provide even weight distribution for nappers, you’ll unwrap a weighted inner blanket and removable quilted cover in either grey or plum.

Best for: Anxiety relief Stress and anxiety are the top barriers to a good night’s sleep and the Simba Orbit weighted blanket, filled with thousands of weighted glass nano-beads, is just the ticket to banish the midnight blues. This blanket comes with a super-soft cotton exterior that is breathable and made with 100% cotton. It comes in different weights, 6kg and 9kg, with a cover that can easily be thrown into the washing machine. The glass nano-beads are held evenly in filled quilted pockets and nestled in between cushioned layers, creating the ideal cocoon for a deep and restful sleep.

Best for: Even weight distribution without glass beads One of the main criticisms about weighted blankets is that the glass micro beads may get displaced or fall into the lowest points of the blanket, resulting in a less than even weight distribution. If you don’t like the idea of loose glass beads dragging your blanket to the bottom of the bed, then have a look at Sommio’s Knitted Weighted Blanket. Made with Sommio’s Weightex Fabric and a 100% European cotton fill, this blanket integrates weight into a flexible fabric and forms around the body so there is absolutely no shifting of its gentle pressure.

Best for: Sustainability credentials There’s enough anxiety to go around to keep you up at night and the sustainability of your weighted blanket shouldn't be another source of concern. Echor’s all-natural, cruelty-free weighted blankets provide deep, gentle pressure that will help you fall into a gentle slumber. It comes in two weight options, 6.8kg and 9.1kg, with a washable duvet cover which keeps your blanket clean for longer. To top it all off, Echor has partnered with Ecologi to plant a tree for every weighted blanket ordered too.

Best for: Eco-conscious sleepers Nuzzie’s durability mission is to create the last weighted blanket you’ll ever own, and if you have ever tried one of the brand’s fabulously cosy blankets you’ll quickly see why. Ideal for snuggling down at night, Nuzzie’s blankets are made with 100% recycled down alternative filling. Not to mention, each Nuzzie blanket recycles 500+ plastic bottles a year, meaning that these comfy buys are as sustainable as they are comfortable. Shop single, double, king and queen sizes to suit your snoozing preference.

Best for: High end luxury Sunday Citizen goes beyond glass beads and gives its weighted blankets an added element of luxury. The luxury brand’s Snug Crystal Weighted blankets are filled with thousands of tiny amethysts, clear quartz and rose quartz crystals, which many people believe have their own natural healing properties. There are different weights too, with blankets available at 10lbs, 15lbs and 20 lbs and a 35 lbs option for two. It also has a removable cover that is made with 100% microfibre materials and a super soft touch feel. Can sleep ever get more indulgent? We think not. We loved the on-trend muted colours available in the different removable cover picks too.

Best for: the most high-tech weighted blanket going Unlike other weighted blankets, Chilisleep’s ChiliBlanket takes deep pressure stimulation functionality to the next level. This seemingly ordinary blanket is connected to an Ooler or Cube Control Unit and delivers hydro-powered temperature regulation through tiny tubes sewn into the fabric. By circulating water through the tube channels, the ChiliBlanket neutralises ambient temperature and keep your body heat to a comfortable level. With this blanket, you’ll never need to stick a leg out to prevent overheating ever again.

Best for: Snuggling up An aptly named weighted blanket, embrace that warming feeling of a hug with the breathable cotton top layer. Weighing 7kg, the heavy blanket should suit different body weights. A glass bead filling offers even weight distribution to support the deep pressure therapy delivered, and both the blanket and removable cover are machine washable too.

Best for: An affordable offer from a trusted retailer Select the synthetic John Lewis weighted blanket to suit your body weight, considering the 10% ratio rule. There are four weight options available spanning from 4.5kg to 11.5kg. Made from cotton, there are glass microbeads inside to work their deep touch pressure magic. You can spot clean the fabric to keep it fresh too.

Best for: Breathable material Add texture to the duvet, pillows and other regular blankets on your bed with this chunky knit. There are blue, grey and yellow shades to shop, depending on whether you embrace bold interiors or prefer muted tones. The looped design promotes breathability and will look (relatively) stylish draped across your sofa as well.

Best for: Machine washable Browse the Baloo Weighted Blanket range, taking in the throw, king and super king sizes. Available in white and clay, we’re particular fans of Baloo Living’s latter option for adding an on-trend aesthetic to any living space. Filled with glass beads and breathable too, it’s machine washable for added practicality and ease of use.

Best for: Quick delivery and shade range What’s most impressive about YNM’s weighted blanket is the sheer amount of shades available to buy on their Amazon shop. From light blue and apricot to green, lavender and grey, there are reversible offerings also, and each size and weight option is quilted. The blanket itself is machine washable and you can also shop a separate bamboo cover outer to surround the weighted inner, and this works much like a regular duvet cover.

Best for: Weight range If you’re looking for a breathable cotton weighted blanket, this Luna offering is the one for you. Created to help the serotonin release caused by deep pressure therapy, it’s also said to reduce the stress hormone cortisol which could help with some medical conditions too. Shop the best weighted blanket pick matching 10 per cent of your body weight, with four options to choose between.

Best for: Affordable quality Should you be seeking an affordable option, Silentnight’s wellbeing weighted blanket is the best budget buy we’ve found. Currently on offer at Amazon for under £50,  Silentnight’s Wellbeing Weighted Blanket certainly offers plenty of value for money. Formulated to help with your mental health, the pressure stimulation caused by this 9kg weighted blanket is proven to ease muscle tension and relieve anxiety and stress so you can wake up happy, and without spending a fortune too.

Best for: Couples Add a heavier blanket to your queen or king sized bed with this Bearaby Hugger buy. Whether you favour the white or grey shades, select between two weight options. Plus, it’s worth noting this is said to be the best weighted blanket for couples too.

Best for: A breathable cotton layer This 8.5kg weighted blanket has a breathable cotton outer, while its filling is made of glass beads and polyester. It’s worth noting there are a range of weights available, so you can shop for the heavy blanket to suit your body weight and personal preference. Spot clean the blanket to refresh your bedding, while an energetic shake every morning is also suggested to ensure even weight distribution of the glass beads.

Best for : Calming comfort This weighted blanket is from a brand best known for offering luxe at-home spa-style decadence with pampering products and it comes in four weight options, spanning across 4.5kg to 11.5kg. Containing glass beads and polyester, the grey quilted blanket also features an ESPA logo on one corner. Made from 100% cotton, the blanket is breathable too, further compounding that calming feeling its pressure stimulation will create.

Best for:  Weighted blanket in a bag There are three options to help you find the right weight when shopping this Oodie blanket, and each come in two different colour ways. Presented in a canvas bag for storage and transportation, choose between grey or blue, depending on your bedding preference. A spot clean blanket, the high-quality buy contains a glass bead filling which is sewn into separate pockets to ensure even weight distribution.

Best for:  Suiting all sleepers Although you can also buy white and light grey, we particularly like Kally Sleep’s powdery light blue Weighted Anxiety Blanket shade. The breathable quilted cotton blanket contains tiny glass beads and is designed for those with a body weight of 55-80kg. It’s a king-sized blanket with anti-allergy treated fibres which is also suitable for front, back and side sleepers. Whether you’re a napper partial to a sneaky afternoon snooze or love snuggling up at bedtime, this top pick is perfect for anxiety-busting relaxation.

What exactly is a weighted blanket?

Weighted blankets offer many therapeutic benefits and are an excellent way to reduce stress and anxiety. They contain either glass beads, glass pellets or ball bearings which make them heavier than regular blankets and help them to offer calming and stress-reducing properties. Coming in either cotton covers or as an all-in-one blanket, we've looked for products that represent a range of weight and size options.

What are the benefits of a weighted blanket?

Humans naturally find comfort in a warm hug and, through a technique called ‘deep pressure therapy’, a weighted blanket does just that. Many occupational therapists suggest that weighted blankets can be used to help a wide variety of sensory issues like insomnia, anxiety, depression and other medical conditions. Weighted blankets and duvets are also a common tool used to help calm people on the autism spectrum by using deep touch pressure.

The first weighted blanket to really captivate the mainstream was the Gravity Blanket, a brand that has become synonymous with the category. With grid-like quilted stitching and a machine washable and removable cotton cover, it’s easy to see why people fell in love. These premium plush blankets come in a range of weights, colours and sizes, from 15 to 35 lbs, so there is something for everyone.

Is a weighted blanket machine washable?

Many high quality weighted blankets are machine washable as they have a removable cover (much like a duvet cover) which surrounds the inner blanket element. Simply pop the cover in the washing machine when you’re cleaning the rest of your bedding . If the weighted blanket you’re looking to buy doesn’t have a washable cover, the chances are you will be able to spot clean the fabric instead.

12 Best Travel Blankets for Long Flights and Road Trips

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Whether flying across the world , road-tripping down the coast , or embarking on a bucket-list train ride , a cozy travel blanket is a must-have for any and all upcoming trips. What’s more, the best travel blankets are designed to keep you warm and comfy while on the go—and there are dozens of options to choose from. To determine which one is best for you, consider your individual needs. For example, if you’re going camping or spending lots of time outdoors, look for one made with durable stain- and water-resistant materials like polyester. Other options—such as super-soft cashmere, breathable cotton, and ultra-warm fleece—abound.

As you shop for travel blankets, you’ll notice that some come as part of a set with a matching pouch and other accessories, while others are sold by themselves. A handful of our selections are designed with versatility in mind, doubling as a scarf , shawl, or cape. There are also plenty of pattern and color options to suit every style. Bonus: Most of our top picks are also machine-washable for easy cleaning.

Without further ado, keep scrolling to discover 12 of the best travel blankets for every type of traveler.

Our top picks:

• The easiest to pack : Gravel Layover travel blanket
• The most versatile: E Marie travel blanket and eye mask
• The best weighted blanket: Bearaby Travel Napper
• The best set: Barefoot Dreams CozyChic travel set
• The best cashmere blanket: Ralph Lauren Cable Cashmere travel set

While Away is best known for its luggage, you won't want to sleep on the brand's travel blanket (pun intended). Made with machine-washable nylon, this blanket is unique in that it offers thermoregulating technology to keep you comfortable at any temp, hot or cold. This travel must-have is designed to fold into itself when not in use, while the antimicrobial finish helps prevent bacteria from growing. Lastly, the kangaroo and foot pockets provide extra storage space and warmth, respectively. And, at just over one pound, this blanket is incredibly lightweight.

Dimensions : 70" x 45"

Barefoot Dreams’ CozyChic travel set features a wearable blanket that takes the form of a super-soft, lightweight wrap made with 100 percent machine-washable polyester. The must-have travel set comes complete with matching socks , a satin eye mask, and a convenient carrying case to help you stay organized while on the go. The best part? The wrap pulls double duty as a scarf.

Dimensions: 31" x 72"

Ralph Lauren’s (very aptly named) Iconic Cable Cashmere travel gift set makes the perfect present for anyone on your list (yourself included!). The three-piece cable-knit set is comprised of an ultra-cozy throw blanket, eye mask, and a zippered storage pouch that’s roomy enough to hold your favorite travel pillow, too. Choose from six timeless neutral hues, including charcoal, navy, and cream, to name a few.

Dimensions: 55" x 32"

There’s lots to love about the Pink Lemonade Love travel throw blanket, which, thanks to its foldable design, is perfect for long plane rides and road trips. When not in use, stash it inside the corresponding zip pouch, which includes a wristlet strap for convenient carrying; alternatively, store it in your checked luggage , weekender bag , or carry-on . The machine-washable travel blanket features an ultra-soft cotton construction and even comes complete with a matching sleep mask : an added bonus in our book.

Dimensions : 60" x 40"

This two-piece travel set from beloved Black-owned brand E Marie includes one of the most versatile blankets on the list, since it also serves as a scarf, shawl, and/or pillow when rolled up. Slip on the matching eye mask to catch some z’s during your next red-eye. (Both items are machine-washable and made with a polyester, rayon, and spandex blend.) Best of all, the set comes in a total of nine color options, from basics like black, beige, and gray to vibrant blue and yellow.

Dimensions : 81" x 36"

Zestt’s organic cotton travel set is made with—you guessed it—organic cotton, which is known for its warmth, durability, and, most importantly, breathability. The blanket also works as a lightweight throw to drape over your shoulders. Post-flight, stick the blanket and matching eye mask inside the included zippered pouch that's conveniently designed to slip right over your luggage handle.

The EverSnug Premium travel blanket pillow is made with 100 percent velvety-soft microplush fabric, meaning it’s both warm and lightweight. The corresponding carrying case functions as a travel pillow, too. The back of the case has a hand luggage sleeve that easily attaches to your suitcase , while the included carabiner allows you to clip it to your backpack , if you prefer.

Dimensions : 68" x 42 inches"

The Rumpl NanoLoft Puffy travel blanket is a favorite of outdoorsy travelers, thanks to its ultra-durable, machine-washable material that is both stain- and water-resistant, making it the perfect camping or glamping accessory. Although it weighs just over 11 ounces, this insulated blanket—which features a recycled polyester shell—is specially designed to keep you warm as it’s filled with a synthetic (and recycled) down alternative. Like other travel blankets on this list, this one can also be worn as a cape. It includes a water-resistant storage sack and comes in three colorful patterns that will delight kids and adults alike.

Dimensions: 52" x 38"

The Bearaby Travel Napper weighted blanket is a must-have for nervous travelers . Available in six-, eight-, and 10-pound varieties, the machine-washable blanket is designed to provide calm and comfort from anywhere. The corresponding duffel bag makes transport a breeze, too. It’s also worth noting that this blanket is constructed with pre-washed organic cotton for supreme softness. While it may not make sense to schlep it on shorter flights, it could be helpful for long-haul flights and is easy enough to throw in the car for road trips. Select from four shades, including blush pink and pale gray.

Weights and dimensions : 6 lbs: 48" x 36" 8 lbs : 60" x 40" 10 lbs : 64" x 40"

Available in five colors, this packable nylon blanket clocks in at less than one pound and is unique in that it offers an insulated core—made of recycled water bottles, no less—to keep you comfortably toasty. There's also a leg pocket and foot pouch to provide full-body warmth. Meanwhile, the outside zipper pouch is ideal for stashing airport any in-flight essentials like headphones and snacks. It's worth noting that this blanket is wearable, too—snap it around your neck, and you'll be all set. Plus, it can even transform into a pillow when not in use (just reverse the zippered pocket and stuff the blanket into itself).

Dimensions : 66" x 40"

Made with machine-washable, uber-warm fleece, this fade-resistant travel blanket was designed with durability in mind, which means it’ll last for seasons on end. Take your pick of eight colorful prints and playful patterns, including paisley and floral. The budget-friendly blanket comes with a matching storage pouch, too.

Dimensions : 60" x 45"

We're rounding out our list of the best travel blankets with this simple option from Appalachian Gear Company. As you can guess by its name, the All-Paca Blanket is made with 100 percent alpaca yarn, which is highly regarded for its warmth and durability. Suitable for both indoor and outdoor use, the machine-washable blanket comes in five colors and patterns.

Dimensions: 66" x 55"

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Best weighted blankets of 2024: Calming weighted blankets to order in the UK

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Sleep has a huge impact on our overall health and well-being and if you’re not sleeping well, your body will certainly let you know about it.

In the aftermath of a global pandemic, the ongoing conflict in Ukraine and a cost of living crisis, we have plenty of things to worry about at bedtime - meaning more of us than ever are struggling to switch off and get a good night’s sleep.

Weighted blankets have massively grown in popularity in recent years and with good reason. There are claims that they can improve sleep patterns and lead to deeper, more effective sleep.

What is a weighted blanket?

Weighted blankets use small weighted glass beads or ‘nanobeads’ to create pressure that replicates a warm hug, thereby helping calm and relax the body for an improved night’s sleep. They’re also great for snuggling up with on the sofa, which in the current energy crisis can help keep you warm and cosy without needing to fiddle with the thermostat .

What are the benefits of a weighted blanket?

Studies have shown many health benefits to using weighted blankets and whilst they’re not an alternative to medication or therapy, they have been proven to help reduce anxiety and insomnia.

The science behind this is related to ‘Deep touch pressure therapy’ which can help your brain switch into ‘rest and relax’ mode. They can help regulate your heartbeat, reduce cortisol (the stress hormone) and help calm and centre your mind before bed. Weighted blankets have also been shown to increase melatonin, making you feel more sleepy and drift off into a deep slumber more quickly when it’s time for bed.

If you find yourself restless, unable to drift off or wake regularly during the night, a weighted blanket is certainly an option worth exploring.

How to choose the best weighted blanket

Here are some things to consider when choosing the right weighted blanket for you:

• Weight - It is recommended that you pick a weighted blanket that weighs around 10 per cent of your body weight. If in doubt, you should opt for the lighter option, as a weighted blanket that is too heavy could feel restrictive or even claustrophobic.
• Blanket size - It’s worth noting that most weighted blankets come in large single sizes only that are designed so that the user can move around and shift their body during the night, taking the blanket with them. Whilst most are generous enough for two to snuggle underneath on the sofa, if you are sharing a bed, you will need to invest in a weighted blanket each.
• Do you have any medical conditions? - If you have any circulatory, breathing issues or diabetes you should avoid using a weighted blanket.
• Adults only - Whilst some weighted blankets are suitable for children, the recommendations in this guide are based on adult use only.
• Give them time - The first time you use a weighted blanket it can feel a little unfamiliar, particularly if you’re used to the ‘cloud-like’ sensation of a lightweight duvet . Initially, the pressure can feel quite strange, but after twenty minutes or so, it’s almost like the weight lifts and the calming sensation sets in. Most weighted blankets recommend it takes two weeks to fully adjust, but if it still feels too heavy, you may need to opt for a lighter weight.

All things considered, here is the ES Best round-up of the best weighted blankets you can buy for adults today.

Best weighted blankets at a glance

• Best weighted blanket for anxiety : Aeyla The Mela Weighted Blanket - £74.25, Aeyla
• Best stylish weighted blanket : Simba Orbit Weighted Blanket - £169, Simba Sleep
• Best thermo-regulating weighted blanket : Emma Hug Weighted Blanket - £95.20, Emma
• Best machine washable heated blanket : Kudd.ly Weighted Blanket - £49, Kudd.ly
• Best travel-friendly weighted blanket: Blue Oodie Weighted Blanket - £69, Oodie
• Best for hotter climates and even hotter sleepers: Bed Threads 100 per cent French Flax Linen Throw - £150, Bed Threads
• Best lightweight, budget blanket: Brentfords Teddy Fleece Weighted Blanket - £16, Online Home Shop

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Aeyla - The Mela Weighted Blanket

• Best weighted blanket for: anxiety
• Sizes: 190x100cm
• Weight: 4 - 9kg

If you’re after a weighted blanket that feels soft to the touch, they don’t come much softer than the Mela Weighted Blanket from Aeyla - a product which has won the ES Standard’s best weighted blanket title for the last four years running.

Measuring 190 x 100cm and available in a choice of weights from 4 - 9kg, the Mela Weighted Blanket comes in two designs - the All in One (with a permanently attached cover) or a blanket with a removable cover that secures using ties and a zip.

We tested the All in One where one side is made from 100 per cent cooling cotton, and the other an insanely soft quilted fleece. Of all the blankets we tried, this was the one that had the most instant ‘ahhh’ moment - where as soon as we put it over our lap, we wanted to snuggle up and relax. It’s pretty much like an ‘off’ switch after a busy or hard day.

The Mela Weighted Blanket is filled with glass quartz pellets which are ‘anti-rustle’ meaning you can find your perfect sleeping position without the noise of the beads moving around inside.

An ethical choice too, Mela is Oeko-Tex certified (free from harmful chemicals or synthetics) and for each order, the brand protects five trees in the rainforest through its partnership with charity 1Tribe.

Simba Orbit Weighted Blanket

• Best weighted blanket for: style
• Sizes: 135x200cm
• Weight : 6.8kg - 9kg

From the moment you unpack this product from its stylish and sturdy packaging, you can tell that the Orbit Weighted Blanket from Simba is going to be something pretty special.

In a modern dark grey design with a simple branded tag, the Simba Orbit Weighted Blanket promises you a better, deeper night’s sleep, and uses weighted glass nanobeads that shape to your body to help you feel safe and relaxed.

Unlike many other weighted blankets, the Simba Orbit comes with a removable breathable cotton cover, which makes keeping it clean an absolute doddle.

The cotton cover feels super soft to the touch and with a cushioned layer between you and the beads, you don’t notice them moving around inside. Whilst getting the cover on can take a bit of practice, it doesn’t slip around and holds securely in place thanks to ties located across the sides and corners.

When you need to wash it, you can simply unzip the cover and throw it in the washing machine at 30 degrees. It dries quickly too, so it’s ready to use and back on the blanket in no time.

Suitable for adults only, the Orbit measures a generous 135 x 200cm and is available in a choice of two weights - 6.8kg and 9kg. We had a 6.8kg and found this was ideal - creating gentle pressure without feeling too heavy or restrictive.

Is it relaxing? Well, I snuggled up to work on this article, only to spend a good few hours in a semi-comatic state of relaxation - so I take that as a win. It’s certainly not cheap - but a great investment and one of our favourites for sure.

Emma Hug Weighted Blanket

• Best weighted blanket for: thermo-regulating
• Sizes: 150x200cm
• Weight: 7kg

Unlike some weighted blankets which can feel quite hot on warmer nights, The Emma Hug Weighted blanket prides itself on being thermoregulating, coming with seven premium layers including a silk-like bamboo cover to help wick moisture and keep your temperature stable during the night.

Measuring 150 x 200cm. it comes in one weight choice of 7kg, which is suitable for most adults. The filing is extra fine weighted glass beads that due to their small size can spread around more evenly and distribute the weight across the entire body. With a removable blanket cover that can be washed at 40 degrees, it’s easy to look after and maintain.

There’s microfibre and polyester padding inside too for extra softness, so whilst the blanket moulds and rests against your body, you won’t be aware of the beads rustling around inside.

We loved the Emma weighted blanket for snuggling whilst watching a movie, but the neutral light grey colour looks great in modern bedrooms too. For peace of mind when investing, it even comes with a 30-night free trial, allowing you to return the product at no cost if you aren’t entirely happy with your purchase.

Kudd.ly Weighted Blanket

• Best weighted blanket for: being machine washable
• Sizes: 48"x78” or 60"x80”
• Weight : 5-7kg

Home to a popular range of hooded blankets and with a claim of being the number one ranked weighted blanket in the UK, the Kudd.ly options come at a budget-friendly price without sacrificing quality or comfort. It is offered alongside a handy carry case, which is ideal for travel.

One of the lightest choice weighted blankets on our list, it comes with a weight of 5-7kg, making it suitable for use by both adults and children. Its MicroCool fleece lining is super soft and cosy to the touch, but feels less pressured than others on this list to encourage sleep. It’s also available in two sizes (single or king).

The filling in the Kudd.ly weighted blanket is made from anti-rustle, glass micro sand beads placed in double-stitched inside pockets, helping them mould to your body’s shape as you move, without unwelcome noise or movement.

Whilst many weighted blankets are too heavy to go in the washing machine, the entire Kudd.ly weighted blanket is machine washable at 40 degrees - making the maintenance and cleaning of your blanket simple and stress-free.

It’s also worth noting that Kudd.ly offer bulk discounts, so the more you buy the less you pay per blanket - an affordable choice if you’re looking to buy more than one. Gift the whole family the benefit of a restful night’s sleep.

Blue Oodie Weighted Blanket

• Best weighted blanket for: travel
• Sizes: 198 x 121cm
• Weight: 4.5 - 9kg

Like with regular blankets, weighted blankets have the ability to perk up an interior space. Oodie understood the assignment in this regard, producing a range of pastel-hued and printed weighted blankets to delight all.

The Oodie Weighted Blanket acts as an all-encompassing hug that helps with sleep and anxiety. The item is filled with non-toxic glass beads and boasts sewn pockets. With a size of 98 x 121cm, the brand suggests one blanket per person for optimal weight distribution and a great night’s sleep, thanks to its deep pressure stimulation properties.

The best part? Oodie provides a drawstring for your blanket meaning it is easy to store and transport to the car for long, chilly drives or camping trips.

Bed Threads 100 per cent French Flax Linen Throw

• Best weighted blanket for: hotter climates and even hotter sleepers
• Size: double, king, super king

Though not technically marketed as your classic weighted blanket, this 100 per cent French flax linen throw from Bed Threads is a brilliant heavyweight solution for those who crave the wellness benefits and comforts of a weighted blanket, but whose body temperature cannot withstand a full night's sleep under one. Cool in the summer and cosy in the winter, linen adapts to your body temperature to ensure you're neither too hot nor too cold. What's more, it gets softer and more comfortable with every wash while remaining anti-static and anti-bacterial.

The weighted blanket market doesn't have much variation in colour and design, yet in opting for a linen option from Bed Threads you'll be able to choose from a vast array of beautiful, calming and neutral colourways with matching bed linens to boot.

Brentfords Teddy Fleece Weighted Blanket

• Best weighted blanket for: a lightweight, budget option
• Sizes: 125 x 150cm, 125 x 180cm, 150 x 200cm
• Weight: 4kg, 6kg, 8kg

Teddy fleece blankets are a winter staple, and this durable, fleece-covered option is sure to keep you warm during the most bitter months without breaking the bank.

Fabricated using certified non-toxic micro glass beads which are evenly distributed throughout a series of six-inch pockets, the Brentfords blanket can be attached to your duvet using a series of handy loops so that you don't have to struggle with folding and unfolding the weighted warrior.

If you're new to the world of weighted blankets, the lighter weight 4kg is the perfect starter option that will ease you into the benefits of pressure therapy at a value-for-money price.

We’re not going to lie, we struggled to find significant criticisms of any of these weighted blankets on this list - with each one offering a comfortable and calming option to help relax at the end of a busy day. We tested them for both lounging and sleeping and all had a genuinely positive impact on sleep with less tossing and turning and fewer overnight trips to the loo.

For me personally, however, there were two front runners - the Aeyla blanket for its almost instant soothing effect and the Simba Orbit , for the ease of the removable cover and its ability to calm me even when I am awake.

If you’re unsure about the benefits of a weighted blanket, I can confirm I am officially a covert. As someone who suffers from anxiety and regularly has racing thoughts at night, anything that helps me switch off and relax gets a big thumbs up from me!

Best weighted blankets – tried and tested for warmth, cosiness and comfort

We try the best weighted blankets to keep you warm and relaxed this winter

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• 1. Best overall
• 2. Duvet replacement
• 3. Best premium
• 4. Best budget
• 5. Choice of weights
• How to choose
• How we test

1. Best overall 2. Duvet replacement 3. Best premium 4. Best budget 5. Choice of weights How to choose How we test FAQs

Despite having been invented over two decades ago, weighted blankets are something of a new phenomenon. In recent years they’ve been growing in popularity. But because they’re quite a recent trend, it’s hard enough figuring out whether you need one, let alone which is the best weighted blanket to buy.

But don’t worry, we’re here to help. Not only have we tried out some of the leading weighted blankets, but if you scroll down further, we answer some of the most common questions. Like how to figure out the weight you need and what features to consider when buying a weighted blanket.

So whether you’re simply intrigued about how weighted blankets work, or you’re looking for the best blanket to soothe you off into a blissful sleep on your perfect mattress , this guide should give you all the information you need. 

The quick list

Best weighted blanket overall

Affordable, washable, cosy, and comes in a range of size and colour options. Plus, our reviewer found that during testing the Kudd.ly weighted blanket was the one they automatically reached for when lounging on the sofa. 

Read more below

Best duvet replacement

This is about the size of a single duvet and comes with a removable cover included. It felt the most like a duvet, a bit more familiar having this on the bed at night than a fleecy blanket or one of the ones without a cover on. 

Best premium weighted blanket

The blanket has a satin feel cotton outer layer and it feels very good quality, the glass beads don’t tend to bunch up within the pockets like they do with some cheaper blankets. Size-wise it's somewhere between a single and double duvet.

Load the next 2 products ↓

Best budget weighted blanket

It’s a large blanket available in two weights, both very reasonably priced. This Silentnight blanket is also very soft, and it felt warmer and cosier than some of the more expensive options in this guide.

Best choice of weights

This is the only blanket on this list that’s available in three weights, giving you ample opportunity to get the right weight for you. But keep in mind that the dimensions mean it’s slightly smaller than a single duvet.

1. Kudd.ly Weighted Blanket

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

The Kudd.y blanket earned the top spot because it’s affordable, washable, cosy, and comes in a range of size and colour options. During testing the Kudd.ly weighted blanket was the one I automatically reached for when lounging on the sofa. I tried the 4.7kg blanket which is a nice comfortable weight to keep you feeling warm, snuggly, and relaxed while bingeing a Netflix series on a chilly autumn evening.

The fleecy fabric is super soft and cosy, yet I didn’t find it too warm during the night. It’s washable and the 4.7kg blanket came out of the washing machine pretty much exactly the same as it went in. It dried on an airer within 24 hours. But be aware that the 7kg blanket may be too heavy for your machine.

This affordable blanket is ideal if you’re looking for a blanket with a soft and cosy feel. However, if you’re planning to use it on your bed at night, pay attention to the dimensions. The smaller size might not provide enough coverage - it’s a little smaller than the average single duvet.

2. Simba Orbit Weighted Blanket

As the second most expensive weighted blanket on this list, the Simba Orbit feels very good quality. It’s about the size of a single duvet and only comes in one weight. But, unlike the pricier blanket from Emma, this one comes with a removable cover included.

What I didn't expect is that the removable cotton cover makes this blanket feel the most like a duvet. It just felt a bit more familiar having this on the bed at night than a fleecy blanket or one of the ones without a cover on. 

However, the catch is that the cover is somewhat of a pain to put on and take off. This is partly due to the weight of the blanket making it a bit of a workout. But also because to keep the cover properly positioned, you have to tie it to the blanket - in seven places! But it’s worth noting that this is the case for most weighted blanket covers.

Notwithstanding, since the blanket isn’t washable, you really do have to put the washable cover on. And because it’s just like a cotton duvet cover it washes well and doesn’t make you feel too hot or sweaty.

3. Emma Hug Weighted Blanket

The Emma Hug blanket comes with a hefty RRP, but it’s worth checking the website as it’s often discounted. The blanket has a satin feel cotton outer layer and it feels very good quality, the glass beads don’t tend to bunch up within the pockets like they do with some cheaper blankets. 

The dimensions put it somewhere between a single and double duvet which is a good size, but there’s no choice of weights. And while it’s a nice, premium fabric, it doesn’t have the cosy, snuggly feeling that you get from some of the other blankets. 

Despite the care label on the blanket saying hand wash only, the website says it can be machine washed which is confusing. My washing machine has a 9kg capacity, so I gave it a gentle machine wash on a cool cycle and happily, it washed well. It took about 24 hours to dry on an airer.

Since the Emma Hug blanket is washable, there’s no pressing need to buy the cover. That said, washing a 7kg blanket frequently in your washing machine probably won’t do the machine much good. And at this price point, we would have liked it if the cover was included as is the case with its rival, the Simba Orbit. 

4. Silentnight Wellbeing Weighted Blanket

The Silentnight Wellbeing weighted blanket is the budget choice on paper, but in practice it’s comparable to most others on the list, which makes it a great buy. It’s a large blanket available in two weights, both very reasonably priced. 

At this price bracket though, you don’t get a removable cover, nor is it made with a breathable cotton fabric. The exterior of the blanket is 100% polyester which might make it less breathable and a bit too warm for summer. But it’s very soft, and on chilly days it felt warmer and cosier than the Emma Hug or the Simba Orbit.

The care instructions say to spot clean only, which is a downside if you intend to use it on your bed. Silentnight doesn't sell a removable cover for it but the blanket has loops on the corners and sides to tie a cover on if you can find one to fit it. I was impressed with this blanket given the price, the beads do bunch together within the pockets, but that didn’t make it any less comfortable.

5. The Oodie Weighted Blanket

Sadly we weren't able to get our hands on the Oodie in time for this review so we can only compare this one in terms of specs. However, it’s the only blanket on this list that’s available in three weights, giving you ample opportunity to get the right weight for you.

Surprisingly, the RRP of £99 is the same for all three weights and like most blankets on this list it’s frequently discounted, so is actually a close second to the Silentnight in terms of affordability. But if you’re planning to use it at night, keep in mind that the dimensions mean it’s slightly smaller than a single duvet.

It’s not machine washable, so it might be tricky to keep clean if you have to hand wash it. Online reviewers praise it for being soft, cosy and snuggly. They like that the weight helps keep in body warmth, with many people saying it feels like a nice hug. 

How to choose the best weighted blankets

There are four main points to consider when choosing a weighted blanket. The first is choosing the right weight for your body size and you can read more on that below. Secondly, it’s important to choose the right size blanket. They come in a variety of lengths and widths so if you intend to use it at night, make sure you get the right size for your bed or your side of the bed.

A very important consideration is cleaning, especially if you plan to use it as a bed cover. It either needs to be washable or come with a washable cover. And remember, if it’s washable but too heavy for your washing machine, that’ll be a problem.

Lastly, cost will inevitably come into your decision making process. Some weighted blankets have very high RRPs but we regularly see them discounted, so if there’s a pricey one that takes your fancy, it’s always worth a look to see if it’s on sale.

How we tested the best weighted blankets

Helen tested four of these blankets in her own home. She tried sleeping with each one and also sat with them covering her on the sofa to get an understanding of how they felt in real life scenarios, like a cosy evening in watching TV.

For the washable blankets she machine washed them as per the care instructions to see how they fared in the washing machine and how easy they were to get dry afterwards.

She took into consideration the price, quality, and the available options when putting together the final review for each blanket.

How does a weighted blanket work?

Most weighted blankets use tiny glass beads sewn into little quilted sections or pockets, and this is what gives them the weight. The pressure from the blanket supposedly calms the nervous system and aids relaxation. 

Some people find the weight comforting and liken it to being hugged or swaddled. It is also said to help with a variety of issues such as stress and anxiety that may adversely affect sleep.

How heavy should a weighted blanket be?

The most common recommendation is that a weighted blanket should be around 10% of your body weight. However, this varies from person to person and you must feel comfortable under the blanket. It’s important that you feel relaxed but not too constricted. You should be able to move around easily if you need to. 

Some people find it takes some time to get used to the weight, so you might prefer to start with a lighter weight. You can upgrade to a heavier weight after a while if that feels right for you.

Do weighted blankets help you sleep?

The true answer is that it depends - sorry, we know that’s unhelpful. But for someone who is already a good sleeper and falls to sleep quite quickly, a weighted blanket may make very little difference. But others report finding the weight very soothing - like being hugged - which therefore makes it easier to fall asleep.

A weighted blanket can help you to feel safe and reduce restlessness, but it really does depend on the individual. We delve a bit further into the topic and talk to some experts in this article .

We'll do our best to keep this piece updated as we test more weighted blankets to make sure you find the perfect one for you.

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 After completing a Home Economics degree, Helen went on to work for the Good Housekeeping Institute and has been reviewing home appliances ever since. She lives in a small village in Buckinghamshire in the UK.

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10 best weighted blankets to ease stress and anxiety

These tried and tested designs will help you drift off to sleep, article bookmarked.

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Whether it’s the cost-of-living crisis, workplace pressures or other factors, stress can become a part of daily life. We see this playing out in the UK, where nine out of 10 adults are reported to have experienced high or extreme stress in the past year.

Stress can become more manageable by adopting healthy lifestyle factors , such as taking a walk in nature or practising mindfulness but, to help relieve stress in the cosiest way imaginable, there is one soothing tool to which we can turn: the weighted blanket .

“Weighted blankets are a useful tool for helping both children and adults to relax,” says Dr Laura O’Halloran, a chartered clinical psychologist at the Purple House Clinic . “They can reduce stress and anxiety, factors which can lead to problems with sleep. They are especially useful in a number of conditions such as autism, anxiety, depression and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).”

A weighted blanket works by applying deep pressure on the person snuggled beneath it, which can mimic the feeling of a hug, and help calm the body and mind, says Dr O’Halloran. “There is also science behind this, because, when this pressure happens, ‘feel-good’ hormones are released in the brain, such as oxytocin. It is the release of these hormones that then helps you relax and drift off to sleep.” However, she adds that it is important to also consult with a healthcare provider, to explore appropriate care options if you’re dealing with severe anxiety or stress.

So, it seems weighted blankets could help us unwind and get a good night’s sleep. Sign us up.

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How we tested the best weighted blankets

We sourced several weighted blankets in various sizes and styles. Firstly, we made sure we selected those that were about 10 per cent of our testers’ body weights. Besides that practical point, we looked at the price, the materials used and how easy the blankets were to maintain. Then we got down to the serious business of snuggling under them on the sofa and snoozing wrapped up in them in bed, to see how they felt on our skin, how calming the pressure was and if they really helped lull us into restorative slumber. Here are the most soothing finds.

The best weighted blankets for 2024 are:

• Best weighted blanket overall – Simba orbit weighted blanket: £169, Simbasleep.com
• Best budget weighted blanket – Sienna fluffy weighted blanket, 4kg: £32.99, Amazon.co.uk
• Best luxury weighted blanket – Owl + Lark weighted blanket in bamboo and bamboo cover: £221, Owllark.com
• Best knitted weighted blanket – Sommio knitted weighted blanket: £199.99, Sommio.co.uk
• Best weighted blanket for couples – Baloo weighted comforter: £223.20, Balooliving.co.uk

Simba orbit weighted blanket

• Best : Weighted blanket overall
• Sizes available : Single
• Weights available : 6.8kg
• Removable cover included : Yes
• Comfortable
• Excellent quality
• Made with breathable pure cotton
• Machine washable
• Only one size/weight option

Simba may be best known for its rolled-up mattresses, but the brand’s sleep-promoting expertise extends to weighted blankets, too, it seems.

The orbit blanket promises “better, deeper sleep”, and we found it delivered, helping our tester sleep soundly throughout the night.

The weighted blanket’s sleep-inducing powers are down to its design, which sees glass nano-beads equally distributed in quilted pockets, and the 100 per cent cotton cover. The result is a breathable blanket that’s soft and smooth on skin, and it can be machine washed to keep it fresh and clean – something you’ll want to do regularly if you’re replacing your duvet with this Simba option.

Once the ties were used to secure the weighted blanket inside the cover, it stayed in place until we removed it for washing.

Read our full review of the Simba orbit weighted blanket

Sienna fluffy weighted blanket, 4kg

• Best : Budget weighted blanket
• Sizes available : 125cm x 150cm, 125cm x 180cm, 150cm x 200cm
• Weights available : 4kg, 6kg, 8kg
• Removable cover included : No
• Good range of options
• Great quality for the price
• Hand wash only

Those who are the very opposite of our hot-sleeper tester will love the super-fluffy Sienna weighted blanket. Our tester said it felt like being hugged by an enormous teddy bear or a long-haired cat, and the weight was just right (of course, make sure you select the right weight for you when adding this blanket to your cart). One side of this blanket features the plush, almost faux-fur fabric, while the other is a soft fleece.

We found the bargain price astonishing, because it belies the high quality and effectiveness of the blanket in providing a soothing feeling.

Kudd.ly cooling weighted blanket, 4.7kg

• Best : Weighted blanket for hot-sleepers
• Sizes available : 120cm x 200cm
• Weights available : 4.7kg
• Breathable and cooling
• Soft fabric
• Made with no harmful chemicals or synthetics (Oeko-Tex certified)
• Two colour options
• Only one size and weight option

Being hugged in bed can be a hot-sleeper’s worst nightmare, but this weighted blanket provides the benefits of an embrace without the added heat. Kudd.ly’s blanket ensures brilliant airflow and body temperature regulation, thanks to the brand’s HydroCool technology, which our tester – who runs hot in bed year-round – said was a dream. We think it would also be the ideal weighted blanket for people experiencing hot flushes and for use by everyone during the balmy summer months.

We liked that the blanket didn’t feel overwhelming, at just 4.7kg in weight, but we realise that may be too light for some people. Aesthetically, it features a stylish diamond quilted pattern and comes in two colours: light green and grey. However, it doesn’t come with a cover.

Dunelm calm and cosy weighted blanket, 7kg

• Best : Microfibre weighted blanket
• Sizes available : 150cm x 200cm
• Weights available : 7kg
• Attractive colours
• Warming and comforting
• Limited options

People quite often prefer to sleep with only natural materials, such as cotton and linen, but this microfibre weighted blanket certainly rivals those in terms of softness. The ultra-smooth blanket felt great next to our skin, and the 7kg weight delivered the perfect balance of pressure without being suffocating.

We were also particularly pleased with the size, which is generous enough to comfortably drape over yourself. Dunelm’s offering comes in two colours – sage green, which we tested and loved, and silver. The square quilted effect is also appealing.

Oodie weighted blanket

• Best : Fleece weighted blanket
• Sizes available : 198cm x 121cm
• Weights available : 4.5kg, 6.8kg, 9kg
• Ultra-soft fabric
• Cute colour
• Non-toxic materials
• Can be machine washed on a gentle cycle
• No removable cover included

Velvety soft and a charming baby-blue colour, this fleece weighted blanket is brilliant for those looking for a soothing sensory experience. Our tester tried the 4.5kg blanket and found it gave just the right amount of a light hug, evenly distributed around them, as they slept – but remember that heavier options are available to suit people of different body weights.

Of all the blankets we tried, this was one of the best for smoothness. The non-toxic glass beads, which provide the weight, are almost imperceptible in their pockets, thanks to the thick fleece outer. We also appreciated that the blanket can be machine washed on a gentle cycle, to allow us to keep it fresh even when used frequently. The price of the Oodie weighted blanket lies in the mid-range, but the quality of the make and material more than justifies the price tag.

Owl + Lark weighted blanket in bamboo and bamboo cover

• Best : Luxury weighted blanket
• Sizes available : 135cm x 200cm
• Weights available : 7kg, 9kg
• Luxury feel
• Ultra-comfortable
• Made with sustainable materials
• Washable removable cover

If only the finest bedding will do, here is the weighted blanket to add to your linens collection. Owl + Lark’s blanket looks the part, with a sustainable 100 per cent bamboo ‘silk’ cover and metallic poppers instead of a zip. It feels sumptuously soft next to the skin, too. This is boutique-hotel-style bedding with the benefits of a weighted blanket.

The pure bamboo weighted blanket and cover are wonderfully breathable and a joy to sleep under during warmer evenings or coupled with a low-tog duvet on chillier nights. We also found the weighted glass beads were evenly distributed, preventing weighty spots. We think the stylish zip-up bag for storing your blanket is a bonus, and we reckon it would make a smart gym bag, too.

Sommio knitted weighted blanket

• Best : Knitted weighted blanket
• Sizes available : 100cm x 140cm, 110cm x 160cm, 110cm x 175cm, 120cm x 190cm
• Weights available : 6kg, 7kg, 8kg, 9kg
• Removable cover included : No, but this weighted blanket isn’t designed to be covered
• Brilliant range of options
• Organic cotton
• Stylish design

Take a quick glance at this option, and you wouldn’t immediately know it’s a weighted blanket. Instead, it looks like a standard high-quality knitted throw but that’s the magic of it: there are no beads or added components, because the weight comes from the layer upon layer of hand-knitted organic European cotton. That means consistently even weight with zero risk of heavy spots due to beads gathering up.

The cotton is super-soft next to the skin, and breathable for ultimate comfort, which our tester found helped them sleep much better. They particularly liked that this weighted blanket works just as well draped over the bed as it does in the living room on a chair or sofa. The design is gorgeous and comes in a range of colours, including a berry red, green, grey and blue. Our tester was also impressed by the ethical production process that ensures every worker at each stage is paid a fair wage.

Read our full review of the Sommio knitted weighted blanket

Baloo weighted comforter

• Best : Weighted blanket for couples
• Sizes available : King or superking
• Weights available : 6.8kg, 9kg, 11.3kg
• Largest weighted blanket we’ve seen
• Good for temperature regulation
• Removable covers available at an extra cost

Most weighted blankets are designed for use by one person or, even if it’s a particularly big one, they usually won’t cover the whole bed. However, the Baloo weighted comforter is designed to be large enough for sharing, snuggling and sleeping soundly under. You’re even likely to find one that will cover your entire bed, so long as it’s no bigger than a superking.

So that it’s weighted where it matters, the glass beads are focused in the centre of the blanket, rather than on the edges. Our tester wasn’t sure if this would mean the weight wouldn’t cover all of their body, but the area is generous enough for the job.

Something we especially liked about the Baloo weighted comforter is its 100 per cent cotton exterior and interior and that it’s made with only natural and chemical-free materials. The result is a breathable, super-soft blanket that helps you adapt to changing temperatures for a comfortable night’s sleep.

This weighted blanket doesn’t come with a cover, but Baloo sells French linen duvet covers (£99, Balooliving.co.uk ) with internal loops that correspond to those on the comforter, to keep it in place inside. Although the weighted blanket is machine washable, most domestic washing machines are unlikely to have a drum big enough to accommodate the size of the blanket (or the weight, if you opt for the heavier 11.3kg blanket) but most laundrette machines will cope just fine.

Karmara karma switch weighted blanket

• Best : Weighted blanket for options
• Sizes available : Double or king
• Weights available : 6kg, 8kg, 10kg, 12kg
• Machine washable cover
• Vast range of covers

While looks may not be top of your list when choosing the best weighted blanket for you, as it’s likely to be on display a lot of the time, it should suit your interiors and tastes. If grey is your thing, most of the weighted blanket market has you covered but, for those who love a bit of colour or prints, Karmara is the brand for you.

The brand’s karma switch blankets come with removable covers in various colours, including indigo, mustard, salmon and, of course, grey. If that’s not enough choice, the covers are reversible to offer an additional option, and they can be bought separately , giving you much more choice. Karmara’s weighted blankets are also available in a wide range of weights, including 6kg, 8kg, 10kg and 12kg.

We tested the 6kg blanket with the midnight indigo cover, which has blue cotton on one side and textured velvet-style fabric on the reverse. It offered plenty of comfort, and we love that both the cover and the weighted blanket inside are machine washable, to help keep the blanket at its best. This one also comes with a dust bag for storage when not in use.

Minky luxury weighted blanket with removable cover, 5kg

• Best : Weighted blanket for single beds
• Sizes available : 190cm x 90cm
• Weights available : 5kg
• Machine washable cover included
• Quite narrow

Some weighted blankets are just too big for use on single beds, which can see them sliding off in the middle of the night, but that is where this one has you covered. It is designed to fit perfectly on a single bed, and was the narrowest blanket for adults on test. While that definitely has its benefits, but we would recommend this blanket only for people with small builds, because it may struggle to drape fully over larger frames.

The low-pile fleece fabric is velvety smooth and cosy, and the cream colour matches any interior design in the home. We also loved the quilted pattern on the cover, which features an attractive square and cross design. This blanket is unique in that, instead of the cover having to be put on via an opening at the bottom, it goes on using a wide zip-up opening at the side. This feature made the job that bit easier – something we can all appreciate.

Weighted blankets FAQs

What is the purpose of a weighted blanket.

Weighted blankets use gentle pressure to promote a sense of calm and relaxation, helping to reduce feelings of anxiety. “The pressure of the weight stimulation from a weighted blanket can have a soothing, calming effect on the body, which is then relayed to the mind through the power of the mind-body connection,” says Nichola Henderson , a holistic life, self-development coach and wellness specialist.

“It may also help to stimulate the vagus nerve to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, which signals to the body that it is time to unwind and relax. The blankets can be useful for people who struggle to relax or have problems getting to sleep.”

Read more: The best linen bedding sets

Henderson recommends practising deep belly breathing when using a weighted blanket, to help activate our “rest and digest” response. “The mind’s focus is then on the sensation of the blanket and the breath, not any thoughts that had been racing beforehand, meaning it can also be used as a mindfulness tool when used in this way,” she explains.

What is the science behind weighted blankets?

“From the studies that have been done, there is a common theme that weighted blankets may be a useful tool to help with anxiety symptoms,” says Henderson. “There have been various studies in different scenarios, from patients in a psychiatric facility to patients receiving chemotherapy. Results have shown that anxiety levels were reduced by up to 60 per cent with the use of the weighted blanket.” However, experts agree more research is needed.

How do I choose the right one/weight for me?

The general rule is to start with a weighted blanket that is about 10 per cent of your body weight, says Henderson. “So, someone of 11 stone, 154lbs, would use a blanket with a weight of around 15lbs. This is recommended only as a guide; preferred weights can vary between 5 per cent to 12 per cent of a person’s weight.

“The main priority is that it feels comforting, not too heavy and not too light. It is always a good idea, where possible, to try a few different weights around the 10 per cent guide, to see what feels good. The blanket should encourage the feeling of rest and relaxation and help soothe and calm the body and mind. It’s important to choose a texture that feels soothing, too, nothing that will irritate your skin.”

Is it OK to sleep with a weighted blanket every night?

It’s generally safe for adults to sleep with a weighted blanket every night – in fact, our tester now sleeps under their Simba blanket at all times. Starting slow can be a good idea, though.

“When starting to use a weighted blanket, start with approximately 10 minutes and observe the change in your body and mind before and after use,” suggests Henderson. “Make sure it feels comfortable, secure, and you can move it easily, as needed. If it feels good after that time, you can increase the time to 20-25 minutes and, again, just observe how you feel after that time.

“It’s possible to use the blankets overnight if they feel good and the user is comfortable doing so, but short periods of time up to 20-30 minutes can also be helpful to slow down and encourage rest during busy or stressful times. It comes down largely to personal preference and comfort.”

Henderson recommends that people with a medical condition or concerns about using a weighted blanket consult a medical professional before investing. Young children should be supervised when using a weighted blanket.

How to wash a weighted blanket

If the weighted blanket comes with a removable cover, cleaning it is as easy as washing the cover, following the label’s instructions. For blankets that do not have this, you’ll have to spot clean by hand, using a toothbrush dipped in a solution of warm water and laundry detergent, or you could purchase a separate cover, for easy washing.

However, after a long period of use, you might still want to wash the blanket itself, as you would with a duvet. Always check the care tag to make sure your weighted blanket is indeed machine-washable, this should be the case for ones made with glass, steel or plastic beads. If the tag says it’s not, you’ll want to follow the instructions for hand wash, spot clean or dry clean, which usually applies to blankets filled with natural fibres. For machine washing, pre-treat stains then wash the blanket in your machine on a gentle cycle using cold water and mild detergent. When finished, air dry your blanket, and voila.

Is a weighted blanket better to use instead of a duvet?

It’s up to you – some people like to replace their duvet with a weighted blanket, whereas others like layering them both, particularly during the colder months. If the sizes match up, you can also use a duvet cover on your weighted blanket, to keep it clean.

Read more: The best anti-snore pillows

Some people prefer the lighter feel of a duvet, says Henderson, and she suggests using something you already have at home to evaluate if the sensation of sleeping under a weighted blanket is for you. “Using a few large bath towels on top of your duvet can give you a good alternative feeling of how the weighted blanket might feel before you invest in one.”

Another option is to have one placed on top of a lighter tog duvet , so you can easily remove one or the other as needed. In the winter, both together has the additional benefit of warmth and weight to help encourage a good night’s sleep.

The verdict: Weighted blankets

As the weighted blanket that proved most effective at soothing our testers to sleep and keeping them in the land of the nod until the alarm went off in the morning, the Simba orbit weighted blanket had to be our best buy. It’s not the cheapest blanket, but the quality and design warrant the investment.

If your budget doesn’t quite stretch that far, the Sienna fluffy weighted blanket is astonishingly good value for money and a high-quality buy.

Find the perfect pillow, in our round-up of the best for side, front and back sleepers

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11 best weighted blankets that’ll guarantee a good night’s sleep

All products are independently selected by our editors. If you buy something, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn how we test .

Weighted blankets abound in today's wellness era, each coming with plentiful promises of warmth, anxiety reduction, and improving sleep troubles. So, if you're already shunning screens thirty-minutes before bed, cutting caffeine after lunch, spritz your pillow in a gorgeously scented sleep spray and listen to a Headspace meditation pre-kip, it might be time to add a weighted blanket to your bedtime routine.

Designed to evenly distribute weight across the body, the best weighted blankets promise to help promote feelings of calmness, soothe anxiety , and act as a catalyst for a good night’s sleep. Typically filled with thousands of tiny glass beads that apply pressure to your body, weighted blankets mimic a therapeutic technique called “deep pressure therapy” to boost your mood. Basically, it’s just like receiving a big hug.

So, if you’re up for being swaddled like a baby, we've tried and tested the best options on the market to help you spend your money wisely. A good night's sleep is incoming.

Meet the experts:

• James Higgings, Sleep Expert & CEO of Ethical Bedding .

What are the benefits of a weighted blanket? | Who should not use a weighted blanket? | How heavy should a weighted blanket be? | Do weighted blankets help with restless leg syndrome? | How we tested | Our full reviews

Best weighted blankets at a glance:

Best Weighted Blanket Overall : Simba Orbit Weighted Blanket, £169, Simba Best Weighted Blanket Runner-Up: Mela Weighted Blanket, £74.25, Aeyla Best Machine Washable Weighted Blanket: Weighted Blanket, £49, Kudd.ly Best Affordable Weighted Blanket Overall: Grey Oodie Weighted Blanket, £69, Oodie

Simba Orbit Weighted Blanket

The Mela Weighted Blanket

Weighted Blanket

Grey Oodie Weighted Blanket

What are the benefits of a weighted blanket?

Great for promoting an overall sense of security and grounding, weighted blankets essentially have the same effect on adults that swaddling has on a baby. Both swaddling and weighted blanket use are forms of Deep Touch Pressure (DTP) therapy, which researchers claim has a "calming effect on the alleviation of anxiety", and can also benefit those with autism and other medical conditions.

Studies have also shown that this gentle application of even pressure can reduce the body's levels of the stress hormone cortisol, while also boosting the production of both mood-boosting serotonin, and sleep-inducing melatonin.

Who should not use a weighted blanket?

Despite their benefits, there are some groups of people who wouldn’t be well-suited to sleeping underneath a weighted blanket. “Elderly individuals, older adults with reduced mobility, those with conditions such as sleep apnoea, and pregnant women should consider avoiding weighted blankets, as the added weight could make it difficult for them to change positions in bed,” says James Higgins, CEO & Sleep Expert at Ethical Bedding .

“Individuals living with neurological conditions, sensory disorders, or claustrophobia should also carefully consider whether a weighted blanket is the right choice for them, as the confined feeling of the blanket may increase anxiety," he adds.

How heavy should a weighted blanket be?

Most retailers suggest that you should pick a weighted blanket that’s roughly 10% of your body weight. So, a 4kg option for body weight of between 30 and 40kg, a 5.5kg option for a bodyweight of between 40 and 60kg, and a 7kg weighted blanket for a body weight of between 60 and 90kg.

Do weighted blankets help with Restless Leg Syndrome?

Weighted blankets definitely don’t cure Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), but they can help lessen the effects of it — particularly if you find stress a common trigger for a flare-up. "Weighted blankets provide gentle and even pressure across the body, offering sensory stimulation and a deep touch pressure sensation. This stimulation has been suggested to have a calming effect on the nervous system that could potentially reduce anxiety symptoms,” explains James Higgins.

How we tested:

To earn a spot in our best weighted blankets round-up, a GLAMOUR tester had to give the product-in-question their stamp of approval. Each weighted blanket in this edit performed well against our testing criteria , demonstrating even weight distribution, offering a variety of weights, and effectively soothing anxiety year-round while keeping reviewers warm. We also scored the best weighted blankets on their filling (from glass microbeads to plastic pellets), whether they had a removable cover, and how well each weighted blanket elevated their bedroom decor.

After more sleep content? Read about the best duvet covers , the best mattresses for every personal preference, and the best duvets for non-stop nappers. For more from GLAMOUR UK's Commerce Writer Mayola Fernandes , follow her on Instagram @mayolafernandess .

Below, the very best weighted blankets to try out in 2024:

1. Best single weighted blanket

Specifications:

• Size: 200cm x 135cm.
• Removable cover? Yes, it can be removed and machine washed.
• Filling: Nano glass beads.
• Weights available: 6.8kg.

The Simba Orbit weighted blanket relaxes you with its comforting weight of glass nano-beads that guide away any restlessness. Feeling like a gentle, full-body hug, it stimulates a calming process known as 'deep pressure therapy,' which helps counter stress by encouraging your nervous system to regulate and relax.

With its breathable, uber-soft cotton cover, this blanket feels incredibly gentle against the skin and is an excellent choice for hot sleepers, as it is designed to help you maintain a cool temperature throughout the night thanks to its temperature regulation abilities.

It's only available in a single size, so if you sleep with a partner, it might be better used as a throw blanket for naps on the sofa. There aren’t multiple weight options either, and it's worth noting that it's not suitable for children.

Save money when shopping for a weighted blanket with these Simba discount codes .

2. Best reversible weighted blanket

• Size: 190cm x 100cm.
• Removable cover? Yes, it comes with a removable cover.
• Filling: Quartz glass pellets padded with polyester fill.
• Weights available: 4kg, 5.5kg, 7kg, or 9kg.
• Tested by : Denise Primbet , GLAMOUR's Commerce Writer.

Engineered to melt away anxiety and welcome in a calm, deep and restorative sleep, the Mela Weighted Blanket is the ultimate nighttime companion. The reversible cover is plush and quilted on one side for a more snuggly feel, and has breathable cotton on the other to keep you cool on warm nights. It’s also made with impressive ComfortMould technology, which ensures even distribution of pellets — and no bunching.

“I've been using the Aeyla weighted blanket for just over a month now, and truthfully, I don't know how I went so long without using it," says Denise. “As someone who struggles with anxiety, I found it really comforting without feeling too restrictive”, she explains. “I opted for the 4.5kg model, which is definitely a good starting point for someone who's never used a weighted blanket before. I loved the double-sided material which is great for all seasons and found its temperature regulation effective, ensuring I didn't overheat or sweat on warmer days."

Conveniently, the brand offers four different weight options (4kg, 5.5kg, 7kg, and 9kg) and three sizes (single, double, and king), making it easy to find the perfect blanket for you. Plus, there's a 30-day trial, allowing you to return the blanket for free if it doesn't meet your expectations.

3. Best machine washable weighted blanket

Kudd.ly Weighted Blanket

• Size: 48"x78” or 60"x80”.
• Removable cover? Yes.
• Filling: Glass beads.
• Weights available: 4.7kg-7kg.
• Tested by: Esohe Ebohon, GLAMOUR's Operations Manager.

Kudd.ly's weighted blankets range from 4.7-7kg, making them a beginner-friendly option if you're still figuring out what weight works best for you. This soft and plush offering has a wonderfully cosy feel to it, that's ideal for keeping you warm in the winter months and and even comes with a 30-night sleep trial.

"I found that it folds easily and moulds around the body with ease despite its weight," says Esohe. "The material is soft, felt good against my skin, and didn’t leave any fuzz on my brightly coloured couch or clothing."

"I've got sensitive skin, so knowing that this blanket is gentle and free of harmful chemicals and synthetics was important to me," she adds. "It's great at trapping heat, so on those not-quite-cold-enough days, it helps keep you warm without needing to turn on the heating. However, when the weather warms up, it may feel too heavy and constricting for sleeping. Still, it's a solid winter blanket, and the fact that the 4.7kg option is machine-washable is a bonus."

4. Best affordable weighted blanket

• Size: 198cm x 121cm.
• Filling: Non-toxic glass beads.
• Weights available: 4.5kg, 6.8kg, 9kg. All three weights are available in various colours and patterns.
• Tested by: Emily Whitwam, Associate Social Media Manager.

The Oodie Weighted Blanket is like a high-quality hug that helps with sleep and anxiousness. It comes in three different weights, and a range of colours and patterns (including a playful Barbie print ). Plus, all buyers are offered free delivery.

Emily, who occasionally struggles with staying asleep due to anxiety says, "I was eager to see if the promises of weighted blankets would meet expectations. I opted for the 6.8kg option in grey and was impressed by the luxurious feel of the material."

Initially apprehensive about the weight of the blanket, she found it surprisingly comfortable once wrapped around her. "It felt like a warm hug and was surprisingly manageable in weight," she explains. While it’s super soft, there's no mention of what fabric, specifically, has been used. Also, it’s not machine washable — although it can be washed by hand.

5. Best breathable weighted blanket

Baloo Living

Baloo Living Weighted Blanket

• Size: 107cm x 183cm.
• Removable cover? No.
• Filling: Glass micro beads.
• Weights available: 5.4kg, 6.8kg, 9kg, 11.3kg.

Crafted for deep rest and relaxation, this weighted blanket features a quilted pattern that securely holds the micro-glass beads in place, preventing any bunching or pooling. Its 100% cotton exterior and interior is polyester and synthetic-free, allowing you to sleep even more soundly knowing it’s an environmentally friendly choice.

Although there isn't a removable cover included, the brand stocks French linen duvet covers that feature internal loops, providing a secure connection to the weighted blanket that will keep it looking good as new for longer. While it is machine washable, it's advisable to check if your washing machine has a large enough drum to accommodate the size of the blanket, especially if you opt for a larger size.

6. Best weighted blanket for pressure stimulation

Emma Mattress UK

Emma Hug Weighted Blanket

• Size: 150x200cm.
• Filling: Two layers of microfibre and polyester pad and glass beads.
• Weights available: 7kg.
• Tested by: Neamh Randall , GLAMOUR’s Commerce Photo Editor.

Emma's weighted blanket is designed to instil a sense of calm. The brand uses a combination of microfibre, polyester and extra-fine glass beads, topped with cotton to create an evenly spread weighted blanket. The finished product is supremely soft, suitable for all seasons and with its neutral grey hue, fits well with any decor.

“As someone that struggles to get a full night sleep without at least waking up once or twice, this weighted blanket has completely transformed my sleep,” says Neamh. “It provides just the right amount of pressure for therapeutic benefits without feeling overly heavy or claustrophobic,” she explains.

"I love my bedtime routine of slipping into freshly washed bedding , with soothing aromas from a diffuser , so adding a weighted blanket only made sense," Neamh adds. Given its premium price point, it's not ideal that the removable bamboo cover is only available as an add-on for an extra £35. We also wish there was more than one weight option.

Save money when shopping for a comfy weighted blanket with quilted pockets with these Emma Mattress discount codes .

7. Best-looking weighted blanket

The Lounger

• Size: 150cm x 100cm or 180cm x 120cm.
• Filling: N/A. The weight comes from the cotton itself.
• Weights available: 6 or 8kg.

Unfortunately, in the UK we can't get hold of the Bearaby weighted blanket — so this Remy Sleep weighted blanket is the next best thing. Made from 100% cotton — rather than any glass beads — The Lounger is top-notch when it comes to weight distribution and snuggling in, and will ease your stress in an instant. But best of all, its chunky hand-knit finish is ten-times more attractive than a lot of the pocket cotton cover weighted blankets, making its breathability strong and sure to elevate the vibe of your bedroom or living space.

We're big fans of the muted grey version, ideal for complementing minimalistic interior schemes, though there are five colours available to suit different preferences. Note that there's no indication whether it's crafted from organic cotton, which could be an important factor for buyers with sensitive skin.

8. Best cotton weighted blanket

ESPA Grey Cotton Weighted Blanket

• Size: 150 x 200cm.
• Filling: Polyester and glass beads.
• Weights available: 4.5kg-11.5kg.
• Tested by: Samantha Reynolds, GLAMOUR's Officer Manager and PA to European Editorial Director.

Crafted from 100% cotton, Espa's weighted blanket will help bring spa-like calmness to your sleep routine. There's four weights to choose from, ranging from 4.5kg to 11.5kg, and it comes in a single size measuring 150 x 200cm.

“As it's advised to choose a blanket equivalent to 10% of your body weight, I opted for the 7kg option — which certainly felt like 7kg — and made for a workout when making the bed in the morning," says Samantha. "Although tempted to try the heaviest option, I found that sticking with the recommended percentage of body weight or lighter was more comfortable after sleeping with it.”

"I usually fall asleep easily, so it was challenging to determine if the weighted blanket improved my sleep quality. However, coupled with my silk eye mask and pillow spray , I experienced some of the best nights of sleep using it. It's perfect for layering over your regular bedspread in winter," she says, adding, “I might pause using it during the summer, but during brisk winter months and an unusually cold spring, it certainly kept me snug."

9. Best cooling weighted blanket

Airy Sleeper

• Filling: Unspecified.
• Weights available: 8kg, 6.8kg, 9kg, 11.3kg.

Many buyers may hesitate to use a weighted blanket during the summer months. While the additional weight of the comforter is typically beneficial for retaining warmth in winter, it can easily feel constricting and claustrophobic in warmer weather.

Addressing this specific concern, Remy Sleep's Airy Sleeper features a 100% bamboo cover for a cooler night's sleep, and is crafted from breathable materials so you can use it as an alternative to your duvet in warmer months.

The bamboo cover is easily removable and can be machine washed in cold water (up to 30°C) using a delicate cycle. It can also be tumble dried on low heat. It also comes with a linen storage bag, allowing you to conveniently store it away if you find yourself overheating during the peak of summer, ready for use whenever you need it next.

10. Best weighted blanket for winter

Calm and Cosy 7kg Weighted Blanket

• Size: 150cm x 200cm.
• Filling: 100% Polyester.

The most budget-friendly option in our edit, Dunelm's weighted blanket features a 7kg weighted filling and is crafted from polyester. According to the brand, it "acts as a giant comforting hug" designed to alleviate stress and reduce anxiety.

Customers have left glowing reviews all around, finding the calming sage green hue appealing and outlining that they think it a good value for money overall. However, many would have preferred it even more if it had a removable cover and was machine washable.

Save when you shop for an ultra-soft weighted blanket with these Dunelm discount codes .

11. Best weighted blanket for kids

Outer Space Weighted Blanket

• Size: 120cm x 90cm.
• Weights available: 2kg.

Designed for little ones, this 2kg weighted blanket is ideal for children over three who struggle to settle down for bed. It comes in two different playful designs — a navy blue outer space theme, and a pretty and pink unicorn one — and is made from soft and cosy 100% cotton. Best of all, it can also go in the washing machine!

It's designed for children weighing 20kg or more, with the brand recommending the blanket weigh no more than 10% of the child's body weight. It's on the pricier side and some parents find it a bit small in size, making it potentially less suitable for older children.

Save money when shopping for a weighted blanket with these John Lewis & Partners discount codes .

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Best Weighted Blanket UK to Soothe Anxiety & Stress – Our Top 10 Picks

Written By Connie

CPD Sleep Consultant

How we test

Our testing process

14 June 2024 12 min read

For some people, it can be quite troublesome to have a good night’s sleep – especially if they don't use a weighted blanket.  More than 8 million people in the UK suffer from anxiety at some point in time .  That's why we did thorough research and tested the best weighted blankets in the UK ,  to find the best match to replicate the feeling of being hugged.

However, there's a big difference between getting any random and the perfect one for your needs! Not to mention that most of these might be too heavy or too light for you.

So, we're going to go over some of our picks and then dive into the science of how these can help you relax and sleep like a champ!

And if you're having trouble picking out the perfect weighted blanket, just use our weighted blanket calculator . It will show you the ideal weight and model for your build, so you can rest assured you're getting the very best.

Our picks for the best weighted blanket UK

Best Overall: Mela Weighted Blanket

If you're looking for a luxurious and high-quality pick, the Mela Weighted Blanket is definitely worth considering. It's made of 100% cotton on the bottom to keep you cool, with a super soft quilted fleece top that's perfect for snuggling up under. That's why we have awarded it with as the Best Weighted Blanket 2024 .

The glass quartz pellet filling is smaller than plastic, so the blanket is thinner while having the same weight, making it easy to manoeuvre. And because th e cover is removable , it can be easily washed in any washing machine.

This one can positively affect a wide range of conditions,  from autism and ADHD to PTSD and insomnia . (more on that later on). So if you're looking for a product that can help improve your sleep and your health, this is a great option! Although we will admit it's not the best affordable one for this category.

Click here to read our in-depth review of the Mela Weighted Blanket .

• Dimensions : 190 x 135 & 200 x 150 cm
• Material : Cotton and quilted fleece
• Weight : 5.5, 7 & 9 kg
• Filling : Glass beads

Disadvantages

Best Low Maintenance: Simba Orbit Weighted Blanket

To say that the Simba Orbit is one of the most comfortable blankets on the market would be an understatement. If we’re being honest, we wouldn’t expect anything less from Simba.

This one comes with a removable, 100% premium cotton cover, which makes this an incredibly easy  to clean. Not to mention that the cotton cover is also very soft to the touch.

It’s  filled with what Simba calls nano-beads , which are essentially very small, glass beads. And these beads are supposedly a lot better at keeping the weight evenly distributed than larger, chunkier fillings.

Plus, both the cover and even the inner blanket are very breathable, meaning that this is an excellent choice for hot sleepers . Although we do admit that the price is anything but affordable.

Check our Simba Orbit weighted blanket review .

• Dimensions : 200 x 135 cm
• Material : Cotton
• Weight : 6.8, 9 kg

Best Luxury: Emma Hug Weighted Blanket

After all, Emma wouldn't be offering a 10-year warranty if they weren't confident their blankets could stay in top condition for a long time!

This pick is also incredibly cooling , with multiple steps taken to keep the breathability up. For one, the removable bamboo cover is cool to the touch and keeps air circulating all night long.

And if that wasn't enough, the Emma Hug Weighted Blanket also has a top cotton layer that further enhances the temperature regulation of the blanket.

And underneath that layer, we have two layers of padding that ensure that the extra-fine glass beads don't cause any discomfort.

You can click here to read our full review of the Emma Hug Weighted Blanket .

• Dimensions : Double (200×150 cm)
• Material : Cotton, bamboo, polyester,microfibre
• Weight : 7 kg
• Filling : Silica glass beads

Best Safe Pick: GnO Wellbeing Weighted Blanket

But what makes this pick a “safe option”? Well, for one, it's the best choice when it comes to getting the perfect weight for your build.

This is because the GnO Wellbeing Weighted Blanket comes in weights ranging from 6 to 15kg and in three different sizes !

Aside from just the abundance of choice, this one is also very high-quality and gives you everything you need.

A solid 7-layer structure, a breathable bamboo cover , and even a plush bag to carry it around! Honestly, we'd be pressed to think of anything else you might need to stay comfortable.

However, we will note that while they advertise this one as having a lifetime warranty, it's a bit misleading.

Read our full review of the GnO Wellbeing Weighted Blanket to learn more about it.

• Dimensions : Full, Queen, King
• Material : Organci cotton
• Weight : 12, 15, 17, 20, 22, 25, 30 lbs

Best Hypoallergenic: Silentnight Weighted Blanket

The Silentnight weighted blanket offers a hypoallergenic sleep environment and two distinct weight points : 6, 8, and 9 kg .

The premium glass beads are noiseless,  while the high-quality stitching and loops ensure evenly distributed weight. This is good news if you share the bed with someone and tend to toss and turn in your sleep.

It also comes with a 12-month warranty and free delivery . Given that this is one of the cheapest picks in the UK, we found this quite surprising.

It can also be machine washed , meaning that it's rather easy to keep it clean.

And overall, if you want a cheap model, this is one of your best options as it's pretty well-rounded for its price point. The fact that it's also hypoallergenic is more of a bonus!

We also have a  review on this Silentnight’s weighted blanket  so take a look.

• Dimensions : 200 x 150 cm
• Material : Microfibre
• Weight : 6.8 & 9 kg

Weighted blanket calculator

Let's find the right weighted blanket weight for you, how do weighted blankets work.

Now that we've covered all the best models in the UK, it's only natural to ask – how do weighted blankets work in the first place?

Well, they rely on something called deep pressure stimulation  to help us calm down and fall asleep. Deep pressure stimulation or deep pressure therapy is known to stimulate the secretion of mood-boosting and sleep-inducing hormones called serotonin and melatonin . Furthermore, deep pressure therapy is also known to lower the levels of cortisol – a well-known stress hormone. Therefore, you can use these when you are too stressed to sleep .

The effects on our bodies are various. By affecting the hormone levels in our body, these can help improve our mood, put us to sleep, and even alleviate symptoms of anxiety, ADHD, autism, and depression . After all, few things are more calming than a warm hug – even when it comes from these.

But that was just the TL;DR explanation of how they help us relax. Let's now go a bit more in-depth on the science behind it. And after that, we can discuss what makes some better than others.

What is deep pressure therapy?

In layman's terms,  deep pressure therapy is a form of therapy that relaxes our nervous system by applying gentle pressure on our body.  Whether the pressure is applied through hugging, squeezing, holding, or covering yourself with a gravity blanket does not make that big of a difference.

According to research, applying “firm, but gentle” pressure, otherwise known as deep touch pressure, stimulates our body's parasympathetic system.

The  parasympathetic system is the one responsible for putting us in a state of relaxation.

As opposed to the sympathetic system that's responsible for our fight or flight response, the parasympathetic system handles our “rest and digest” response.

So, when stimulated, the parasympathetic system lowers our blood pressure and pulse, slows down breathing, and increases the secretion of hormones like dopamine and serotonin promoting relaxation and calmness.

All of that is to say that getting the best option and feeling more relaxed isn't an empty promise – there is actual science to back it all up! However, like most things in life, it's not always that simple.

Can weighted blankets help with ASD?

One of the more commonly asked questions is how they can potentially help people with autism. And this is especially true when it comes to children. The fact of the matter is that we can't tell you with certainty whether they will or won't help you or your child. However, here's what we've found researching this topic.

According to this study put forward by Harvard, touch can play a role when it comes to helping children with ASD calm down. However, not all children will have a positive effect nor will the positive effect be noticeable to the same degree.

This is because some children might have tactile sensitivities and simply not like the feeling of these. However, at the same time, other sources have claimed that weighted blankets can help lower this hypersensitivity to touch.

In other words, these can help but don't assume that they 100% will. Talk to a medical professional, try it out, and don't be afraid to search for other means if they don't calm you down.

Do you have to have a weighted blanket to deal with stress, anxiety, and ASD?

To go off of what we stated in the previous section, it's also important to note that you don't have to get one. While we do believe it can help some people take the edge off, it's by no means a miracle cure that solves all of your problems!

For example, when talking about children with ASD, some sources have put forward alternatives – like different types of massages. These can be done by the parents at no cost and might even fair better than a weighted blanket in certain cases.

And if you go to one of the many communities for people with ASD, we're sure you'll find a treasure trove of different advice.

Lastly, if the purpose of getting these is to help a person with ASD to fall asleep, it can be worth reading our article on the relationship between autism and sleep . After all, the more you know, the easier it will be to find what works best for you.

What is the right weight of a weighted blanket for me?

These tend to come at various weight points. And some have only one weight option. And, as a general rule of thumb, you don't want to overdo it and get one that's too heavy for your build.

Besides just getting claustrophobic, a weighted blanket that's too heavy can also cause discomfort – completely negating the main benefit! Plus, it can be more difficult to ensure even weight distribution if the blanket is too heavy.

This is where the 10 per cent rule comes into play. Basically, this just means that you don't want to get a model that's heavier than 10 per cent of your body weight. So, if you weigh 80 kg, try to find a pick that's around 8 kg.

And if there isn't an exact match among the weight options, we'd generally suggest going under. So, if from the previous example you find the best pick on the market, it's better to get a 7kg option than a 10kg one..

What to consider when buying the best weighted blanket

When looking for a weighted blanket, it’s important to know which features to look for. It’s not enough just to buy the first pick you come across. Many important features make up a good one – like the weight, the material, how breathable it is etc.

In the following section, we’ve decided to break things down for you and highlight some of the most important features, so you can easily find the perfect match for yourself.

When it comes to the weight, the general rule of thumb is to follow the 10 per cent rule . You could go a little lower than that if you prefer a lighter feel, but in general, a good one should weigh around 10 per cent of your body weight. That is, by far, the simplest way to find the perfect fit for you – just divide your body weight by 10 and you should be good to go.

However, it’s important to note that this rule might not apply to everyone. So, before you buy, make sure to test it out.

Cover yourself and see how it feels. If you find yourself struggling to move or you just feel like you’re under too much pressure, go lighter. The point of getting the best pick is to make you feel at ease, not trapped. This is especially important if you have any tactile sensitivities.

Cover material

Even though it is not necessary, finding the perfect cover for your model can improve the overall experience significantly. That is why many recommend that you do so.

Finding the perfect cover shouldn’t be too troublesome. It all boils down to the material of the cover if we’re being honest. And that's because the cover material dictates all of the important features you'd want: how easy it is to wash, how well it can regulate the temperature, and how soft it is to the touch.

Firstly, washing is far from impossible, but it can get a bit troubling. That’s why a removable cover is a welcome addition.

Secondly, while these are nice and snug, your skin will be in direct contact with the covers. So, making sure that the cover is actually nice to the touch is very important.

Lastly, since it is going to be snug against your skin, it needs to have decent temperature regulation. After all, few of them are going to help you keep your cool if you're melting under there!

What's the best cover material?

Although we can't go too in-depth here, we'd like to give you a few tips when it comes to the covers you use. Most of the time, a cotton cover is going to be your safest option. Cotton covers and sheets typically have a high level of breathability, are soft to the touch, and aren't too expensive.

From the eco-friendly options, bamboo and eucalyptus are clean forerunners. Just like cotton, they make for a breathable fabric and even offer a bit of cooling to keep your body temperature down. Although they can be a bit more expensive.

And for you luxury lovers, silk covers are the way to go. While you won't often find a model with a silk cover , you can typically just use a duvet cover instead.

The material of the blanket

When it comes to the material, there are two things to take note of – the padding and the filling.

In most cases, the fills will be either plastic poly pellets, micro glass beads, steel shot beads or in some cases even sand or grain . We’d suggest steering clear of the organic fillings. As you'll soon see, models with organic fillings tend to be a nightmare when it comes to keeping them clean.

When it comes to the padding, it's more in the realm of personal preference.

Generally, if it has a lot of padding, you might not feel the filling coming through that much. For some this is ideal but others might prefer a slightly “rougher” approach.

It's also important to note that your pick might not have a filling to begin with. Sometimes, these will simply be made from a tightly woven fabric that's naturally heavy and thus doesn't require a filling. In these cases, it's essential that you like the feel of the material itself.

Easy cleaning

Cleaning a weighted blanket can be challenging – if you pick the wrong one.

As we said a second ago, stay away from the ones  filled with organic materials like sand, pebbles, buckwheat or grain . You see, when an organic material comes into contact with water – it tends to soak it up. When that happens, getting it dry becomes pretty much impossible.

This makes it mouldy or even causes fillings' rotting – and that’s something you’d want to avoid. Sticking to glass, steel and plastic poly fillings will make your life a lot easier.

In addition to that, cotton and minky covered ones are the easiest to clean. Just make sure not to use hot water. Cold or warm water should do the trick. Also, try and wash them separately from other clothes or sheets to avoid additional agitation to the fabric.

And, when in doubt, simply read the care label. Like all bedding items, these always come with a care label and the last thing you'd want to do is damage yours so soon after getting it!

Level of breathability

As we've mentioned when talking about the materials, breathability is very important – especially for hot sleepers . So, generally, you want a cover that utilises some sort of breathable fabric. Typically, bamboo, cotton, and eucalyptus are safe bets.

However, it's important to note that some also have their own “cooling system”. Usually, this means that they has multiple layers that are designed to maximise airflow. You can also use a duvet cover that's extra breathable if it has a stuffy cover.

Lastly, be mindful of how you layer yours during colder months. If it is breathable, you can cover yourself with it and then throw on a duvet on top. However, if the cover is a bit more stuffy, you can do it the other way around and rely on the duvet cover instead.

Recommended reading:  Best UK duvet

Tips for buying and using the best weighted blanket

When it comes to tips and tricks when shopping for the best weighted blanket, we’d advise being thorough in your research and trying it out before you buy it. You see, you can have all the necessary knowledge on how to find the perfect one, but that doesn’t mean you’ll be satisfied with it.

Plus, quite a few of the best contenders come with trials. So, you can properly test them out with no worries!

Secondly, don't overlook the size of the blanket. Just like it's important to get the right weight, you also want to nail the size and understand it.

Lastly, while it can be romantic, we don't typically advise sharing. This is especially true if you plan on sleeping with it. The last thing you'd want is for your partner to toss about and accidentally cover your face with it.

• Always try it out before you buy it or look for one with a return and cash-back policy
• Don’t go too wide or too long – you want it to cover your whole body below the neck without hanging off the bed; these are heavy and they can easily end up on the floor if too large. Plus it can make having an even weight distribution more difficult.
• These aren’t meant for sharing. It sounds sad, but this is a one-person party.

The advantages of owning one of the best weighted blankets

The main purpose is to make you feel at ease when you go to sleep and help improve the overall quality of your sleep. A study that has been conducted on 26 children (6-15 years old) showed improvement in ADHD and improvement in sleep quality. So, when you think about it, the advantages of these are the same as a good night’s sleep. People suffering from anxiety can benefit from weighted blankets the most, but overall, most people can benefit from weighted blanket hugs.

The impact of quality sleep on your life can’t be stressed enough. Here are only a few of the benefits and advantages of owning these:

• Improved quality of sleep
• Anxiety and stress relief
• Improved focus, motivation and overall mood
• Improved physical and mental health.

How to wash my weighted blanket?

Start by reading the care label. Then, according to the instructions, soak it in a tub filled with cold or lukewarm water and mild detergent for 15 minutes. Then, rinse and repeat until you're left with nothing but clean water. Or, wash it in a machine.

However, not every model is machine washable. For example, an model filled with rice can't come in contact with water because rice is organic and can decompose and get mouldy if wet. Therefore, each model is a different story – so we suggest checking the care label carefully.

Washable ones are the ones filled with glass beads, poly pellets, steel shot beads, or the ones entirely made from organic cotton. You can wash any of these by hand or in a washing machine (provided that they fit). Also, if they come with a removable cover – you can wash the cover in a washing machine, as well.

For additional information on washing and drying, feel free to take a look at our in-depth weighted blanket washing guide .

And that's all you need to know to find the best weighted blanket in the UK! Just make sure that the weighted blanket isn't too heavy (no more than 10% of your body weight) or too stuffy (natural materials for the win) and you should feel all your anxiety melt away in no time!

And while we have tested all of these weighted blankets to narrow down which one was the best, we want to know what you think as well! Has any of the options we've recommended caught your eye? Or do you have your own pick? Make sure to let us know in the comment section. And if you have any questions about weighted blankets, make sure to check out the FAQ section.

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FAQs about weighted blankets

Finally, let us answer some of the most frequently asked questions, just to make sure we’ve covered all grounds, so when the time comes for you to pick the perfect model for yourself – you do it without a doubt in your mind.

Ideally, it should weigh approximately one-tenth of your body weight.

It's rather simple. Divide your body weight by 10 and try it out. If it feels good – you've found the perfect match.

You should clean these with cold or warm water, without any harsh chemicals or laundry detergents.

Depending on whether you use covers or now, it varies between 2 to 4 times a year. If necessary, wash more often.

Anyone over the age of 4 can use and benefit.

This is up for debate. Some experts claim that you should only use it for about 20 to 30 minutes at a time, while others swear by the benefits of a full night's sleep.

You may sleep on your side, but this sort of defeats the purpose of it because you're not covering a large portion of your body. For best results, we'd recommend sleeping on your back.

In theory, it should temporarily lower your blood pressure as a result of stimulating the parasympathetic nervous system.

Thy come with loops in order to prevent bunching and to keep them in place when inside of a duvet cover.

About the author

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Mela weighted blanket review, silentnight electric blanket review.

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• Home & garden

Best weighted blanket 2023: Ease anxiety and aid sleep

• Gareth Thomas

Looking to ease the stress and strain of daily life? Enhance your bedtime routine with the best weighted blankets

Society has a sleep problem, but the best weighted blankets may help you nod off at night as well as relax during the day. Whether it’s caused by a hectic life schedule, work stress or too much screen time, it can be hard to switch off when you need to. A heavy, weighted blanket may be just what you need.

You may have also heard that weighted blankets are a good choice for those with autism; some experts believe they can provide a sensory experience beneficial for regulating emotional responses and behaviour. This is the same science that leads people to believe that weighted blankets can ease milder anxiety disorders at home.

It’s important to note that many of the medical claims made by manufacturers of weighted – or “gravity” – blankets should not be taken as fact, and rather treated the same as we would the claims made by makers of things such as supplements and essential oils.

Nevertheless, now could be the perfect time to finally invest in a weighted blanket. Whether you use it to ease anxiety while sitting on the sofa for an evening or to aid rest during the night, it could be one of the smartest purchases you make.

Best weighted blanket: At a glance

• Best all-round weighted blanket: John Lewis Synthetic Weighted Blanket | From £80
• Best budget weighted blanket:  S ilentnight Wellbeing Weighted Blanket |£60
• Best weighted blanket for children: Anjee Kids Weighted Blanket | £49
• Best extra-large weighted blanket: AGP XL Weighted Blanket | £50
• The perfect companion to a Simba mattress: Simba Orbit | £169
• Best for a risk-free trial period:   Aeyla Mela Weighted Blanket | £149
• Best for year-round use: Blyss Premium Sensory Weighted Blanket |£51

How to choose the best weighted blanket for you

Are weighted blankets safe.

For most people, weighted blankets are completely safe to use, but there are a few groups who should be more cautious. For example, if you are pregnant or suffer from respiratory or circulatory problems (such as asthma or type 2 diabetes) you should always consult with a doctor before purchasing. The same goes for children, as they can potentially become trapped underneath a weighted blanket.

How heavy should weighted blankets be?

For the safety reasons mentioned above, you should always choose a weighted blanket that weighs no more than 5-10% of the user’s body weight. This is especially important for those who may not be able to lift a heavy blanket unaided. Products on this list range from anywhere between 100g and 11.3kg, so there’s a huge variety out there to choose from. If you plan on sharing the blanket between different members of your household, make sure it will be safe for all of them.

Can children use weighted blankets?

There are many specially made weighted blankets designed for children aged 3+, and it’s important that you consider elements such as size and weight when you’re buying. We would also advise you to always consult a doctor before allowing a child to use a weighted blanket, and supervise at all times.

For example, the average weight of a 5-year-old is around 18kg, so a weighted blanket should be no heavier than 1.8kg.

While standard weighted blankets are unlikely to be harmful to teenagers and above, it’s essential to choose something such as the Anjee Kids blanket (listed below) or an alternative to ensure that younger children can easily lift the blanket off themselves without needing help.

Will I get too hot with a weighted blanket?

You might think having a heavy blanket on top of you would make you too hot, but this isn’t necessarily always the case. Some weighted blankets will be warm, but this will largely depend on what they’re made from. Thick flannel or fleece blankets are good for the winter months, for instance, whereas other weighted blankets are made from cooler, more breathable fabrics such as cotton or linen. Most of the blankets on our list are made from cotton, arguably one of the best fabrics to keep you cool in summer, so those prone to overheating in bed shouldn’t worry.

READ NEXT: Best ways to keep your house warm

The best weighted blankets you can buy in 2023

1. john lewis specialist synthetic weighted blanket: best all-round weighted blanket.

If you’re looking to experiment with weighted blankets and want a wide range of options to choose from, then this one from John Lewis is ideal. There are four different weight options available, which range from 4.5kg all the way up to 11.5kg, so whether you’re looking for something for yourself or another member of your family, there should be something suitable. The blanket cover is 100% cotton and filled with glass beads to give it its weight, so it’s perfect for snuggling into, whether you’re on your sofa or in your bed.

Key features – Size: 38 x 50cm/65 x 50cm; Weight: 4.5-11.5kg (some weights may be unavailable); Material: Cotton; Suitable for kids: 4.5kg suitable for 13+ (on average, for reference only)

Buy now from John Lewis

2. Silentnight Wellbeing Weighted Blanket: Best budget weighted blanket

If you’re looking to buy your first weighted blanket, you really can’t go too far wrong with the Silentnight Wellbeing. Weighing 7kg, we found it was just snug enough without ever feeling too claustrophobic, as can be the case with heavier weighted blankets. The rule of thumb is to pick a blanket that weighs around 10% of your body weight, though, so your experience may differ.

Thanks to its width – it’s around 10cm wider than a typical single duvet – you can use it either on a single bed or spread across a double or king. And despite the fact it keeps cool air from getting under the duvet, we didn’t find it too stuffy. With a relatively low price of £50, it’s a great option for those who want to see what all the fuss is about without breaking the bank. Unlike some models, it’s also machine washable.

Key features – Size: 150 x 200cm; Weight: 6.8kg; Material: Microfibre with polyester/glass bead filling; Suitable for kids: No

Silentnight Weighted Blanket - Anxiety Relief Therapy Insomnia Stress Relief Blanket for Adults - Sensory Heavy Quilted Wellbeing Blankets, 6.8kg (150cm x 200cm) (Adult)

Also consider: wanlin weighted blanket.

With many weighted blankets costing north of £100, it can be tricky to find something affordable if you’re a first time buyer or unsure about whether a weighted blanket is for you. Alongside the Silentnight option above, this weighted blanket from Wayfair is also reasonably priced. It comes available in two sizes: 150 x 125cm /4kg at £57, and 200 x 150cm/8kg at £80. 

Buy now from Wayfair

3. Aeyla Mela Weighted Blanket: Best weighted blanket for a risk-free trial period

Like many weighted blankets, the Mela blanket is filled with tiny glass pellets inside its cotton casing. These give the blanket its weight and help it mould to your body. Its removable cover is cotton on one side, with the other made from a soft, fleece-like recycled polyester.

We tested the 7kg Mela weighted blanket in a double size, and found it to be very comfortable and snug, if a little too warm for our personal tastes. Before using the blanket for the first time, you will have to attach the cover, which can be a bit fiddly since it involves turning the cover inside out, securing a number of ties before turning the cover the right way round again.

However, you’ve got plenty of options when it comes to different sizes and weights, from a 5.5kg double blanket to an 9kg king size. In fact, when it comes to sheer choice, very few other brands in our roundup can compete, however given the blanket’s popularity, many of these sizes/weights are now sold out. The Mela weighted blanket also stands out among its rivals because it comes with a 30-night risk-free trial period, at the end of which you can return it for a full refund if you’re not happy.

Key features – Size: Single-king size; Weight: 5.5-11kg; Material: Cotton and polyester/glass bead filling; Suitable for kids: No

Buy now from Aeyla

4. AGP XL Weighted Blanket: Best extra-large weighted blanket

While standard weighted blankets are great for a lot of things, sometimes you just want to completely wrap yourself up in something soft and cuddly. This blanket from AGP fits the bill, measuring 152 x 203cm, and one side is coated in a peach skin fabric for a soft, luxurious feel. Filled with eco-friendly quartz micro-spheres, it’s recommended for people with sleep disorders, anxiety, ADHD and other conditions. While it’s also available in a smaller size and weight, we would only recommend it for use by adults.

Key features – Size: 152 x 203cm; Weight: 9.1kg; Material: Polyester and microfibre/quartz stone filling; Suitable for kids: No

WEIGHTED BLANKET 9.1 kg Sootha Sleep, XL, Peach-Skin, Ultra Premium Therapeutic Heavy Blanket, Reversible, Calm Anxiety/Sensory/Stress relief, - Washable-Grey-XL

5. hygge weighted lap pad blanket: best weighted blanket alternative.

If safety is a big concern for you, then you can avoid many of the potential risks of using weighted blankets with a weighted lap pad like this one from Hygge. Available in a range of sizes and weights, the pad is designed to give the same beneficial sensory experience as traditional blankets just across a smaller surface area. Something like this might be particularly useful for long journeys or any other situation where you will need to be sitting in one spot for a while.

Key features – Size: 38 x 50cm/65 x 50cm; Weight: 1-2.5kg; Material: Cotton/plastic pellet filling; Suitable for kids: 1kg suitable for 3+ (on average, for reference only)

hugge Education Kids 1kg Weighted Lap Pad Blanket - British Made - Kids & Adult Sizes - Reduces Anxiety and Fidgeting

6. anjee kids weighted blanket: best weighted blanket for children.

Weighted blankets can be a tempting solution for parents whose children suffer from autism and the anxiety and concentration issues that come with it. That’s why many brands also have blankets specifically for kids available, such as this one from Anjee. The fun designs are designed to appeal to kids, and you can choose from three sizes depending on the age and weight of your child. However, while the blanket is designed with kids in mind, ensure it doesn’t exceed 10% of their body weight before purchasing.

Key features – Size: 90 x 120cm/100 x 150cm; Weight: 2.3/3kg; Material: Cotton/glass bead filling; Suitable for kids: 2.3kg suitable for 7+ (on average, for reference only)

Anjee Kids Weighted Blanket, 100% Natural Cotton Heavy Blanket for Kids and Teens, 2.3kg 90x120cm, Pink Cat

7. simba orbit weighted blanket: the perfect companion to a simba mattress.

We love Simba’s range of mattresses, and if you can justify spending over £150 on a weighted blanket, the Orbit could be the perfect companion for your Hybrid or Hybrid Pro mattress. It comes in two different weights, 6.8kg and 9kg (although just the one size, for a double bed) and is made from cotton, filled with thousands of tiny glass nano-beads. These are evenly spread in quilted pockets, which allows the blanket to shape to your body, and provides “deep pressure therapy”, a gentle but firm hugging sensation, to help you relax and get the best night’s sleep.

For added convenience, the cover can be removed and machine-washed at 30°C. It’s one of the most expensive blankets on our list, but if you’re prepared to pay a bit of a hefty price for a weighted blanket, you can’t really go wrong here.

Key features – Size: 135 x 200cm; Weight: 6.8kg/9kg; Material: Cotton/glass bead filling; Suitable for kids: No

Buy now from Simba

8. Blyss Premium Sensory Weighted Blanket: Best for year-round use

By nature, blankets are supposed to keep you warm. However, if you rely on using a weighted blanket to de-stress, you will want one that won’t make you uncomfortably hot in the summer. That’s why the Blyss weighted blanket is great: it comes with a warm polyester winter cover that’s machine washable, while the weighted blanket itself is made from cotton, which is a much more breathable material. Admittedly, even the most breathable cotton blanket will struggle to keep you cool when it’s sweltering hot, but it’s still a much better option than its synthetic rivals. For those who need the blanket for sensory relief, the dimpled pattern on the removable cover adds another soft sensory element too.

This one can also be hand-washed or dry-cleaned and it comes with a drawstring storage bag to help keep the blanket clean and in good condition. Because the warmer cover is removable, the blanket needs to be tied to the cover to stop it from sliding around or falling to one side; the ties are located in all four corners and on all four edges, so it can be quite a mission to attach. But once it’s in, the blanket’s not going anywhere.

Key features – Size: Single-double; Weight: 5.4kg – 6.8kg; Material: Polyester cover, cotton weighted blanket with glass bead filling; Suitable for kids: Single only

BLYSS – Premium sensory weighted anxiety blanket that helps with stress and insomnia relief for Adults and Children to relax – 180x120cm 5.4kg – Better, more comfortable deeper sleep

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Weighted blankets

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Embrace the reassuring warmth of a weighted blanket, which is made to apply light pressure that improves rest and quality of sleep. Perfect for relaxation, these blankets make your everyday haven truly peaceful. 

Integrate useful but friendly components to make your relaxation area feel even cosier. Add a draft excluder by the door to keep your cosy place warm and free from cold drafts, and a door mat at your entrance for a clean space and a warm welcome. 

Think about including a bean bag in your living room for flexible and relaxed sitting. It's ideal for curling up with a blanket for a lazy evening or a weekend movie marathon. To further personalise and warm the area, place photo frames with treasured images and happy memories. 

From bean bags and picture frames to door mats and draught excluders , you can create the ideal relaxing area that makes the most of your weighted blanket. 

The Best Weighted Blankets for Calming Comfort

We tested dozens of heavy covers that can help you relax and fall asleep by relieving stress and anxiety.

We've been independently researching and testing products for over 120 years. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission. Learn more about our review process.

Comfortable bedding can lead to a good night's sleep, but when that's not enough, adding a weighted blanket is a widely-recognized way to help you unwind and relax. Weighted blankets were initially used by occupational therapists as deep pressure therapy for patients with behavioral disorders. The idea is that the pressure releases serotonin, a chemical in the body that makes you feel happy and calm. Though it's not intended to cure any medical conditions, it has become a popular way to help people dealing with anxiety, insomnia and other sleep issues to fall asleep and stay asleep overnight.

Our top picks

Best Overall Weighted Blanket

Gravity blanket.

best value weighted blanket

Trainquility weighted blanket with washable cover.

Best Knit Weighted Blanket

Bearaby tree napper.

The bedding experts at the Good Housekeeping Institute test weighted blankets by reviewing the materials, construction and key features, then sending them to consumer testers for at-home evaluations. To choose the best weighted blankets, we considered aspects such as materials, weight distribution, comfort, appearance, ease of cleaning and more. We also interviewed Christine Rocchio Mueller , an occupational therapist at Hospital for Special Surgery in New York City, on the best practices around using weighted blankets.

A note of caution: Weighted blankets shouldn’t be used by anyone who can’t move freely beneath the weight. Even though they're sometimes used as a therapeutic tool for kids, it's important to first speak with a medical professional, like a child's pediatrician, before trying it out.

You can learn more about how we test, what to look for and the benefits of weighted blankets at the bottom of this article, but first, here's everything you need to know about our top-tested picks. And when you finish reading through this guide, check out our round-up of the best blankets and best electric blankets for even more top-tested picks.

Weight options: 15 or 20 lbs (Twin/Throw), 35 lbs (Queen/King) | Materials: Interior cotton cover with a microfiber (polyester) duvet cover | Fill: Glass beads | Colors: 7 options | Care: Machine washable duvet cover, hand washable interior blanket

The name "Gravity blanket" is often synonymous with "weighted blanket" because the brand's viral Kickstarter campaign helped popularize the category over six years ago. It's popular for good reason: The style checks off all the boxes for a quality weighted blanket. It features grid-shaped stitching that helps keep the glass beads spread out for even distribution, a plush microfiber cover that's removable and machine washable and a smart system that keeps the blanket secured inside the cover. There are buttons and ties to fasten the blanket to the outer layer, plus an easy and secure zipper closure, which our testers confirmed helped keep everything in place.

Our testers also found that the blanket lives up to its hype. Though some said it may sleep hot (which makes sense given its cozy fleece cover), they gave it high ratings for even weight distribution and the fill staying in place. They also said it offered a good amount of pressure and that the outer cover felt comfortable to lie under. On top of that, they liked the size flexibility; you can choose from multiple options depending on whether you want to use it yourself or share it with a sleeping partner.

Weight options: 12, 15, 18 or 20 lbs | Materials: Interior polyester cover with a microplush (polyester) duvet cover | Fill: Glass beads and polyester | Colors: Grey | Care: Machine washable duvet cover, spot clean interior blanket

This weighted blanket is a fraction of the cost of others without skimping on quality or key features. Most cheap weighted blankets don't come with an outer cover (making the cost add up if you purchase one separately), but Tranquility's comes with one that's removable and machine washable. It's only available in one size — 48" x 72", which a tester said "looked like a normal throw" — but it has four different weight options to help you find the best fit.

The fill uses glass beads, and one tester told us, "It helped alleviate my anxiety." Its outer cover has temperature-regulating properties, and our testers confirmed they didn't get too hot while using it. Just note that some testers did find the fill to clump a bit after extended use. Still, if you're looking to spend as little as possible on a weighted blanket without sacrificing features, this one's your best bet.

Weight options: 15, 20 or 25 lbs | Materials: Tencel lyocell/cotton blend | Fill: N/A (fabric only) | Colors: 9 options | Care: Machine washable

Chunky knit weighted blankets have gained popularity because they look more upscale yet deliver the same benefits. This one from Bearaby is entirely made of fabric (no bead fills) and is a blend of cotton and Tencel lyocell , a super soft fiber that's both smooth and cooling. Our testers agreed, highlighting the appearance, softness and cooling capabilities as their favorite aspects. One described it as having "the right amount of weight and warmth, without ever feeling too heavy or hot," while another added, "It’s not too heavy, and it’s easy to move around my bed. I sleep so well under it."

Though the open knit construction makes it more stylish and breathable, there are some factors to consider when deciding if it's the right fit for you. For starters, some testers noted that it wasn't as comfortable to lie directly under it and found it better to layer over another comforter . And though the entire blanket is machine washable, it takes longer to dry and may not be as convenient for regular cleaning as one that has a duvet cover.

Brooklinen Weighted Throw Blanket

Weight option: 12 lbs | Material: Cotton (with some spandex for the decorative texture) | Fill: Glass beads | Colors: 4 options | Care: Machine washable

Combining the appearance of a throw blanket with the construction of a weighted blanket , this Brooklinen pick has won a Good Housekeeping Best Bedding Award for the past two years. The textured crepe top layer gives a more elevated look than other quilted weighted blankets, but it still has a smooth cotton underside, making it comfortable to lie directly under it. The fill is made up of dense glass beads.

It's just 12 pounds, so for many people, it'll provide a calming pressure without feeling too heavy. The entire blanket is machine washable — there's no removable cover — which is ideal for people who don't want to use the extra layer, but it takes longer for the entire blanket to dry. Testers unanimously agreed that this blanket was comfortable and that the fill stayed evenly distributed with use. One said, "It induced sleep, and I slept straight through the night," while another noted, "It's more functional than the knit/open-structure ones, as it worked well to apply even pressure."

YnM Weighted Blanket

Weight options: 10 choices ranging from 5 to 30 lbs | Material: Cotton outer fabric (no duvet cover included) | Fill: Glass beads | Colors: 25 options | Care: Machine washable

If you turn to Amazon in search of low prices and high praise from online reviewers, this weighted blanket from YnM is for you. It costs much less than other picks, though the duvet cover is sold separately , and the brand recommends using a duvet cover to prevent damage from repeated launderings. It also has over 41,000 reviews with an average 4.6-star rating, with users writing that the weight stays evenly distributed thanks to its small boxes that separate the fill.

The weighted blanket also uses materials recommended by our experts, like a cotton outer cover and glass bead fill for dense pressure. You can choose from a wide variety of weights and sizes to match your body weight and bed size, along with dozens of colors. Just note that some online reviewers say it tends to sleep warm, making it less suitable for hot sleepers.

Layla Sleep Weighted Blanket

Weight options: 15 (Twin), 20 (Queen) or 25 lbs (King) | Material: Cotton on one side, polyester on the other side | Fill: Glass beads | Colors: Grey/black | Care: Machine washable

Layla's weighted blanket stands out primarily for its two-sided design: One side has a smooth cotton fabric that feels more like a bedsheet, while the other side is a plush faux mink that feels more like a throw blanket. You can simply flip over the blanket if you want to change the feel. It's only available in one color and doesn't have a separate duvet cover, but the entire blanket is machine-washable.

Another factor that sets this style apart is the 30-day trial, meaning you can get a refund if you've used it but found that it wasn't a good fit, as long as you return it within the 30-day window. Each weight is specified for a different bed size, though testers noted that a 25-pound King size felt like less pressure per person once it was spread out.

Luna Classic Cooling Cotton Weighted Blanket

Weight options: 10, 15, 20, 25 lbs | Material: Cotton outer fabric, duvet cover sold separately | Fill: Glass beads and polyester | Colors: 17 options | Care: Machine washable

Another low-cost pick, Luna's weighted blanket has a cotton outer cover that's available in a wide range of colors and prints — although note that some are currently out of stock. It also has a coordinating cotton duvet cover (sold separately) that goes on easily and securely with loops and zippers. The cover comes in neutral solid colors, so you could even use it as a standalone bed cover.

Our testers loved using this blanket. They noted that it took a few days to get used to the heavy feeling — which is true for all weighted blankets — but as one put it, "It is soothing and calming and promotes deeper sleep after the adjustment period." Users told us the fill didn't shift around and the pressure felt evenly distributed.

Silk & Snow Hand Knitted Weighted Blanket

Weight options: 5 choices ranging from 8 to 25 lbs | Material: Cotton | Fill: N/A (fabric only) | Colors: 8 options | Care: Machine washable

Another chunky knit option that looks more stylish than a typical weighted blanket, Silk & Snow's blanket is made entirely of cotton, meaning it gets its weight from fabric instead of beads. Testers gave it perfect scores across the board, from comfort to weight distribution to overall satisfaction. They also highlighted the appearance, with its throw blanket aesthetic as a major selling point.

It comes in five weights, and each weight varies in size, so make sure to check the size chart before you buy. You can also choose from a variety of trendy neutral colors that help enhance the decorative aspect. Just note that because it's 100% cotton — and it takes a lot of cotton to make up the weight — it'll take much longer to dry and it doesn't have an outer cover to wash separately.

Sleep Number True Temp Weighted Blanket

Weight options: 12 or 20 lbs | Material: Interior polyester cover, cotton/polyester blend outer cover with 37.5 Technology | Fill: Glass beads and polyester | Colors: Dark blue | Care: Machine washable outer cover

If you're worried that a weighted blanket might cause you to feel too hot overnight, this one has 37.5 Technology built into the outer cover, which helps regulate body temperature. It won't feel instantly cold when you touch it, but it works through the night to help prevent you from overheating . The temperature-regulating cover is removable and machine washable, while the inner blanket has channels that help keep the glass bead fill evenly distributed.

The blanket comes in just two weights: 12 or 20 pounds. There's no 15-pound weight available, which is typically the most popular size for weighted blankets and what most of our testers prefer. Still, users liked sleeping under this blanket, saying it worked effectively and felt comfortable.

RELATED: The Best Cooling Blankets, Tested by Bedding Experts

How we test weighted blankets

The fiber scientists in the Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab have tested over 20 weighted blankets in recent years. We first inspect the weighted blankets to evaluate construction and overall quality, then we have real testers try them out in their homes and fill out surveys based on their experiences. We also interviewed occupational therapist Christine Rocchio Mueller to gain insight into the science behind how weighted blankets work.

When it comes to evaluating the weighted blankets in our Lab, we consider aspects like the outer cover fabric, fill materials, construction, care instructions, whether it connects to a duvet cover and more. Consumer testers sleep with the weighted blanket for several weeks before filling out their surveys. They score the blankets on factors like comfort, weight distribution, whether the fill stayed in place, fabric feel, temperature regulation and other qualities. They also have the opportunity to expand on anything they liked or disliked.

How to shop for a weighted blanket

Though all weighted blankets serve the same purpose — they provide pressure to help you relax and feel calm — there are actually a variety of factors that set the styles apart. Here are the most important details to consider when choosing the right weighted blanket for you:

✔️ Outer cover: Because you'll feel the fabric on your skin, it's important that you like the overall feel of the material. Polyester fleece is a popular option for the outer cover because it's soft and cozy like a throw blanket, but some brands use smooth cotton for a more natural feel.

Also note that some weighted blankets are designed to be used with a duvet cover, while others are not. Which you choose comes down to personal preference (including appearance), but keep in mind that it's easier to wash just the duvet cover on a regular basis than it is to regularly launder a heavy blanket.

✔️ Filling: Weighted blankets are usually filled with small glass or plastic beads to provide pressure. Glass beads are the most popular filling because they're denser than plastic and you won't typically feel the individual pellets. We recommend looking for small grid-like stitching that helps keep the fill evenly distributed. You can also find some weighted blankets with down alternative polyester filling along with the beads, which helps add a plush feel.

As an alternative, chunky knit-style weighted blankets are made with a different construction. Instead of using pellets to add the weight inside, these are entirely made of fabric. Chunky knits look more stylish, but they are more cumbersome to wash because there's no outer cover and the fabric takes a long time to dry. Also, they don't distribute weight as evenly if you are lying directly underneath it because of the open knit structure.

✔️ Size: Avoid oversize options. The blanket shouldn't hang off the side of your bed, as the weight can make it fall off during the night. If you plan to use it yourself, opt for a Twin or throw size. If you plan to share it with a sleeping partner then you can use a Queen or King, but note that a larger size will mean the weight is more spread out and won't feel as heavy.

✔️ Laundering instructions: Check the care label to ensure you'll be able to keep it clean easily. Some weighted blankets are spot-clean only, but using a duvet cover can help keep it fresh. Styles that are entirely machine washable usually take a while to dry and can be more prone to wear and tear over time.

What are the benefits of a weighted blanket?

Experts report there are a range of real benefits to using a weighted blanket . "There is recent research suggesting they can help reduce or relieve anxiety," says Rocchio Mueller. She also says they can help people who may not consider themselves anxious, yet still experience insomnia or sleep disturbances: "A weighted blanket might provide just enough physiological calm that it helps them relax to fall asleep." Many users describe the sensation of lying under a weighted blanket as feeling like a hug.

"It is one of the most natural things to hug a family member or friend when they are upset or anxious," according to Rocchio Mueller. "While a hug might not solve all your problems, it often helps you feel better by calming your body, which then allows you to think a little bit clearer."

Can you machine wash a weighted blanket?

Yes, most of the time you can machine wash weighted blankets, but it's important to check the care label first. All of our recommendations are either entirely machine washable or have a washable duvet cover.

For machine-washable weighted blankets, the GH Institute Cleaning Lab recommends considering the size and capacity of your washing machine. Some washing machines have a weight limit of around 20 pounds, so you'll want to avoid washing a heavy 25- or 30-pound blanket at home. It's also a good idea to use a low-speed spin and to make sure there's ample space for the blanket to move around.

How heavy should a weighted blanket be?

A weighted blanket should never feel so heavy that you can't easily move around underneath it. To find the best weight for you, you'll need to do some basic math. Most manufacturers recommend choosing a weighted blanket that's roughly 10% of your body weight . So if you weigh around 150 pounds, a 15-pound blanket is ideal. Don't worry about hitting the exact number; within the 7% to 12% range is considered good.

Why trust Good Housekeeping?

Lexie Sachs is the executive director of strategy & operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute , where she has extensively tested all types of bedding using specialized Lab equipment and feedback from thousands of consumer testers. Besides coordinating weighted blanket tests in recent years, Lexie is also an avid user of weighted blankets and has tried many of these picks out herself before recommending them.

Emma Seymour is the senior textiles product analyst for the Textiles, Paper & Apparel Lab at the Good Housekeeping Institute . For four years, she has led product testing in the Lab and has assigned bedding products to more than a thousand home testers. Emma previously updated this article based on testing.

Lexie Sachs (she/her) is the executive director of strategy and operations at the Good Housekeeping Institute and a lead reviewer of products in the bedding, travel, lifestyle, home furnishings and apparel spaces. She has over 15 years of experience in the consumer products industry and a degree in fiber science from Cornell University. Lexie serves as an expert source both within Good Housekeeping and other media outlets, regularly appearing on national broadcast TV segments. Prior to joining GH in 2013, Lexie worked in merchandising and product development in the fashion and home industries.

Emma Seymour (she/her) is the associate director of the Good Housekeeping Institute 's Textiles, Paper and Apparel Lab, where she has led testing for luggage, pillows, towels, tampons and more since 2018. She graduated from Cornell University with a bachelor of science in fiber science and apparel design and a minor in gerontology, completing research in the Body Scanner Lab on optimizing activewear for athletic performance. 

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Basic Gravity® Blanket

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"They’re so heavy they mimic a lover’s embrace to help you nod off, our wakeful writer snuggles up."

"Weighted blankets are nothing new. Children on the autism spectrum and anxious elderly people have enjoyed their cocooning effect for some time. "

"It comes as no surprise that many are relying on weighted blankets to simply achieve a good night's sleep."

"Weighted blankets are sold to the insomnia crowd, but are also often recommended to children with autism, as a means of helping them sleep."

Properties of the Basic Gravity® Blanket

A high-quality weighted blanket with a removable cover helps with stress, anxiety and sleep disorders. The weight is distributed evenly over the entire body and creates a deep gentle pressure that allows you to relax and sleep better.

We recommend choosing a weighted blanket that is approximately 10-15% of its user’s bodyweight. If you are between two weight classes, choose the heavier version.

The weighted blanket is filled with high-quality glass microbeads closed in small pockets. The Basic Blanket cover is made of cotton on both sides, available in white or grey.

Advantages of the Basic Gravity® Blanket

Perfect to start with

Two-sided cotton cover

You can easily change the cover thanks to the loops

Stability thanks to glass microbeads

Test for up to 100 days

Helpful with sleep problems

Helpful in the fight against excessive stress and anxiety

The perfect model for beginners and for the undecided! As with the Gravity Blanket, the outer cover is connected to the insert with 12 loops. The cotton cover is available in two colors – white and grey. Discover the advantages of the Basic Gravity Weighted Blanket!

Better sleep

Weighted blankets have a relaxing effect on our body and help us fall asleep faster. Covering yourself with it promotes the release of the sleep hormone melatonin. Better sleep has a positive effect on everyday life and work.

Less stress

Therapeutic weight helps your body and mind to turn off and relax after a stressful day. The pressure of the blanket lowers the level of cortisol (the so-called stress hormone). Under its influence, the muscles and nervous system relax.

Better mood

Using a weighted blanket can help your body shut down faster and enter recovery mode. Weight affects the muscles, tendons and joints.

• Replaceable Basic outer cover made of cotton on both sides
• Weighted blanket (insert) The insert is made of 100% cotton.
• Filling The filling is made of 32% polyester and 68% cotton
• Glass microspheres The filling contains high-quality fine-grained glass beads in small chambers that give the blanket the necessary weight.

Relaxation through deep pressure stimulation

Science and weighted blankets

The deep pressure created by the therapeutic weight of our blankets relaxes joints, muscles and tendons. This effect is also known as “Deep Pressure Stimulation”. It’s because of its gentle but potent and even pressure that is applied to the body. This helps you relax both physically and mentally. Our body awareness improves. In addition, it causes the release of the serotonin hormone, and at the same time lowers the level of cortisol (the stress hormone). Deep pressure signals the body to feel safe and confident.

Best quality from Europe

The Gravity® weighted blanket is made exclusively in Europe, the cotton used is certified and comes from sustainable plantations. The tiny stainless steel balls inside the blankets are manufactured in Europe in a perfectly safe environment.

Key Information

Product details.

• Weighted blankets help with problems with falling asleep, insomnia, stress, anxiety, as well as developmental disorders such as ADHD, Down syndrome, Asperger syndrome or autism.
• The gentle weight provides a pleasant and nurturing feeling of well-being. The pressure of the blanket is evenly distributed over the body. You can now fall asleep peacefully or sit comfortably and relax on the couch. It makes fears and bad thoughts disappear and soothes the body, ensuring a good night’s sleep.
• The Basic Gravity® blanket is a great solution to start your adventure with weighted blankets
• The blanket is available in two popular colors – white or grey
• The Basic Gravity® weighted blanket cover is made of 100% cotton on both sides, thanks to which it is better breathable and is perfect especially on warm summer nights
• The fabric has a European safety certificate (Oeko-Tex Standard 100)
• The blanket is hand sewn in Europe

The structure of the Basic Gravity® Blanket

• High-quality removable double-sided cover made of 100% cotton
• Weighted blanket insert The insert is made of 100% cotton.
• Glass microbeads The weighted insert of the blanket contains high-quality glass microbeads in small chambers that give it the necessary weight.
• Filling The filling is 32% polyester and 68% cotton

Size and weight

We sell Basic Gravity® blankets  in our shop in two sizes:

You can purchase blankets in the following weight options:

The weight of a weighted blanket should be approximately 10% of the person’s weight using it. If the weight falls between two ranges, we recommend choosing the heavier blanket. Are you not sure what blanket weight to choose? Please use the table below:

How do I clean Basic Gravity® Blanket?

• Both the cover and the weighted insert can be easily washed in the washing machine.
• We recommend that you wash the Basic Gravity® Blanket cover at a temperature not exceeding 40°C, and the Gravity® blanket insert at a maximum temperature of 30°C.
• Do not spin, alternatively select a low spin cycle.
• The insert should not be tumble dried. After washing, hang up or spread out and leave until dry.
• Do not iron the blanket.

Shipping and payment information

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Organic cotton

Manufactured in Europe

Sustainable production

Anti-allergenic

High Quality

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Choosing your weight.

Your weighted blanket should weigh approximately 10% of your  body weight.

Choose the weight of your blanket according to the recommendations below.

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7 Best Weighted Blankets To Help Ease Stress And Anxiety

These throws will help you relax after a busy day at work

To say the last few years have been somewhat testing would be an understatement. Given the chaos of Covid, it’s understandable that many of us are seeking out small ways to soothe the stresses of everyday life , ease anxiety and unwind.

Scientific research backing up their relaxation credentials remains fairly scarce, but studies have indicated that the calming, grounding effect of a weighted blanket can lower the levels of cortisol (also known as the stress hormone) in the body.

What is a weighted blanket?

Weighted blankets are similar to regular blankets in feel but, as you might expect from the name, they weigh considerably more (usually between 4.5kg and 11.5kg). This extra weight tends to come from glass or plastic beads stitched inside their fabric, though some use tightly woven cotton for a more natural feel.

These heavy throws have long been used by occupational therapists as calming devices for adults and children with sensory or psychiatric disorders. But recently, they have grown in mainstream popularity as more of us try to lower our stress levels at home.

Kourtney Kardashian is believed to be a big fan of weighted blankets, revealing on Instagram in 2018 that she uses a BlanQuil .

What are the benefits of a weighted blanket?

The science behind how weighted blankets work is limited, but there is plenty of evidence to suggest that they can help improve wellbeing. Heather Darwall-Smith , a psychotherapist who specialises in sleep, recommends weighted blankets to patients with anxiety who struggle to fall asleep at night.

'Weighted blankets mimic proprioceptive deep pressure stimulation, which is the body’s physical awareness of self,' she says. 'The weight of the blanket creates pressure on the skin that is believed to stimulate the feeling of a hug.'

'This pressure activates the parasympathetic nervous system - the opposite of the sympathetic nervous system that triggers the stress response - to trigger your brain to release neurotransmitters, including serotonin and dopamine. These have a naturally calming effect in reducing anxiety, heart rate and cortisol, thus promoting sleep.'

How heavy should my weighted blanket be?

You should always be able to move freely underneath your weighted blanket. The weight comes down to personal preference, but as a general guide, aim for a blanket that weighs between 7% and 12% of your body weight. For easier maths, call it 10%. So, if you weigh 70kg, try an 7kg blanket. Many brands offer a trial period to help you figure out the best weight for you.

Who shouldn't use a weighted blanket?

Weighted blankets are not recommended for pregnant women, children under three and anyone with a respiratory or circulatory disorder, such as asthma or diabetes. If in doubt, ask your GP.

How we test

Each weighted blanket was used by at least three members of our expert panel for three days and nights, both for getting cosy on the sofa and as a duvet-topper in bed. Our testers then shared their experiences, scoring the throws based on how comfortable they felt to lie under, whether they felt restrictive and (crucially) if they helped them feel more relaxed.

Only the products that were consistently awarded top scores made it on to our final roundup.

Kudd.ly Weighted Blanket

Comfortable, comforting and very, very cosy — this throw has everything a great weighted blanket should. Plus, it’s machine washable, so keeping it clean and smelling fresh is a cinch.

Our panel appreciated the soft, fleecy outer material, saying it felt like a big hug when they wrapped it around them. They were also fans of the blanket’s natural feel, barely noticing the super-fine glass beads sewn inside. Safe to say, we adored this one. 

Key specifications Sizes available (cm): 1 (122.5 x 198) Weights available (kg): 5 Filling: Glass beads Machine washable: Yes

John Lewis & Partners Specialist Synthetic Weighted Blanket

When one of our panel told us this weighted blanket helped them drift off quickly and sleep through the night, we knew we were on to a winner. And, when the rest of our testers said it instantly fell comfortably over their bodies and helped them unwind in record time, our suspicions were confirmed — this is a top product.

It comes in a range of four weights, so there’s an option for everyone, though the beads inside have a tendency to gather in the corners. However, our team said this didn’t affect its performance and couldn’t think of another bad word to say. 

Key specifications Sizes available (cm): 1 (150 x 200) Weights available (kg): 4.5, 7, 9, 11.5 Filling: Glass beads Machine washable: No

Mela Luxe Cotton Knit Weighted Blanket

If you’re looking for a subtle weighted blanket that can slip seamlessly into your living room or bedroom aesthetic, we’d point you firmly in this Mela’s direction. Using tightly woven cotton (rather than the usual glass beads) to create weight, it looks just like a normal —albeit, attractive — knitted blanket. 

But, available in 6kg or 7kg options, it still offers the deep pressure stimulation benefits that make weighted blankets so comforting. It earned particular praise from our panel when used on top of a duvet, providing warmth and weight while still looking great. 

Key specifications Sizes available (cm): 1 (120 x 180) Weights available (kg): 6, 7 Filling: Cotton, non-beaded Machine washable: Yes

Simba Orbit Weighted Blanket

The average weighted blanket is likely to take up the majority of your wash (if it’s machine washable at all). This throw from Simba, on the other hand, has a removable cover, so keeping it clean is far less labour-intensive. 

Our panel said it kept them at a comfortable temperature, shielding them from Britain’s chilly winter temperatures without causing them to overheat, and they were big fans of the duvet-like feel when using it in bed. The lack of a fleecy outer was a miss when cosying up on the sofa, but that was our only moan. 

Key specifications Sizes available (cm): 1 (135 x 200) Weights available (kg): 6.8, 9 Filling: Glass beads Machine washable: Yes, cover only

Cloverlane Weighted Blanket

Seeking a cosy weighted blanket for couples? Look no further. Our team found this throw easily covered two people, so there’s no need for your feet to get chilly. They also praised the luxury feel – its crafted in Portugal using tightly woven cotton rather than enclosed glass beads.

This material was at its best when used on top of a duvet, adding substance and style to our bed set-up, though some of our panel said it wasn’t quite soft enough to be used as a sofa blanket. 

Key specifications Sizes available (cm):  1 (150 x 200) Weights available (kg):  5 Filling:  Cotton Machine washable:  Yes

Remy The Sleeper

The Sleeper’s soft, silky cover gives it a premium feel that was loved by all of our testers. It also comes with a free tote (because you can never have enough totes, right?).

The cover is machine washable, making upkeep a breeze, and it uses a unique 360-degree zipper system to connect to the blanket. This helps to keep the glass beads evenly spread for maximum comfort and relaxation.

Key specifications Sizes available (cm): 1 (135 x 200) Weights available (kg): 6, 8, 10 Filling: Glass beads Machine washable: Yes, cover only

Emma Hug Weighted Blanket

We don’t need our weighted blankets to be artistic masterpieces but, put it this way, we’re not putting an ugly throw on our bed. Luckily, our panel loved the Emma Hug’s simple yet effective quilted design.

The weight was spread evenly, meaning we quickly got comfortable, and the size of the blanket is ample for swaddling up in at the end of a long day. Our one piece of advice: the optional bamboo cover is well worth investing in for a softer, more comforting feel. 

Key specifications Sizes available (cm): 1 (150 x 200) Weights available (kg): 7 Filling: Glass beads Machine washable: Yes, cover only

Jess is the Deputy Digital Editor of Red, covering everything from fashion and beauty to interiors and wellbeing. When she isn't busy scouring the new collections, sales and preloved marketplaces for beautiful pieces to add to her wardrobe, Jess can be found enjoying live music, making her first house a home and planning her next travel adventure.

Harry’s news reporting has been published in over 70 newspapers across the UK. Now, he specialises in home appliances, health and fitness, bringing you reliable reviews on the best homes, sports and nutrition products on the market to help you upgrade your home and training routine. 

Outside the office, he has dedicated countless hours to learning about different physical training methods, experimenting with everything from CrossFit to powerlifting.

Yanar has spent 15 years as a health and wellness editor and writer for national titles such as Women’s Health, Men’s Health and Runner’s World. Yanar is a 580-hour yoga therapist, 200-hour yoga teacher and level 3 personal trainer at Yanar Mind & Movement. After years of running races and marathons, she discovered CrossFit and Olympic lifting in her mid-30s and fell in love with training and competing. She now advocates strength training for women to build a stronger body for life and the benefits of nervous system regulation for better physical and mental health. When not training, teaching or writing, she can be found experimenting in the kitchen.

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The 13 Best Travel Blankets to Help You Get Cozy Just About Anywhere

Goodbye sad little airline blankets, hello comfort and style.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying

You May Also Want

• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

If you are tired of freezing on airplanes, chilly train rides, or breezy outdoor excursions, then we’ve got you covered (literally). Whether you're embarking on a long-haul flight, hitting the road for a cross-country adventure, or heading out on a camping adventure, a high-quality travel blanket can make all the difference. From lightweight and compact options ideal for cramped airplane seats to larger, more insulated blankets perfect for sleeping under the stars, we've rounded up the best blankets to suit every traveler's needs. 

Our Travel + Leisure team tested 19 travel blankets for comfort, ease of use, durability, and value. We evaluated and compared each option based on overall construction, fabric choice, design features, warmth, and packability. (Read more about our comprehensive testing process below). We will continue testing our picks for six more months to ensure each option’s reliability and durability, and we will update this article if anything should change. Scroll down below to find your next travel blanket guaranteed to make others jealous of how cozy you'll be on your next trip.

Best Overall

Kashwere travel blanket.

This blanket delivers the perfect combination of comfort, durability, and versatility.

The carrying bag is made of the same chenille fabric as the blanket, so it takes some effort to fit the blanket back inside the fuzzy bag.

If you’re a frequent traveler who values comfort, this travel blanket is worth every penny. We gave this Kashwere option a perfect score for being super cozy and comfortable, versatile, and durable. The blanket itself is made of a soft chenille yarn that feels like being wrapped in a cloud, providing a chef’s kiss balance between being warm but not heavy or too breezy. Size-wise, it might not be big enough to wrap you head to toe, but it covers all the important bits when you're sitting down — perfect for planes, cars, or just chilling at home. The fabric held up well after machine-washing and drying, and we thought the zipper on the carrying bag was sturdy. Bonus points: this blanket comes with its own carrying bag made of the same material, so you can double up the use for the packed blanket as a pillow, although it might not always be the easiest to tuck the blanket back inside the bag.

The Details: 32 x 48 inches | Chenille

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Elise Wang

Best for Flights

Travelrest 4-in-1 travel blanket.

We love the wearability and portability of this Travelrest option.

We wish it came with a pillow, but it’s not a total dealbreaker.

This blanket feels just like that favorite throw blanket you'd fight your friends over at an Airbnb — soft, plush, and just right for keeping warm on chilly flights. Its standout feature is the poncho style with plenty of room in the sleeves, and it’s made from plush fleece that covered us from neck to ankles. Perfect for car rides, train trips, and flights, or even just lounging at home or at a sports event, this blanket was a breeze to unpack and repack thanks to its laptop case-like zip around and additional drawstring bag. When we rolled it and placed it inside, we were impressed that it packed down to the size of a water bottle. Snag this blanket if you're a busy traveler who hates lugging around bulky blankets!

The Details: 38 x 72 inches | 14 ounces | Plush microfiber

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Chantia Murphy

Best for Camping

Yeti lowlands blanket.

From its waterproof material to its sturdy build, it doesn't get any more durable than this blanket.

This is way too large to use on a plane and is better suited for outdoor scenarios like camping trips, picnics, or beach outings.

First off, let's talk size: this blanket is massive, clocking in at about 6.5 by 4.5 feet and weighing nearly six pounds. While it might be a bit too big and heavy for squeezing onto your luggage for a plane trip, it's perfect for car rides or any outdoor adventure — especially camping. The blanket comes with its own carrying case, making it easy to throw with your other travel items. 

One side of the blanket is soft to the touch, while the other is built for toughing it out on the ground. We love that it has a waterproof layer, making it so convenient against spills and soggy ground. We also noticed how durable it is, and we definitely think it will stand up well to pebbled surfaces while camping while still feeling soft and warm. While the price might seem steep at $200, it's worth the investment for its versatility and durability.

The Details: 78 x 55 inches | 5.8 pounds | 65 percent polyester/35 percent rayon (comfort side), 100 percent polyester (utility side)

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Stella Yu

Most Portable

Bluehills travel blanket pillow.

It folds neatly into a plush carrying case and features a luggage strap and a clip to attach it to a bag.

If you tend to run cold, this blanket might be too lightweight for you.

Why use a sad airline blanket when you can bring your own? While some of the other blankets on this list are too large to comfortably use on a plane, this one is the perfect portable size. We thought it was super soft and lightweight, but a tad thin — it’s ideal for keeping cozy on a plane or car ride, but maybe not quite warm enough for those who easily get chilly. We appreciated the stress-free packability when it’s time to deplane (no wrestling with a stubborn blanket here!). When you’re ready to pack it up, it folds neatly back into its plush carrying case, which doubles as a cozy pillow after you zip it up. It also features a luggage strap and a clip to attach it to a backpack that makes it convenient to carry.

The Details: 70 x 48 inches | 1.28 pounds | Plush microfiber

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Anya Bayerle

Most Versatile

Away the travel blanket.

Featuring thermoregulating technology, this blanket keeps you comfy in any temperature while remaining lightweight.

 Folding a blanket that's almost 6 by 4 feet into itself on a plane is not the easiest task, but once it's packed, it's super lightweight and compact.

Away’s The Travel Blanket is the Goldilocks of travel blankets on our list — it's never too hot, never too cold, and always just right. Made of lightweight nylon, we thought it was like snuggling up in a sleeping bag . It might not be the comfiest material out there, but its size (it stretches across three airplane seats!), breathability, and versatility for any occasion makes up for it. The blanket also has a foot pocket, but we noticed we couldn’t reach it comfortably without being overwhelmed by fabric while we tried it out on a plane because of how large the blanket is, so we think this blanket is better suited for car rides, Airbnb stays when you need extra blankets, or outdoor activities like picnics or camping trips.

The blanket features 37.5 thermoregulating technology to personalize climate control, and we did notice that we never felt chilly or overheated when using it. “If you get hot, 37.5 active particles help to cool you down. If you get cold, these same particles work to warm you up,” according to the product listing on the Away website . Plus, it has some pretty unique features like snaps to attach it to a travel pillow and a strap to hook onto a bag. We also love that the blanket folds into itself, so there isn’t an extra bag you have to carry around.

The Details: 69.5 x 44.5 inches | 1.05 pounds | 100 percent Cocona 37.5 Nylon

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Maggie Andrew

Best Cashmere Set

Naked cashmere 4-piece travel set.

This travel set also comes with a pair of cashmere socks, a sleep mask, and a silk pillowcase.

It’s definitely a splurge as the priciest option on this list.

Look no further if you want to travel in style: this set is a luxury sleep kit in a pouch. It comes with cashmere socks and a silk sleep mask, and the silk pouch transforms into a pillowcase when the blanket's inside. Our T+L team member who tested this set was instantly sold when they slipped on the socks, wrapped up in the oversized blanket, and got comfy on a cross-country flight. They even continued to use it at their destination when they got chilly. This blanket feels like a dream — it’s so soft, it's like wrapping yourself in a designer sweater. Priced at $450, it is an investment, but we deem it worth the splurge (and it makes a luxurious gift for the traveler who has everything).  

The Details: 82 x 50 inches | Cashmere

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Most Durable

Eddie bauer packable synthetic throw.

Not only is this blanket highly packable and portable, but it also withstands all sorts of activities, from camping trips to sports events.

The color and style options are loud and bold.

What to Consider: The color and style options are loud and bold. 

This travel blanket is the ultimate all-in-one travel companion. What sets this blanket apart is its perfect balance between puffiness and smoothness; it's soft to the touch, but when it's time to hit the road again, it rolls up effortlessly into its carry bag. It’s so lightweight that we forgot we were even carrying it! It is also clear that this blanket is built to last. Despite our rigorous testing, it stood up to everyday use — including cat claws, car rides, and wash cycles — while staying soft and cozy. It's the perfect blend of lightweight portability and maximum warmth, making it a top choice for travelers.

The Details: 70 x 50 inches | Polyester

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Lisa Pezzuto

PAVILIA Travel Blanket and Pillow

With its velvety feel, portability, and budget-friendly price tag, this is a solid choice for anyone looking for bang for their buck.

This travel blanket lacks certain premium features compared to others on the market.

This travel blanket is wallet-friendly without compromising on comfort. Made from microfleece polyester, it's soft, lightweight, and velvety, perfect for covering up whether you're sitting or laying down. Its compact size makes it easy to wear on a train or a plane when you don’t want to encroach on the person sitting next to you, but it’s still large enough to cover you and keep you warm. To pack it up, simply fold it a couple of times, zip it into its carrying pouch, and voila — you've got yourself a pillow. Plus, the pouch has a strap for easy carrying, which you can buckle onto a backpack strap or luggage handle. While it might not be the fanciest blanket out there, it holds up well in the wash and should last a few years. And at its price, it's a steal for the comfort and convenience it offers.

The Details: 60 x 43 inches | Microfleece

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Jackie Cucco

Best Puffer

L.l.bean puffer blanket.

This do-it-all camp blanket is perfect for sitting around the fire, sleepovers, movie night, picnics, and more.

The available patterns might not fit everyone’s taste.

Wrapping yourself in this blanket is like snuggling up with a puffer coat: slick and water-resistant but still comfy to the touch. Despite being lightweight, we found that this option kept us nice and toasty without making us feel overheated. Its flexibility made it easy to fold down this blanket into its travel bag, compact enough to match the size of a 40-ounce water bottle. It also features elastic bands on each corner to turn this blanket into a makeshift cape or coat. We love that this blanket is tougher than it looks, holding up all our testing with no signs of wear and tear.

The Details: 75 x 54 inches | 1.7 pounds | Polyester

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Ciara Grovert

White+Warren Cashmere Travel Wrap

Suitable for either a flight or a fancy dinner, we love how practical, chic, and versatile this wrap is for several occasions.

Its material is cashmere, so you have to dry clean it.

This White + Warren wrap may just be our new favorite go-to accessory for chilly airplanes. What sets it apart is its versatility, doubling as a cozy blanket for travel or a shawl that you can wear over your shoulders. It's well over five feet in length and though it's not the widest when compared to more traditional blankets, it’s wider than a standard scarf so you can wear it draped over your body or lap to keep warm in transit. The wrap's premium cashmere material adds to its luxe appeal, and that means you can even wear it out to dinner while looking stylish — and you can’t do that with a regular airplane blanket. Bonus points for making it out of a 14-hour travel day packed into a personal item without any wrinkles!

The Details: 81 x 36 inches | Cashmere

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Anna Popp

Rumpl Original Puffy Blanket

This massive blanket offers ample warmth and coverage, and there’s a huge selection of color options.

It’s not the easiest to stuff back into its carrying case, and it’s too large to use on a plane.

We found your next camping companion with the Rumpl The Original Puff. The generous size of this blanket provides lots of cozy comfort whether you’re covering yourself to sleep or laying or sitting on top of it. With 30 color options to choose from, this travel blanket is great for anyone looking for an airy, breathable, and versatile blanket for outdoor use. The included stuff sack adds convenience, though packing it back up requires some effort akin to rolling and tucking a sleeping bag or camping air mattress back into its case. At $125, it's a worthwhile investment for warm camping trips or outdoor activities but may not be practical for frequent air travel due to its large size.

The Details: 75 x 52 inches | 2.1 pounds | Recycled polyester

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Taylor Fox

Best Insulated

The north face wawona blanket.

This lightweight blanket delivers on warmth and packability.

We found that this blanket is not the most cozy option.

We recommend this water-resistant North Face blanket specifically for outdoor activities and events, making it ideal for travelers seeking a lightweight, packable option that will keep you warm without taking up much space in your bag. The blanket features recycled synthetic insulation that provides warmth but lacks the soft feel of fleece or yarn. Packing and unpacking the blanket were straightforward, and though it took us a little bit of effort to fold the blanket neatly back into the attached carrying bag, once you get it back inside, the bag helps compress the blanket to a compact size that you can stow away in a backpack. The blanket showed no signs of wear or tear after multiple uses and washes, but we do think it has the potential to get snagged or tear if faced with anything sharp.

The Details: 72 x 55.9 inches | 1.5 pounds | Recycled polyester

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Henry Yung

Unhide Lil' Marsh Traveler

It feels expensive for how comfortable and soft it is but is super affordable.

It only comes in a few neutral shades of beige, and it does not include any straps or carrying cases.

Cuddly, comfortable, convenient, and cozy — and those are only the adjectives beginning with “C” when describing this blanket. Despite its ability to roll up small, the Unhide Lil’ Marsh Traveler proved to be a large blanket, providing ample coverage with plenty of extra room while sitting or lying down. This would make a great option for a plane or car ride for how thin and soft it is without any excessive bulk to bog you down or get in your neighbor’s way. We found that this blanket maintained its softness and durability throughout testing, remaining in pristine condition even after frequent use and washes. It can also easily fit into a tote bag or carry-on due to its thin material, making it easy to travel with when you have limited space but want something soft and snuggly to cover yourself with.

The Details: 60 x 50 inches | 1.7 pounds | Polyester

• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure / Tatiana Kennedy
• PHOTO: Travel + Leisure. /Tatiana Kennedy

Other Travel Blankets We Liked

Four additional travel blankets we tested couldn’t quite earn a spot on our list due to minor issues but still had notable features that may meet the needs of some travelers.

Forestfish Fleece Throw Blanket : Priced at under $20, this blanket offers a good value for those seeking a smaller, lightweight travel blanket, especially suitable for shorter road trips. While it was adequate for drives, it may not offer enough insulation for plane or train rides with less temperature control.

Therm-a-rest Honcho Poncho Wearable Hoodie Blanket : This blanket maintains warmth without overheating, making it suitable for various outdoor activities. While its wearability adds convenience, it does not offer much coverage in poncho mode.

Sagefinds Soft Travel Blanket with Bag : Although deceivingly thin, this option offers a step up from airline blankets, providing warmth and breathability without being overly luxurious. It's deemed best for budget-conscious travelers seeking portability.

Travel + Leisure / Alexander Huang

Eversnug Travel Blanket and Pillow : We like the versatility of being able to use this item as both a blanket and a pillow. However, it’s not the best choice for taller people because it’s on the smaller size.

Our T+L team tested 19 travel blankets in everyday travel scenarios to assess comfort, ease of use, durability, and value. We followed a comprehensive examination to evaluate each option, including overall construction, fabric choice, design features, warmth, and packability. We used the blankets in a variety of practical scenarios including traveling by plane, train, and car; during outdoor events; and even while lounging at home to determine comfort, functionality, versatility, and durability. 

We took notes on how heavy or lightweight the blankets felt, how warm or breathable they were, how large or compact they were, how easy it was to pack or fold them, and any unique features they had to make them more portable or comfortable. For the blankets that were machine-washable, we washed them at least once during the initial testing period to see how they held up and if the materials changed at all.

Our long-term plan includes testing for an additional six months to monitor each blanket’s performance and durability in different travel scenarios. As we continue to test the blankets in various real-world settings, we will continue to take notes on portability, practicality, and any wear and tear, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of each travel blankets’ reliability. We will update these results if our findings should change.

Tips for Buying Travel Blankets 

Think of your intended use.

When buying a travel blanket, consider your intended use carefully. If you're primarily using it for flights, prioritize coziness and a compact size — you won’t want something too large or too bulky that will take up too much space in your personal item or spill into the neighboring seat. Look for blankets made from soft materials that provide warmth without being too heavy to carry. Opt for lightweight options that can easily fit into your bag and keep you comfortable during long flights.

On the other hand, if you're planning to use the blanket for camping or outdoor activities, prioritize warmth and durability. Consider blankets that are larger, thicker, and possibly waterproof (or at least water-resistant) to withstand various weather conditions. Look for materials like fleece or wool that provide insulation and keep you warm even in chilly outdoor settings.

Additionally, pay attention to the dimensions of the blanket. Some blankets are designed for one person, while others are larger and suitable for two. Choose the size that best fits your needs, whether you prefer individual coverage or sharing with a travel companion.

Keep portability in mind

When you're on the hunt for a travel blanket, don't forget about portability. Look out for ones that come with a handy carrying case, especially those with luggage sleeves or clips that you can easily attach to your backpack or suitcase. Having a dedicated carrying case helps keep the blanket compact and protected when not in use, preventing it from taking up too much space in your luggage or personal bag. Some blankets can even double as pillows when you fold them up into their cases. Additionally, it helps to not carry one more additional item (look ma, no hands!) and makes it effortless to bring along during travel.

Look at special features

Traveling is hard enough, so when shopping for a travel blanket, consider special features that enhance functionality and comfort. Look for blankets with built-in footrest pockets, which provide extra warmth and coziness during long journeys. Zippered compartments are handy for storing small items like headphones or travel documents, keeping them within easy reach.

You can also opt for blankets that can fold into a pillow, offering versatility and saving space in your luggage. Waterproof blankets are ideal for outdoor adventures, ensuring you stay dry and comfortable in unpredictable weather conditions. Thermoregulating blankets help maintain a comfortable temperature, keeping you warm without overheating. Blankets with sleeves and hoods allow you to wear them like a garment, providing maximum coverage and warmth.

Frequently Asked Questions

Ultimately, the size of your optimal travel blanket depends on your personal preferences, intended use, and travel requirements. Determine if you'll be using the blanket alone or sharing it with a travel companion. Look for a blanket that provides adequate coverage for your body lengthwise and widthwise, and think about whether you’ll be using the blanket draped over your lap or shoulders on an airplane or to snuggle your entire body under while sleeping in a tent. Check the dimensions to ensure it will fully cover you while sitting or lying down, especially if you're tall or prefer extra room.

It’s also best to consider how you'll be using the blanket. If it's primarily for air travel, a smaller size that fits comfortably in your carry-on or weekender bag may be ideal. For camping or outdoor activities, a larger size for added warmth and comfort may be more suitable.

Packing a travel blanket is relatively simple and depends on its design and size. If the blanket comes with a carrying case or pouch, fold or roll it neatly and tuck it into the case. Some blankets are designed to fold into themselves, transforming into a compact pillow or storage bag, making them easy to pack. If there's no specific carrying case, fold the blanket into a manageable size and place it in your luggage or travel bag like you would do for a sweatshirt or pair of pants. Consider using compression packing cubes or vacuum-sealed bags to further reduce bulk and save space if it’s a bulkier blanket.

Washing a travel blanket typically depends on the material and care instructions provided by the manufacturer. In general, most travel blankets made of synthetic materials like polyester or fleece are machine-washable in cold water on a gentle cycle. After washing, air drying is usually recommended to maintain the integrity of the fabric and prevent shrinking or damage from high heat. There are also some cashmere blankets on this list that are dry-clean only. Be sure to check the care label on the blanket for specific instructions and any additional precautions.

When it comes to traveling, it pays to be comfortable. These items will make your next trip a little easier and a lot cozier, whether you're traveling by train, bus, or plane.

Ostrichpillow Go Neck Pillow : With a plush memory foam filling, this pillow has an asymmetrical design that can accommodate various neck, chin, and head support preferences. It's no surprise that it came out on top during our best travel pillows tests.

Spanx AirEssentials Tapered Pant : Traveling in both comfort and style has never been easier. This sleek set is crafted from a lightweight and buttery-soft fabric that doesn’t crease or wrinkle.

alo Accolade Hoodie : With an oversized, unisex fit and laid-back dropped-shoulder style, this super cozy hoodie features a soft interior fabric that's ideal for lounging moments and travel days.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

An expert on shopping trends and a frequent traveler, Maddie Michalik has been professionally reviewing products since 2014. For this story, she combed through T+L’s detailed testing insights for various travel blankets, reading through testing feedback for each blanket, then referenced product descriptions and additional research to create a comprehensive roundup of the best travel blankets today.

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

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• Sheets and bedding

The Best Weighted Blankets

By Caira Blackwell and Joanne Chen

Sometimes you just want a hug—or, at the very least, a big, fluffy cat to curl up in your lap. When neither is available, there’s the weighted blanket, a heavier-than-usual throw or comforter that’s meant to wrap the body in a soothing embrace.

We tested 20 weighted blankets by chilling out under them, heaving them into the wash, and hauling them out of the machine to dry—and we found six that are notably comfortable, well constructed, and easy to care for. We also have three recommendations for weighted blankets for kids .

How we tested

We evaluated every inch of the blankets, looking for soft, high-quality fabrics; strong seams; and well-distributed fill.

We gave points to blankets from companies that offer generous return periods, long warranties, and responsive customer service.

We cuddled, lounged, and napped beneath each blanket in Wirecutter’s test space and in our homes.

We put each blanket through a wash cycle, measuring how much water it retained and how long it took to dry.

The research

Why you should trust us, an elegant weighted comforter: nest bedding luxury weighted blanket, a low-maintenance weighted quilt: baloo weighted blanket, a chunky-knit weighted throw: bearaby cotton napper, an affordable weighted comforter: luna weighted blanket, a lighter, affordable knit weighted blanket: casaluna knit weighted blanket, a lush, low-budget weighted comforter: layla weighted blanket, what about weighted blankets for kids, how heavy should a weighted blanket be, do weighted blankets actually offer any benefits, how we picked and tested, washing, care, and maintenance, other good weighted blankets, the competition.

Wirecutter has been researching and testing weighted blankets since 2019. For this guide, we did the following:

• We spoke to doctors, therapists, and representatives of companies that specialize in bedding. We also scoured Amazon, bedding sites, and articles on weighted blankets to determine which models to call in for testing.
• We tested 20 weighted blankets, feeling the material, texture, weight distribution, and heat retention of each before sleeping with the finalists at home.
• We assessed the stitching and, if applicable, the beading of the blankets before machine-washing and -drying each finalist, noting how much water they retained and how well they emerged from the process.

Nest Bedding Luxury Weighted Blanket

A stylish, well-made weighted comforter.

This elegant, machine-washable comforter features polyester jersey on one side and bamboo-based rayon on the other. Its glass microbeads, which give it its heft, are nearly imperceptible.

Buying Options

Best for: This blanket will appeal to those seeking a cozy but elegant option for the bed or couch, as well as people who don’t sleep hot.

How it feels: The Nest Bedding weighted blanket feels like a smooth, slightly silky, heavy comforter.

Weight: 18 pounds (queen)

Why it’s great

It’s dual-sided. The Nest Bedding Luxury Weighted Blanket features polyester jersey on one side and bamboo-based rayon on the other, but the two materials feel very similar: smooth, soft, and slightly satiny to the touch.

The microbeads are nearly imperceptible. Like most weighted blankets, the Nest Bedding blanket gets its poundage from small glass microbeads sewn into “pockets.” But you really have to massage the quilted pockets to feel them, and they make no noise. Other weighted blankets we tested have more noticeable beads that rustle when they shift.

It has an elegant design. With its bold herringbone-pattern stitching and neutral color combination, this blanket has an understated look that is likely to blend well with various decor styles.

It’s both machine-washable and -dryable. We machine-washed it in cold water, as directed, and then tumble-dried it on low for 90 minutes. The blanket retained 5 pounds of water out of the wash and dried just fine after one cycle.

Flaws but not dealbreakers

It doesn’t offer the most direct pressure. People who like a lot of direct pressure (say, in the 20- to 25-pound range) might find this blanket too light. Most of the weight is distributed around—not on—the body.

It’s not for people who sleep hot. Since polyester and rayon are less breathable than cotton, this blanket may not be a suitable choice for people who get hot easily.

It comes in only one color combination. The blanket’s understated hues (indigo on one side, gray ombré on the other) should work well with most decor, but if you prefer another color, you’ll have to add a duvet cover.

• Materials: glass microbead filling, polyfill batting, polyester jersey and bamboo-based rayon cover
• Sizes: 15 pounds (twin, 48 by 72 inches), 18 pounds (queen, 60 by 80 inches), 25 pounds (king, 80 by 86 inches)
• Kids blanket: none
• Color: indigo and gray ombré
• Return policy : Returns accepted within 30 days of receipt, in original packaging.

Baloo Weighted Blanket

A low-maintenance weighted quilt.

This well-balanced, crisp, quilt-like blanket holds its own on a well-dressed bed, and it can go in the washer and dryer.

Best for: This blanket should appeal to people who want a weighted blanket with a bedroom vibe as opposed to a living-room feel, as well as those who prefer the easiest possible upkeep.

How it feels: The Baloo weighted blanket feels like a cross between a quilt and a comforter.

Weight: 15 or 20 pounds (full/queen)

It’s thoughtfully designed. Similar to the Nest Bedding blanket, the Baloo blanket gets its weight from small glass microbeads sewn into “pockets.” The Baloo’s pockets are a mix of three geometric shapes, including smaller squares that keep the beads from pooling. The result is a crisp, smart-looking weighted blanket that resembles a quilt.

It feels high quality. Our testers liked the smooth feel of the blanket’s covering, and we appreciated that the stitching is sturdy and close compared with that of cheaper options.

It’s easy to care for. We put it through one full wash-and-dry cycle, and it emerged in good shape. You can curtail how often you wash this blanket by covering it with a compatible duvet cover. Baloo offers a machine-washable and machine-dryable linen duvet cover , but it’s expensive.

It’s withstood the test of time. The Baloo weighted blanket has garnered some of the most enthusiastic reviews among testers who have tried it for an extended period of time. Guide co-author Caira Blackwell has used the Baloo blanket with its duvet cover for two years now, and the blanket has held up nicely. The company also offers a lifetime guarantee on materials and workmanship.

This blanket doesn’t hug you. The cotton batting in all of Baloo’s weighted blankets prevents the weight from enveloping your body as closely as that of blankets without such filler. However, the filler can help keep the blanket from feeling like a beanbag, a common complaint our testers had about other bead-filled options.

The quilt style traps heat. Compared with knit-style weighted blankets, this blanket can feel less breathable and even hot.

• Materials: glass microbead filling; cotton lining, batting, and cover
• Sizes: 12 pounds (throw, 42 by 72 inches), 15 or 20 pounds (full/queen, 60 by 80 inches), 25 pounds (king, 80 by 87 inches)
• Kids blanket : 9 pounds (40 by 60 inches)
• Color: white; kids blanket available in peach, aqua, indigo
• Return policy : Returns accepted within 30 days of delivery, even if you’ve used the blanket. (An $18 return-shipping fee applies to refunds; you pay nothing for store credit.)

Bearaby Cotton Napper

A chunky-knit weighted throw.

The Bearaby blanket is stylish and well balanced. But it’s not exactly warm (which you may find to be a good thing), and it’s more cumbersome to wash and dry than our other picks.

Best for: This blanket should appeal to design lovers and people who run warm.

How it feels: The Bearaby weighted blanket feels like a chunky, loose-knit cotton sweater.

Weight: 15 and 20 pounds (queen)

It looks as soothing as it feels. The Bearaby Cotton Napper ’s weight comes entirely from its fat cotton yarn, which is knit loosely, like a chic oversize sweater. With five color options, this hefty throw is an Instagram-worthy accent on a well-appointed couch. (Also, a tester half-jokingly pointed out that the blanket’s open weave allows you to poke your fingers through and type on your phone from underneath it.)

It won’t make you hot. Because it’s so loosely woven and made from cotton, the Bearaby blanket is less likely to trap heat than bead-filled, comforter-style throws.

It distributes weight evenly. Because the weight comes from the layers of cotton yarn, rather than from pouches of glass microbeads or plastic pellets, this blanket exerts pressure more equally across the body. One long-term tester has been using the Bearaby both as a lap blanket while lounging and at bedtime, and they love that the weight doesn’t feel like it’s crushing them.

It has a chemical smell out of the box. This blanket has a faint synthetic smell when first removed from its packaging, which dissipates when aired out or washed.

It retains a lot of water out of the wash and dries slowly. Because the blanket is 100% cotton, you can machine-wash it with zero fear that tiny pellets or beads will get loose. But it soaks up lots of water during the wash cycle; our 20-pound blanket turned into a 36-pound one when wet. It took some muscle for us to heave the blanket into the dryer, where we tumble-dried it on low (per Bearaby’s instructions) for three cycles before it thoroughly dried.

It doesn’t exactly cuddle. If you’re looking for a fluffy blanket to keep you warm, the Bearaby isn’t it. The texture of the cotton almost feels like a T-shirt, so it’s not an ultra-soft, fluffy blanket some people might prefer to snuggle up with.

It’s less durable than more expensive blankets. After three months of using the Bearaby weighted blanket, one long-term tester reported that it had stretched out, though the effect was subtle. Another tester noted fuzzing after the first wash. In our wash test, we noticed that the midnight-blue Bearaby blanket we tested lost a bit of its luster.

• Materials: organic cotton
• Sizes: 10 pounds (40 by 72 inches), 15 pounds (40 by 72 inches), 20 pounds (45 by 72 inches), 25 pounds (48 by 72 inches)
• Kids blanket : 6 pounds (36 by 48 inches), 8 pounds (40 by 60 inches)
• Colors: asteroid (dark) gray, midnight blue, moonstone (light) gray, cloud white, evening rose (pink); kids blanket available in midnight blue, moonstone (light) gray, evening rose (pink), confetti (multicolored)
• Return policy : Returns accepted within 30 days (a $20 processing fee applies to refunds; exchanges are free).

Budget pick

Luna Weighted Blanket

An affordable weighted comforter.

Smooth against the skin, the affordable Luna blanket looks and feels more balanced than most weighted blankets, especially with the duvet cover (sold separately).

Best for: This blanket should appeal to people seeking an affordable, lightweight weighted blanket for the bedroom.

How it feels: The Luna blanket feels like a standard comforter but heavier.

Weight: 15, 17, or 20 pounds (queen)

It’s inexpensive but decent. At $72 or so for a 60-by-80-inch, 15-pound blanket, the Luna Weighted Blanket is one of the least expensive weighted blankets we’ve found, yet many testers preferred it over more expensive options. Although its glass microbeads aren’t as evenly dispersed as those in the Nest Bedding and Baloo blankets , they don’t pool as much as those in other cheap weighted blankets we’ve seen. One tester said she liked the Luna best because “it seems more like an actual blanket.” She continued, “The weights didn’t jiggle around, and yet the blanket didn’t feel stiff.”

It doesn’t get heavy with water weight. We machine-washed and air-dried the blanket, as the label instructed, without too much effort. It retained only 3 pounds of water, which made the transition from washing to drying and then back to the bed an easy task. The company says the blanket can be infrequently tumble-dried, too.

The fabric is thin. Although the cotton fabric on the surface of the Luna blanket and the duvet cover (sold separately for about $45) is soft, it also feels thinner than the fabric on the Baloo blanket. “It feels like a nice but inexpensive shirt you get from Target,” said a tester, and indeed, in our tests it dried a little wrinkly like a shirt, too.

It isn’t as well made as our pricier picks (but it comes with a lifetime warranty). The Luna blanket’s stitching isn’t as precise and tight as that of the Nest Bedding blanket or Baloo blanket, and the duvet cover’s zipper felt cheap. After covering and uncovering the Luna weighted blanket a few times, we found that the duvet cover’s zipper had already begun to detach from the seams. A couple of Amazon customer reviews complained of glass beads leaking out at the seams, but the company said that the blanket is covered by a lifetime warranty and eligible for replacement at no cost if this happens. We found Luna’s customer service to be responsive.

The return policy is restrictive. If you buy the blanket from the Luna site and then want to return it, keep in mind that it must be in new condition and its original packaging, and you must pay a shipping fee, which is typically around $10 for a 15-pound blanket. Blankets bought from Amazon can be returned within 30 days, even if opened.

• Materials: glass microbead filling, polyester fill, cotton cover
• Sizes: 12 pounds (48 by 72 inches), 15 pounds (48 by 72 inches or 60 by 80 inches), 17 pounds (60 by 80 inches), 20 pounds (60 by 80 inches), 22 pounds (60 by 80 inches), 25 pounds (60 by 80 inches or 80 by 87 inches)
• Kids blanket : 5 pounds (36 by 48 inches), 7 pounds (41 by 60 inches), 10 pounds (41 by 60 inches)
• Colors: dark gray, light gray, dark blue, white, blue stripe, gray stripe, light blue, pink, ivory, lavender, mint green, various prints; kids blanket available in dark gray, light gray, white, various prints
• Return policy : Returns for purchases from the Luna site are accepted within 30 days of delivery (a $15 processing fee applies; there are no exchanges). If bought on Amazon , free returns are accepted within 30 days.

Casaluna Knit Weighted Blanket

A lighter, affordable knit weighted blanket.

If you like the style of the Bearaby blanket but not the price, the Casaluna blanket is a more affordable option. It feels sleek and looks great draped on a bed or couch. But it comes in only a 12-pound weight, so it’s not suitable for those who want a lot of pressure.

Best for: This blanket will appeal to those who are seeking a more affordable knit weighted blanket, who prefer a lighter-weight option, or who want to try a low-cost (and easily returnable) blanket.

How it feels: The Casaluna blanket feels like a smooth, drapey, chunky-knit sweater.

Weight: 12 pounds (queen)

It’s surprisingly luxurious for the price. The inexpensive Casaluna Knit Weighted Blanket surprised us straight out of the box; it felt soft and sleek, and its chunky knit looked almost handmade. When we lined it up next to the other knit-style blankets in our test group, including the much pricier Bearaby blanket, we had difficulty differentiating between them. Plus, it didn’t emerge with an overwhelming synthetic smell, like other options.

The weight is evenly distributed. As with the Bearaby blanket, we found that the weight of the Casaluna blanket was very balanced. But at 12 pounds for a 50-by-70-inch blanket (it comes in just one size), it’s much lighter in weight. (Depending on your needs and preferences, this may be a good or bad thing.)

It’s easy to wash. We easily tossed it into the washer on a light cycle, and it air-dried quickly when we laid it on a flat surface. It weighed a manageable 18 pounds when wet.

It has a generous return policy. Because the Casaluna is made by Target, it’s subject to the company’s forgiving return policy: 365 days, even if opened.

It has limited sizing and weight. As noted above, the Casaluna blanket is available in just one size (50 by 70 inches) and weight (12 pounds). If you prefer more pressure from a weighted blanket, consider one of our other picks, which come in heavier weights.

The materials make it more prone to retaining heat. Whereas the Bearaby is made of 100% cotton, the Casaluna is made of a blend of 80% polyester and 20% cotton. Because polyester is less breathable, the Casaluna blanket may not work well for people who run hot when they sleep, though its loose-knit design may help.

• Materials: polyester, cotton
• Size: 12 pounds (50 by 70 inches)
• Colors: blush, natural, dark gray
• Return policy: Returns are accepted within 365 days of purchase.

Layla Weighted Blanket

A lush, low-budget weighted comforter.

Cotton on one side and faux mink on the other, the honeycomb-stitched Layla Weighted Blanket is perfect for those who want a super-comfy weighted quilt for cooler weather. But it might be too warm for some people.

Best for: This blanket should appeal to people who want a warm, fuzzy weighted blanket to burrow under.

How it feels: The Layla blanket feels like a heavy, velvety quilt.

Weight: 20 pounds (queen)

It’s ultra plush at a low price. At $70 to $80 (on sale, which it always is) for a 48-by-72-inch, 15-pound blanket, this blanket is one of the least expensive models we’ve found. It features soft faux mink on one side and breathable cotton on the other. The furry material is perhaps the most pleasingly buttery kind we’ve felt on a blanket.

The beading is less noticeable than that of similarly priced options. The honeycomb stitching keeps the beads from pooling to one side of the blanket, which also helps it stay in place instead of slinking its way off the bed. The beads of this blanket are more noticeable than those of the Nest Bedding blanket and about on a par with those of the Baloo blanket; they don’t make a lot of noise during movement, but they’re not entirely undetectable, either.

It’s particularly easy to wash. In our testing, the Layla blanket was one of the easiest blankets to wash; it took on only an extra 2 pounds of water, and it went back to its normal, smooth state after one cycle in the dryer.

It comes with a good warranty, return policy, and customer service. Layla’s customer service is helpful and easy to navigate. The company offers a five-year warranty and a 120-day free trial, at the end of which you can return the blanket free of charge if you don’t like it.

The texture isn’t for everyone. Although our testers said the faux-mink fabric on one side was a nice, cozy touch, some people may not like the feel—or the look—of it.

It comes in only one color. The Layla blanket comes in only a silvery gray color, which may not go with everyone’s decor.

It might be too warm for some. The synthetic mink material is more likely to trap heat during sleep than more breathable cotton. The blanket’s sleek, smooth texture may offset some of the heat retention, though.

• Materials: glass microbead filling, cotton, polyester
• Sizes: 15 pounds (48 by 72 inches), 20 pounds (60 by 80 inches), 25 pounds (80 by 87 inches)
• Colors: gray
• Return policy : Layla offers a 120-night free trial to try a blanket and return it for a full refund. (Shipping fees are nonrefundable in Alaska, Hawaii, and Canada.)

Luna Kids Weighted Blanket

An affordable weighted blanket for kids.

The Luna Weighted Blanket comes in several kid-appropriate sizes.

Baloo Mini Blanket

A kid-size weighted quilt.

This 9-pound weighted blanket, a small version of our Baloo pick, comes in three kid-friendly colors.

Bearaby Nappling

A chunky-knit blanket for kids.

This kid-size version of our chunky-knit weighted blanket pick comes in 6- and 8-pound weights.

Long before weighted blankets became trendy, occupational therapists used them with kids with autism, ADHD, and sensory issues. Children without any of those conditions may find weighted blankets comforting, too.

There are no hard-and-fast rules about the appropriate weight of a weighted blanket for kids. “Ten percent of a kid’s weight is a general guideline and a good place to start, but you may have to play around with that,” said occupational therapist Teresa May-Benson, the executive director of the Spiral Foundation at OTA The Koomar Center in Newton, Massachusetts, at the time of our interview.

Most weighted blankets designed for adults tend to weigh 15 to 20 pounds, which is too heavy for most kids. For kids under 50 pounds, we suggest lighter versions of our top picks from Luna (5 to 10 pounds), Baloo (9 pounds) and Bearaby (6 to 8 pounds). Experts also recommended avoiding weighted blankets for infants or kids under 5 and supervising blanket use for children under 7. For children 7 and younger, take off the blanket once they’re asleep, especially if they tend to get wrapped up in their covers, said May-Benson. When in doubt, ask a pediatrician or an occupational therapist to determine whether a weighted blanket is appropriate for your child.

A weighted blanket should feel comfortably heavy—not so heavy that you have a hard time crawling out from under it. For most healthy adults, that’s around 15 to 20 pounds. Here’s what to consider:

Poundage: Weighted-blanket makers often advise that you choose a blanket of a weight equivalent to 10% of your body weight. Really, the correct weight is what feels comfortably heavy to you.

Type of weights: To add heft, most companies fill their weighted blankets with plastic pellets or glass microbeads—tiny spheres the size of sand grains. These particles are stitched, in various ways by various makers, into smaller compartments to help distribute the weight evenly across the entire blanket. The smaller the compartments, the more even the weight distribution tends to be.

Batting and added fibers: These materials give the blanket more shape, making it look, feel, and sound less like a wearable beanbag.

Duvet covers: Some blankets come with a duvet cover, while others have none (or the cover is sold separately). You may not need a cover, especially if the blanket itself is machine-washable (all of our picks are). But using a cover is likely to reduce how often you need to wash the blanket.

Dimensions: Weighted blankets have conventionally been designed to cover the body, not the bed, so the typical dimensions tend to be around 42 by 72 inches—enough to cover you and still provide room for you to shift around. Usually these blankets are promoted as single-person throw blankets. However, many companies, particularly bedding companies, now sell weighted blankets according to standard bed sizes (twin, full, queen, king); these generally cover the top of the bed but don’t drape over it like a regular blanket does. Larger blankets can change the feeling of how the weight is distributed: A 12-pound twin-size blanket, for example, can feel heftier than a 15-pound queen-size one because the weight of the former is more concentrated on the wearer’s body.

The science on weighted blankets is iffy. In a 2015 Occupational Therapy in Mental Health study (PDF) , in which researchers tested 30-pound weighted blankets on 30 adults admitted to the hospital for mental-health-related issues, 60% of the study participants self-reported a “significant” reduction in anxiety when using the weighted blanket, although physiological markers (based on the assessment of sweat-gland activity) were inconclusive. A March/April 2020 American Journal of Occupational Therapy review paper suggested that more evidence supports weighted blanket use for anxiety over insomnia, though the authors also noted that more research was needed overall. A small 2022 study in the Journal of Sleep Research suggested that using a weighted blanket at bedtime may increase the amount of melatonin released but cautioned that more investigation was needed to determine whether this could have a therapeutic effect on insomnia.

All of the above doesn’t mean you shouldn’t try a weighted blanket—just be aware of their limitations. “People need to be clear about what to expect from a product,” said Susan L. Hyman, MD, division chief of developmental and behavioral pediatrics at the University of Rochester Medical Center. “If you think you’re sleeping better with a weighted blanket, even if it’s a placebo effect, then it may be worth it for you.” But you won’t know unless you try one, which is why we focused on weighted blankets from companies that allow for a trial period or have a generous return policy.

In evaluating weighted blankets, we looked for:

Machine-washable: Washing a 15-pound blanket can be a daunting endeavor. Hand-washing it? Impossible. We focused only on blankets that are machine-washable. This meant that blankets from many popular mattress brands, including Casper , Helix , and Saatva , did not qualify.

Water retention: We weighed each contending blanket straight out of the wash to measure how much they weighed when wet. While it may seem superfluous, you’d be surprised how heavy a 15-pound blanket can get when it gains an extra few pounds in water weight.

Good customer service and return policies: We contacted each company to assess the responsiveness of customer service, should anything go wrong with your order. All of the blankets we picked have a return policy of at least 30 days.

Quality craftsmanship: We assessed each blanket’s stitching, weight distribution, texture, and, when applicable, beading. Because we realize that the true durability of a blanket reveals itself only over time, we’ll be long-term testing our picks and updating this guide as necessary.

We’ve been testing weighted blankets since 2019. Since then, we’ve called in 20 blankets, assessing their quality, stitching, and washability before inviting panelists to evaluate the most promising contenders in the office. We then tested the finalists at home, sleeping with them for at least one night each.

Cleaning instructions vary widely across brands. Follow the care instructions on your blanket’s label; if the instructions are confusing (we often found conflicting directions between the FAQ, the product blurb, and the label for the same blanket), contact customer service. The blankets often come with duvet covers that you can throw in the washer and dryer, which cuts down on how often you need to clean the blanket itself.

If you want a dedicated kids blanket that will survive daily wear and tear: The Sommerfly Sleep Tight Weighted Blanket is a durable, thoughtfully designed blanket co-created by occupational therapist Kristi Langslet, who has worked with children and adolescents for 30 years. Although the large beads in the large blanket size felt distracting to most of our adult testers (one likened the blanket to a bunch of beanbags stitched together), they were less annoying in the smaller version for kids. Customers can return the blanket within 30 days but are responsible for the shipping costs.

If you want a less bulky version of the Nest Bedding blanket with a machine-washable duvet cover: More than half of our testers gravitated toward the Gravity Weighted Blanket’s soft fleecy/velvety cover and balanced feel, but this blanket isn’t machine-washable. The blanket is well constructed, with glass microbeads and fabric-lined squares with tidy stitching and a button-tie-and-zipper system to keep it from bunching inside the duvet cover. Customers have 30 days from delivery to claim a refund (with the blanket in its original packaging) but are responsible for the shipping charges.

If you’re looking for a budget option with a machine-washable, dual-sided duvet cover: T he Tranquility Weighted Blanket is a good value at $50 for a 15-pound, 48-by-72-inch blanket. The blanket itself is spot-clean only, but the removable duvet cover (with a faux-mink side and a smooth side) feels adequately soft against the skin. The beads shift more noticeably inside the pockets of this blanket compared with others we’ve tried; some owners complain that it’s too heavy and awkward to move around under as a result. The Tranquility blanket is refundable within 90 days of the ship date or in-store purchase at Target.

The Luxome Cooling Weighted Blanket and Removable Bamboo Cover wasn’t soft or inviting straight out of the box. It took a few washes to soften the lyocell-bamboo duvet cover and cotton blanket, and we had to dry it with tennis balls (per the company’s recommendation) to undo the bunching that happened to the batting in the washing machine. If you purchase on Amazon, you can return this blanket for a refund within 30 days of receipt. (Luxome’s own site requires that you pay the shipping costs for returns.)

Both the chenille and cotton versions of the Magic Weighted Blanket suffer from the uneven sandbag feel and noise that are characteristic of blankets containing plastic pellets stitched into pockets without fabric batting. (The thicker texture of the chenille covering masks these issues somewhat.) Our long-term tester stopped using the blanket because she felt overwhelmed by it.

We tested a cotton version of the Mosaic Weighted Blanket . Testers gave this blanket low marks for overall feel, noting that it was too beanbag-like, similar to the adult-size Sommerfly blanket . But if you don’t mind that, you have dozens of designs in cotton and “minky” (a fleecy fabric) to choose from; all are machine-washable and machine-dryable.

We were disappointed to see the Nuzzie Knit Weighted Blanket ’s stitching (which anchors the end of the “yarn” to the blanket itself) loosening up over the course of the few weeks we tried it. We also noticed a bit of T-shirt–like fuzzing after drying this blanket. The blanket held 9 pounds of water weight from the wash, and it took nearly three full cycles in the dryer (and even then it still had some damp spots here and there). You can return it within 30 days of arrival for a refund; a $20 processing fee applies (but is waived if the packaging is unopened).

Our testers found that the SensaCalm Weighted Blanket   felt “fluffy … like a normal comforter, only heavier.” But other panelists found it too narrow. The company’s return policy is less generous than most: Customers can return a SensaCalm blanket within 30 days, but if the company “determine[s] the blanket has been used,” it will refund no more than 80% of the cost, depending on the blanket’s condition.

The inexpensive YnM Weighted Blanket is a best seller on Amazon and comes in more than a dozen design options. In our tests, its weight felt nicely distributed (more so than that of our budget pick, the Luna blanket) , and it emerged from both the washing machine and the dryer in decent shape (though it required a second drying cycle). But YnM’s customer service never answered our attempts to reach out, and testers preferred the overall feel of the Luna blanket, which is typically less expensive than the YnM blanket.

We chose not to test weighted blankets from Brooklyn Bedding , Casper , and Saatva , which required either hand-washing, dry cleaning, or spot-treating.

This article was edited by Courtney Schley and Ingrid Skjong.

Alexis Clare and William LaCourse, professors, Alfred University, Alfred, New York , email interview , October 21, 2019

Teresa May-Benson, occupational therapist and executive director of the Spiral Foundation at OTA The Koomar Center in Newton, Massachusetts , phone interview , October 17, 2019

Susan L. Hyman, MD, professor of pediatrics and division chief of developmental and behavioral pediatrics, University of Rochester Medical Center, phone interview, , phone interview , October 15, 2019

Chris Winter, MD, president of Charlottesville Neurology and Sleep Medicine and author of The Sleep Solution , phone interview , October 10, 2019

Meet your guides

Caira Blackwell

Caira Blackwell is a senior staff writer covering sleep, and co-host of our podcast, The Wirecutter Show . She has spent countless hours testing more than 50 mattresses and has slept on nearly a dozen at home. Her work has been published in Nylon magazine, Okayplayer, and Narratively. When she isn’t busy sleeping (for work), she’s busy trying new recipes in the kitchen or reading in the sun.

Joanne Chen

Joanne Chen is the senior editor on the home-decor team. Before covering sofas, lamps, candles, and other pretty things, she was the senior staff writer on the sleep team. She has also been an editor at Vogue, Martha Stewart Living, and Consumer Reports. In her free time, she enjoys organizing her closets and binge-watching HGTV, often both at the same time.

Further reading

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After wrapping ourselves in thirteen different puffy blankets, we found the Rumpl Down Puffy is the best insulated blanket to take outside.

The Best Throw Blankets

We spent hundreds of hours researching and testing more than 50 throws. Here are 11 throws we think are the best to curl up with for a nap.

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The Garnet Hill Plush-Loft Throw will make the whole family cozy this winter.

The Best Picnic Blanket

After lounging on 19 top-rated picnic blankets, we found that the Nemo Victory Picnic Blanket offers the best combination of comfort, durability, and easy cleaning.

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Our delightfully heavy weighted blankets help you naturally relax and recharge.

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I only wish I could afford one for each member of my household! help you naturally relax and recharge.

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A gently weighted and heated bottle that snuggles the body to ease pain and help you sleep better. Made of Terraclay™. Your Snuggler can also be chilled in the freezer to soothe sore muscles.

Remi Rabbit

Elli Elephant

A soothing bolster pillow for ergonomic support anywhere, anytime, made with plant-based Melofoam™.

Cuddler Cover

A chic, comfy body pillow cover to soothe your senses and suit your style.

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Plushknit Cocoon

A sublimely soft throw blanket to complete your calming cocoon. Made of GRS-certified upcycled Plushknit.

Muslin Cocoon

An airy organic cotton muslin throw blanket to complete your calming cocoon. Made of GOTS-certified 100% organic cotton muslin.

Feeling incredible comes down to simple science

Natural deep sleep.

Scientific research shows that sleeping under an evenly distributed weight brings about a deeper, more natural sleep cycle.

Peace of mind

The sensation of being cuddled lowers stress and anxiety by reducing cortisol, making you feel calm and relaxed

Joyful feeling

Being gently cocooned in a comforting weight increases serotonin, making you feel positively happy.

Soft, breathable, chunky knit that looks as good as it feels

The magic of a blissful cuddle, captured in layers of soft fabric and hand-knitted into cocoonable, couchworthy perfection.

No artificial fillers

Soft, sustainable fabric is the only thing inside our blanket to give it weight.

Hand-knit, with love

Handcrafted with the utmost care and attention to detail.

Designed for perfect breathability

Thoughtful design means delightfully heavy blankets with unmatchable airflow.

What our customers say

200,000+ Happy Nappers.

Sleeping Much Better

My husband has REM Sleep Disorder and thrashes around and yells in his sleep. I bought him the cotton napper for Chri ... Read More

My husband has REM Sleep Disorder and thrashes around and yells in his sleep. I bought him the cotton napper for Christmas. He didn’t believe it would help but to our surprise he said it made a big difference. He also didn’t have to get up as often to urinate. Very pleased with this product.

Patricia S.

The best weighted blanket hands down

I live in Florida, so the cotton fabric and large holes from the arm knitting make it feel like you’re sleeping with ... Read More

I live in Florida, so the cotton fabric and large holes from the arm knitting make it feel like you’re sleeping with a heavy comforter with ventilation holes built in.

Best weighted blanket

It's so snuggly and the weight is distributed really well! The biggest plus- it looks so cute on my bed!

Cat Gives It Thumbs Up

Besides being cool, heavy and holding me in place at night, it matches my cat. He took to it right away. So did I. I ... Read More

Besides being cool, heavy and holding me in place at night, it matches my cat. He took to it right away. So did I. I sleep better with it since I don’t toss around as much. It’s also way cooler than I thought it would be. I’ve always piled on blankets for the weight but ended up waking up all sweaty. That problem is gone. Glad I bought it.

Cozy & Luxurious

I love this napper! It’s cozy and luxurious and the color is gorgeous. I love Bearaby blankets because they add textu ... Read More

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Dear Vetted: Are Weighted Sleep Sacks Safe?

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Dear Vetted is a regular column where Forbes Vetted’s shopping experts answer your most pressing product questions. Today, parenting writer Elizabeth Mitchell Kadar addresses a reader query about a common-but-controversial baby gear item.

Dear Vetted,

Are weighted sleep sacks and pajamas safe, or do they pose a safety risk to my baby? Also, what about the Merlin Magic Sleep Suit—is it considered weighted too? A lot of other moms swear by it. —Baby Registry Challenges

Are weighted sleep sacks safe? Pediatricians and sleep doctors weigh in.

Dear Challenges,

Many parents will do anything for more sleep. Just ask this tired mom of three. So when weighted sleep sacks first became popular years ago, I too jumped on the train, willing to try the latest and greatest so we could all hopefully sleep better. That is, until a mere months after purchasing the Dreamland Baby Weighted Sleep Sack for my third kiddo, the AAP updated their safe sleep guidelines for the first time in over five years with strong recommendations against the use of weighted sleep sacks, sleepers or swaddles.

It was then that I decided to ditch ours, but what’s more confusing is why and how these weighted sleep sacks (many developed with the help of pediatricians and certified infant and toddler sleep consultants) still remain available for sale today, despite popular retailers like Amazon, Babylist, Walmart, Nordstrom and Target pulling them from their shelves earlier this year.

So what exactly is the deal with weighted sleep sacks? Are they ever safe? Should you immediately discontinue use if you already own one? What should your baby be sleeping in instead? We talked to a pediatrician, a board-certified sleep doctor and a pediatric nurse to get the facts.

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The best softside luggage, tested for compression, durability and more, what is a weighted sleep sack.

A weighted sleep sack is a wearable blanket designed for babies and toddlers that’s typically gently weighted to mimic the calming effects and gentle pressure of a parent’s embrace. Like a traditional sleep sack , they’re also made to keep kiddos who can’t safely sleep with a loose blanket warm during naps and overnight. Some of these products are weighted from the shoulders to the toes, while others feature evenly distributed weight only in the chest and/or stomach area.

Over the past several years, the popularity of weighted blankets as a whole and sleep sacks and swaddles for children have really caught on. “One of the features of the weighted sleep sack that was most appealing to parents was their thought that the weighted element offered an extra sense of security for the child by providing an extra little bit of pressure around their midsection,” says Jennifer Walker , co-founder of the parenting education service Moms On Call, pediatric nurse and mom of three. “This especially appealed to parents who enjoyed the sensation themselves.”

For parents like myself who were willing to try almost any product that claimed to safely help their baby sleep better, a weighted sleep sack felt like the perfect solution—especially with bold marketing claims, expert involvement and rave parent reviews.

Are Weighted Sleep Sacks Safe?

In short, no. “Although these products aim to replicate the comforting sensation of being held, the additional weight may hinder movement and breathing, particularly for younger infants,” says board-certified pediatrician Dr. Joel “Gator” Warsh . “This restriction could elevate the risk of suffocation and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS).” Furthermore, “the CPSC (Consumer Product Safety Commission) has recommended the removal of these products from shelves as they have been linked to several fatalities and are currently under investigation ,” notes Walker. He says it’s believed that the issues are due to either weighted sleep sacks being used improperly or restricting movements in a way that puts a child in danger.

Mary Halsey Maddox , owner and board-certified sleep doctor and pediatrician at Sleep Dreams , would be extremely hesitant to use any sort of weighted sleep product for a child under the age of 3 years. “Weighted blankets can restrict airflow and circulation in any age group, but infants and toddlers are particularly at risk because of their size,” she says. “The choking hazard is significant if any of the weighted material escapes through a small hole in the blanket.”

While there have been no studies to definitively refute the safety of weighted sleep sacks, bags or swaddles, Maddox says, “none of the commercial sleep sacks have been tested for safety from a safe sleep standpoint”—including in homes or overnight. In turn, it’s best to proceed with caution and avoid any weighted sleep devices, including the below products, for babies and toddlers until more research comes out.

• Babydeepsleep Weighted Sleep Suit: Nordic brand Babydeepsleep designs weighted sleep swaddles, sleep bags, suits and vests for children aged zero up to six years old. Each product has a minimum and maximum weight recommendation and has a weighted area covering the child’s chest and stomach. Products are safety tested in accordance with an EU safety standard, according to the brand.
• Dreamland Baby Weighted Sleep Sack: This popular weighted sleep sack for infants 8 pounds and up was once available at almost every major baby retailer. The sack has “evenly distributed weight from your baby’s shoulders to toes,” according to the website. The brand sells weighted sleep sacks, swaddles and blankets ranging in weight from 0.8 to 1.5 pounds. The brand says its products were designed in collaboration with pediatricians, certified sleep consultants and NICU nurses, as well as reviewed by a pediatric pulmonologist.
• Nested Bean: This widely known brand sells a variety of sleep sacks, swaddles and pajamas with a weighted area the chest. According to the website, these weights are between 1 to 3 ounces, depending on product and body weight/size. According to the brand, the products pass current mandatory and voluntary children's product safety tests.

“These products all have a very light, weighted element, but until the full investigation is complete, these would still be items that parents should research fully and approach cautiously,” warns Walker. Furthermore, Maddox would never recommend adding a weighted blanket to a baby or toddler’s chest and stomach (like in the above weighted sleep products), “as it can impair respirations and potentially circulation.”

Why Are Weighted Sleep Sacks Still Available For Purchase?

The sale of weighted sleep sacks has not been officially prohibited by the U.S. government, which is why they’re still being sold by brands directly to consumers. However, the CPSC, AAP, NIH (National Institutes of Health) and CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) are all in alignment that any weighted sleep product, from sacks and swaddles to bags and blankets, poses a risk to babies.

In an April 2024 letter to major U.S. retailers, CPSC Commissioner Richard L. Trumka Jr. urged vendors to reconsider the sale of weighted sleep products, highlighting the hazards they pose to infants. Babylist, Target, Walmart and Nordstrom all quickly responded, discontinuing the sale of such products, with Amazon following suit shortly after.

AAP President Benjamin D. Hoffman, M.D., praised this move, calling it “a strong first step,” and emphasizing how “infants deserve more.”

“Exhausted parents shouldn’t have to become part-time product safety regulators, but our current system forces them to by allowing infant products onto the market without evidence they are safe,” he continued. “We need a proactive approach that keeps infants safe and gives parents the peace of mind they deserve.”

Congress has acted to bad unsafe baby sleep products in the past. For example, the Safe Sleep for Babies Act of 2021 banned the manufacture and sale of crib bumpers and inclined sleepers in the U.S.

Is The Merlin Magic Sleep Suit Safe?

The Merlin Magic Sleep Suit, which is designed to help babies transition from a swaddle , doesn’t have the same risks as weighted products. It doesn’t qualify as a weighted sleep product because “it features an added polyfil layer that provides bulk but doesn’t exert pressure like weighted sacks do,” says Warsh. While it’s designed for children ages 3 to 6 months, it must be discontinued as soon as babies begin rolling over, which can be as early as 3 to 4 months.

Walker also worries that it restricts movement. “There are critical times when it’s developmentally appropriate to be developing muscle groups in the sleep environment. The thing that we want to establish is that there is a very natural course of development which takes place during sleep times. We do not want to restrict a child’s ability to develop those muscle systems and ‘find their comfy spot,’” she explains.

Baby Merlin's Magic Sleepsuit

I’m a freelance fashion, lifestyle, parenting and commerce writer living the LA dream with my husband and three small kids in Hermosa Beach. I started my career in 2009 working in fashion PR but quickly transitioned to freelance writing. I’ve written for Brides, SheKnows, Motherly, Betches, Harper’s Bazaar, Good Housekeeping, YouBeauty, The Knot and many more. 

When I’m not juggling multiple articles and mom duties, I enjoy hanging with my husband, binge watching Netflix, shopping and sunbathing at the beach.

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What Should Babies Wear To Sleep?

How to dress your baby for sleep depends on their developmental stage and your local climate. Many parents like swaddles for newborns, and then transition to a sleep sack (which allow for free arm movement) once they start to roll. For infants not rolling over, Maddox says a Velcro swaddle sack is be her preference. I recommend Kyte Baby’s Sleep Bag Swaddler .

Kyte Baby Sleep Bag Swaddler

Both Maddox and Walker actually prefer soft footed pajamas over traditional non-weighted sleep sacks for rolling babies. “The best way to dress a baby over 3 months of age is in a light cotton sleeper with no scratchy inside elements,” says Walker, who recommends a sleeper has separate pant legs, so it does not limit movement of the legs. “One of the tricks that we like to use if the pants have footies, is to put on a sock and then pull the pants on over the sock and the sock helps the foot to stay in the footed element of the pajamas.”

She also suggests feeling the inside of any pajamas in order to ensure that there are no embroidered elements that may be scratchy or a zipper that may be uncomfortable, “because babies over 3 months will be rolling over so we want the most comfortable soft environment against their skin that we can manage.”

As a mom to three littles, some of my personal favorite sleepwear and go-to pajama brands for my little ones include Little Sleepies , Wildbird , Norani , Kickee Pants and Bellabu Bear .

Bellabu Bear

Bellabu Bear Bamboo Convertible Footie

More safe sleep recommendations.

In addition to avoiding weighted sleep sacks, the AAP recommends adhering to the following safe sleep guidelines for babies under the age of 1 year old:

• Back to sleep alone: Infants should be placed to sleep on their backs in their own separate sleep space.
• A firm crib mattress: Parents should use a bassinet , crib or travel crib with a firm, flat mattress and a tight fitted crib sheet for naps and nighttime. Avoid co-sleeping or putting baby to sleep in devices or their car seat when not driving.
• No loose blankets or toys: There should be nothing else in the crib with your baby, including pillows, stuffed animals, toys, loose blankets, bumpers or other soft items.

Maddox says pacifiers can actually help sleep be a little safe. She also recommends keeping the room between 68-72 degrees to avoid overheating and making sure your crib is up to code.

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