Weighted blankets are specially designed blankets filled with materials (such as beads) that make them heavier than standard bedding. They provide deep pressure input, which can help regulate the nervous system, reduce heart rate, and promote relaxation.
Weighted blankets may benefit people who have stress or anxiety, sleep disturbances, sensory processing difficulties, neurological conditions, and post-traumatic stress disorder.
Weighted blanket use is not safe for children under 3, pregnant women, or people with:
- Uncontrolled epilepsy
- Respiratory conditions (if weight is placed over the chest)
- Circulatory problems
- Allergies to the materials used
- Skin that would be vulnerable to pressure of the weighted blanket
- Recent injuries such as fractures
- Difficulty regulating body temperature
- A trauma-related response to use of a weighted blanket
Choosing a blanket:
- Weight: No more than 10% of the person’s body weight is recommended. Start with the lightest effective weight
- Fabric: Check the fabric and fibre content for comfort and the risk of allergies. Natural fibres like cotton may be more comfortable, high tech cooling fabrics might help temperature regulation, fleece fabrics could feel warm and soft against the skin. Also check the noise of the fabric when it is moved, some can be crackly which could reduce effectiveness
- Filling type: The weight within the blankets is achieved using glass beads or micro beads, some are also cushioned with polyester wadding. The filling choice affects how easily the blanket moulds to the body contours and may affect comfort of the user.
- Washing instructions: If the blanket is machine washable, check that it fits in the domestic washing machine and does not exceed its weight limit. If it does, an industrial machine will be required.
Safety Checklist:
- Use the blanket for short sessions (up to 30 minutes) only rather than overnight
- Only cover the body – never the head or neck
- Place blanket over the person, not wrapped under them
- Ensure the user can remove the blanket themselves, or be supervised
- Keep the blanket resting on the bed, not hanging over the sides
- Never use as a restraint
- Check pressure areas regularly, including toes
- Discontinue use immediately if use causes nausea, difficulty breathing, overheating, distress or discomfort