Sleep Experts & Editors Agree: These Weighted Blankets Give You a Deeper, Calmer Night's Rest (2024)

Sleep Experts & Editors Agree: These Weighted Blankets Give You a Deeper, Calmer Night's Rest (1)

Popular in recent years, weighted blankets can be beneficial for anyone, including those with attention deficit disorder (ADHD), autism spectrum disorder (ASD), sensory processing disorder, insomnia, chronic pain, inflammation, and injuries. These blankets are typically filled with small pellets or beads made from materials such as ceramic or glass. The added weight from the blanket can provide users with a sense of security and comfort, which can boost sleep quality, says Steve Carleton, licensed clinical social worker and executive clinical director at Gallus Detox. The deep pressure also stimulates the release of serotonin—a chemical that regulates mood and stress. Research suggests an increase in serotonin can lead to improved sleep, reduced anxiety, and a sense of calmness and relaxation. Other benefits of weighted blankets may include an increased sense of security, reduced pain levels, and improved sensory processing skills in those with ADHD or ASD.

The best-weighted blankets create a helpful sensory environment. We tested 35 weighted blankets in The Verywell Testing Lab to evaluate their quality, comfort, warmth, ease of cleaning, durability, and value. A pulmonologist and sleep specialistfrom our Medical Expert Board reviewed the contents of this article for medical accuracy, surrounding what to look for in weighted blankets, how much they should weigh, and the potential benefits of sleeping with one.

Which Weight Should You Get for a Weighted Blanket?

The weight of a blanket is typically expressed in pounds (lbs) and corresponds to the user's body weight. Dr. Ferri says that the best weighted blanket for your body shouldn't be more than 10% of your body weight, as it'll give the right amount of pressure without being too heavy and causing issues. For example, a person weighing 200 pounds should choose a 20-pound blanket at most, while someone weighing 80 pounds would need an 8-pound blanket. Weight distribution is also crucial—you want the weight evenly distributed across the blanket to feel like a gentle hug, not a heavy burden.

Materials to Look for in a Weighted Blanket

Cotton: A popular choice for weighted blankets because it's soft, breathable, easy to care for, and relatively inexpensive. However, cotton blankets are less durable than other options and may not last as long.
Polyester: This is often used in weighted blankets because it doesn't shrink and is less likely to pill than other fabrics. It's also relatively inexpensive. However, polyester is less breathable than natural fibers and may cause sweating during use.
Bamboo: It's soft, eco-friendly, and naturally antibacterial. It’s also one of the most expensive options.
Microfiber: This synthetic fabric is made of ultra-fine fibers woven together. It's often used in weighted blankets because it's soft, durable, and easy to maintain.
Fleece: Also synthetic, it's made from recycled polyester. While soft, fleece is less breathable than other fabrics and may retain heat. Fleece is ideal for colder climates or those who prefer a warmer blanket.
Wool: This natural fiber is often used in weighted blankets because it's breathable and moisture-wicking. However, wool is also one of the most expensive options.

Our Top Picks

Best Overall:

Sleep Number True Temp Weighted Blanket at Sleepnumber.com (See Price)

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Best Budget:

Threshold Microplush Weighted Blanket at Target ($69)

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Best for Hot Sleepers:

Degrees of Comfort Coolmax Weighted Blanket at Amazon ($70)

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Best Cooling:

Gravity Cooling Weighted Blanket at Amazon ($175)

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Best Under $50:

Waowoo Weighted Blanket at Amazon ($30)

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Best Breathable:

Bearaby Cotton Weighted Blanket at Amazon ($249)

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Best Washable:

Sunday Citizen Snug Crystal Weighted Blanket at Sundaycitizen.co (See Price)

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Best Organic:

Saatva Organic Weighted Blanket at Saatva ($345)

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Best Soft:

Uttermara Sherpa Fleece Weighted Blanket at Amazon ($85)

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Best Overall

Sleep Number True Temp Weighted Blanket

View On Sleepnumber.com

Pros

Removable cover
Temperature-regulating design
Inner ties keep blanket from shifting

Cons

Only comes in one size
Not big enough for couples

Key Specs

Weight: 12 or 20 pounds | Material: 80% cotton, 20% polyester | Size: 48 x 70 inches | Fill: 94% glass beads, 6% polyester | Care: Machine washable cover; spot clean only inner weighted blanket

Why We Recommend It

The Sleep Number True Temp Weighted Blanket is our top pick because it is the most comfortable and versatile weighted blanket we tested. Its removable cotton-polyester exterior and soft beaded interior make it suitable for any season. The cover material was cool to the touch but still provided a warming effect. The company refers to this as “37.5 Technology,” meaning the fabric absorbs heat to maintain a comfortable temperature.

For the price point, the Sleep Number True Temp Weighted Blanket feels like a high-quality product that will last for years. Thanks to the attached inner ties, we loved the removable exterior cover, which doesn't shift when sleeping. It was also easy to clean—the cover is machine washable in cold water and can be dried on low heat.

Keep in Mind

This pick only comes in one size, and it's not big enough for couples or multiple people.

Best Budget

Threshold Microplush Weighted Blanket

Key Specs

Weight: 12, 15, or 18 pounds | Material: Microplush cover | Size: 55 x 80 inches | Fill: Non-toxic glass microbeads | Care: Machine washable cover; spot clean only inner weighted blanket

Why We Recommend It

Everything about the Threshold Microplush Weighted Blanket screams comfort, from its cozy quilted inner blanket to the plush exterior. We couldn't get over how soft and warm this blanket was and how quickly the weight helped them relax. The build quality is also impressive for a budget-friendly option.

The Threshold Microplush Weighted Blanket features a machine-washable cover with duvet ties to keep it in place, and the inner weighted blanket is filled with non-toxic glass beads. Even coffee stains came out quickly in our tests, which is a huge bonus for most. It's a great size for one person and is available in 12, 15, and 18-pound options.

Keep in Mind

It's not large enough for couples,

Sleep Experts & Editors Agree: These Weighted Blankets Give You a Deeper, Calmer Night's Rest (7)

Best for Hot Sleepers

Degrees of Comfort Coolmax Weighted Blanket

View On Amazon$70

Pros

Several weights and sizes available
Machine washable cover
Even weight distribution

Cons

Shrinks slightly after wash
Polyester tends to be noisy

Key Specs

Weight: 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 15, 18, 20, 25, 30 pounds | Material: Polyester | Size: 36 x 48 inches, 41 x 60 inches, 48 x 72 inches, 60 x 80 inches, 80 x 87 inches | Fill: Glass beads | Care: Machine washable cover; spot clean only inner weighted blanket

Why We Recommend It

If you're a hot sleeper, the Degrees of Comfort Coolmax Weighted Blanket is the best option to help you stay cool and comfortable throughout the night. The unique heat-wicking duvet fabric pulls moisture away from your body, making it perfect for warm weather or people who sweat at night. It comes with a plush microfiber cover for those cooler nights. For added comfort you can also outfit your bed with cooling sheets.

The Degrees of Comfort Coolmax Weighted Blanket has 10 weight options and five sizes. We liked the 10-Point Locking System, which evenly distributed weight throughout the blanket. The cover is machine washable, stains lifted easily, and the overall quality of the blanket is impressive for the price.

Keep in Mind

It had a few minor "pills" after washing in our tests.

Best Cooling

Gravity Cooling Weighted Blanket

View On Amazon$175 View On Gravityblankets.com$188

Pros

Lightweight, breathable design
Made from eco-friendly fabrics
Scientifically proven to help you sleep better

Cons

Stains easily
Shrinks slightly after wash

Key Specs

Weight: 15, 20, 35 pounds | Material: 100% Lyocell from Eucalyptus | Size: 72 x 48 inches, 90 x 90 inches | Fill: Glass beads | Care: Machine washable cover; spot clean or hand wash only inner blanket

Why We Recommend It

Staying coolis key to a good night's sleep, and the Gravity Cooling Weighted Blanket is designed with that in mind. The unique cooling fabric is made from 100% Lyocell, a sustainable and eco-friendly material that's both lightweight and breathable. We found the fabric to have a silky smooth feel without the noise often associated with other cooling fabrics.

The Gravity Cooling Weighted Blanket also features a special quilted design that separates the weight into pockets. The company claims this blanket is scientifically proven to help you sleep better, and based on our test, we agree. We loved the different sizes and color options, too.

Keep in Mind

The blanket had minor frays after washing.

See Also
Weighted Blanket Benefits | Sleep Foundation

Best Under $50

Waowoo Weighted Blanket

View On Amazon$30

Pros

Quilted design for even weight distribution
Filled with durable glass beads
24-hour customer service

Cons

Cover sold separately
Smaller than advertised

Key Specs

Weight: 4, 10, 12, 15, 17, 20, 25 pounds | Material: Cotton | Size: 36 x 48 inches, 48 x 72 inches, 60 x 80 inches, 78 x 85 inches | Fill: Glass beads | Care: Machine washable in cleaning bag on gentle in cold water

Why We Recommend It

An excellent weighted blanket doesn't have to be expensive, and the Waowoo Adult Weighted Blanket is proof of that. Four sizes and seven weight options ensure the perfect fit for children and adults. The small inner pockets evenly disperse the weight of the glass beads throughout the blanket, and we really loved how soft and cozy the fabric is.

The Waowoo kept a stable temperature during our tests, making it ideal for all sleepers. It also held up to our stain and durability tests, proving to be an excellent investment for the price. Even though the cover is sold separately, it's still one of the most affordable weighted blankets on the market.

Keep in Mind

We noticed a few loose threads, but they didn't affect the overall effectiveness of the blanket.

Best Breathable

Bearaby Cotton Weighted Blanket

View On Amazon$249 View On Bearaby.com$199 View On West Elm$249

Pros

Made from organic cotton
Knitted, no filler design
30-day manufacturer guarantee

Cons

Difficult to spot clean
Longer dry time

Key Specs

Weight: 10, 15, 20, 25 pounds | Material: Organic cotton | Size: 40 x 64 inches, 40 x 72 inches, 45 x 72 inches, 48 x 72 inches | Fill: None | Care: Machine washable on delicate in cold water; tumble dry on low heat

Why We Recommend It

The Bearaby Cotton Napper impressed with its stylish design and top-notch construction. In testing, we liked how soft and uniform the fabric felt and its beadless design. Made from organic cotton, the Napper is a breathable option that allows air to flow gently through the large knit stitches—a quality that prevents overheating and provides a cooling effect for hot sleepers.

The Napper is available in four weights ranging from 10 to 25 pounds and five color options. It's also machine washable in a gentle setting with cold water. We noticed no shrinkage in our lab, and the fabric held up well to our stain test.

Keep in Mind

The only significant downside is the price, but given its quality construction and luxury materials, it's worth the investment for those who want a showcase piece.

Sleep Experts & Editors Agree: These Weighted Blankets Give You a Deeper, Calmer Night's Rest (25)

Best Washable

Sunday Citizen Snug Crystal Weighted Blanket

View On Sundaycitizen.co View On Nordstrom$269 View On Verishop.com$269

Pros

Ultra-soft microfiber cover
Double fastening system

Cons

Shrinks after wash
Expensive

Key Specs

Weight: 10, 15, 20, 35 pounds | Material: Microfiber cover | Size: Throw (52 x 77 inches), Queen/King (90 x 90 inches) | Fill: Glass pearls and natural crystals (Amethyst, Clear Quartz, and Rose Quartz) | Care: Machine washable cover; hand wash the inner blanket

Why We Recommend It

The incredibly soft microfiber fabric of the Sunday Citizen Snug Crystal Weighted Blanket feels luxurious, and we loved how snuggly it felt in testing. The inner fill contains glass pearls and natural crystals, including amethyst, clear quartz, and rose quartz. The blanket is available in four weights ranging from 10 to 35 pounds and in two sizes: throw and queen/king.

The Snug Crystal blanket cover is machine washable on a gentle cycle in cold water and can be tumble dried on low heat. The small quilted design evenly distributes the blanket's weight while still being breathable. We were impressed with how well the blanket repelled coffee during our spill test; the remaining liquid came out instantly when blotted.

Keep in Mind

We noticed slight shrinkage after washing, but the fabric held up well overall.

Best Organic

Saatva Organic Weighted Blanket

View On Saatva$345

Pros

Made from organic cotton velvet
Contains all-natural glass beads
1-year limited warranty

Cons

Material has a coarse feel
Must be dry cleaned

Key Specs

Weight: 12, 20 pounds | Material: Organic cotton velvet | Size: Single, Queen/King | Fill: All natural glass beads | Care: Dry clean only

Why We Recommend It

This sustainable and eco-friendly option from Saatva is made with 100% organic cotton velvet and filled with all-natural glass beads. We loved the quality of the materials and construction and the non-toxic and organic elements. The Saatva is available in two weights—12 and 20 pounds—and two sizes: single and queen/king.

The Saatva is one of the more expensive options on our list, but a 1-year limited warranty backs it. The organic cotton velvet also has a bit of a coarse feel, but it's still cozy and large enough to wrap up in. The blanket was somewhat repellant in testing and extremely easy to spot clean.

Keep in Mind

The only downfalls are that the fabric is dry clean only, and there's no outer cover—so you'll need to be careful when handling it.

Best Soft

Uttermara Sherpa Fleece Weighted Blanket

View On Amazon$85

Pros

Made with hypoallergenic ceramic beads
Dual-sided fabric
Available in seven color options

Cons

Difficult to clean
May not be as durable as other options

Key Specs

Weight: 12, 15, 15, 20 pounds | Material: Faux sherpa and fleece | Size: 48 x 72 inches (twin), 60 x 80 inches, (full) | Fill: 1mm hypoallergenic ceramic beads | Care: Commercial washer on gentle or spot clean; hang dry only

Why We Recommend It

The Uttermara Sherpa Fleece Weighted Blanket is one of our list's warmest and softest options. The fleece side is incredibly cozy, while the reverse features a fabric that's equally as comfy. It contains ceramic beads sewn into fabric shells to prevent them from shifting. The Uttermara is available in three weights—12, 15, and 20 pounds—and two sizes: twin and full.

Keep in Mind

While the fabric is machine washable, the manufacturer recommends using a commercial washer only—meaning you may have to go to a laundromat to clean it. We also found the blanket more challenging to spot clean— the liquid seeped into the fabric.

Sleep Experts & Editors Agree: These Weighted Blankets Give You a Deeper, Calmer Night's Rest (36)

We Also Tested

Luna Adult Weighted Blanket: While reasonably priced, the Luna stained easily in our tests.
Casper Sleep Weighted Blanket: This affordable option has a 100-night trial program, but it didn't stand up to our stain tests and isn't machine washable.
Brooklinen Weighted Throw Blanket: This option distributed weight nicely, but the fabric is rough and shrank slightly in the wash.
The Company Store LaCrosse All Seasons Weighted Blanket: The LaCrosse has beautiful cover stitching that adds an extra touch of personality but is also easier to snag.
Cariloha Weighted Bamboo Blanket at Cariloha: Our top-rated bamboo pick is sustainable, has a machine-washable cover, and is expensive.

Sleep Experts & Editors Agree: These Weighted Blankets Give You a Deeper, Calmer Night's Rest (37)

How We Tested Weighted Blankets

We bought and tested 35 of the most popular weighted blankets on the market, including options filled with all-natural materials like glass beads and organic cotton. We evaluated each based on six critical criteria:

Quality: During our quality assessment, we examined each blanket's stitching for loose beads or fabric defects. We also noted the type of fabric used and how it felt against the skin.
Comfort: For comfort, we evaluated how evenly distributed the weight was and whether the blanket felt too heavy or light.
Warmth: To assess warmth, we evaluated how well each blanket trapped heat and whether it felt too warm or not warm enough. We also considered the fabric's breathability and whether it caused sweating during use.
Ease of cleaning: We spot-cleaned each blanket with common household stains like coffee and washed and dried it according to the manufacturer's instructions (and noted any shrinkage).
Durability: We assessed how the blanket's quality held up over time, usage, and through multiple cleanings.
Value: We then considered the price of each blanket and how it stacked up against similar products, given the data we collected.

Sleep Experts & Editors Agree: These Weighted Blankets Give You a Deeper, Calmer Night's Rest (38)

What to Look for in Weighted Blankets

Cooling: Certain materials cool the body and promote airflow, making them ideal for use in warm weather or for people who tend to be hot sleepers. Blankets with knitted or crocheted construction are often more breathable than quilted ones. This is because the fabric is less dense, allowing more airflow. Fill-less blankets are also typically more breathable than filled blankets.
Fill: The inner fill is most of the weighted blanket's weight. Fill material commonly seen in weighted blankets includes plastic poly pellets, glass beads, ceramic beads, glass beads, steel beads, and natural grains like rice, millet, and oats. While they're all effective, plastic poly pellets may leak if damaged. Glass beads are also the best option for people looking for non-toxic, hypoallergenic options. Some weighted blankets are fill-less, meaning they don't have any inner fill material. These blankets rely on the weight of the fabric to provide the desired pressure.

Our Experts:

We consulted experts throughout every step of writing and reporting this article. Those experts include:

Kimberly Parker, licensed clinical therapist at Healthy Mind Counseling and Nutrition.
Steve Carleton, licensed clinical social worker and executive clinical director at Gallus Detox

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it safe to sleep with a weighted blanket?
Yes, weighted blankets are safe to sleep with. However, it's important to choose a blanket that's the right weight for you. If the blanket is too heavy, it could be difficult to move around at night.
What is the best weighted blanket for anxiety?
It depends on your individual needs and preferences. Kimberly Parker says that you should look at the texture and compare it to your other favorite blankets to make sure it's a comforting fit
Are weighted blankets worth the price?
Weighted blankets can be expensive, but they're often worth the price for those who struggle with anxiety, insomnia, or other conditions, as it's a non-pharmaceutical option for people managing symptoms. Dr. Carleton says,

Why Trust Verywell Health

Lindsay Modglin has written articles for Insider, Forbes, Everyday Health, and many more. She has a decade of clinical health and wellness experience as a nurse. She also holds a professional certificate in scientific writing from Stanford University, further helping her break down complex health concepts into easy-to-understand language. Her number-one priority is ensuring that readers have access to accurate and actionable information to make the best health decisions.