Review: We Tried A 9kg Weighted Blanket To See If It Really Helps With Better Sleep & Relaxation

We’re constantly bombarded with stressors almost every day. In between arduous workdays, financial worries and our own mental health, finding solace and relaxation is hard to come by. 

Enter: weighted blankets. 

These very heavy blankets look like your regular duvet but is made from several layers including glass beads (for the weight), microfibre (to stabilise the beads) and more. General research has suggested that these blankets may benefit people with anxiety, high levels of stress, insomnia and even autism, among other conditions. 

Weighted blankets have emerged as a popular solution for relaxation and better sleep, offering a cocoon of comfort and calmness.

Benefits of Weighted Blankets

• Deep touch pressure stimulation: The allure of weighted blankets lies in their ability to provide deep touch pressure stimulation, akin to the feeling of a warm hug. 
• Increased serotonin and dopamine levels: This gentle pressure has been linked to increased serotonin and dopamine levels, promoting feelings of relaxation and reducing anxiety. 
• A grounding experience: Moreover, the added weight can enhance the quality of sleep by promoting deeper, more restful slumber. For those struggling with insomnia or restless nights, the soothing embrace of a weighted blanket can be transformative.

Choosing the Right One

• Right weight: Selecting the ideal weighted blanket involves considering several factors, such as weight, size, and material. The weight of the blanket should typically be around seven to 10% of your body weight, although personal preferences may vary. 
• Correct size: It's crucial to choose a size that adequately covers your body without feeling restrictive. We believe in a two-duvet household (no more blanket wars!) so I got one that was enough to cover me.
• Cooling or warm: Additionally, opt for breathable materials like cotton or bamboo to prevent overheating during sleep. Exploring different textures and designs can also enhance the sensory experience and ensure maximum comfort. Because it can get balmy at night in Singapore, I opted for a cooling blanket made from bamboo. 

Tried & Tested: Bamboo Cooling Weighted Blanket 

Upon receiving my weighted blanket, I was immediately struck by how heavy it was – close to 9kg! The gentle pressure felt comforting yet not overwhelming, enveloping me in a sense of security and relaxation – this surprisingly helped me feel sleepy quicker than usual. On top of that, the added weight also reduced movements in my sleep (I’m a toss-and-turn kinda sleeper). 

It also had a luxurious feel and was cool to the touch which is a bonus with the weather we have. If there’s one thing I hate, it’s sweating in your sleep and this did not make me feel “overheated” through the night – and on colder or rainy days, it’s extra cosy to be under a weighted blanket. 

With a weighted blanket, making the bed is also a lot more easier and faster as it replaces the duvet and that tedious task of putting on the duvet sheet. One thing to note though, because of its weight, weighted blankets can damage a washing machine so we would not recommend throwing it in for a wash! You can hand wash it though or check your label to see if it is dry clean-friendly.

At the end of the day – or night – weighted blankets offer more than just physical warmth; they provide a sanctuary of comfort and tranquillity in an increasingly hectic world. By choosing the right weighted blanket and incorporating it into your daily routine, you can experience the profound benefits of deep touch pressure stimulation and enjoy a renewed sense of calmness and well-being. Never underestimate the power of good sleep!

It’s A Wrap

Here are other weighted blankets you can shop:

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