Finding the right weighted blanket for you or a loved one doesn’t have to be tricky. We’ve collected some of the most frequently asked questions from our customers — from why they should buy a weighted blanket to what size to pick — to curate this comprehensive buyer’s guide to weighted blankets.
Keep reading to find helpful information, tips, and more to choose the best choice for you! You can also check out our FAQ page for more answers to common questions about weighted blankets.
Why Buy a Weighted Blanket? What Are the Benefits of a Weighted Blanket
Weighted blankets are an increasingly popular tool to help support deeper rest and overall calmness. They can also be useful for those who experience sensory overload or processing disorders.
Research has found that firm but gentle pressure or squeezing — called deep touch pressure stimulation — can help people feel calmer and less anxious. It’s a bit like getting a firm, full-body hug.
Occupational therapists and other health professionals can perform deep touch pressure therapy, but there is also a way to enjoy the benefits at home, school, or on the go. Weighted blankets provide the firm, gentle and consistent pressure used in deep touch pressure therapy.
How Much Should a Weighted Blanket Weigh?
Generally, a weighted blanket should be about 10% of the user’s body weight. At Luna, we give the following guidelines, with the caveat that different people may have different preferences that require minor adjustments in weight depending on their needs.
Also, you should never use a weighted blanket on a child under 1 year of age. Before using a weighted blanket for a child, discuss it with your pediatrician or other healthcare provider.
How Big Should My Weighted Blanket Be?
The size of your weighted blanket really depends on two things: your personal size (or the intended user’s size), and how you plan to use it.
- For children: We recommend the Kids, Twin, or Full versions based on their overall weight — 5 pounds in Kids size; 7 pounds to 10 pounds in Twin size; and 12 pounds to 15 pounds in Full size.
- For adults: We recommend the Adults versions based on their overall weight and bed size — 10 pounds to 25 pounds in Queen; 25 pounds to 30 pounds in King.
- For sharing: King size is best for those who sleep next to a partner.
- For napping: We recommend selecting a Kids or Twin version for naps! They’re smaller in size, ideal to keep on the couch, and lighter to carry around from room to room.
An important point to remember is that your weighted blanket should fit your body, not your bed. Unlike a typical quilt or comforter, the weighted blanket shouldn’t hang over the sides of the bed. If it drapes down or hangs over, the weight will drag the blanket to the ground. You don’t want to spend your nights in a wrestling match with your blanket as it sinks to the floor over and over again. To get the most benefits, choose a size that fits your body — not your mattress.
How Long Does it Take to Get Used to Sleeping With a Weighted Blanket?
Whether or not this is the first time you're using a weighted blanket, it's important to allow your body to adjust to the additional weight with ease. Don't rush the process! We highly recommend using the weighted blanket for shorter periods of time while your body adjusts (cue cozy naps on the couch!).
For night-time sleep, we recommend using the blanket over half of your body for about a week. Feel free to use your normal comforter or flat sheet during this time to keep warm! Once the week is up, you can slowly move the blanket up each day until it covers you completely.
It can sometimes take up to 14 days for your body to fully adjust to the newly added weight. It takes roughly 14-21 days for us to form new habits, so give your body time to adjust to the weight and to the benefits. Deep sleep is on the horizon.
