You know you want an ultra-comfy, relaxation-inducing weighted blanket, so now you’re wondering “how heavy should my weighted blanket be?” Ultimately, the answer depends on your size, needs, and the recommendations of your occupational therapist or other health professional.
In the following weighted blanket weight post, we’ll explain how to determine which blanket weight is right for you or other adults (if perhaps you’ll be gifting it), how heavy children’s weighted blankets should be, and discuss some of the benefits of choosing the right weighted blanket. Keep reading for the full run-down below.
How Heavy Should a Weighted Blanket be for Adults?
Generally, adults can apply the 10%-of-your-body-weight rule to find the appropriate weighted blanket weight. For most adults, this may come out to be between 10 to 25 pounds, yet can also factor in your personal preferences. The 10% rule is a good baseline, then select your weighted blanket accordingly.
Let’s Do The Math
If you’re 170 pounds, how heavy should your weighted blanket be? Simply multiply your weight by 10% (0.10). You get 17. This means you should shop for a blanket that’s around 17 pounds, whether you go heavier or lighter is up to you. At Luna, our adult weighted blankets come in the following weights according to various sizes (Throw, Full, Queen or King):
- 10 pounds
- 12 pounds
- 15 pounds
- 20 pounds
- 25 pounds
- 30 pounds
One thing that’s important to remember is to size your weighted blanket according to the body, not the bed! To “fit” the bed, your blanket may end up being way heavier than you need. Not only might this be uncomfortable, but it can also mean the blanket pulls off the bed in the night.
As you browse the products, you’ll see when you select your weight, you can click further into our official weighted blanket weight chart if you need more guidance! It walks you through the process in a snap!
How Heavy Should a Weighted Blanket be for Kids?
You can also apply the 10% rule when selecting the proper weight for your child’s weighted blanket. Note that our Luna weighted blankets come in two kids' sizes in addition to the weight options:
- Kid Size: 36 inches by 48 inches, 5 pounds
- Twin Size: 41 inches by 60 inches, 7 pounds
- Twin Size: 41 inches by 60 inches, 10 pounds
Again, size the blanket to your child’s body weight and not the size of their bed. We recommend that if you are unsure how your child may adjust to the weighted blanket, opt for a lighter option.
We also suggest you slowly introduce it to their bedtime routine. For the first week, drape their new weighted blanket across their legs. For the next few days, scoot it up to cover half of their body. After that, they should be adjusted enough to pull it all the way up and enjoy that deep restful sleep.
Why Weighted Blanket Weight Matters
The science behind weighted blankets comes from the therapeutic discoveries surrounding “deep pressure touch.” Both the medical and scientific communities regard deep pressure touch as a notable mechanism for reducing cortisol levels, boosting the production of serotonin, and thus inducing an overall calming effect.
Without the firm gentle pressure provided by the blanket’s correct weight, this deep pressure stimulation effect and benefits cannot as easily take place. To get the tranquility-boosting benefits of deep pressure touch therapy, be sure to figure out how heavy should a weighted blanket be for you!
Find Your Perfect Luna Weighted Blanket
Now that you know the answer to “how heavy should my weighted blanket be,”—about 10% of your body weight—you’re ready to find the one that is the fabric type, weight, and color you want. From cooling bamboo to our fuzzy weighted blankets, in multiple colors and sizes, you’ll find the perfect Luna weighted blanket for you. Get ready to get comfy and let Luna do the rest. Not sure where to start? Check out our bestselling classic cotton weighted blanket!
