The Ultimate Guide To Weighted Blankets: Benefits & Tips

If you have searched “how to get a good night’s sleep” online, chances are, Google has recommended using weighted blankets, also widely known as gravity blankets. They have exploded in popularity of late and have been used therapeutically for a myriad of health issues such as depression, anxiety and insomnia, and simply for getting better sleep. In short, everyday users and experts have claimed that they come with an exhaustive list of health benefits.

Since it's a fairly new concept in this little red dot, it is completely understandable if it feels overwhelming when choosing the perfect weighted blanket. To help make the decision-making process easier for you or if you’re wondering what exactly it is, we’ve put together an article to help simplify this seemingly life-changing product.

Before moving on to the considerations you’d need to think about before picking out the best weighted blankets in Singapore for you, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about it.

Table of Contents

 

Brief History of Weighted Blankets

Despite the recent hype surrounding gravity blankets and several companies touting their versions, they were first commercially available back in 1998. Keith Zivalich, a Californian, produced the original weighted blanket, “The Magic Weighted Blanket” after his then 10-year-old daughter placed a Beanie Baby on his shoulder to keep him company while he was driving on a family vacation.

The hugging sensation felt due to the weight of the material caught his attention. “Wouldn’t it be cool if there was a blanket filled with these same beanies?”, thought Zivalich to himself, “It would be the blanket that hugs you back.” 

After Zivalich shared his idea with his wife, she made a prototype “beanie blanket” and lent it to their family friend, who happened to be a special needs teacher. She then brought it to class to use it with her students. Soon, the Zivalichs started receiving feedback on how the cover had helped these children with special needs. And that was when it first struck them - weighted blankets were going to be huge.

Featuring Weavve's Weighted Blanket

What Is a Weighted Blanket and How Is It Made?

A weighted blanket is exactly what it sounds like - a blanket with added weight in it. It commonly consists of a few layers - the filling, inner lining fabric, and outer fabric. It is unique as, instead of being filled with cotton or down, it is usually stuffed with glass beads, plastic beads, poly-pellets, or steel shot beads to make it heavier. You can even find ones that use rice or barley to weigh them down.  

This weight is applied to the body for a feeling of being gently hugged, to make you feel safe, relaxed, and comfortable. In order to maintain an even distribution of weight, there needs to be stitching pockets in the blanket such that the beads stay in place. If they were allowed to move throughout the material, all the weight can end up on either end. Now, this is where the inner lining fabric comes into play. 

Last, but certainly not least, the outer fabric can make or break your experience with a weighted blanket. The material you choose affects not only comfort but also how cool or warm you’ll feel during the night. Choosing the wrong fabric might make your blanket feel hot and uncomfortable to sleep with.

So, if you live in a warm climate, don’t just look for any weighted blanket; make sure to add the term weighted blanket for hot weather when shopping.

How Do Weighted Blankets Work?

This sensation of being embraced is commonly known as Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS). It is a type of touch commonly considered pleasant and calming, occurring in hugs, cuddling, and massages. However, it can also be stimulated by tools or, you guessed it, sleeping with a weighted blanket.

Deep Pressure Stimulation activates a subset of specialised affective sensory nerves in your Autonomic Nervous System (ANS) and is processed in areas of the brain involved with the affective parasympathetic nervous system, rather than the discriminatory sympathetic nervous system.

Here is a simple example of how the Autonomic Nervous System is responsible for receiving information from your body and environment to regulate your body’s response to that information.  

First, recall back to the last time you were anxious - sweaty palms, racing heartbeat, fast breathing, and perhaps even nausea. This is your sympathetic nervous system acting up, more commonly known as your “fight or flight” response. 

Now, think about how you feel every night, right as you are about to drift off to sleep - slow, deep breathing, slow heartbeat, and relaxed muscles. This is parasympathetic nervous activity.

Image By Diana.Grytsku From Freepik

All of those physiological responses came from your function ANS and Deep Pressure Stimulation helps to induce the latter, producing “feel good” chemicals such as oxytocin, dopamine, and serotonin in the brain.

There have been numerous studies that delve into the effects of deep touch pressure, dating back to the original work of occupational therapist and neuroscientist Dr. Anna Jean Ayres. In more recent years, Temple Grandin’s research and development of the “Hug Machine" for Deep Touch Pressure therapy has contributed to this field with significant insights. 

A 2008 study published in Occupational Therapy in Mental Health used a 30lbs (approximately 13.6 kg) weight blanket to explore the effects of Deep Pressure Stimulation. It resulted in 63% of participants reporting lower anxiety and 78% reporting positive calming effects and lower physiological data such as blood pressure, pulse rate, and pulse oximetry. 

Another study using a weighted blanket was published in the Journal of Medical and Biological Engineering, revealing that participants similarly reported lower anxiety levels following gravity blanket use.

Even though the products and methods may differ - from weighted blankets, hug machines, and weighted vests - the studies were all investigating Deep Touch Pressure sensory input and their effects on the human body. All demonstrated a positive effect on nervous system activity after the sensation was introduced.

Where to Buy Weighted Blankets in Singapore?

When it comes to finding the best weighted blanket in Singapore, you’ll want a brand that balances comfort with the right materials for our tropical climate. Many generic weighted blankets can feel heavy and stuffy, but Singaporeans need options that are breathable, cooling, and easy to maintain.

One of the top choices is Weavve Home’s breathable weighted blanket. Designed with the local climate in mind, it provides soothing deep pressure and lasting comfort for better sleep.

Weavve Home makes it simple for shoppers in Singapore, with fast local delivery, eco-certified materials, and a satisfaction guarantee. So if you’re wondering where to buy weighted blankets in Singapore, Weavve Home is a trusted place to start.

1. Lead-Free Glass Micro Beads

Our weighted blankets highlight is the evenly placed glass micro beads. These small-sized fillers are soft enough for people with physical sensitivities due to their small size. They are also toxin-free and rounded for a smooth, uniform fill.

2. Hypoallergenic Poly-Fill

Those who suffer with allergies can find comfort in hypoallergenic fill. It provides the perfect balance of fluff, breathability, and warmth for a comfortable night's sleep in Singapore's humid climate. Expect sufficient warmth and ventilation with impressive fluffiness.

3. Certified Free From Harmful Chemicals

One factor to consider is the level of toxins bedding contains. At Weavve, every component of the product has been tested and verified by OEKO-TEX® Standard 100. That means it is certified free of dangerous amounts of over 100 distinct chemicals from 17 chemical categories.

4. Quilted 233 TC Cotton Percale Shell

No matter how you use your weighted blanket, the glass beads will remain evenly dispersed thanks to the precise, tiny stitching. The construction of a 15 cm by 15 cm baffle box also creates even weight distribution.

Weavve's weighted blankets are available in 4 sizes and 5 weights: 

• Single Size in 3kg / 5kg
• Super Single Size in 5kg / 7kg
• Queen Size in 7kg / 9 kg
• King Size in 9kg / 11k kg
  
  

 

14 Benefits of Weighted Blankets

Here are some reasons, categorised into the four core types of self-care everyone should maximise, for you to determine if it’s true help or just hype.

Emotional

1. Increases Serotonin to Improve Mood

As mentioned earlier, the results of the 2008 study of Deep Touch Stimulation showed increased serotonin after introducing a 30lb weighted blanket to users. To put it simply, serotonin is a neurochemical agent (hormone) that is associated with emotional states. Research indicated that increased serotonin level was related to positive mood. Hence, under the Deep Touch Pressure of a gravity blanket, your brain naturally releases more serotonin, which allows you to have stress-free sleep and improved mood when you’re awake.

2. Gives Calming Effects to Decrease Anxiety

According to SingHealth, about 10% of Singaporeans suffer from anxiety or depressive disorders, which may translate into sleep anxiety. Even though they are not a quick fix for these issues, weighted blankets help mitigate the effects of anxiety, such as shortness of breath and quickened heart rate.

This is because using them aids in producing feel-good hormones like oxytocin and reduces cortisol levels, also known as stress hormones. Hence, resulting in reduced heart rate, a calming and soothing effect, and quality sleep.

3. Increases Sense of Security

When wrapped around the body, weighted blankets evoke the same therapeutic effects of a tight swaddle, helping newborns feel snug and cosy. This feeling can help increase one’s sense of security and prompt the body to relax, which can also translate into other areas of your life, including improved sleep.

Image By Holiak From Freepik

Physical

4. Helps Battle Insomnia and Improve Sleep

Averaging at 6 hours of sleep per night, it comes as no surprise that approximately 46.5% of Singaporeans experience difficulty sleeping, also known as insomnia. 

A study published in the Journal of Sleep Medicine and Disorders involved 31 adults with chronic insomnia using a gravity weighted blanket for four weeks and determined its effects. Overall, the results showed that participants found it easier to settle down to sleep and experienced improved sleep when using it. 

Thus, if you find yourself struggling to fall asleep at night, using a weighted blanket as a natural option to achieve quality sleep may be a healthier option as opposed to consuming sleeping pills or supplements like melatonin. Even though melatonin has been deemed safe for long-term consumption for up to 2 years for some adults, it may lead to certain side effects such as headache, short-term feelings of depression, irritability, or daytime drowsiness. 

In order to avoid such unwanted effects, gravity blankets may offer a better and more sustainable solution in terms of inducing quality sleep naturally.

5. Decreases Nighttime Movement 

One of the benefits of a weighted blanket is the ‘cocooning’ effect of extra weight, which helps calm the body and reduce movements during sleep. For some sleepers, this is a true game-changer because it makes it easier to stay asleep through the night.

As one of our customers shared, “This blanket is a true game changer. As I am a light sleeper, this blanket was so comfortable that it allowed me to sleep without being woken up in the middle of the night. Highly recommended.”

6. Eases Restless Leg Syndrome

Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS) is a condition that causes one to have an uncontrollable urge to move their legs, typically happening during long periods of stillness. People with RLS may benefit from the use of a gravity blanket. This is because the pressure felt on the legs may overcome that uncomfortable sensation.  

7. Mitigates Chronic Pain

Headaches, along with shoulder and back pains from sitting at the table all day? Don’t let it be a pain in the neck!

Weighted blankets in Singapore are one of the most comfortable and affordable ways to combat chronic pain. Throughout the day, stress and tension bind up our muscles and joints, making it harder for us to relax when it comes time to rest. Research has shown that weighted covers are able to provide us with an immediate release as the pressure from the blanket signals our brain and body to relax.

Image From Freepik

8. Lowers the Occurrence of Seizures

Seizure disorders, also known as epilepsy, can cause a person to either lose consciousness, have uncontrolled movements, become temporarily paralysed, or all of the above. Research reveals a significant correlation between sleep deprivation and seizures in people with epilepsy. 

Albeit not a permanent fix for seizures, the added weight can provide a sense of comfort for many people with sensory disorders and epilepsy, as Deep Pressure Touch helps to calm and soothe them.

9. Relieves Symptoms of Menopause

Menopause can be vexing for many women as they experience their “second puberty”. From hot flashes and mood swings to insomnia, it’s no wonder women dread this phase of life. 

Those going through menopause may find weighted blankets to be of help in achieving longer, deeper, and better sleep. Deep Pressure Stimulation can also provide relief from other symptoms, such as managing mood swings through the release of serotonin.

At a time of their lives when women are dealing with demanding careers and the added pressure of being a caregiver to their families, these covers can provide them with much-needed comfort and security.

Mental

10. Soothes Sensory Processing Activity 

Sensory Processing Disorder refers to difficulty in processing senses such as noise and touch. This is why for people with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), daily activities such as work, play, and socialising become more challenging. 

Weighed blankets are frequently used by occupational therapists in Sensory Integration Therapy. The deep pressure has been reported to have stress-relieving effects for people with ASD and ADHD from feel over-stimulated by their environment. Hence, improving their overall mood and mental health.

Image From Freepik

11. Manages OCD Symptoms

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is defined as an anxiety disorder that causes people to engage in repeated behaviors driven by fear or have repetitive, intrusive thoughts that disturb them. To say that this mental disorder is overwhelming and disruptive to daily activities would be an understatement.

OCD has been linked to low serotonin and high cortisol levels, which can be mitigated through the use of gravity blankets. Even though it should not be seen as a treatment, they can act as supplements to existing treatments and therapy.

12. Serves as a Coping Tool for PTSD

A non-medical treatment to ease the symptoms of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is to use weighted blankets, also referred to as a “Trauma Blanket”. Typically, panic disorders tend to get worse at night, when the patient should be resting. Therefore, receiving a Deep Pressure Stimulation would help to ease symptoms of PTSD such as nightmares and flashbacks, ultimately allowing the patient to achieve a good night’s rest. 

13. Minimises Chances of Sleep Paralysis

Sleep paralysis is an extension of your sleeping state, most commonly seen in teenagers, but it could happen to adults of any age as well. It occurs during the in-between phase of sleeping and waking up, and it is often associated with hallucinations. This phenomenon tends to be triggered when one is sleep-deprived or experiencing high levels of stress.

Thus, gravity blankets are great for inducing a deep, restful sleep, which in turn lowers the likelihood of sleep paralysis occurring.

Social

14. Improves Daytime Performance

When a person is sleep deprived, it affects every aspect of one's life - from the ability to engage in social interaction and perform at work, to effectively process and communicate emotions. Even though the recommended hours of sleep are 8 hours, Singaporeans are only averaging 6.8 hours per night. Thus, we need to achieve adequate rest to function at our best. This is where therapeutic bedding items can be of great help.

Image By Jcomp From Freepik

Who May Benefit From Weighted Blankets

Weighted blankets can be especially helpful for people living with anxiety, depression, ADHD, autism, sensory processing disorder, or insomnia. The gentle, deep pressure they provide helps calm the nervous system, ease restlessness, and promote better sleep, and some also find relief from chronic pain. 

That said, they are not suitable for everyone. If you are pregnant, have breathing difficulties, or live with certain health conditions, it’s best to speak with your doctor before using one.

How to Choose a Weighted Blanket Size & Weight

Choosing a weighted blanket can be tricky with the different weights and sizes available. As a general rule of thumb, our recommendation is to find the one that’s roughly 10% of the intended user’s body weight for individual use, unless you strongly feel you want something heavier or lighter. 

For couples who would like to share the use of a single weighted blanket, we recommend a cover that is roughly 7% of the combined weight. And if you’re in between sizes, select the lower of the weight options.

For Kids

The general rule of thumb can still be applied, but it is important to ensure that just the right amount of pressure is applied by the blanket onto your children. This is because they are still growing; thus, their needs will shift over time. The blanket should not be too heavy, and young users must be able to pull the material over and off themselves on their own.

Sizing should be a consideration as well. If the weighted blanket is too big, there will be less surface area in contact with the child. Hence, for larger blankets, you can consider adding approximately 1kg on top of the 10% guideline.

However, if unsure, please consult your child’s general practitioner or occupational therapist for further recommendations. Here's a weighted blanket size chart for your reference:

 

For Couples

They say “sharing is caring,” and yes, you can share a weighted blanket with your partner. But before buying one, here are a few things to consider:

• Similar body weight: If both partners are close in weight, a shared blanket works well. If not, separate ones may provide better comfort and balance.
  

• Sleeping style: If one prefers extra warmth while the other prefers cool air, individual blankets are the better choice. Matching sleep styles? A queen or king shared blanket is ideal.
  

• Correct weight: Instead of the usual 7–10% of body weight rule, couples can choose a blanket that’s around 7% of their combined body weight.
  

  • 100 kg couple → 7 kg blanket
  • 130 kg couple → 9 kg blanket
  • 160 kg couple → 11 kg blanket
    
    

• Bed size fit: Pick a size that matches your bed (queen or king). Avoid oversized blankets, as they may not distribute weight effectively.
  

• Family safety: Heavier blankets aren’t suitable for children or pets who may crawl into your bed.

• Care & lifestyle: If you have a busy schedule, choose a blanket that’s easy to maintain. Weavve’s weighted blankets are designed for convenience. They’re machine-washable on a gentle cycle, crafted with durable stitching to keep the glass beads evenly distributed, and made with OEKO-TEX® certified materials for safe, long-term use. This makes them practical for Singapore couples who want comfort without adding extra chores.
  

Weighted Blanket Tips: How To Maximise Its Benefits

To ensure you are getting the best results from your gravity blanket, you will need to choose the correct size and weight and use it correctly. Whether it is for your child, your partner, or yourself, it’s important to ease into the use of your cosy covers. 

Pair With a Duvet or Duvet Cover

Upgrade your sleep by adding a cooling cover to your weighted blanket. Our weighted blankets come with corner loops that secure perfectly to our Signature TENCEL™ Duvet Cover. Crafted from smooth, breathable TENCEL™, the cover helps regulate temperature and draw away moisture.

For extra comfort, you can also pair your blanket with a duvet. Layering the two adds warmth and cosiness while keeping the weight evenly distributed across your bed. With Weavve’s TENCEL™ Lyocell Duvet, you’ll enjoy snuggly softness without overheating—perfect for year-round comfort in Singapore.

Featuring Weavve's TENCEL™ Lyocell Duvet

Ease In

For the first few nights, sleep with it only across your legs. Then, cover half your body with the blanket for the next couple of days.

Upon reaching the final step of easing in, ensure that your entire body is covered for full relaxation and optimal experience - from your shoulders, down to your feet. When you feel comfortable with that, you are ready to experience all its benefits. 

Make It Your Stress Reliever 

Not only can your gravity blanket be used overnight to help you achieve deep, restful sleep. It can also be laid across your legs in the day to keep you company and relaxed while you work - especially when working from home. 

Use It to Upgrade Your Bedroom With Less Effort

Weighted blankets can be an addition to your current bedding sets, such as duvets, comforters, or throw blankets, to elevate your sleep quality. They can either be placed above or below your bed sheets, up to your personal preference. If you prefer to spend less time making the bed in the morning, you can simply lay it on top of the bed.

Aim for Long-Term Usage

In order to achieve its long-term benefits, use it regularly over time. Once it has become part of your sleep hygiene, you will start noticing consistent quality sleep and an overall improvement in mood.

Featuring Weavve's Signature TENCEL™ Duvet Cover

How to Wash Weighted Blankets

How Often to Wash

How often should you wash a weighted blanket? If you use your weighted blanket every night, wash it once a month. If you only use it occasionally, wash it every three to four months. Wash the cover more often, about once a week. Using a removable and washable duvet or protective cover will help keep the inner blanket clean and extend its lifespan.

When in doubt as to whether a blanket is too large for a home washing, head to the laundromat.

How to Wash 

First and foremost, when washing a weighted blanket, always use cold water. It is best to hand-wash using a gentle laundry detergent free of bleach or fabric softener. 

For ones that weigh 9kg or less, you can machine wash (on its own) using a gentle wash and spin cycle. For an 11kg weight, please check if your washing machine is able to handle the load.  

How to Dry

Taking proper precautions when drying weighted blankets will keep them in good, usable condition for longer. For best results, line (hang) dry them naturally. When line drying, be sure they hang evenly so that the weight is proportionately distributed and they do not lose their shape. Consider draping the damp cover over a drying rack or chair. 

What to Avoid

Avoid soaking your weighted blankets in water over time. Avoid using detergents that contain bleach or fabric softener, as fabric softeners can build up in the material, causing it to feel scratchy or stiff. Avoid using a dryer as high temperatures may damage the glass beads. Lastly, avoid ironing them. 

Frequently Asked Questions

Are Weighted Blankets Hot? Can I Use Them if I Sleep With a Fan?

Weighted blankets can feel warm, but this largely depends on the fabric, filler, and overall design. Choosing breathable materials such as cotton or bamboo makes them cooler to use. Pairing a weighted blanket with a fan is a great idea, as the airflow helps balance the warmth, prevents overheating, and creates a more comfortable sleep environment.

Are Gravity Blankets Safe for My Child?

No, weighted blankets are not safe for young children, especially those under five, as the extra weight can restrict breathing or cause suffocation. This risk makes them unsuitable for safe sleep and may increase the chance of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

If you’re looking for calming deep pressure, safer alternatives for children include gentle swaddling, cuddling, or other forms of comforting physical contact.

Can I Use a Weighed Blanket if I’m Pregnant?

Yes, weighted blankets are usually safe to use during pregnancy, but it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider or midwife first to make sure they suit your individual needs.

What Are the Differences Between Gravity Blankets vs Weighted Blankets?

Gravity, weighted, heavy, trauma, or weight blankets are all variations of the same type of cover - ones that are filled with weight and serve therapeutic and medical purposes.

Is a 9KG Weighted Blanket Too Heavy?

A 9kg weighted blanket is not too heavy for many adults. The usual advice is to pick one that is about 10% of your body weight. This means a 9kg blanket is suitable for people who weigh around 80 to 100kg or more. In the end, it depends on what feels most comfortable for you.

Should a Weighted Blanket Go Over or Under a Duvet?

You can use a weighted blanket either over or under your duvet, depending on what feels most comfortable.

For the best pressure effect, place it directly on your body. If you want more warmth and stability, put it under the duvet. For easier removal or more flexibility, keep it on top of the duvet. When used with a cooling duvet, the cover helps control your temperature on hot nights if it is placed under your blanket.

Best Weighted Blankets for Better Sleep

Now that you’re familiar with weighted blankets, the next step is finding the one that fits your needs. If you’re looking for the best weighted blanket in Singapore, choose one made with high-quality, breathable fabrics that suit the tropical climate, and ensure the design spreads the weight evenly for maximum comfort. 

At Weavve, our weighted blankets are designed to remain cool, soft, and durable throughout the year. With the right choice, you’ll enjoy deeper sleep, greater relaxation, and a nightly escape you’ll look forward to.

“A weighted blanket feels comfortable and provides me with deep sleep. Love it”

- Carolina L.

“My sleep quality has improved so much after using Weavve’s weighted blanket.’’

- Jenani G.