Blankets & Covers

The Ultimate Guide To Weighted Blankets: Benefits & Tips

woman sleeping under Weavve's weighted blanket
At a Glance

Weighted blankets have gained popularity as a therapeutic tool for sleep. If you're new to it or not sure how to choose the right blanket for you, this article will guide you.

Quick Tips
  • The weighted blanket should be 10% of the user’s body weight.
  • Consider the filling material, covering, and design.
  • Choose weighted blankets that are easy to clean.

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 on this little red dot, it is completely understandable if it feels a little overwhelming when it comes to 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 blanket for you, we’ll dive deep into everything you need to know about it.

 

girl snuggling under a weighted blanket
Featuring Weavve's Weighted Blanket

Table Of Contents

Brief History Of Weighted Blankets Go To Section
What Is A Weighted Blanket & How Is It Made? Go To Section
How Do Weighted Blankets Work? Go To Section
Weighted Blankets In Singapore Go To Section
Benefits Of Weighted Blankets Go To Section
Who May Benefit From Weighted Blankets? Go To Section
How To Choose The Right Weighted Blanket Size & Weight Go To Section
Weighted Blanket Tips Go To Section
How To Wash Weighted Blankets Go To Section
Frequently Asked Questions Go To Section

 

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.” 

 

Parent hugging his child - Photo by Tatiana Syrikova from Pexels
Image By Tatiana Syrikova From Pexels

 

After Zivalich shared his idea to 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.

 

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. 

 

weighted blanket filling
Photo By RDNE Stock Project From Pexels

 

This weight is applied on the body for a feeling of being gently hugged, with the goal of making 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 could potentially make or break the experience of using this type of bedding. This is especially for people with sensory issues. It can be made with bamboo fabric or soft luxurious cotton, completely up to your needs and preferences. 

 

Girl arranging the bed, featuring Weavve's weighted blanket


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.

 

Mother hugging her daughter, at the desk doing work - Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels
Image By Ketut Subiyanto From Pexels

 

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 “flight or fight” response.

 

Girl stressed out while doing work -Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels
Image By Andrea Piacquadio From Pexels

 

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.

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.

 

Woman lying on her bed under a blanket, covering her face
Featuring Weavve's TENCEL™ Lyocell Duvet

 

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 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 weighed blankets, hug machines, and weighted vests - the studies were all investigating Deep Touch Pressure sensory input and their effects on the human body. All demonstrating a positive effect in nervous system activity after the sensation was introduced.

 

Woman sleeping soundly with Weavve's weighted blanket


Where To Buy Weighted Blankets In Singapore?

Did you know that Singaporeans are one of the most sleep deprived people in the world?

Ranking third on the list of most sleep-starved cities in 2014 and second on the 2018 online poll done by Wakefield Research, 62% of Singaporeans aged 18 and older claimed to not be getting enough sleep. 

 

sleep deprived Singaporean mom
Image By Ketut Subiyanto From Pexels

 

The question is though, how are Singaporeans fairing in this current global pandemic? Some may believe that we are getting more sleep due to WFH or online-based learning, as more time has been freed up for us to rest with all the time saved from travelling. On the other hand, have the uncertainties of COVID-19 have kept us up late into the night, worrying about what the future has to hold? 

Well, studies have shown that close to 60% of Singaporeans have felt that the pandemic has had a direct negative impact on their ability to sleep well - averaging on 6.8 hours of sleep per night, down from 7 hours during the previous survey released in 2020. Meanwhile, more than a third has experienced increased stress and deteriorating mental and emotional health. 

 

Woman at her desk, doing her work
Featuring Weavve's Signature TENCEL™ Classic Set In Sand Taupe

 

Whatever the reasons, insufficient and low-quality sleep can be detrimental. It will significantly affect our health, work performance, safety, and general sense of well-being. Desperate for a solution, more than a quarter of Singaporeans turned to Google to learn about sleep and/or sleep treatments. If you are amongst these 25%, look no further, because we have a suggestion for you - weighted or gravity blankets.

Now you may be wondering why these types of covers, especially with the warm and humid climate here. The best weighted blankets in Singapore have been manufactured to not only meet our needs, but also suit our weather conditions. Materials such as glass bead fillings and thinner layers are used to trap less heat as compared to traditional duvets or blankets that use cotton fillings, hence allowing users, including hot sleepers, to benefit from deep touch stimulation all year round.

 

girl folding weighted blanket

 

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. Researches 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 a stress-free sleep and improved mood when you’re awake.

 

Woman sitting on bed with Weavve's white cotton bedsheets
Featuring Weavve's Cotton Classic Set In Cloud White

 

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, weighed 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 prompts the body to relax, which can also translate into other areas of your life, including improved sleep.

 

A mother hugging her daughter and son - Photo by Ketut Subiyanto from Pexels
Image By Ketut Subiyanto From Pexels


Physical

4. Helps Battle Insomnia And Improve Sleep

 

Averaging at 6 hours of sleep per night, it comes to 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 to use a gravity weighted blanket for four weeks and determine 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 weighed 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. 

 

Girl lying in bed snuggled under weighted blanket


5. Decreases Nighttime Movement 

If you find yourself tossing and turning in bed trying to get settled, feeling only half-asleep or not being able to fall back asleep quickly after waking up unexpectedly, you may be experiencing restless sleep. And you may most likely find yourself feeling tired or sluggish the next day. This could lead to, at best, unproductive work; and worst, life threatening (such as driving drowsily). 

However, the ‘cocooning’ effect of extra weight on your body has been proven to significantly decrease movements during sleep, allowing you to fall asleep faster and wake up refreshed and energised.

 

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 binds up our muscles and joints, making it harder for us to relax when it comes time to rest. Research has shown that weighed covers are able to provide us with an immediate release as the pressure from the blanket signals our brain and body to relax. 

 

A man in bed, hand on his forehead, looking frustrated - Photo by Andrea Piacquadio from Pexels
Image By Andrea Piacquadio From Pexels

8. Lowers 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 why 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.

 

A woman sleeping peacefully in bed featuring Weavve's cotton bed sheets in cream colour
Featuring Weavve's Cotton Duvet Cover Set In Sandshell


Mental

10. Soothes Sensory Processing Activity 

Sensory Processing Disorder refers to difficulty in processing senses such as noises 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 feeling over-stimulated by their environment. Hence, improving their overall mood and mental health.

 

A child with his hands on his head, screaming out in frustration - Photo by Keira Burton from Pexels
Image By Keira Burton From Pexels

 

11. Manages OCD Symptoms

Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) is defined as an anxiety disorder that causes people to engage in repeated behaviors driven from 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 have a tendency 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.

 

A little girl snuggled up with her teddy bear in bed, resting peacefully - Photo by cottonbro from Pexels
Image By cottonbro From Pexels

 

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 levels.

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 is 8 hours, Singaporeans are only averaging 6.8 hours per night. Thus, it is essential for us to achieve adequate rest in order to function at our best. This is where therapeutic bedding items can be of great help.

Girl sitting on bed with Weavve's green TENCEL sheets
Featuring Weavve's Signature TENCEL™ Duvet Cover Set In Fern Green


Who May Benefit From Weighted Blankets

People from all walks of life are able to enjoy the weighted blankets' benefits. From ADHD and PTSD, to people with ASD and sleep disorders, these covers are able to alleviate symptoms of stress, anxiety, and restlessness through Deep Touch Stimulation which releases feel-good endorphins into our brains.

Even if you do not suffer from any of the above, a gravity blanket can still add value to your life by giving you quality and deep sleep every night. Just like how we brush our teeth and shower daily, sleep hygiene should be viewed as essential. It is about fixing a routine and sticking to it, to ensure that we maintain a high quality of life. 

This is because sufficient rest can help lower risks of heart disease, stroke, cancer, diabetes, and Alzheimer’s. It has also been shown to keep energy levels and spirits up, which helps to combat anxiety and depression.

While weighed blankets host a range of benefits, there are some potential drawbacks as well. It would typically take a while for one to get fully accustomed to them, and that ranges from person to person. They may not be suitable for those with certain medical conditions, such as chronic respiratory or circulatory issues, asthma, and claustrophobia. 

People with obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are also not recommended to use weighted blankets or may want to opt for a lighter weight, as a heavy blanket may restrict airflow. Always seek medical advice first when in doubt. Due to its bulkiness, it may be more difficult to wash and also harder to bring for travels. 

Close-up shot of Weavve's Weighted Blanket


How To Choose A Weighted Blanket Size And Weight

Choosing a weighed blanket can be tricky with the different weight 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. 

Kids laughing while lying on bed with weighted blankets
Photo By Alex Green From Pexels

 

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:

Body Weight Blanket Weight
30 kg 3 kg
50 kg 5 kg
70 kg 7 kg


For Couples

They say “sharing is caring” and if you were wondering if you are able to share the weighted blanket benefits with your partner, the answer is yes. However, there are some considerations to make before investing in one.

 

Couple lying on bed with blanket while petting a cute dog
Image By Andres Ayrton From Pexels

 

Firstly, the weight of each individual should not differ too much. A huge difference may lead to unequal weight distribution which results in limited effectiveness. A solution to this would be for both of you to get separate covers. However, if the couple is almost similar in weight, not only can weighted blankets provide the both of you with better sleep, but also savings in cash and time in making the bed in the morning.

Secondly, sleeping styles. Do one of you prefer to be warm and snuggled up at night where the other prefers the cooling breeze from the air conditioner? If so, sharing might not be suitable and an individual one would suffice. On the other hand, if your sleeping styles match, a shared queen weighted blanket might just be the thing for you.

However, if you and your partner have already agreed to buy a weighted blanket, the next thing to consider would be the weighted blanket weight guide. The general rule of thumb may not be the most suitable measurement for a couple. Instead, select a blanket weight that is roughly 7% of your combined weight.

 

Individual Weight Couple Weight Blanket Weight
50 kg 100 kg 7 kg
65 kg 130 kg 9 kg
80 kg 160 kg 11 kg


Additionally, it would be ideal for couples to get one that fits your bed size. Whether it is a queen or king sized bed, you would want a blanket that can cover you and your partner, but without it being too oversized as that would result in less effective weight distribution as well.

Moreover, it is also not advisable to use a weighed blanket if you have children or pets that like to sneak into your bed for snuggles. This is because the weight of heavier blankets may be too much for their small stature. 

 

Folded weighted blanket on top of bed

 

Lastly, it is important to take into account the lifestyle of you and your partner. If you lead a busy life that doesn’t leave you much time for laundry or tidying up, it may be best to shop weighted blankets that are easy to clean. 

Lucky for you, Weave’s weighted blankets are machine-washable, requiring only the use of a gentle wash and spin cycle. But remember to check if your washing machine is able to handle the load.

At the end of the day, before making such an investment, it is important to weigh the pros and cons of a weighted blanket and ask yourself “Is it worth the try given my needs, lifetime, and budget?" If the answer is yes, getting one can be of significant help for your sleep quality and overall mental well-being. 

When constructing our weighted blanket, we made sure to consider all aspects from filling material, to covering and design, to give you the optimal comfort and best sleep experience. 

1. Lead-Free Glass Micro Beads

Our weighted blanket's 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

hypoallergenic poly-fill of Weavve's weighted blanket

 

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.

Weavve's Oeko-Tex® Standard 100 weighted blanket



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.

Quilted 233 TC Cotton Percale Shell detail on Weavve's weighted blanket


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/ 11kg

 

Weavve Home Best Weighted Blanket Singapore. Gravity Blanket Singapore. Therapeutic Heavy blanket for insomnia and anxiety.

A common misconception about our weighted blankets is that they are hot. While such covers are heavier than regular quilts, it does not mean they are too hot. In fact, you can enjoy them even when sleeping in a non air-conditioned room and still be comfortable. At the end of the day, it is most important for you to take your time to do your research and make an informed decision that best suits you and your sleeping needs.

 

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. 

 

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. 

 

Midshot of woman sleeping on bed with pillows and weighted blanket


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.

 

Girl on bed using her laptop, featuring Weavve's Lyocell Sheets in Blush Pink


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.

 

Figure Out What Works For You

Consider tracking your daytime energy levels and mood in order to track improvements in your sleep patterns. This can help yourself to understand what works and what does not for you, and adjust to what suits your needs best.

Featuring Weavve's Signature TENCEL sheets in Sky Blue


How To Wash Weighted Blankets

Since most gravity blankets are used on a regular basis, if not every night, it is inevitable that they will need to be cleaned periodically. And as they are designed differently as compared to typical covers and duvet inserts, they require different care. To preserve the quality of the fabric and extend the life of your bedding, utmost care should be taken when laundering. You may also want to try airing your weighted blankets out on a sunny day in between washes.

 

How Often To Wash

Generally, weighed blankets that are used with a duvet cover should be washed about four times a year. If they are used directly on the body, they will need to be washed more frequently. Hand washing them will help extend the life of the fabric as well as the filler. 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 and lesser, 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.

 

girl washing duvet cover and weighted blanketImage By RDNE Stock Project From Pexels

 

How To Dry

Taking proper precautions when drying weighted blankets will keep them in good, useable 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 detergent that contain bleach or fabric softener as fabric softeners can build up in the material, causing them 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? 

You may wonder how heavy covers work in tropical climates, like sunny Singapore. After all, you won’t want to wake up in a sweat.

This is a common misconception about gravity blankets. While they are heavier than regular quilts, this does not translate to heat retention. You can still have blissful sleep even without an air conditioner.

 

Are gravity blankets safe for my child?

Our weighed blankets are not recommended for children under the age of 5 years old. Keeping this in mind, be sure to use a safe weight as well.

 

Can I use a weighed blanket if I’m pregnant?

The short answer to this question is, yes. Ultimately it is up to personal needs and preferences, but a weighed cover may be beneficial to some pregnant ladies. Albeit pregnancy being one of life’s beautiful miracles, it can come with a whole lot of discomfort. From back pains to mood swings and hot flashes, carrying a child for 9 months can undoubtedly be uncomfortable for the mother at times. 

Sleep for a pregnant woman is more crucial than ever, as she is now sleeping for two! Using this during pregnancy may help you relax your nervous system and produce ‘feel-good’ hormones such as serotonin and dopamine. Serotonin also then converts into melatonin, also known as the sleep hormone.

This is more effective as opposed to sleeping pills or herbal remedies that make you deal with any unwanted drowsiness or adverse side effects for you and your baby.

However, it is important to note that this is not a one-size-fits-all remedy to the side effects that comes with pregnancy. Always consult your obstetrician-gynecologist before using a weighed blanket whilst pregnant.

 

What are the differences between gravity blankets vs weighted blankets?

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

Shop the Story