Article: How to Use a Weighted Blanket

Nov 1, 2023

How to Use a Weighted Blanket

Discovering how to use a weighted blanket can transform your sleep experience. At California Design Den, we're all about enhancing your sleep, and we're here to guide you through their use.

We'll discuss the basics: what they are and why people love them. Then we'll provide detailed advice on choosing the right one for you.

We'll outline whether it's advisable to use a weighted blanket throughout the entire night, how long to use one for optimal benefits, and if they're a good fit for side sleepers. Plus, we'll highlight the weighted blanket pros and cons.

Ready? Let's get started.

What this article covers:

Using a Weighted Blanket
Are Weighted Blankets Beneficial for Side Sleepers?
How to Choose a Weighted Blanket
Benefits of a Weighted Blanket

Using a Weighted Blanket

Weighted blankets, designed to offer a gentle, even pressure across your body, mimic the feeling of being hugged. They are a boon to many. For those of you new to this wonder bedding, here's how to use them effectively.

Choose The Right Size And Weight

First off, pick a blanket with the proper weight. The ideal weighted blanket should weigh approximately 10% of your body weight.

The blanket should cover your body snugly, but not be so large that it hangs off the sides of the bed, as this can cause it to slide off.

Integrate It Into Your Sleep Routine

Begin by draping the weighted blanket over your regular bedding. Some people prefer to use the weighted blanket alone, while others layer it with their duvet or comforter for additional warmth.

Experiment to find what feels most comfortable for you.

Use It Throughout The Night Or For Short Periods

While many find comfort in using a weighted blanket all night, others might prefer it for short relaxation periods or while winding down before sleep.

Listen to your body; if you feel overheated or restricted, adjust the usage accordingly. It may also take some time for your body to adapt to the sensation, so give yourself a moment to adjust.

Care And Maintenance

Follow the care instructions closely to maintain the blanket's quality and longevity. Most weighted blankets, especially those made from durable materials like cotton, are machine washable. However, it's essential to use gentle cycles and avoid harsh chemicals to preserve the blanket's integrity.

At California Design Den,we're proud to offer our 12lb weighted blanket, a hand-knitted, cotton option that is super comfortable and breathable. With no fillers, this blanket won't cause you to overheat like other alternatives do.

Easy to maintain and machine washable, our weighted blanket is available in three sizes and weights - 10 lb (40 x 64), 12 lb (40 x 72), and 15lb (44 x 72) - it's easy to find the perfect fit for your individual needs.

What Are Weighted Blankets?

Weighted blankets are therapeutic blankets designed with additional weight, typically ranging from 5 to 20 pounds. They are engineered to provide even pressure across the body, mimicking deep pressure stimulation.

This pressure aims to relax the nervous system, easing anxiety and improving sleep quality. The outer material of weighted blankets varies, with cotton being a popular option for its breathability and longevity.

Why Do People Use Weighted Blankets?

People turn to weighted blankets for their potential to improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety. The deep pressure stimulation they provide is believed to increase serotonin and melatonin levels in the body—chemicals associated with relaxation and sleep—while decreasing cortisol, a stress hormone.

This can lead to a calming effect, helping users to fall asleep faster and enjoy a deeper, more restful sleep.

how to use a weighted blanket correctly

Beyond sleep improvement, weighted blankets are also used for managing symptoms of conditions like ADHD and sensory processing disorders, offering a non-pharmacological option to help soothe and calm the body.

Can You Use A Weighted Blanket The Entire Night?

Yes, you can use a weighted blanket throughout the entire night if you find it comfortable and it does not cause overheating or discomfort.

Based on our observations, the continuous pressure provided by the blanket can help maintain a calm state, potentially leading to improved sleep quality and duration.

However, individual preferences vary. Some users might prefer using the blanket for only part of the night or while relaxing before sleep. It's important to listen to your body.

How Long To Use A Weighted Blanket

For those seeking to improve sleep, using the blanket throughout the night may offer the most benefits. However, for stress relief or relaxation purposes, shorter periods, such as 20-30 minutes, may be sufficient.

It's essential to start with shorter durations to gauge your comfort and response to the blanket's weight, escalating the time as you become accustomed to the sensation.

Are Weighted Blankets Beneficial for Side Sleepers?

Yes, weighted blankets can be beneficial for side sleepers, offering the same potential benefits of improved sleep quality and reduced anxiety that they do for back or stomach sleepers.

For side sleepers, the distribution of weight in the blanket is also an important consideration. A well-designed weighted blanket, like our own, should evenly distribute weight to ensure that the pressure is uniform, which can help in avoiding any discomfort that may arise in the side sleeping position.

How to Choose a Weighted Blanket

You may be thinking, which weighted blanket is best for me? Selecting the right weighted blanket involves considering several factors to ensure it meets your individual needs for comfort, weight, and material.

The perfect blanket can enhance your sleep quality and provide a comforting sense of pressure that mimics a hug. Below, we delve into the crucial aspects to keep in mind.

Choosing The Right Weight

As we mentioned earlier, 10% of one's body weight is the guideline. For individuals weighing 150 pounds, a 15-pound blanket is often ideal.

Material Matters

Pondering, what are weighted blankets made of? Good! The material of a weighted blanket affects its feel, breathability, and warmth. Cotton is a popular choice for its natural airiness and softness, making it suitable for all seasons. Fleece is warm, but may cause overheating issues.

For those with sensitivities or allergies, hypoallergenic materials like cotton can be a great option.

Sustainability And Certifications

Our research indicates that in today's eco-conscious world, opting for a weighted blanket that's sustainable and certified by reputable organizations is a wise choice. These certifications guarantee that the blanket is made without harmful chemicals and produced in a way that's environmentally.

Consider our knitted weighted blanket, available at California Design Den. Crafted from sustainable cotton and certified by leading independent authorities like OEKOTex or GOTS, our blanket is designed with your comfort and the environment in mind.

Benefits of a Weighted Blanket

Weighted blankets have gained popularity for their potential to improve sleep and reduce anxiety, among other benefits. Here's a closer look at the key weighted blanket benefits.

Improved Sleep Quality

The gentle, even pressure provided by weighted blankets can help increase serotonin and melatonin levels in the body, chemicals that play a role in regulating sleep. This can help individuals fall asleep faster and enjoy a deeper, more restful sleep.

Reduced Anxiety And Stress

The deep pressure stimulation effect can help reduce cortisol levels, a stress hormone, while boosting serotonin and oxytocin levels, promoting feelings of relaxation and well-being.

how to sleep with a weighted blanket

Enhanced Calm

Our findings show that beyond these biochemical effects, the sensation of being hugged can provide a sense of security. This can be especially beneficial for individuals with sensory processing disorders, autism, ADHD, or other conditions that may lead to a heightened need for sensory input.

Conclusion

We've unwrapped the secrets behind the effectiveness of weighted blankets, guiding you through their benefits, how to use them, and most importantly, how to select one that aligns perfectly with your needs.

From understanding the foundational aspects of weighted blankets and their myriad benefits, including enhanced sleep quality and decreased anxiety, to navigating the considerations for side sleepers and pinpointing the ideal weight and material for your personal comfort, we've covered it all.

As the night draws in, consider our weighted blankets. Crafted with care and certified for sustainability, they are your gateway to a restful night and brighter mornings.

Explore California Design Den and let our weighted blankets be the comforting embrace you look forward to every evening.

If you want to learn more, why not check out these articles below:

Written by Ella Wharton

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