Weighted Blankets 

Weighted Blankets

Stress and anxiety are issues that most people face on a day-to-day basis. From stress at work, to anxiety about financial concerns, many different areas of our world can add tension to an already busy way of life. So it’s not surprising that people look for different ways to help ease the stress that occurs naturally as our days and weeks go on. And it’s also logical that healthy, simple, and easy stress-management options are readily available and come in many different forms.

One of the more popular ways people are attempting to mitigate their stress levels is through the use of weighted blankets. These bed coverings provide a bit more weight that an average blanket - anywhere from five to 20, even up to 30 pounds. This extra weight is meant to offer the user feelings of comfort, security, and is thought to help provide longer periods of rest that can help alleviate the anxiety one is feeling.

This type of product is one that has been used in the field of sensory disorder treatment for years now, as heavy blankets and wraps have been used to help patients with ADHD and autism. The blanket’s extra weight also replicates deep pressure touch (DPT), which helps stimulate the release of serotonin and dopamine; hormones that fight stress and encourage relaxation.

So, you’ve decided to give a weighted blanket a chance at helping reduce your stress…now what?

How to Choose the Right Weighted Blanket

When shopping for a weighted blanket, a customer is provided with a plethora of options from a host of various retailers. When it comes down to making a purchase, potential weighted blanket buyers might be concerned about which specific blanket to get, or why they should choose one model over another. The only specific weighted blanket guidelines deal with the weight of the actual blanket in relation to the weight of the potential user.

Blanket manufacturers have varying guidelines, but it’s generally recommended that an adult buy a weighted blanket that is five to 10% of their ideal body weight. For children, it is recommended that the blanket be 10% of their ideal body weight, plus one to two extra pounds. If you’re still unsure which weight of blanket to buy, you may wish to consult a doctor who can provide more specific guidelines to your unique, individual situation.

Benefits of Weighted Blankets

An added benefit that weighted blankets offer over other sleep aids is their ability to provide potential comfort from the very first night. While other options might take days or even weeks to show results, you can try a weighted blanket right away and possibly feel a difference. That’s why many people dealing with sleeplessness or nighttime restlessness caused by anxiety find them appealing. Plus, there are minimal potential side effects compared to other options.

If you’re wondering, “Are weighted blankets considered comforters?”—the answer is that they’re a bit different. Traditional comforters are made to keep you cozy and warm, but weighted blankets also provide gentle pressure designed to help you relax. For many families and individuals, they’re a simple way to add an extra layer of calm to bedtime.

Also be aware that weighted blankets can provide added warmth, more so than normal bedding or coverings. If you are already warm when you sleep, look for weighted blankets that come in fabrics that are naturally cooling and moisture wicking.

Since stress is prevalent in all parts of life for basically all people, it’s not surprising that items like weighted blankets are trending in today’s world. With so many options out there in the marketplace, it can appear that shopping for a stress-relieving aid might actually cause even more stress in the long run! That’s why it’s important to do research before making a weighted blanket purchase, so you can feel confident and relaxed; knowing the blanket you’ve chosen is the right one for you can help put your mind at ease.

And be sure to complete your bedding collection with other items available at Kohl's, including pillows, mattress pads and toppers, and much more!

Hopefully with these hints and tidbits of information, your purchase of a weighted blanket will be smooth and as stress-free as possible!