If you haven’t yet discovered the magic of a weighted blanket, you are in for a treat. You might think weighted blankets will make you too hot at night, or feel too heavy – or you might think they are only for certain people, such as those with an anxiety diagnosis. I am here to tell you that, no matter who you are – I think you can benefit from using one at night (or whenever!). The pressure provided by weighted blankets is meant to make you feel calm and safe, and leads to a multitude of benefits: decreased anxiety and stress levels, better sleep, increased oxytocin (dubbed “the love hormone”). Adding one to your sleep routine just might change your life. I tried three different brands, and each one has unique features. Read on to see which one is best for you (FYI, they are all machine washable!).
Cool & Crisp
Made of 100% organic cotton, the Bearaby Travel Napper in 10 pounds is smooth and always cool to the touch. Bearaby blankets are hand-knit using heavy fabric, making them a unique option among other weighted blankets. Because they don’t contain plastic beads, they are kind to the environment. I find that this doesn’t add any more heat when I use it on top of a comforter, which is exactly what I’m looking for, especially in spring and summer. Its travel-friendly size also makes it great for trips, or toting around the house. I have it in Cloud White and I absolutely love the look of cool white cotton.
Cozy & Cuddly
If you want something a little bit more like your favorite soft throw blanket, try the Magic Weighted Chenille Blanket. The chenille fabric is fuzzy and cozy yet durable, and will keep you snuggly warm during a movie or nap. Its luxurious feel makes it perfect for fall and winter. I have this one in 16 pounds, and there’s nothing better than being firmly tucked in by a toasty warm blanket that feels like a snug hug when it’s twenty-something degrees out. I have the color Lavender, a gorgeous light purple.
Daily De-Stress
An excellent option that sits between the above two is Baloo’s Weighted Blanket, another cotton option that feels a lot like your favorite down comforter, only with more weight. Sustainably made and chemical free, this one is the perfect option if you want something that will work in every season. Because of the way it’s sewn (with lead-free glass microbeads, by the way), it will definitely keep you warm, but due to its cotton composition it’s not going to trap excessive amounts of heat. Mine is the Pebble White throw in 12 pounds – a perfect weight that’s not too constricting but also not too light. You can also buy a cotton duvet cover for this one, making it an ideal option for everyday use.
