Weighted blankets: benefits, do they work, are they safe?

Imagine settling into bed after a long day and feeling gentle pressure envelop you like a cozy hug. That's the magic of weighted blankets. They've become a favorite among sleep enthusiasts and wellness experts alike. Maybe you've even been tempted to get one for yourself, hoping it'll improve sleep quality.

But what are weighted blankets, and how do they work? Are they really a game-changer or just another trend? Are there any risks involved? Keep reading because we'll break down the benefits, the science, and the safety concerns so you can decide if a weighted blanket is your next sleep accessory.

What are weighted blankets and how do they work?

Weighted blankets are, as you might guess, heavy blankets. They're filled with materials like glass beads or plastic pellets to create gentle but firm pressure across your body. If you've ever had a massage or felt the calming effect of being gently held, you already have a sense of what it's like. This pressure mimics something called Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS), which is known to reduce stress and promote relaxation.

You may wonder why this weighted sensation makes such a difference. Deep touch pressure works by activating our parasympathetic nervous system—the body's calming mechanism—while also boosting serotonin (our "feel-good" hormone) and melatonin (our sleep hormone). Meanwhile, cortisol, the stress hormone, gets dialed down. In short, the blanket helps your body and mind chill out.

The benefits of weighted blankets

Let's get into the juicy part: why so many people love weighted blankets. If you're still skeptical about the weighted blanket benefit, these points might help clarify things:

1. Improves sleep quality: If tossing and turning is your nightly routine, a weighted blanket may help you settle down. The gentle pressure is soothing and may assist you in falling asleep faster and staying asleep longer.

2. Reduces anxiety symptoms: Stressful days don't have to lead to restless nights. The calming effect of deep pressure stimulation can ease your mind, especially for people with anxiety.

3. Helps people with sensory processing disorders: For those with conditions like autism spectrum disorder or attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), the sensory input from a weighted blanket can feel incredibly grounding. It's a way to give the autonomic nervous system a bit of relief from over-stimulation.

4. Eases restless leg syndrome and chronic pain: Do you have tingling sensations in your legs or discomfort that keep you up? Weighted blankets can help reduce them, providing relief for conditions like restless leg syndrome or chronic pain.

5. Improves focus in people with ADHD: Believe it or not, weighted blankets work not just for sleep but also to help with focus. The calming effects can make concentration easier, especially for children and adults with ADHD.

6. Supports people with mental health disorders: People with depression, PTSD, or generalized anxiety disorder often experience an overactive nervous system. The calming effect of a weighted blanket can help slow things down, offering a comforting, therapeutic sensation.

7. Alleviates symptoms of chronic sleep disorders: For individuals dealing with conditions like insomnia or sleep apnea, weighted blankets may offer some relief. The deep pressure can create a sense of security that helps regulate your sleep cycle and makes drifting off easier.

But do weighted blankets really work?

It's a fair question: do weighted blankets truly help with better sleep, or is it just a placebo effect? Well, science has some solid answers. According to a study by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine, participants who used weighted blankets for four weeks experienced significant improvements in sleep quality.

They reported better sleep maintenance, felt more refreshed in the morning, and had fewer insomnia symptoms. The study even found that these participants were 26 times more likely to see a 50% or greater reduction in their insomnia severity compared to the control group. Moreover, the research noted that the positive effects extended to mental health, reducing fatigue, anxiety, and symptoms of depression.

Still, it's worth mentioning that weighted blankets aren't a magical cure. If you have severe anxiety, chronic sleep issues, or medical conditions, consider them a tool in your wellness toolbox, not the sole solution. Personal experiences vary—what works wonders for one person might not do much for another. Trying one out for yourself is often the best way to know if it's right for you.

Are weighted blankets safe?

Weighted blankets are generally safe for most people. But, as with anything, there are a few things to keep in mind: While they are primarily designed to help individuals fall asleep more easily and enjoy the therapeutic benefits associated with deep pressure stimulation, not everyone may find them suitable.

The benefits of a weighted blanket include its ability to reduce anxiety and potentially alleviate symptoms of various sleep disorders. This makes it an appealing option for those looking to enhance their sleep quality and overall well-being. However, caution is advised, especially when considering the weight and size of the blanket, to ensure it complements your body weight without causing discomfort or safety issues.

• Weight matters: The rule of thumb is to get a weighted blanket that's about 10% of your body weight. Heavier is not necessarily better and can feel suffocating instead of comforting.

• Children and elderly: Weighted blankets are not recommended for small children or people with conditions like asthma or respiratory issues, as the weight may make breathing difficult.

• Pregnancy: Pregnant individuals should consult their healthcare provider before using one to ensure it's safe.

• Mobility issues: If someone has limited mobility or difficulty shifting their body in bed, the extra weight could become a hazard.

Weighted blankets: the bottom line

Weighted blankets have made quite the splash, and for a good reason. They offer a calming, cozy experience that many swear by, especially for improving sleep. While they're not one-size-fits-all, they can be a valuable tool in creating a more restful sleep environment.

If you're already thinking about how to make your nights even more rejuvenating, Drowsy has you covered. Our Silk Weighted Blankets combine the soothing benefits of deep-pressure stimulation with the luxury of premium silk. We have 3 colors available at the moment: the Dusty Gold Silk Weighted Blanket, the Midnight Blue Silk Weighted Blanket, and the Moonlight Shadow Silk Weighted Blanket. Pair them with a Drowsy Silk Sleep Mask to create the ultimate sleep sanctuary. Sweet dreams are just a blanket away!