What does a weighted blanket do exactly?

There's something magical about being tucked under a blanket that feels like a gentle hug, especially when it's a weighted one. But how exactly do weighted blankets work? If you've ever wondered about their popularity or why people swear by them for a good night's sleep, you're not alone. As Drowsy Sleep expands its product line to include luxurious silk weighted blankets, let's break down exactly why they could be your new favorite sleep companion.

How does a weighted blanket work?

A weighted blanket works by spreading gentle, steady pressure across your body. Think of it like a soft hug. This feeling is called deep pressure stimulation (also known as deep touch pressure), and it's been looked at in studies to determine how it might help you feel calm and safe.

Some researchers think DPS may affect how your autonomic nervous system reacts to stress. One recent study from 2024 found that this kind of pressure might help the brain shift into a more relaxed state. This could explain why many people feel less tense when using a weighted blanket.

The benefits of weighted blankets explained

1. Encourages calm and relaxation

Weighted blankets can help calm your mind and body. The gentle pressure feels like being held, which may lower stress hormones and make it easier to relax. This can be helpful for people dealing with anxiety symptoms or stress-related sleep disorders.

In one study involving adults in a psychiatric hospital, it was found that using weighted blankets was associated with reduced anxiety and lower pulse rates. It may not be a cure, but it can be part of a nighttime routine that helps you feel safer and fall asleep more deeply.

2. Makes bedtime feel more peaceful

Weighted blankets are often used by people who want to wind down before sleep. The steady weight can help quiet racing thoughts and bring a sense of calm. It's like a signal to your body that it's time to relax.

Most studies in a 2024 review found that weighted blankets helped people sleep better and feel less anxious or upset. This included people with sleep problems, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), autism, and similar conditions. Results weren't the same for everyone, but many showed clear benefits.

3. May reduce nighttime restlessness

If you tend to toss and turn, the pressure from a weighted blanket might help promote stillness. Many say it helps them wake up less during the night and feel more rested in the morning.

Another study found that using deep pressure helped people's bodies feel more relaxed. Their heart rates slowed, and they showed signs of better rest. That could mean a smoother, deeper sleep.

4. Brings comfort to people with sensory needs

Some people are more sensitive to sounds, lights, or touch. For them, steady pressure from a weighted blanket can feel calming and grounding. It's not a treatment, but it can be part of a routine that helps them feel better.

In one study, children with autism who had sleep issues tried a weighted blanket for two weeks. Even though it didn't lead to better sleep compared to a regular blanket, most kids and parents still preferred the weighted one, suggesting it offered comfort and was easy to use.

Why choose Drowsy silk weighted blankets?

When it comes to investing in a weighted blanket, not all are created equal. At Drowsy, we're focused on creating a product that delivers the benefits of deep pressure therapy while keeping luxury in mind.

• Luxurious silk: Unlike most weighted blankets made from cotton or synthetic fibers, Drowsy's version uses premium 22 Momme mulberry silk. This provides an ultra-soft, cooling touch that feels great against the skin, perfect for hot sleepers or anyone who loves a touch of luxury.

• Sleep-safe fillers: Our blankets are weighted with sleep-friendly quartz glass beads that distribute the weight evenly, avoiding uncomfortable clumping and ensuring you feel cocooned in comfort.

• Hypoallergenic: Ideal for sensitive skin or allergy sufferers, our silk weighted blankets keep allergens at bay and offer an extra layer of comfort for your bedtime routine.

Weighted blankets: your new sleep essential

Weighted blankets have become popular for a reason. Many people find them helpful when dealing with stress, trouble falling asleep, or just trying to feel more at ease at night. Drowsy's silk weighted blanket is designed to feel soft, cool, and calming, perfect for winding down before bed.

Good sleep plays a big role in how you feel every day. Choosing a blanket that helps you relax can make bedtime something to look forward to. Pick your favorite from Dusty Gold, Midnight Blue, and Moonlight Shadow, and fall in love with sleep all over again!