Weighted blankets are becoming increasingly popular as a form of therapy. People who suffer from anxiety, have autism, or have night terrors have found relief from this form of weighted therapy. If you are considering using a weighted blanket for a form of therapy, there are a few things you should understand before making your purchase. Here are some of the important key points and what you should know about each one.
Weight Matters
When you first start looking for weighted blankets, you will notice different weight scales. The different weights can range from 10 pounds up to as high as 50 pounds. You may believe that weight is simply a scale. For example, the lower weight would be a starter weight and the heavier weight something you would consider after using weighted blankets for a specific amount of time. The truth is the weight is based on the amount of pressure you need for your specific issues. Though starting smaller does help, you are looking for the weight that feels most comfortable rather than a scaled weight related to how long you've been using the blankets.
Removable Pouches
Keep in mind that your blanket will need to be cleaned. Though many can be dry cleaned, this type of cleaning can become expensive. Make sure you are looking for a blanket with removable weights our weight pouches. This is ideal for many reasons. Not only does the removable weight allow you to clean the blanket at home in the washing machine, but it also allows you to adjust the weight. You may find that a heavier weight works best for your anxiety, but a lighter weight works best for restless leg issues. The removable pouches let you adjust that weight to your needs without the need for multiple blankets.
Material Matters
The material you choose for your weighted blanket does matter. For example, if you plan on using your blanket year-round, then you may want to get a lighter material such as cotton. If you keep your house cold year-round, then a fleece may be suitable. The weight of the blanket will help with insulation and warmth, so added warmth of the material can make you too hot which could cause you to feel uncomfortable. You can also choose an empty blanket with pouches for the weight. This allows you to use a warmer material part of the year and a lighter material during the rest of the year.
Weighted blankets are available at many stores, however, you should consider discussing the purchase with your doctor first. Your doctor can give you insight into specific brands, weights, and other information based on your personal health history. This can help you narrow down the right one for you and ultimately lead to better results.
