A weighted blanket is a unique sleep accessory that can provide a calming and comforting effect on those who struggle with anxiety, stress, or insomnia. The heavy blanket is filled with evenly-distributed weights, typically in the form of glass beads, plastic pellets, or other materials, to provide a soothing pressure on the body. This pressure helps to reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality, making weighted blankets a great option for those looking to improve their quality of life.
In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of weighted blankets, how to make your own, and the types of materials you’ll need.
Benefits of Weighted Blankets
Weighted blankets are great for providing a calming effect on the body and mind. They are known to reduce anxiety, improve sleep quality, and help to reduce the symptoms of insomnia. Weighted blankets can also help to reduce the feelings of restlessness and are great for those who suffer from chronic pain.
How to Make Your Own Weighted Blanket
Making your own weighted blanket is a great way to save money and get the perfect fit for your body. You’ll need to choose a fabric for your blanket, such as fleece or cotton, and you’ll need to decide on the type of material you want to use as weights. Glass beads, plastic pellets, and polypropylene pellets are all popular options.
Once you have chosen a material, you’ll need to measure out the size of your blanket and the amount of weight you want to use. It’s important to make sure that the weight is evenly distributed throughout the blanket. You’ll then need to sew the weights into pockets of the fabric. Once all of the pockets are filled, you can sew the edges of the blanket together.
Types of Materials for Weighted Blankets
As mentioned above, there are many different types of materials you can use to fill your weighted blanket. Glass beads are the most popular option, as they allow for a more even distribution of weight. Plastic pellets are also a good option, as they are easy to use and are not as noisy as glass beads. Polypropylene pellets are also a great option, as they are hypoallergenic and provide a soft feel against the skin.
Making your own weighted blanket is a great way to save money and get the perfect fit for your body. With a little bit of effort, you can create a calming and comfortable weighted blanket that will help you get a better night’s sleep.
Frequently Asked Questions
FAQ 1: How do I make a weighted blanket?
Answer: To make a weighted blanket, you will need fabric, thread, stuffing, a sewing machine, and weight pellets. Start by cutting two pieces of fabric to the desired size for the blanket. Sew the two pieces together, leaving a gap large enough to insert the stuffing and pellets. Fill the blanket with the stuffing and pellets, then sew the gap shut. Finally, secure the seams with additional stitching.
FAQ 2: What are the benefits of using a weighted blanket?
Answer: Weighted blankets are known to provide numerous benefits, including improved sleep quality, relaxation, and stress relief. They also provide sensory input that can be beneficial for those with autism and other sensory processing disorders.
FAQ 3: How heavy should a weighted blanket be?
Answer: The recommended weight for a weighted blanket depends on the individual’s body weight. Generally, a blanket should be 10% of the user’s body weight, plus one or two pounds.
FAQ 4: What material should I use for a weighted blanket?
Answer: The best material to use for a weighted blanket is a heavy, tightly woven fabric such as cotton, fleece, or minky. This type of material is thick enough to hold the weight of the stuffing and pellets and will provide a comfortable sleep surface.
FAQ 5: Are weighted blankets safe for children?
Answer: Weighted blankets are generally safe for children, but it is important to use caution when choosing the blanket weight. The weight should be appropriate for the child’s age and body weight and should not exceed 10% of the child’s body weight plus one or two pounds.