The Best Weighted Blanket for Kids

Weighted blankets started out in the occupational therapist offices way before becoming a typical seller on the market. Weighted blankets have been used on children with autism, ADHD, anxiety, and other health conditions for quite some time. 

Not only are these blankets cozy and comforting, but they truly provide therapeutic benefits to anxious, hyper, and restless children. Here are our top picks for the best weighted blankets for kids, what to consider when shopping for your child, and some frequently asked questions.

Our Picks for the Best Weighted Blanket for Kids

What to look for in your next weighted blanket for kids

It’s always best to know everything before shopping for kids. Here’s what you should look for in your child’s weighted blanket to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for their age and weight.

• Weight: Weighted blankets come in all different sizes. There is a specific weight amount of each person, especially for kids. There are weighted blankets that range in weight from five to 30 pounds. To determine the proper weight amount, you choose a blanket that is 10 percent of your body weight. Therefore, if your child is 75 pounds, you choose a weighted blanket with a five to seven pound weight amount. This is the standard recommendation for all individuals, but your child may end up wanting something on the lighter side. You don’t know until they try it, but never go higher than 10 percent of their body weight.
  

• Size: Make sure that your child’s weighted blanket is only a little bit bigger than their length and width. If your child is going to use this blanket while sleeping, there are standard bed-size dimensions offered such as twin, twin XL, and full.
  

• Material: There are several materials that can make up a weighted blanket. The most important thing to be sure of when picking out a blanket for your child is that the materials are safe and comfortable on their skin. There are plenty of retailers that offer hypoallergenic, non-toxic options. Cotton is the most common surface cover of weighted blankets which offers a soft, breathable feel. You should also look for one that is machine-washable, because we all know how messy our kids can get sometimes!

FAQs

What is a weighted blanket? 

A weighted blanket is exactly what the term suggests; a blanket that has small beaded weights inside of it. The purpose of this type of blanket is to provide a consistent, soothing pressure to the person laying underneath. The most important thing to consider is the amount of weight for each individual body laying underneath it. 

How do I know my child will like a weighted blanket?

Unfortunately, you don’t know until you try. A weighted blanket has an effect on a child’s sensory process. Some children will love the weighted experience; whereas, others might hate it. It’s been proven that children with autism and ADHD; or children with sensory issues find it comforting and relaxing. There are plenty of children without any type of diagnosis that find benefits from a weighted blanket. 

If my child has no diagnosis, how should I determine if a weighted blanket would be useful to them?

If your child is constantly kicking off blankets and avoids tight interactions like cuddling or hugging, a weighted blanket may not be the best experience for them. However, if your child loves sleeping with lots of blankets and stuffed animals or enjoys playing in tight spaces, then a weight blanket may be monumental to them. Typically, parents result in the idea of a weighted blanket when their child isn’t sleeping well. If your child has difficulty relaxing or sitting still, a weighted blanket may provide the appropriate amount of pressure to soothe them to a relaxed state. Moreover, every child is different. Your child may show all the signs of not finding a weighted blanket appealing but they could still end up loving it. If your options are running low, we say it’s worth a shot. 

What age can my child start using a weighted blanket? 

According to the experts, weighted blankets should not be used on infants to children under five years old. In terms of weight, children less than 50 pounds should not use a weighted blanket. Also, if your child likes to chew on things, you should steer away from a weighted blanket. For younger children ranging from five to seven years old, take off the weighted blanket once they are asleep so there’s no chance of them harming themselves.

Conclusion

A weighted blanket may be just the thing your child needs to start relaxing and sleeping well on their own. It’s essential that you factor in the amount of weight within the blanket and your child’s age before purchasing.