Weighted sensory blankets have recently become a “thing” for kids with sensory issues. Used by parents to soothe their autistic children, sensory blankets can also help those who struggle with ADHD, Sensory Processing Disorder, insomnia, and anxiety. Most parents prefer to find non-medication solutions to their children’s needs. 

There are two reasons a weighted blanket helps to induce calm in your child.

First, it envelopes their body creating a sense of security. You can liken this effect to swaddling a newborn. Newborn babies prefer to be wrapped tightly and will calm right down when they are snugly tucked into a wrapped blanket. 

Secondly, the gentle pressure from the weighted blanket causes the release of oxytocin, the “cuddle hormone”. At least, that’s what experts theorize. 

There aren’t many independent studies of these sensory blankets; however, they rate highly with many parents who swear to their effectiveness. Also, the use of weighted products for children with sensory conditions is commonly used by occupational therapists. 

There are a couple of studies worth looking at:  Swedish researchers found that med and women who suffered from insomnia used a weighted blanket  over a 2 week period.  They reported improved sleep quality and a decrease of nighttime restlessness. 

A separate study in 2015 found that 32 adults using s a 30-pound blanket, 63% reported lower anxiety. 78% reported prefering a weighted blanket to the traditional type. 

Choosing the right sensory blanket for your child might be a little overwhelming due to the sheer number available on the market. That’s why we have reviewed the top 5 weighted blankets available. 

After our product reviews you can find more information on the benefits of weighted blankets, how they work, and details to consider before selecting the right option for your child. 

Hazli Kids Weighted Blanket 

Features:

Removable Cover 

2 size/weight options

4 color options

9 layers

100% cotton

Hypo-allergenic

Microglass bead filling

Machine washable cover

Award-winning

The Hazli Kids Weighted Blanket knocked our kid out within 15 minutes and her attitude was less cranky in the morning.  we can only assume it was due to a more restful night of sleep.  She said the fabric is soft and makes her feel safe.

We liked the quality of this blanket. While we’ve had it for only a short time, it looks well-constructed with consistent stitching and sturdy fabric. while the fabric seemed durable, it was still soft and sufficiently comfortable.

something important to consider with kids is the ab ility to keep their bedding clean. This Hazli sensory blanket is machine washable which makes is really quite easy to clean. 

BUZIO Kids Fleece Weighted Blanket

Features:

5 size/weight options

4 color options

Fleece fabric

7 layers

Lifetime warranty

30-day refund guarantee

Hypo-allergenic

Microglass bead filling

Sivio Weighted Blanket for Kids

Features: 

100% breathable natural cotton

18 pattern options

4 size options

7 layer

microglass bead filling

4 inch baffles

On inspection of the Sivio Weighted Blanket for kids, we found that in addition to being filled with microglass beads, there is also stuffing. The additional stuffing makes it thicker than your average weighted blanket.

The baffle boxes are evenly filled, ensuring an evenly distributed weight. It washes well, and seems to stand up well with frequent washes.

The most unique quality of the Silvio blanket are the adorable animal patterns that come in several colors. These will be sure to thrill younger children. 

A downside of the Sivio is that the fabric can’t be described as rough, but it isn’t as soft as its competitors. There was some fading of its bright colors after washing it, but the quality is good overall.

LUNA Kids Weighted Blanket

Features:

Hypoallergenic

100% Cotton

21 color/pattern options

15 size options

Microglass bead filling

Machine washable 

7 layers

This Weighted Blanket by LUNA is a soft cotton.  While they claim in their description that the fabric is organic, the tag simply reads 100% cotton.  Regardless, the cotton fabric should ensure that it’s breathable, and generally it was. It is worth pointing out though, that some who describe themselves as “hot sleepers” found they felt uncomfortably hot under this model. 

It comes in a slew of sizes, which makes it available for kids, teens, and adults a like.  LUNA blankets seemed to reduce muscle pain and helped to calm restlessness, including restless leg symptoms for adults who stuggle with these issues.

They also offer duvet covers for ease of washing and drying.

The weight distributes evenly while you sleep, but beads do tend to eventually gather in the corners or sides because nothing is holding them in place. while we prefer stitching that keep the beads in place, this blanket was still usable and comfortable.

Another positive is there was not issue with bead leakage. This is really important, as waking to a bed full of beads can be very annoying. The blanket worked as intended, helping to minimize nighttime restlessness. 

Nicely packaged and well-made, the LUNA is definitely worth calling out among its competitors.

Florensi Weighted Blanket for Kids

Features:

100% Cotton

Removable Duvet 

2 fabric options 

Storage Bag included

Microglass bead filling

Machine washable

The Florensi Weighted Blanket for Kids is constructed with two separate fabrics. One side is made of a soft minky fabric that boasts a constellation pattern, sure to be a favorite among kids who are fascinated with all things space-oriented. The other side is silky and cool. 

The textured fabric may be helpful for your child, depending on what type of textures soothe them. It’s worth keeping in mind, though, that children with sensory issues can vary greatly in aversion to certain sensations, so it’s important to know what types of sensations are bothersome to your child.

The Florensi comes in a nice package which makes it a great choice if you plan to gift a weighted blanket. It’s quality is clearly high based on a review of the fabric and the stiching. It’s also a good economical choice. 

While this weighted blanket for kids cozy in cool weather, it doesn’t get too hot in the summer. The fabric Florensi uses in this weighted blanket does make a crinkling sound but we don’t find it so loud as to be distracting. Still, consider whether or not your child is sensitive to certain types of audio stimuli. 

Also, as others have said, it is crinkly – it reminds me of the sound you’d hear when balling up a plastic tarp. It comes with a cover, so no need to buy one separately. This makes for ease in keeping the blanket clean and fresh. 

Choosing the Right Weighted Blanket

So you’ve decided you’re in the market to buy a weighted blanket for your child. Here are some tips to keep in mind when deciding on the right one for him or her.

The first thing we will point out, which is very important, is that weighted blankets should not be used for infants or toddlers. There can be safety issues related to using one with children of this age. It’s best to hold off until your toddler is a little older (pre-school aged) before investing in one.

When looking for the right blanket, remember many come in different weights.  It’s important to choose the right weight for your child. Manufacturers and therapists recommend choosing one that weighs about 10% of your child’s weight.  while this is a recommendation, each child differs and they may need one that is slightly lighter or heavier.  The models we reviewed can be returned, so if necessary you can trade yours in for a different weight.

When choosing your child’s blanket, make sure it fits his or her size rather than the size of the bed.  For example, if a blanket is described as being “twin” size, dont expect it to cover a twin bed. Base your decision based on your child’s size.

Be aware of your child’s sensitivities to certain fabrics. Sensory seekers may love a fleece or chenille, while kids who are particularly sensitive may find the touch annoying and distracting.

Bottom line, the most important thing in choosing a blanket is what works for your child.  you may need to try a few out before finding a perfect match.

How Weighted Blankets Work

Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS) is well-known to occupational therapists who work with children who have sensory issues. The pressure exerted by this type of therapy feels like a firm but gentle squeezing – like a comforting hug.  This gentle pressure induces muscle relaxation.

In therapy, pressure can be applied with the hands, massage tools, or other products. one of the products that can work in your home is a weighted blanket.  They don’t necessarily have to be used only a bedtime. Kids can curl up in them on the couch for that sense of security and calming pressure.   

How does DPS work? The sympathetic nervous system has a variety of functions. One of them is the regulating the fight or flight response. The sympathetic nervous system keeps us prepared to face a threat, whether real or imagined.

Kids with autistic spectrum disorder or sensory processing disorders (including ADHD) seem to spend a lot of time stuck in their sympathetic nervous mode. This creates a situation where they are very easily triggered to react.

Benefits of Weighted Blankets

According to an article written in Forbes, “Weighted blankets can also alleviate symptoms in people suffering from insomnia, chronic pain conditions or restless leg syndrome. They’re good for deeper psychological reasons, too, with potential benefits for those suffering from depression and, as previously mentioned, autism.”

Not all individuals will experience benefits from DPS, but many do. For those kids who do benefit from DPS, they may experience some of the following:

a sense of calm and reduced anxiety

improved mood

improved social interactions

improved social communication

better sleep

improved focus

decrease in hypersensitivity to touch

ability to tolerate crowds and large groups of peers 

decrease in self-injurious behavior

reduced over-stimulation

Improved ability to manage emotions

settling down after outbursts

reduced symptoms of restless legs syndrome

We did find one study that contradicted all the fanfare about weighted blankets and their use for people with autism. A 2014 randomized controlled trial of 67 participants concluded, “The use of a weighted blanket did not help children with ASD sleep for a longer period of time, fall asleep significantly faster or wake less often. However, the weighted blanket was favored by children and parents, and blankets were well-tolerated over this period.”

You know your child best. Before committing to purchase a weighted blanket, try covering them with several blankets for a short period of time and see if it makes a difference.  Ask them how they feel when enveloped under pressure.  Knowing your kid and listening to what makes them feel better is the best guide you can go on.

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