Weighted blankets for kids have gained popularity for their potential benefits in improving sleep quality and reducing anxiety. These blankets, designed with added weight, may provide a gentle pressure that mimics a hug, offering comfort and security to children.
As parents seek the best options for their young ones, it's essential to choose the right size and weight to ensure safety and effectiveness.
In this article, we will cover the best weighted blankets for kids that provide the comfort and stress relief they need.
Best weighted blankets for kids: a shortlist
- ZonLi — best overall weighted blanket for kids
- Hush — best-designed weighted blanket for kids
- Aricove — best kids weighted blanket for traveling
- Sweet Zzz — best kids weighted blanket for sensitive skin
- Mosaic Weighted Blankets — best multi-pattern blanket for kids
How to choose the best kids weighted blankets in 2023
After analyzing numerous brands and models, we've identified the best-weighted blankets for kids in 2023.
We evaluated several essential aspects related to comfort and functionality to guarantee that our suggested blankets meet the standards of the highest quality.
| Filling | High-quality, non-toxic materials |
| Weight | Different size and weight options |
| Breathability | Wicks moisture and allows airflow |
| Pricing | $59.50–$149.95 |
- Filling. We analyzed filler materials, such as glass beads, plastic granules, and organic materials, like fleece. The type of filling can influence the blanket's weight distribution and comfort.
- Weight. We reviewed the blankets based on their available weight options. The recommended weight of a blanket is typically based on the child's body weight. Generally, a child's weighted blanket should not weigh more than 10% of their body weight. However, these blankets must not be used by babies and toddlers for safety reasons.
- Breathability. We looked into the fabric's capacity to absorb moisture and promote air circulation. A well-ventilated blanket is crucial for a restful sleep, especially for those who often feel warm.
- Pricing. We evaluated the blanket's price against its features, composition, and customer feedback. This allowed us to pinpoint choices that provide excellent value for the price.
Best weighted blankets for kids: an overview
Choosing the best weight blankets for kids requires proper due diligence to make sure they are suitable for children and meet all the safety requirements.
These unique blankets should provide a comforting weight pressure creating an unparalleled resting experience. The weighted blankets have been recognized for potentially enhancing sleep quality and alleviating anxiety. However, they should not be used overnight by younger children without parental supervision.
In this guide, we'll present the top 5 choices for the best weighted blankets for kids in 2023.
1. ZonLi — best overall weighted blanket for kids
ZonLi weighted blanket is designed to provide the ultimate comfort for children. It is made out of fill material with glass beads and 100% Oeko-Tex-certified cotton shell material, ensuring warmth without the risk of harmful chemicals.
The product may offer various benefits, including anxiety reduction, support, comfort, and temperature regulation. According to the website, the blanket’s quality is evident in its premium construction, ensuring durability and ease of cleaning as it's machine washable.
The available weight and size for this blanket is 5 lbs by 36'' x 48”, making it suitable for kids weighing at least 50lbs.
ZonLi Weighted Blanket for Kids is priced at $69.00. It includes a 30-day return policy and free shipping.
2. Hush — best-designed weighted blanket for kids
Hush Kids Weighted Blanket offers children a sound sleep experience with its unique and standout design. According to the brand, this blanket combines the therapeutic benefits of weighted pressure with high-quality materials to provide a restful sleep under parental supervision.
The even distribution of weight in the blanket mimics a therapeutic technique called deep pressure stimulation (DPS), which may relax the nervous system and help children fall asleep faster, as well as provide deep sleep.
The blanket is available in different sizes and weights starting from 38” x 54” for 5 lbs. However, the options vary depending on the design.
Customers can choose between hypoallergenic cotton, cooling bamboo, or cozy Minky fabric covers, ensuring comfort for every preference. The small 2-inch quilted squares deliver even weight distribution, and the blanket is machine-washable for easy maintenance.
Priced at $149.00, Hush Kids Weighted Blanket offers a 100-night trial, free shipping, and a 1-year warranty.
3. Aricove — best kids weighted blanket for traveling
Aricove Kids Weighted Blanket is meticulously designed to give children relaxing benefits while providing safety and protection. It is crafted with a unique double-diamond design that offers a soft, breathable, and skin-friendly touch with its luxurious twill-woven bamboo sheets and seven layers of premium materials. The product comes with a tote bag, making it a suitable option for traveling.
The blanket is available in two weight and size options:
- 36” x 48” for 5lbs
- 40” x 60” for 7lbs
According to the manufacturer, the product may reduce stress levels by promoting a calming experience. Additionally, the Aricove blanket is light and versatile, which may be easy for children to handle.
Aricove Kids Weighted Blanket is priced at a sale price of $99.95, down from its regular price of $119.95. Customers also benefit from free shipping, easy returns, a 30-day guarantee, and a 3-year warranty.
4. Sweet Zzz — best kids weighted blanket for sensitive skin
The Sweet Zzz Weighted Blanket is a premium product that may provide an optimal resting experience. This 7-layered blanket is double-sided, featuring bamboo and cotton materials for warmth and cooling effects.
According to the provider, the product may help with anxiety, stress, sleep difficulties, and restlessness by providing a hug-like sensation.
The blanket's design includes double stitching in a small boxed pattern that may prevent weight shifting and enhance durability. One side offers a plush cotton feel for warmth, while the other side, made of bamboo, provides a cooling effect during hotter months.
The product is also certified as safe for individuals with sensitive skin, holding the OEKO-TEX® class 1 certification.
As for the recommended weight and size, several options are available, starting from 41” x 60” for 7 lbs.
The blanket is priced at a regular rate of $119.00 but is currently on sale for $59.50.
5. Mosaic Weighted Blankets — best multi-pattern blanket for kids
Mosaic Weighted Blankets provides multi-pattern weighted blankets tailored for children who love colorful characters and are fans of the iconic superhero, Spiderman. Crafted from 100% cotton outer material casing, the blanket offers a vibrant and engaging design.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the blanket is available in various sizes and weight options starting from 38" x 50" for 5 lbs, providing the perfect balance of warmth and pressure to make children feel snug and relaxed. This gentle pressure can potentially enhance relaxation, improve sleep quality, and elevate mood.
The blanket is meticulously handcrafted in Austin, Texas, ensuring top-notch quality. It is quilted in squares for an even weight distribution and is filled with BPA-free, hypo-allergenic, FDA-compliant plastic pellets.
Priced at $149.95, this blanket is not only a tool for better sleep but also a fun accessory for any child's room.
Comparison of the best weighted blankets for kids
| Product | Price | Weight selection | Dimensions of the sizes | Cover materials | Filling materials |
| ZonLi | $69.00 | 5 lbs | 36'' x 48'' | Cotton | Glass beads |
| Hush | $149.00 | Starting from 5 lbs | Starting from 38” x 54” | Hypoallergenic cotton, bamboo, or minky fabric | Glass beads |
| Aricove | $99.95 | 5 lbs, 7 lbs | 36” x 48”, 40” x 60” | Bamboo, microfiber | Glass beads |
| Sweet Zzz | $59.50 | 7 lbs, 10 lbs | 41” x 60”, 48” x 72” | Cotton, bamboo | Glass beads |
| Mosaic Weighted Blankets | $149.95 | 5 lbs–10lbs | 38" x 50", 38" x 60", 42" x 72" | Not specified | Plastic pellets |
What to look for in the best weighted blankets for kids?
When selecting the best weighted blanket for kids, it's essential to consider various key factors to guarantee optimal and safe experience. These include fill and shell material, design variety, quality, weight options, and care.
To make the selection of the weighted blanket for kids easier, take these factors into consideration:
- Fill material. The type of materials used as fillers, such as glass beads or organic materials, as they influence the blanket's weight distribution and comfort.
- Shell material. Examine the outer fabric for its durability and comfort. Different materials like cotton or minky offer different types of experiences for kids.
- Variety. Look for brands offering a range of designs, colors, and patterns, catering to diverse preferences and room aesthetics.
- Quality. Durability, stitching, and overall craftsmanship are key indicators. A high-quality blanket ensures longevity and safety for children.
- Weight options. It's essential to have multiple weight choices, as children of different ages and sizes have varying needs for pressure and comfort. Children's blankets must be lighter compared to adult ones. Babies, toddlers, or small children should not use these weighted blankets altogether due to the potential risk of suffocation.
- Ease of cleaning. Given that kids can be messy, prioritize blankets that are machine-washable or come with removable covers for hassle-free maintenance.
What is a weighted blanket for kids?
A weighted blanket is a specialized type of blanket filled with materials like glass beads or plastic pellets, giving it added weight. For kids, these blankets are designed to be around 10% of their body weight, ensuring safety and effectiveness, and may help with anxiety and restlessness. Furthermore, the design and materials used in these blankets ensure even weight distribution, maximizing the therapeutic benefits.
While such blankets may offer numerous benefits, it's essential to choose the right weight and ensure they are properly used. It is important to note that babies and toddlers should avoid weighted blankets for safety.
How do weighted blankets for kids work?
Weighted blankets for children are crafted to offer a soft, embracing feeling through deep touch pressure stimulation. This feeling may resemble the comfort of a hug or embrace, providing relaxation and stress relief.
The extra weight in these blankets, typically from elements such as glass beads or plastic granules, distributes uniform pressure over the child's physique. For children, this steady pressure may potentially soothe their nervous system, resulting in better sleep and reduced anxiety.
Despite anecdotal reports of sleep improvement and anxiety relief, the science to support these claims is limited and inconclusive.
What size weighted blankets do kids need?
When selecting a weighted blanket for kids, it's essential to choose the right size and weight for their safety and comfort. A crucial factor to consider is that babies, toddlers, or small children should not use weighted blankets since they pose a risk of suffocation.
Based on child's height
When using a weighted blanket, your child’s head and neck must not be covered. It is also important for the child not to be rolled inside the blanket but to have it loosely placed on top.
The blanket should fit your child’s size and must not drape over the sides of the bed since it may create additional pressure by putting on extra weight.
Based on child’s weight
When opting for a weighted blanket, make sure it's sufficiently heavy to serve its purpose but not so much that it becomes uncomfortable. The blanket shouldn't exceed 10% of your child's body weight. Regardless of the chosen weight, it's crucial that the blanket is light enough for your child to remove it on their own to prevent risks of suffocation and excessive warmth.
How to wash a weighted blanket?
Cleaning a weighted blanket demands proper care to maintain its durability and safety. Before cleaning, it's essential to read the manufacturer's instructions for your specific blanket since the guidelines may vary. Typically, the process involves the following steps:
- Inspect before use. Before washing, always check the blanket for any damage or loose threads to prevent further tearing during the wash.
- Pre-treat stains. If there are any visible stains, treat them with a mild detergent or stain remover before washing.
- Machine or hand wash. Depending on the blanket's fabric and filler material, you can either machine wash on a gentle cycle or hand wash. Always use cold water and mild detergent.
- Rinse and drain. Ensure all detergent is thoroughly rinsed out. If hand washing, gently press the blanket to remove excess water but avoid wringing it out.
- Air dry. Lay the blanket flat to air dry, ensuring it's evenly spread to prevent the fillers from clumping. Avoid using a dryer, as the heat can damage certain materials.
By following these steps and sticking to the manufacturer's guidelines, you can prolong the durability and performance of your weighted blanket.
Benefits of weighted blanket for kids
In today's fast-paced world, children, like adults, face various stress factors that may affect their overall well-being. Weighted blankets have been gaining popularity as a potential solution for providing numerous benefits, particularly in promoting relaxation and reducing anxiety. For children, these blankets may be a comforting tool, aiding in daily challenges and ensuring a proper resting experience. Some research studies indicate the effectiveness of these blankets but there are also reports suggesting that the benefits are insufficient.
Improving sleep
Weighted blankets exert even pressure across the body, mimicking the feeling of being held or hugged. This deep-pressure stimulation may induce a sense of calm, helping to reduce nighttime restlessness and frequent awakenings. As a result, children using weighted blankets may experience deeper, more restorative sleep cycles, which are crucial for their growth and development. However, if used with younger children overnight, parental supervision is required.
Self-care
Beyond sleep, weighted blankets can be integrated into a child's self-care routine. The calming effect of the blanket may be beneficial during quiet time, reading, or even while watching TV. It may serve as a tactile reminder for children to take moments for themselves, promoting mindfulness and relaxation in their daily activities.
Best weighted blanket for kids: conclusion
Using a weighted blanket for kids may be a potential way to improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety. With its added weight, the blanket may provide a gentle pressure that mimics a hug, offering comfort and security to children.
However, as parents seek the best options for their young ones, it's essential to choose the right size and weight — no more than 10% of your child’s body weight — to ensure safety and effectiveness. Weighted blankets should not be given to infants and young children due to the potential risk of suffocation since they might be unable to remove the blanket if they get trapped or too hot.
Read more about products for improved relaxation
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Best heated weighted blankets: experience therapeutic warmth and anxiety relief with heated weighted blankets
FAQ
What weighted blanket is best for children?
A suitable weighted blanket for children must adhere to the maximum weight and size requirements. If you decide to use a weighted blanket with your child, it is important to make sure it is heavy enough to be effective but not too heavy to cause any danger.
How heavy should a weighted blanket be for a child?
The maximum weight must be no more than 10% of your child’s body weight. However, weighted blankets must not be used with babies and toddlers as they pose a risk of suffocation. They may struggle to move the blanket off themselves if they become trapped or too warm.
Do pediatricians recommend weighted blankets?
No. Therapy does not endorse the use of weighted blankets due to insufficient proof of their benefits. The choice to use a weighted blanket rests with the parent or caregiver.
Is it safe for a 5-year-old to sleep with a weighted blanket?
It depends. Weighted blankets may be used by children of at least 42–55 lbs (19–25 kg) of weight. The blankets themselves should also not exceed the maximum weight, which is 10% of the child’s weight.
- International Journal of Therapy and Rehabilitation. Improving sleep quality using weighted blankets among young children with an autism spectrum disorder.
- Scandinavian Journal of Occupational Therapy. The effectiveness of weighted blankets on sleep and everyday activities – A retrospective follow-up study of children and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and/or autism spectrum disorder.
- Occupational Therapy International. Experiences of Using Weighted Blankets among Children with ADHD and Sleeping Difficulties.
- Pediatrics. Sleep-Related Infant Deaths: Updated 2022 Recommendations for Reducing Infant Deaths in the Sleep Environment.
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