It’s around four in the morning, and you couldn’t still find the momentum to sleep. You’ve been tossing and turning, trying to find the best position but end up still wide awake. You’re getting worried mainly that you only have a few hours before work time begins. You even have to prepare your kids to school and cook them breakfast. These sleepless nights are daily problems you face, and you feel desperate and frustrated. So you scour for ways to help you cope. And then you’ve heard of the weighted blanket.
Numerous studies show that weighted blankets offer multiple health benefits. For instance, it helps a person gain proper and quality sleep. Because of that, it has become a hit in online stores such as the Amazon. Several types of weighted blankets are for sale, each with winning and enticing features to offer.
However, it is crucial to carefully select which weighted blanket is best for you or your loved ones. You may be an expert in buying clothes or shoes but purchasing a weighted blanket is a different matter. One of the most important considerations, before you buy, is the materials used.
The Exterior Cover Of Your Weighted Blanket
You need to consider if the weighted blanket has an outer fabric layer which is secured with buttons, zippers, or velcro. Also, if the exterior cover is sewn closed and not removable. The construction and design of the outermost layer of the weighted blanket may affect washability and durability.
You certainly have your distinct choice when it comes to design, color, texture, and other aesthetic features. You have your taste of which is the best that would match the decor of your room. So in deciding for a weighted blanket to buy, you would go for one that is compatible.
In terms of the materials used for the weighted blanket cover, there are a variety of options to choose from. Among these are faux fur, mink covers, cotton covers, and bamboo covers. Ensure that these are firmly attached to a weighted blanket; otherwise, they could easily slip off once you start using it.
Likewise, the materials used should have interior ties connected to the weighted inner section, which typically ranges from 8-12 ties. With the given number of ties, you are assured the inner weighted blanket will stay put.
By the way, you also have to consider your ethical perspectives. For sure, you do not want to make use of a weighted blanket with a fur exterior cover if you are an animal activist. You would surely choose bamboo or cotton. Also, you might not want a cotton weighted blanket is you are afraid of chemical use. The same goes for bamboo and other materials.
Which should you choose for the Weighted Section’s Exterior
Similar to the weighted blanket’s cover, the weighted section offers different exterior materials to choose. The primary materials used are cotton, bamboo, and polyester.
Cotton is known for its super soft and fluffy quality. It helps you regulate heat more efficiently and breathe more easily. It is relatively durable, meaning, it could last longer when taken care well. However, it costs more compared to flannel or polyester.
Bamboo is considered the tallest grass in the world! In general, most bamboo materials used are organic, although you may find it hard to find certified ones. Bamboo, however, is widely criticized because of the massive amounts of chemicals needed to process it into fabrics.
Despite that, bamboo is advantageous in several ways. First, bamboo helps you to breathe more quickly compared to cotton or polyester. It is a good option if you are a hot sleeper. The only problem with bamboo is that it is pricier than the other fabrics. It is also less durable than cotton.
Polyester blankets are the most budget-friendly among the three fabrics. However, it warms you much more quickly to the point that you become agitated not to use it. A few also find their skin sensitive or even allergic to the fabric as it’s not made from natural sources. The good thing though, you can make use of it for a more extended period because of its high durability.
Selecting the Weighted Pellets
You have various options when it comes to the actual weighted material in weighted blankets. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. Among these are stones, rice, sand, and micro glass pellets. It’s imperative to properly select from this as it will determine the kind of pleasure and other benefits you will get.
Stones are used for weighted blankets. But these are mixed with other materials. The problem with these is that they rattle around when you toss or move at night. Of course, most of you would find these uncomfortable because they are hard, right?
Rice, on the other hand, are more commonly used in homemade weighted blankets. It is considered as a cheap weighted material. Unfortunately, the weight isn’t as finely distributed compared to sand or glass. These blankets are reported to have a shorter lifespan.
Sand likewise is popularly used by cheaper Chinese companies or brands. Because of this, it often lacks inspection from a third party for quality and safety check. Compared to rice or stones, however, it has a better weight distribution and its cheaper compared to micro glass pellets.
The micro glass pellets are known for being hypoallergenic, eco-friendly, and creates minimal noise when you move around at night. These are also made from non-toxic materials. Because the pellets are relatively small and have a better molding capacity, it yields the best weight distribution.
Takeaway
So, there you have it. With all the advantages and disadvantages presented in the guidelines above about the various materials, you now have the idea on which weighted blanket is best for you. These blankets are proven to improve rest or sleep quality. And you have to choose carefully and wisely. Again, the materials covering and within the weighted blanket will make a big difference.
They are ideal to address your sleeping needs while practically giving you a good reason to wake up. Whether you will have a comfortable and soothing sleep at night or end up insomniac, that entirely depends on your choice. In the end, choosing the best weighted blanket will still base on your sensory, personal style, and design preferences.
Author Bio
Sarah Smith is a prolific and passionate writer who loves sharing practical, simple, and meaningful tips to readers. As a health advocate, most of her writing is related to how-to guides on achieving a healthy mind, body, and heart. Many of these have been published on popular blogs and websites. By the way, she loves to sleep for as long as she likes with her cotton weighted blanket.