An extra cozy blanket to snuggle under sounds particularly enticing this time of year. And in recent years, there’s been a particular type of blanket that has seen a surge in its sales: the weighted blanket. Weighted blankets are a useful invention and we do recommend them to particular clients. But weighted blankets do come with certain precautions, and it seems the general public may not always be aware of this.
If you aren’t familiar with them, here’s a little background info. Weighted blankets are just that- blankets filled with material such as plastic pellets to intentionally make them heavier. They come in a range of weights from as little as 5 pounds up to 25 pounds and come in a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes. They are marketed to children, adults, and even pets. Websites and advertisements tout their benefits for anxiety, ADHD, insomnia, and restless sleep. The weight is designed to produce a calming effect- like a hug.
