How Heavy Should a Weighted Blanket Be?

Weighted blankets are similar to weighted vests in that they offer deep touch pressure (DTP) to the body. Since we know that proprioceptive, deep touch pressure helps to release serotonin, a neurotransmitter that helps to regulate some brain functions, weighted blankets are used to help with sensory modulation and regulation.

These sensory-based interventions that have a DTP component have been shown to have a calming, organizing effect on one’s nervous system. For more information on Deep Touch Pressure, read more here.

The weight of the blanket depends on who will be using it - a child, a teenager, and an adult will all use weighted blankets of different weights in order to attain the most benefits.

A general guideline when deciding on how heavy your blanket should be is to multiply the user’s body weight by 10% and add 1-2 lbs. depending on preference. For example, a 50-lb child would be given a 5-lb. weighted blanket on the low end and a 7-lb. blanket on the high end.

For a 200-lb adult, the weight of the blanket could be 20-22 lbs depending on preference.

Weighted Blanket Weight Chart

Here is a graphic that may be helpful if figuring out how heavy should a weighted blanket be:

What Occupational Therapy Assistants Recommend

Considerations for Weighted Blanket Use

Keep in mind that you want the weight to be heavy enough to provide deep touch pressure, but not so heavy that it poses a safety risk during sleep. Infants, babies, and some toddlers should not use weighted blankets because they lack the motor skills and strength to maneuver a weighted blanket off them should the need arise. 

The type of weight and style of the blanket will differ on how the weight is distributed, and the design may impact washability, so take a close look at how the blanket is weighted. For more information on washing your weighted blanket, check out our article here.

Harkla’s weighted blankets come with a 100% money-back guarantee. It’s no wonder that they’ve become best-sellers for children and adults alike!

Learn More about Weighted Blankets in our other Articles:

• What are the benefits of weighted blankets?
• Do weighted blankets help those with autism? 
• How to wash a weighted blanket