The 8 Best Weighted Blankets for Kids to Sleep Better

Inside: If you are looking for a list of the best weighted blankets for kids, we have 8 super weighted blankets right here for you. We will also explain why weighted blankets are great for kids and why they are so fantastic for kids with special needs.

Welcome! We’re thrilled you’ve found our Unrivaled Guide to The Best Weighted Blankets for Kids.

Weighted blankets have become one of THE MOST popular items for children in recent years.

Not only are they PERFECT to help children feel calm and relaxed, but the weight can also help with a magnitude of other needs (more on that below):

Here’s the excellent news:

Weighted blankets have been proven to help children sleep better.

And a child who receives the proper amount of sleep is calmer, happier, more focused, less anxious, and simply better equipped to tackle the day and any challenges that might come up.

No brainer. You need this!

But here’s the bad news:

Finding the perfect weighted blanket for your child depends on their needs and size, and getting the correct blanket size is essential.

Here’s the thing:

With all of the blankets on the market, it is vital you know what makes a weighted blanket different from another, AND which is perfect for your child.

Let’s talk about why weighted blankets are great for children, the GOOD, the BAD, and go in-depth on some of the best blankets on the market.

Let’s go…

What are Weighted Blankets for Kids

A weighted blanket is kinda just what it sounds like. It’s a blanket, but a little bit heavier than usual blanket.

Now some people might think that a weighted blanket is just a heavy blanket. But there is so much more than meets the eye here:

Weighted Blanket Quick Facts

• A weighted blanket is a tool used to help you sleep more soundly. It applies weight evenly over your body for a calming effect. Think of a comforting hug.
• Weighted blankets can range from five pounds up to fifteen pounds, depending on the weighted blanket you select.
• You need to consider your child’s weight, size, and age before picking a weighted blanket. 
• While weighted blankets are an excellent option for kids, choosing one that is too light or too heavy could make no difference, or even add, to their sleeping issues.
• Weighted blankets have glass, sand, or plastic pellets sewn into squares within their linings. This design helps to evenly distribute pressure across your body.
• Studies have shown that weighted blankets help reduce anxiety, overstimulation, sensory issues, tension, pain, sensory issues, stress, and insomnia. Studies have also shown that they help kids focus and reduce emotional dysregulation.

The Best Weighted Blankets for Kids to Sleep Better

Weighted blankets have been one of the trendiest items over the past few years.

Not only are they great for adults (I mean who doesn’t want snag some extra zzzz’s), but they are PERFECT for children as well.

The added pressure from a weighted blanket can have a calming effect that can help reduce anxiety and extend the time your child sleeps.

Woohoo!

Weighted blankets can also help control more severe issues such as ADHD or sensory concerns.

Here’s the bad news:

Not every weighted blanket is created equally.

Most weighted blankets have specific pros and cons, but these pros and cons can help you determine which blanket is best for your child’s needs.

Here is a quick list of some of the most popular weighted blankets for kids and keep reading for a complete description of each blanket:

• Bearby: Nappling Weighted Blanket
• The Gravity Blanket
• ZonLi Weighted Blanket
• Luna Weighted Blanket
• Sensory Goods Weighted Blanket
• Hush Weighted Blanket
• YNM Weighted Blanket
• Weighted Idea: Premium Weighted Blanket

Since weighted blankets are a non-invasive alternative to trouble with stress or sleeping, and they are easy to incorporate into your child’s sleep routine, what have you got to lose?

Why Are Weighted Blankets Great for Kids? (Let’s hear the pros)

• A weighted blanket is a blanket that is filled with small weights. These weights apply even and constant pressure on your child. This weight helps make your child feel secure without feeling like they are being smothered or weighed down.
• Weighted blankets are ideal for children because they can increase comfort, reduce stress, and even help with insomnia and other sleeping disorders.
• Weighted blankets are affordable for most parents.
• Most blankets are machine washable, so they are easy to use with sloppy kids or kids who aren’t yet potty trained.
• These blankets are non-intrusive.
• Children can use the blanket while they are relaxing around their homes, doing their homework, or even while they are sleeping.
• The pressure can help kids calm down when it is time for bed, and it can even help them stay asleep longer than without a weighted blanket.

Sign me up!

Why Are Weighted Blankets Maybe Not-So-Great for Kids? (Let’s hear the cons)

• Could be too warm for some kids
• May be too small, resulting in your child need an additional blanket to cover their body.
• Some can be quite pricey.
• The beads or pellets may be too loud or annoying for some kids with sensory issues.
• The beads may not stay evenly distributed (as advertised)
• If the blanket rips or the beads fall out, it could be messy!
• It may not work for your child’s sleep issues.

All you can do is give one a try.

(And grab one for you, too).

Thanks to the popularity of these blankets in the occupational therapist industry, they are easy to find.

These blankets can be found at local stores in your area and online (see below).

With some therapy and sensory tools costing hundreds of dollars, this may be an easy solution for your child to try.

Most weighted blankets start around $50, with the price increasing depending on size, material, and blanket weight.

You can’t put a price tag on providing relief for your kiddo, who might be suffering from anger, anxiety, or sensory issues.

Although these blankets may be an excellent solution for your child, you need to consider your child’s age and size.

NOTE: Weighted blankets are not intended for children under the age of 3 due to the weighted blanket’s pressure. The added pressure can create difficulty breathing.

For weighted blanket alternatives, there are also weighted lap panels and weighted shoulder panels. Scroll to the end of this post for our top recommended weighted lap pads and weighted shoulder pads for kids.

The ideal weight for a weighted blanket should be around 10% of your kiddo’s total body weight. And don’t use a weighted blanket for a child under the age of 3 without a doctor’s advice.

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Are Weighted Blankets Good for Kids with Special Needs?

Weighted blankets are ideal for children who have special needs.

While there is no scientific proof that these blankets make sleeping better or easier, millions of people use them daily to calm themselves down and sleep better.

I’m one of those million people, and I love mine!

Individual therapists use weighted blankets because they can help calm the nervous system by applying deep pressure.

Children can benefit from the use of a weighted blanket, particularly those who deal with complications from:

• ADHD
• Anxiety
• Autism
• Sensory disorders

For children with sensory needs, these blankets can help provide a comforting touch.

A weighted blanket can calm any discomfort your child is experiencing without your child becoming overwhelmed.

Weighted blankets lower a child’s electrodermal activity, which is connected to the sympathetic nervous system. EDA is one of the most important aspects of a sleep cycle. For children with ADHD, weighted blankets can help them self-regulate their feelings and actions.

What Should You Consider Before Buying a Weighted Blanket?

Weighted blankets can be dangerous if misused or used by someone too young.

You should never let someone under the age of three use a weighted blanket without a prior referral from a doctor or therapist, or if their weight is equal to 10% of the blanket.

So what’s the bottom line:

Before opening up your wallet, make sure you are buying a blanket suited to your child’s age and size. You want the blanket to help the child feel comforted and relaxed. If the weight is too heavy, it can have the opposite impact.

Always ensure your blanket remains in good condition to avoid any of the inside’s weights from coming out and becoming a choking hazard.

As mentioned earlier, weighted blankets have no scientific basis that they are going to work for your child. You need to explain to your child what the blanket is for and how to use it correctly.

Test the blanket out. Determine if it’s working for your kiddo. Is the weight too little? Or too much? If your child has sensory needs, even the texture of the fabric needs to be considered.

The 8 Best Weighted Blankets for Kids

For those looking to purchase a weighted blanket for their child, how can you know which are actually worth your money?

Here are eight of the most popular weighted blankets for kids that can help reduce anxiety, encourage a night of restful sleep, and are perfect for your child!

1. Bearaby: Nappling Weighted Blanket

Pure Love!

What makes the Bearaby weighted blankets so accessible is the unique knitted texture.

If having an aesthetically pleasing blanket is something you want, THIS IS the ideal blanket for you.

The Nappling blanket is the newest addition to this line of weighted blankets, and it is designed for children between the ages of four and twelve.

The Nappling’s material keeps you feeling cool while still providing the deep pressure that many people seek with a weighted blanket.

The Nappling is one of the more expensive blankets coming in at around $149. You can find out more about this blanket and/or purchase the blanket on Bearaby.com.

2. The Gravity Blanket

The Gravity Blanket is a unique option for those looking for a weighted blanket.

The blanket itself comes in around ten pounds, and the blanket also comes with a special toy weighing three pounds that your child can hold.

Fun!

The Gravity Blanket is ideal for children over the age of seven or at least 100 pounds. The blanket itself is made from a moisture-wicking fabric, which helps your child stay cool while sleeping.

Instead of using plastic or metal beads, The Gravity Blanket uses glass beads and a unique stitching pattern to make sure the weight is evenly distributed.

Another benefit of this blanket is that you can remove the blanket’s outer cover for easy washing. Clasps located on the inside of the blanket help it stay in place while in use.

Both the blanket and the toy come in just under $145. Find out more about The Gravity Blanket on their website, Gravityblankets.com, here at Maisonette or Macy’s.

3. ZonLi Weighted Blanket

ZonLi is one of the brands with the broadest range of weighted blanket options.

Some blankets are as light as five pounds while others can weigh up to 25 pounds. The blanket uses glass beads to apply steady weight to the user.

This layered blanket can also help keep your child warm while they are sleeping.

Although this blanket does not come with a cover, it can be used on its own, but cleaning may become an issue.

The ZonLi blanket is on the more affordable end of weighted blankets, with blankets for children being as low as $45.

Note: If your child has sensory concerns, the blanket’s material may not be a great option.

You can find out more about the ZonLi Weighted Blanket on their website here or grab a blanket with your next Amazon order here.

4. Luna Weighted Blanket

The Luna weighted blanket is an excellent option for those on a budget, coming in around $40.

This blanket comes in a wide range of weights, starting from five pounds, and comes in many different colors. The covers are also easy to wash, making them ideal for kids who like to use them while winding down for the night or during the day.

Because we all know kids are messy!

Like many other blankets, the Luna blanket uses glass beads that are friendly to the environment, but they also help distribute the blanket’s weight evenly. The glass beads can also regulate temperature more than metal or plastic beads.

You can find out more about the Luna Weighted Blanket on their website here or snag on Amazon here.

5. Sensory Goods Weighted Blanket

The Sensory Goods Weighted Blanket was initially created for children on the Autism spectrum.

I’d even dare say this is the best weighted blanket for kids with autism.

These blankets can go as low as three pounds, which are great for younger children.

The price ranges between $40 and $170 depending on the blanket’s weight and the size. Although it is an affordable option, you won’t be sacrificing the quality you can expect from the Sensory Goods weighted blankets.

The cover of this blanket is also washer and dryer friendly, helping you keep the blanket fresh and ready for your child to use.

A unique feature of this blanket is that you choose your blanket’s weights and fabric. You can decide if glass or plastic beads are better and the actual texture of your blanket’s material and color.

Find out more about the Sensory Good weighted blankets on their website.

6. Hush Weighted Blanket

Hush is the weighted blanket I ultimately chose for my 5-year-old.

I loved the colorful design and quality of the material. It’s been a great purchase.

My only complaint would be that the blanket is a tad small, and we often need to pair it with another blanket.

Hush weighted blankets have an entire range dedicated to children. Coming in around $100, they are one of the more expensive options, but they come in two different options.

The Hush weighted blanket comes in the traditional material, and there is also an iced material that can help keep your child cool while they are sleeping or just relaxing. The glass beads in this blanket are finer than others and almost have a sand-like texture.

These blankets come with a duvet cover that can be washed and dried. The blanket itself uses microfiber as the primary material, making it a comfortable option for your child to use even if the cover is not on the insert of the weighted blanket.

Hush offers a 100-night sleep trial and provides the ability to return the blanket if it is not right for your child. Visit the Hush Blanket website to learn more about the different options they have.

7. YNM Weighted Blanket

The YNM weighted blanket comes in three different materials to suit your child’s needs and preferences. The options include their traditional blanket, a cooling option, and soft mink-like fabric as well.

The blankets can be customized to your child’s style, and they feature glass beads that are hypoallergenic and help regulate body temperature while your child is asleep.

The beads are placed in small pockets within the blanket, which helps it mold to fit your child no matter their size or age.

These blankets are one of the middle blankets on this list, starting at just under $100. They do feature a lifetime guarantee with five different layers to provide the ultimate comfort for your child.

Find out more information about the YNM weighted blanket and figure out which one works for your child by visiting their website or Amazon here.

8. Weighted Idea: Premium Weighted Blanket

The Weighted Idea blankets are a favorite among parents, but they are also a favorite of Amazon shoppers. This blanket has also become the favorite among weighted blankets for children.

The non-toxic plastic beads in the blanket make it one of the quietest you can find, and double layers keep the beads inside and away from your child. The blankets come in both five- and seven-pound options.

This blanket is made from 100% cotton, which keeps your child warm and cushioned while sleeping. There is also an extra lining with this blanket to protect your child against the beads’ touch in case they have a sensory or touch issue that could make them uncomfortable.

You can shop and find out more about the Weighted Idea Premium blankets, visit this link.

Final Thoughts on Weighted Blankets for Kids

While there is no scientific proof that weighted blankets help children sleep better, there are plenty of parents who swear by them.

Weighted blankets can help reduce anxiety in children, encourage a more restful and more extended sleep session, and even be used for comfort and as a replacement therapy for touch.

Weighted blankets were initially created to be used as a form of therapy for children with special needs, and all these positive effects have made them one of the most mainstream tools you can purchase for your child.

I keep repeating this, but the most critical thing to remember is that you need to make sure your weighted blanket is 10% of your child’s body weight for the blanket to have a lasting effect.

Most children’s blankets range from three to ten pounds.

You should also take into consideration the temperature your child likes to sleep in, the kind of fabrics they enjoy, and where your ecological preferences lie when choosing the materials for your blanket.

The blankets listed in this article are some of the most popular and well-loved blankets on the market.

With so many weighted blankets available, no matter your location or budget, it can be affordable to ensure that your child is getting the sleep they need.

Other resources you might love to help you kiddo deal with anxiety or anger:

1. Don’t forget to add these awesome posters to your calm down space.
2. Have you ever considered practicing mindfulness with your child? If not, you must read this.
3. Snag these 11 brilliant anger management techniques for kids
4. Read our ultimate guide to helping a child with anxiety.

Sources:

• https://wellnessmama.com/130140/weighted-blanket/
• https://harkla.co/blogs/special-needs/weight-blankets-toddlers
• https://bearaby.com/products/the-nappling
• https://gravityblankets.com/products/gravity-kids?variant=32290221654090
• https://www.zonliblanket.com/weighted-blankets/
• https://www.lunablanket.com/products/luna-weighted-blanket?variant=33157034573912
• https://sensorygoods.com/collections/weighted-blankets
• https://hushblankets.com/products/hush-kids?variant=32502480830546
• https://ynmsleep.com/pages/kids-weighted-blankets