The 9 Best Weighted Blankets, Tested and Reviewed
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From quick naps to movie nights, these blankets will keep you warm and cozy.
Real Simple / Dera Burreson
If you’re having trouble getting a good night’s sleep, a weighted blanket could help you wake up feeling well-rested. “Weighted blankets have become popular for their ability to allow people to feel the effects of deep-pressure stimulation from the comfort of their own home,” says Peter Polos, MD, sleep medicine specialist and sleep expert for Sleep Number. “Weighted blankets help reduce stress and promote relaxation, so they are great options for people who have a hard time falling asleep.”
To come up with this list, we tested 35 weighted blankets in our Lab, considering factors like quality, comfort, warmth, ease of cleaning, durability, and value. We also tapped Dr. Polos for expert tips on how to shop for a weighted blanket—including how to choose the right weight and materials for your preferences.
Read on for more of the best weighted blankets, according to our testing.
Best Overall Weighted Blanket: Threshold Microplush Weighted Blanket
What Stands Out
It’s cozy and incredibly soft.
What Could Be Improved
It may be too heavy for hot sleepers.
This weighted blanket from Threshold stands out for its luxurious feel, removable cover, and quality construction, all of which positioned it firmly at the top of our list. After using the blanket, we could not get over how soft it was, and despite the plush feel, we found that it was very easy to clean. The removable microplush cover—which felt warm, cuddly, and fleece-like—can be tossed in the wash with the rest of your laundry. The stain from a big splash of coffee came out effortlessly.
We found the material to be velvety and comforting, making us feel as though we were nestled in a cocoon. Even after six months, it maintained its integrity. It wasn’t until the fourth time washing it that we began to notice a few loose threads on the perimeter, though we found them to be pretty minor.
One thing to keep in mind is that this pick only comes in three weights and three colors, which might be limiting if you’re looking for a specific size that coincides with your body weight. While the blanket wasn’t exactly large enough for our bed, we think it's great to cuddle up with on the couch or in other lounging spaces.
We also think this choice comes at a very reasonable price, especially considering its impressive performance and quality. Though undoubtedly cozy, hot sleepers may want to opt for a weighted blanket made with a more breathable material (like bamboo), as the microplush cover is more likely to trap heat. Another bonus is that this blanket is Oeko-Tex Standard 100 certified, which means that it’s been tested for harmful substances and proven safe for human health.
Price at time of publish: From $69
Weight: 12, 15, and 18 pounds | Material: Microplush | Filling: Glass beads | Care: Cover is machine-washable
Real Simple / Dera Burreson
Best Budget Weighted Blanket: Waowoo Weighted Blanket
What Stands Out
The blanket comes in various weights to appeal to all body sizes.
What Could Be Improved
It only comes in one color.
Weighted blankets don’t have to be an expensive purchase. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option, we recommend the Waowoo Weighted Blanket. We loved that it has a well-distributed weight and a soft cotton cover that prevents you from overheating. Plus, its inexpensive price is the lowest on our list.
With seven weights to choose from (ranging from 4 to 25 pounds), this weighted blanket is available in options to suit almost anyone. We found the heaviness to be perfect for napping, lounging, or cuddling up on the couch and watching TV. It stayed securely in place throughout testing and was heavy enough to feel comfortable but also easy to adjust. After incorporating the blanket into our routine for six months, we noticed no changes in quality. It did hold on to pet hair, though, which may be difficult for pet owners to remove without washing.
The most obvious downside to this weighted blanket is that it only comes in one color. Another thing worth noting: When inspecting the construction of the blanket, we found a few loose threads and some minor post-wash shrinkage, but we still think it seems pretty durable for the price.
Price at time of publish: From $24
Weight: 7 weights ranging from 4 to 25 pounds | Material: Cotton | Filling: Glass beads | Washable: Cover is machine-washable
Real Simple / Dera Burreson
Best Splurge Weighted Blanket: Saatva Organic Weighted Blanket
What Stands Out
It’s well-constructed and made with high-quality materials.
What Could Be Improved
It’s dry-clean only.
While this luxurious weighted blanket from Saatva is the most expensive of all our recommendations, we think the high price is reflected in its high quality. In our tests, we found this blanket had evenly distributed weight, thanks to the quilted stitching that keeps the glass beads in place. It was easy to adjust the blanket while underneath it. The organic cotton cover, which is Fair Trade Certified, felt slightly rough on our skin but was still impressively comfortable. After sleeping under it for three months, we noticed that we were tossing and turning significantly less in the night.
The blanket’s impressive warmth particularly stood out to us, and we think it would be perfect for use in the spring, fall, and winter. If you sleep cold in the summer, you’ll also appreciate this blanket’s warmth, but people who sleep hot year-round may want to pick another weighted blanket.
Unlike other selections, this blanket is not machine-washable. The manufacturer says it’s dry-clean only, but we were pleasantly surprised by how easy it was to spot clean: When we poured coffee on it, the liquid beaded up and was easy to wipe away. Overall, we think that Saatva’s weighted blanket is worth the money if it fits your budget.
Price at time of publish: From $345
Weight: 12 and 20 pounds | Material: Cotton | Filling: Glass beads | Care: Dry-clean only
Real Simple / Dera Burreson
Most Versatile Weighted Blanket: Quility Weighted Blanket
What Stands Out
It comes in an impressive variety of weights and colors.
What Could Be Improved
The filling begins clumping over time, so you may need to shake it to spread it out.
Whether you want a small weighted blanket to throw over your lap while working or a spacious option to share with a partner, the Quility Weighted Blanket is super versatile. It comes in six colors and 13 weights, so there’s a combination to suit just about anybody. The glass bead filling was evenly distributed in our testing, and it didn’t cluster at all when we moved the blanket. Given its impressive warmth and heaviness, we recommend this blanket for the winter months.
Around three months into our testing, we noticed that the weighted stuffing began clumping at the bottom of the blanket, and we needed to shake it to distribute the fill. Still, the blanket maintained its soft texture throughout six months of nightly use. As far as cleaning goes, we found it easy to remove the coffee stain with some basic blotting, but the blanket comes with a removable cotton cover that can go right in the washing machine.
The dimensions of this blanket vary depending on which weight you choose, but sizes range from 36 inches by 48 inches to 86 inches by 92 inches. Based on our testing, we think this pick is a solid choice for anyone looking for a weighted blanket that comes in more options than usual.
Price at time of publish: From $44
Weight: 14 weights ranging from 5 to 30 pounds | Material: Cotton | Filling: Glass beads | Care: Cover is machine-washable
Real Simple / Dera Burreson
Related: The 5 Best Electric Blankets of 2023, Tested and Reviewed
Best All-Season Weighted Blanket: Degrees of Comfort Coolmax Weighted Blanket
What Stands Out
It’s cozy in the winter and cooling in the summer.
What Could Be Improved
It’s a bit noisy, which may be frustrating for restless sleepers.
If you want a weighted blanket that keeps you cool in warmer months but still feels snuggly in the depths of winter, look no further than the Degrees of Comfort Coolmax Weighted Blanket.
In our testing, this all-season weighted blanket earned stellar ratings for its flawless construction, soft polyester cover, and ideal temperature. It somehow struck the perfect balance of being comfortably heavy without being too hot, making for an extra-cozy experience.
Unlike all the other selections on our list, this blanket comes with two covers—one that feels plush and cozy and another with Coolmax Technology for year-round use. The covers are machine-washable, so you can easily clean and swap them out between seasons, but note that we did notice some fuzz on the cover post-wash.
The quality held up very well after six months of use, and we noticed no fraying at all. It did slide around within the duvet comforter, though, which we found frustrating at times. It also was pretty noisy when we moved around throughout the night, making it less suitable for those who toss and turn often. Even so, we think the blanket’s soft material and comfortable weight may make up for it. It’s available in 10 weights and two colors: navy and gray.
Price at time of publish: From $40
Weight: 10 weights ranging from 5 to 30 pounds | Material: Polyester | Filling: Glass beads | Care: Cover is machine-washable
Real Simple / Dera Burreson
Related: The 11 Best Cooling Blankets for Hot Sleepers of 2023
Best Weighted Blanket for Hot Sleepers: Baloo Weighted Blanket
What Stands Out
It’s comfortably breathable, making it suitable for warmer months.
What Could Be Improved
It isn’t stain-resistant.
If the thought of sleeping under a weighted blanket causes a bead of sweat to form on your forehead, opt for Baloo’s Weighted Blanket. It provides all the comfort and relaxation of a weighted blanket without adding too much warmth, so even hot sleepers can drift off peacefully.
We found this weighted blanket to be very breathable with a lightweight, sheet-like exterior. It was a great addition to our nightly routine, providing noticeable weight without being too thick or heavy. The blanket endured no significant wear and tear after using it for six months.
We found that the cotton material helps prevent overheating, and the blanket also has corner loops so you can choose to attach a duvet cover, which is sold separately. Unlike many of the other weighted blankets we recommend, this pick is entirely machine-washable. In our tests, it held up well post-laundering with no noticeable signs of damage. However, the coffee spill did not blot out easily—but the blanket is white, after all.
Price at time of publish: From $179
Weight: 4 weights ranging from 12 to 25 pounds | Material: Cotton | Filling: Glass beads | Care: Machine-washable
Real Simple / Dera Burreson
Softest Weighted Blanket: Sunday Citizen Snug Crystal Weighted Blanket
What Stands Out
It’s soft and stain-resistant.
What Could Be Improved
It’s a bit expensive and takes up a lot of storage space.
This sophisticated weighted blanket from Sunday Citizen looks nice enough to pass as a regular blanket. In fact, we think the super-soft microfiber exterior with a slight basketweave pattern adds a nice textured touch. The washable exterior is incredibly cozy and surprisingly doesn’t trap body heat, making it so soft that it could even be used without a top sheet. It held up well throughout testing, maintaining the same softness after six months of use.
In addition to its luxe plush exterior, this weighted blanket is filled with a combination of glass beads and crystals (like amethyst, clear quartz, and rose quartz) that is evenly distributed throughout with the help of a small quilted design. We tested the 10-pound version, and while it felt super heavy when folded, it had just the right amount of weight when spread out, providing comfort without feeling restrictive. However, it’s worth noting that the weight and fluffy cover make it a bit challenging to fold, so it may not fit well in tight storage spaces.
During our spill test, we were amazed to find that the coffee stain magically disappeared when blotted with a towel. We think this stain-resistance makes the blanket well-suited for households with kids or pets. While it performed impressively for comfort, warmth, ease of cleaning, and durability, it does come at a higher price point than many of our other selections. If you’re hoping to snag a weighted blanket on a budget, this pick may not be for you.
Price at time of publish: From $269
Weight: 4 weights ranging from 10 to 35 pounds | Material: Microfiber | Filling: Glass beads and crystals (amethyst, clear quartz, rose quartz) | Care: Cover is machine-washable
Real Simple / Dera Burreson
Best Dual-Sided Weighted Blanket: Uttermara Faux-Shearling Fleece Weighted Blanket
What Stands Out
It’s versatile with a smooth side and a fleece side.
What Could Be Improved
It may stain easily.
The Uttermara Faux-Shearling Fleece Weighted Blanket impressed us with its uniform construction, plush material, and array of color options. We couldn’t get over how plush the fleece felt, as even the topside fabric exceeded our expectations.
You can switch from the plush, faux-shearling side to the flat fleece side depending on your comfort preferences, making this pick versatile for most sleepers. We were particularly impressed by the blanket’s construction: Each square was uniform with thick, supportive seams. The blanket felt warm without being suffocating, and we enjoyed being able to flip between the smooth fabric and the plush fleece side.
The coffee stain was difficult to clean on the fleece side of this blanket, but with its affordable cost and overall quality performance, we think this weighted blanket is still worthy of a recommendation. It was so cozy and comfortable, we didn't want to take it off.
Price at time of publish: From $68
Weight: 4 weights ranging from 12 to 25 pounds | Material: Faux-shearling and fleece | Filling: Ceramic beads | Care: Machine-washable
Real Simple / Dera Burreson
Best Knit Weighted Blanket: Bearaby Cotton Weighted Blanket
What Stands Out
The knit weave is breathable and looks like a decorative throw.
What Could Be Improved
It doesn’t have the standard filling of a traditional weighted blanket and isn’t as warm or cozy.
This chic knitted option from Bearaby has all the benefits of a weighted blanket without the typical filling or quilted construction. Instead, this pick gets its hefty weight from organic cotton fabric woven into a chunky knit pattern, which is great for hot sleepers because it’s super breathable. We found that the large knit allowed air to flow through easily, keeping us warm without overheating. Since it lacks the fill of a standard weighted blanket, we think it’s ideal for summer months.
During our testing, this blanket stood out for its uniform knitting, evenly distributed weight, and elegant design. The top-notch quality remained consistent, even after months of using the blanket. Though it's on the pricier side, we think its impressive performance makes it worth the cost. It’s even machine-washable, which is helpful since you may have some difficulty spot-cleaning the knitted material.
With six muted colors (including various shades of gray) and four weights ranging from 10 to 25 pounds, you can tailor this weighted blanket to suit almost any decor style. This blanket would be a great addition to any space, whether it be on the edge of the bed or on the living room sofa.
Price at time of publish: From $199
Weight: 4 weights ranging from 10 to 25 pounds | Material: Cotton | Filling: None | Care: Machine-washable
Real Simple / Dera Burreson
Final Verdict
Our top pick is the Threshold Microplush Weighted Blanket for its impressive performance in our Lab testing. The weighted blanket has a machine-washable cover for easy cleaning and is made of a super soft, fleece-like material that we loved. If you’re looking for a top-notch budget pick, we were impressed with the Waowoo Adult Weighted Blanket, which comes in a large variety of weights and sizes.
Our Testing Process
To come up with these recommendations, we acquired 35 weighted blankets and tested them in our Lab. We first selected an appropriate blanket for each of our dimensions, keeping in mind that a weighted blanket should be approximately 10% of the user’s body weight. We evaluated the overall construction of each blanket, checking for flaws like loose threads or unkempt seams. We also took and recorded the blanket's measurements at this point.
Next, we assessed the feel and quality of the weighted blanket, noting whether it felt smooth and well-made or scratchy and stiff. To mimic real-world usage, we spent five minutes underneath the blanket while monitoring the temperature, heat, airflow, and breathability. We also moved the blanket to see if the filling and material produced a sound. We then folded, moved, lifted, and pulled the blanket, paying attention to whether the fill shifted or stayed evenly distributed.
We also determined how easy it is to spot-clean the blankets by pouring 1 tablespoon of coffee onto its surface, letting it sit for 30 seconds, and blotting the area with a cool, wet towel. If a stain remained after this initial cleaning, we treated it with a Tide pen.
For weighted blankets that are machine-washable, we washed them according to the manufacturer's instructions and evaluated whether the blankets showed any signs of wear or damage, like loose threads, separated seams, holes, tears, shifted fill distribution, and texture changes. We also measured the blanket again to see if it shrunk post-wash.
After our Lab tests were complete, we saw the retail price of the weighted blanket and rated its overall value while factoring in its performance in the above tests. For long-term testing, we took the blankets home and evaluated their performance after three and six months of use.
REAL SIMPLE / DERA BURRESON
How to Shop for Weighted Blankets Like a Pro
Material
As with any bedding, the material of your weighted blanket can make a noteworthy difference. For hot sleepers, you may prefer a material like cotton, which is very breathable, or bamboo, which is temperature-regulating and moisture-wicking. (In our testing, Bearaby’s Cotton Napper allowed for plenty of airflow thanks to its breathable cotton and knit construction.) But if you’re always freezing at night, then look for a weighted blanket that will keep you warm, such as one with a faux-shearling or fleece backing to add an extra layer of warmth.
Weight
We tested weighted blankets ranging from 2 to 25 pounds, but there’s actually a science to choosing a weight. “Keep in mind that what works for you might not work for everyone since we all have different needs and preferences when it comes to sleep,” says Peter Polos, MD, sleep medicine specialist and sleep expert for Sleep Number. “I’d recommend that you focus on looking for a weighted blanket that provides proper and even weight distribution. It’s best to get a blanket that is between 5% and 12% of your body weight, although most people prefer one that weighs 10% of their body weight.” So for a 150-pound person, a weighted blanket that’s 10% of their body weight would be 15 pounds.
Cleaning and Care
Unlike your standard blanket, you can't throw every weighted blanket into the washing machine. “If you’re planning to get a lot of use out of your weighted blanket, you want something that is easy to clean,” says Dr. Polos. “Look for blankets with removable covers that can go in the washing machine and dryer on low heat.”
Check the label and manufacturer’s description to ensure that your selection is machine-washable—along with the specifications about washer type and whether the blanket can go in the dryer. Due to the heft of weighted blankets, some can only be washed in industrial-grade machines and others will require air drying.
REAL SIMPLE / DERA BURRESON
Filling
From small glass beads to beans to sand, the filling of your weighted blanket plays a crucial role in its quality and heft. The type of fill can impact the cost, feel, and weight distribution, so it’s best to run through your options before landing on a final pick.
Weighted blankets with glass beads tend to come at a higher cost but are better for hot sleepers. (Most of the weighted blankets we recommend are filled with glass beads.) Plastic polypropylene pellets are the most common filling option because they’re cost-effective and generally machine-washable, but aren’t as environmentally friendly and don’t have the same cooling effect as glass beads. Some blankets rely on heavy fabric rather than a filling, which ensures evenly distributed weight no matter how often you toss and turn.
More Weighted Blankets to Consider
Sleep Number True Temp Weighted Blanket: This quilted and cooling blanket from Sleep Number stood out during our testing for its quality construction, evenly distributed weight, and luxe feel. For those who want a weighted blanket that doesn’t retain too much heat, this pick provides the perfect balance of comfort without becoming stuffy. The only thing to keep in mind is that we noticed some minor shrinkage after washing.
REAL SIMPLE / DERA BURRESON
Questions You Might Ask
What are the benefits of a weighted blanket?
According to Dr. Polos, weighted blankets can create “deep pressure stimulation,” which promotes relaxation, reduces stress, and aids those who struggle with falling asleep. While some of the wellness claims surrounding weighted blankets remain anecdotal, a small study conducted at Uppsala University in Sweden found that participants who spent an hour under a weighted blanket before bedtime exhibited a notable increase in melatonin.
Can you wash weighted blankets?
Many of the weighted blankets on the market are washable, either due to a removable cover or a durable construction that can be tossed in the laundry. Be sure to read the manufacturer’s instructions before you load your weighted blanket into the washing machine—some options require specific temperature cycles, and others may need to be air-dried. If routine, convenient cleaning is a priority for you, make sure to choose a washable option with easy care instructions.
How heavy should a weighted blanket be?
The general guidance when selecting a weighted blanket is that it should be roughly 10% of your body weight—so if you weigh around 200 pounds, a 20-pound blanket will hit the mark. You can find your optimal blanket weight with this guideline, but keep in mind that the number you land on doesn’t need to be perfectly precise—anywhere from 5% to 12% of your body weight should work.
Take Our Word for It
This article was written by Quinn Gawronski, associate commerce editor for Real Simple, who has three years of experience writing and editing product reviews and roundups. It was updated by Jamie Fischer, a commerce writer for Real Simple. To compile this list, we tested 35 weighted blankets in our Lab and evaluated them on quality, comfort, warmth, ease of cleaning, durability, and value. For expert tips, we consulted Peter Polos, MD, a sleep medicine specialist and sleep expert for Sleep Number.
What is Real Simple Selects?
Next to each product on this list, you may have noticed a Real Simple Selects seal of approval. Any product appearing alongside that seal has been vetted by our team—put through tests and graded on its performance to earn a spot on our list. Although we buy most of the products we test, sometimes we do get samples from companies if purchasing a product ourselves isn't an option. All products go through the same rigorous process, whether they are purchased or sent by the company.
Love our recommendations? Check out more products that have earned the Real Simple Selects, from humidifiers to cordless vacuums.
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