For people with anxiety, restlessness or insomnia, a weighted knit weighted blanket vcan help relax their nervous system and reduce the production of stress hormones like cortisol. But the heavy-feeling blankets aren’t right for everyone. They can be claustrophobic, cause heat retention and feel a little utilitarian in style. A knit weighted blanket is a more comfortable and attractive option, and the right one can help you get to sleep faster by triggering the release of serotonin and melatonin.

The Science and Benefits of Knit Weighted Blankets: A Deep Dive into Cozy Comfort

Most weighted blankets are made of an outer cover and an inner shell filled with micro glass beads or poly pellets that make the blanket feel heavier than a regular blanket. A general rule of thumb is to choose a blanket that weighs around 10% of your body weight, but it’s best to test a few options before choosing one. The blankets below are all available for purchase online, and many come with free shipping to the contiguous United States. If you’re interested in buying a blanket, check the care instructions to find out whether the weighted insert can be machine washed and dried.

This Brooklyn Bedding blanket has an open-knit design that helps promote airflow and a soft, light feel. According to the company, this blanket is also one of the most comfortable and versatile of its kind. It’s not as thick as some other weighted blankets, so it may not provide enough insulation for exceptionally cold nights. The blanket’s glass-bead fill is evenly distributed and not tightly packed, which helps keep the temperature even.