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Best Weighted Blanket for Kids
Weighted blankets have surged in popularity over the last several years, which has led to a rise in the variety of weighted blankets on the market. Today’s options include lighter weighted blankets marketed toward children. Each weighted blanket for kids has an intended age range – usually 4 or older – so make sure to review product information before purchasing one for your child. Parents should also speak with their doctor before allowing their child to use a weighted blanket.
Weighted blankets include ball bearings, plastic pellets, glass beads, or other materials in their design that make them heavier than normal blankets or comforters. Many sleepers find that the extra weight in a weighted blanket provides an added sense of security, helping to reduce anxiety and lead to a more relaxing sleep experience.
We’ll go over what to consider when purchasing a weighted blanket for children and discuss the materials, pricing, breathability, weight, and other details of some of the top models available today.
The Best Weighted Blanket for Kids
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Best Overall
Bearaby Nappling
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Best Value
Luna Dream Weaver Kids Weighted Blanket
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Most Comfortable
Silk & Snow Small Knit Weighted Blanket
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Best Design
Aricove Kids Weighted Blanket – Animal Kingdom
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Best for Big Kids
Let’s Cuddle Cuddler
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Best Cooling
Luxome Integrated Cover Weighted Blanket
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Best Weight Distribution
Baloo Mini
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Softest
YnM Kids Cotton Weighted Blanket
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In-Depth Reviews
Price
$149
Fill Material
Organic Cotton
Shell Material
Organic Cotton
Weight Options
6 lbs., 8 lbs.
Most weighted blankets sold today are quilted with beads, pellets, and other items secured within baffle boxes to achieve the desired weight. While cozy and warm during chilly times of the year, these blankets can sleep quite warm during the spring, summer, and early fall. The Bearaby Nappling is a notable exception thanks to its unconventional design, which consists of cotton yarns in an open-knit that allows air to pass through.
The yarns are layered to achieve an approximate weight of 8 pounds, so the blanket does not contain any beads or pellets. The cotton has received a Global Organic Textile Standard certification, ensuring it meets the highest standards of organic growth and production. A jersey knit gives the material an indelibly soft feel that’s comparable to a well-loved T-shirt. The entire blanket is machine-washable for quick and easy care.
Bearaby recommends the blanket for children between the ages of 4 and 14. Weighted blankets pose safety risks for younger kids, and those who are 15 or older may need a heavier blanket to feel comfortable. The ideal sleeper weight is 80 pounds, but there’s some wiggle room for kids who are slightly lighter or heavier. You can choose from three solid colors for the blanket, as well as a multi-tone option that incorporates them all.
The Nappling is reasonably priced given its innovative design and premium materials. Bearaby also ships the blanket for free throughout the contiguous U.S. Your order comes with a 30-day trial period that includes hassle-free returns and exchanges.
Price
$85
Fill Material
Glass microbeads and fiberfill
Shell Material
100% cotton
Weight Options
5 lbs., 7 lbs., 10 lbs., 12 lbs., 15 lbs.
Finding a well-made weighted blanket for your child that’s also budget-friendly can be challenging, but some brands keep costs now without sacrificing quality. Luna and its Dream Weaver Kids Weighted Blanket are prime examples. You can choose from blankets in five different sizes, all of which are constructed with microbead weighted fill, microfiber batting for extra inner softness, and a breathable cotton shell. MSRPs for the blankets are below-average, and Luna’s routine discounts significantly drop the price even further.
The blanket is available in weights of 5, 7, 10, 12, or 15 pounds. This range accommodates children anywhere from 50 to 150 pounds, though Luna recommends the blanket for ages 4 and older. You can also select from five solid colors and two playful prints for the shell. The entire blanket is machine-washable — simply wash in cold water on a gentle setting, then tumble dry on low heat. As a lifespan-prolonging alternative, you can hang the blanket to dry.
Prices vary by size, but costs are well below average for all Dream Weaver Kids Weighted Blankets. Affordable flat-rate shipping is also available for customers in the contiguous U.S. Returns are accepted within 30 days.
Most Comfortable
Silk & Snow Small Knit Weighted Blanket
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$140
Fill Material
100% cotton
Shell Material
100% cotton
Weight Options
8 lbs.
Despite their popularity among both adults and children, weighted blankets have a reputation for restricting airflow and sleeping hot during warmer times of the year. The Silk & Snow Knit Weighted Blanket mitigates this issue with a more breathable design compared to competitors. Constructed using thick cotton yarns in an open knit, the blanket circulates air while still maintaining the hefty, insulating feel sleepers appreciated from weighted coverings.
The blanket is available in a children’s size that weighs 8 pounds, making it best suited to kids who weigh roughly 80 pounds with some wiggle room in either direction. The slightly smaller travel size shares the same weight, which may be handy for your child during flights or long rides in the car. The yarns’ soft texture should be comfortable for kids with rashes and other conditions that cause sensitive skin.
You can choose from nine different colors. The blanket can be washed in household machines using cool water on a delicate or permanent press cycle. For drying, Silk & Snow recommends either laying the blanket flat or tumble-drying for two to three cycles. Hanging the blanket to dry may cause structural damage.
All customers in the contiguous U.S. and provincial Canada qualify for free ground shipping with their order. The blanket may be returned within 100 nights as long as it has not been stained or torn and is otherwise in decent condition, as all returned items are donated to charity.
Price
$80
Fill Material
Glass Beads
Shell Material
Viscose from Bamboo
Weight Options
5 lbs., 7 lbs.
The Aricove Kids Weighted Blanket has a multi-layered cooling design that gives the blanket heft without overheating your child. The price-point is reasonable and we recommend it for parents who want a well-made blanket without a luxury price tag. Kids should also get a kick out of the cover options, which include three fun, animal-centric prints.
The blanket is filled with microbeads made of glass, which helps keep the blanket cool, as well as microfiber that promotes softness. The fill is encased in two layers of viscose derived from bamboo, which feel silky soft and enhance the blanket’s cooling and moisture-wicking properties.
The blanket is available in two sizes. One measures 36 by 48 inches and weighs 5 pounds, and the other measures 40 by 60 inches and weighs 7 pounds. The blanket is machine-washable and you can tumble dry it in a home machine. The easy care is ideal for parents of children who wet the bed at night. It comes with a zippered tote if you plan on traveling with the blanket or stowing it away.
Aricove offers a 30-night sleep trial and 3-year warranty. Shipping is free for orders within the contiguous U.S.
Best for Big Kids
Let’s Cuddle Cuddler
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$264
Fill Material
PET polyester
Shell Material
100% cotton
Weight Options
10 lb., 15 lb., 20 lb.
If you’re shopping for a preteen or teenager, the Cuddler from Let’s Cuddle is a durable, thoughtfully constructed option. An open-knit design allows your child to sleep cool and comfortably any night of the year — even when the weather is hot or humid. Three weights are available: 10, 15, or 20 pounds. Using the “10% rule” with some wiggle room in either direction, the blanket should be suitable for any child whose weight falls between 80 and 220 pounds.
The outer yarns are composed of soft, breathable cotton. Inner lining made of PET fibers derived from recycled plastic bottles also makes the blanket eco-friendly. The PET is wound to create the desired weight, so the blanket does not contain any beads or pellets. You may wash and dry the Cuddler in any household machine for quick and easy care. Let’s Cuddle discourages hanging the blanket to dry, as this can stretch out the knitwork. Six colors are available for the blanket.
Customers in all 50 states can order the Cuddler, and Let’s Cuddle anticipates expanding their delivery area in the future. You may return the blanket if it’s defective within 30 days of receipt and receive a full refund. If the blanket has been used or washed, the refund will be partial.
Best Cooling
Luxome Integrated Cover Weighted Blanket
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Shop NowPrice
$100
Fill Material
Glass beads
Shell Material
Polyester minky and/or lyocell derived from bamboo
Weight Options
8 lbs., 15 lbs., 18 lbs.
Most weighted blankets sold today consist of a two-piece design with a removable, machine-washable cover and an inner weighted blanket that requires more intensive care when cleaning is needed. The innovative Integrated Cover Weighted Blanket from Luxome combines both components into a singular blanket that can be washed and dried in your household machines. The blanket is available in three sizes, with the small 8-pound option for kids who weigh up to 80 pounds or so.
You can select from three cover materials. One is composed of polyester minky with a plush, cozy feel ideal for colder weather. The other is made of breathable lyocell derived from bamboo, which sleeps cool and has moisture-wicking properties to keep your child comfortable on hot or humid nights. The third option is reversible and features both fabrics, one on each side. These blankets are best suited to year-round use. All versions contain glass microbeads for the weighted fill.
The blanket may be machine-washed on a cold, gentle cycle and tumble-dried on low heat. Seven color options are available, including single- and two-tone designs. The blanket is also sold in medium (15-pound) and large (18-pound) sizes intended for adults.
Luxome provides free ground shipping for all orders within the contiguous U.S. Returns are accepted within 30 days for blankets in new condition that haven’t been cleaned. The company also allows exchanges during the return period.
Price
$149
Fill Material
Glass Beads
Shell Material
100% cotton
Weight Options
9 lbs.
The Baloo Mini Weighted Blanket is crafted for a soft, cozy feel. The outer shell is composed of natural cotton, which is both breathable and effective at insulating against the cold. Glass beads and plush cotton batting are used for the fill. The beads retain less body heat than the plastic pellets used in other weighted blankets, so overheating during warmer times of the year shouldn’t be an issue.
The blanket weighs 9 pounds and is suitable for any child 3 or older who weighs at least 50 pounds. You can choose from three different colors: peach, aqua, or indigo. Each is derived from vegetable-based dyes. Mild detergent, cold water, and low dryer heat can help preserve these colors over time, as this type of dye is susceptible to fading without proper cleaning and care.
Baloo offers free ground delivery for all orders in the contiguous U.S. The company also covers shipping costs for returns and exchanges within 30 days of the original purchase.
Price
$65
Fill Material
Glass beads with polyester fill
Shell Material
Cotton
Weight Options
5 lbs., 7lbs., 10 lbs. 15 lbs., 20 lbs.
The YnM Kids Cotton Weighted Blanket has a soft feel that’s perfect for kids who like to snuggle with cozy bedding at night. The blanket is available in multiple kid-friendly patterns.
The shell is made with cotton that’s breathable and cool against the skin. The fill is composed of glass beads and synthetic fiber fill sewn into 4.7-inch-by-4.7-inch squares. This grid design helps distribute the beads evenly across the entire blanket. Patterns range from penguin and superhero themes to stripes, with solid colors as well.
You can choose between five weight options — 5, 7, 10, 15, and 20 pounds. The range of weights makes this blanket suitable for kids of many ages and body types. The blanket is also available in a toddler, kids twin, or twin size. The toddler blanket measures 36 by 48 inches, the kids twin is 41 by 60 inches, and the twin is 48 by 72 inches. You can machine wash the blanket on a gentle cycle then tumble dry on low heat.
Shipping is free in the contiguous U.S. Blankets may be returned within 30 days if they are in perfect condition. They are also backed by a one-year warranty.
“Weighted blankets are known for using gentle weight to promote a sense of calmness or relaxation using deep touch pressure stimulation. The sensation of being hugged, swaddled, or gently held may produce a sense of calmness. A weighted blanket may also help you feel safe, secure, or in a protected space, which can be a powerful agent for relaxation, especially before bed (it may make it easier to fall asleep).”
– Sarah Silverman, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and holistic sleep wellness consultant who treats patients in New York and Florida.
How to Choose a Weighted Blanket for Children
When choosing the best weighted blanket for kids, there are a variety of factors to consider, such as the weight of the blanket, the quality and durability of materials used in its construction, and how easy it is to clean. Price is also an important detail for most shoppers. When you are blanket shopping, comparing the blanket to similar models can be helpful in making your purchasing decision.
What to Consider When Purchasing a Weighted Blanket for Kids
We’ll outline the top factors to consider when purchasing a weighted blanket. Think about your child’s unique sleep needs and your personal preferences. If your child wakes up hot at night, breathability becomes an important factor. For children who have sensitive skin or allergies, a hypoallergenic blanket could be the best choice.
Weight
A blanket that is too heavy could cause discomfort or could even be dangerous for small children. However, a blanket that is too light may not provide the needed comfort and security. Choosing the right weight for your child’s weighted blanket is vital to make sure they experience its benefits.
Quality Materials
Weighted blankets made with quality materials can provide a better sleep experience for your child. High-quality materials may also include benefits that you wouldn’t find in lower-quality models. For example, quality materials may be organic or hypoallergenic, or they may have other special attributes to help a specific type of sleeper. Quality cover materials are generally less likely to rip, tear, or become worn.
Cover Materials
The cover material of a weighted blanket is important because it’s the part of the blanket your child will feel against their skin. Consider whether your child would prefer their blanket to be soft or sleek, and whether they need it to be breathable or trap warmth. For younger children, the blanket’s color or design may also be a highlight.
Ease of Cleaning
If a blanket isn’t easy to clean, it generally will have a shorter lifespan. Regular cleaning helps to keep blankets free of stains and bacteria. Children’s blankets are especially prone to soiling, which makes ease of cleaning a top consideration when it comes to choosing a weighted blanket for kids.
Price
The weighted blanket you choose must fit within your price range while also meeting your child’s sleep needs. Blankets made with quality materials will likely come at a higher price tag, but those blankets are also more likely to offer durability, providing a better return on investment in the long run.
Breathability
Weighted blankets are particularly heavy, which means sleepers can easily overheat if the blanket isn’t sufficiently breathable. Many weighted blankets include materials and designs that don’t trap heat and instead encourage airflow, making for a cooler night’s sleep.
How Do Weighted Blankets Work?
The extra weight in a weighted blanket is meant to offer sleepers a sense of security and comfort, aiding them to achieve a better night’s sleep. A weighted blanket is typically filled with glass or plastic pellets to make it heavier than the average blanket and provide the benefits of deep pressure touch (DPT) therapy.
While not all the claims about weighted blankets have been scientifically proven, recent studies do suggest that weighted blankets may help reduce anxiety.
Manufacturers typically market weighted blankets to people who have anxiety, insomnia, ADHD, or other issues that keep them from sleeping well. While a weighted blanket isn’t guaranteed to help, it may be worth a try if your child is experiencing anxiety-related sleep problems.
Are Weighted Blankets Safe for Kids?
When used correctly, weighted blankets are considered safe for most children who weigh more than 50 pounds and are over 3 years of age, as long as the blanket is an appropriate size and weight. We recommend that you consult your child’s physician before your child uses a weighted blanket. Many manufacturers do not recommend using their blankets for babies or toddlers. In fact, with just a few exceptions, most manufacturers make their weighted blankets specifically for older children, teens, and adults.
Children may have trouble removing a blanket that is too heavy. This can limit their movement and may even lead to suffocation or decrease their blood circulation. Children of any age with respiratory or cardiac problems, or certain other health issues, should not use weighted blankets.
For safer use of a weighted blanket for kids, ensure your child’s head and neck are not covered by the blanket and always make sure they are able to easily remove the blanket.
“The weighted blanket should provide gentle body pressure but not be too heavy. If you have any breathing problems (like asthma) or a primary sleep disorder (like sleep apnea) that can affect your breathing at night, you want to do your research to find quality hypoallergenic materials and double check with your doctor that using a weighted blanket is safe for you while sleeping. You don’t want any heavy weight pushing down on your chest, potentially disrupting your breathing even more.”
– Sarah Silverman, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist and holistic sleep wellness consultant who treats patients in New York and Florida.
How Heavy Should a Weighted Blanket for Kids Be?
When choosing a weighted blanket for a child, it is generally best to look for one that is 10% of their body weight. For example, if your child weighs 50 pounds, a 5-pound weighted blanket would be most appropriate.
While an overly heavy blanket can be dangerous for a child, a blanket that is too light may not be adequate for your child’s needs. Once you receive the weighted blanket, supervise your child as they try it out to see if the weight works well. Make sure they can move freely beneath the blanket and that they find the weight comfortable. If the weight is uncomfortable or if your child has trouble removing the blanket, you should exchange it for a lighter blanket.
Frequently Asked Questions About Weighted Blankets
Generally, the price for weighted blankets for kids falls between $50 and $200. Due to their smaller sizes and lower weights, weighted blankets for children are usually less expensive than weighted blankets for adults. However, the price for a child's weighted blanket can vary depending on the quality and type of materials used in the blanket, where the blanket is made, its construction, and other factors.
Studies on children with autism have shown that weighted blankets may help kids fall asleep faster, though results are inconclusive on whether or not they help children stay asleep or enjoy better-quality sleep. If your child has trouble falling asleep due to anxiety or another issue, you should talk to your doctor about using a weighted blanket as a sleep aid.
Generally, a child's weighted blanket should weigh 10% of the child's body weight. As blankets come in limited weight options, you may choose to use a blanket that's 1 or 2 pounds lighter or heavier than this recommendation. Test the blanket out with your child to ensure that it's not too restrictive.
Child-size weighted blankets usually measure 30 or 40 inches by 50 or 60 inches. Smaller blankets are generally better for a child. You want your child to be able to move the blanket and get out from under it for safety reasons.
Cleaning methods for weighted blankets vary based on the design of the blanket and the materials used in its construction. Cotton and polyester weighted blankets are generally the easiest to maintain because they are durable and can be washed more easily. For easy cleaning, look for a weighted blanket that can be washed in your home washing machine or one with a removable cover.
Age-appropriate weighted blankets are generally considered safe for most children aged 3 years or older. However, you should discuss the use of a weighted blanket with your child's doctor before making your purchase. Weighted blankets are not safe for children who have certain health conditions, especially respiratory- and cardiac-related health conditions. A weighted blanket that is too heavy can also lead to suffocation or circulation issues. If you decide to purchase a weighted blanket for your child, it is important to select the correct size and weight.
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