By now, you’ve probably read or heard about the benefits of weighted blankets. Maybe you know someone who uses one and swears by it, praising the positive impact on their sleep or tension. But what about these miracle covers makes them different from regular blankets? And how, exactly, are they so heavy?
There are many options available when it comes to weighted blankets. To help you choose the right one for your needs, we’re ripping open the seams to look at what’s inside these cozy companions. Lay back, as we break down every layer of a traditional weighted blanket, different materials used for construction, and the benefits and disadvantages that come with each style on the market.
The majority of weighted blankets are comprised of five to seven separate layers. Each one serves a different purpose adding to the overall comfort and functionality of the piece, from the soft outer layers that touch your skin, to the heavy fillings within that give the blanket its weight.
The image below illustrates the different sections commonly found in these types of blankets. You can see how each layer works together to evenly distribute weight on the user, while still providing the comfy, cushioned experience expected from a quality blanket.
You’ll notice from the image above, most weighted blankets are made up of three main components: the outer layers, inner layers, and beads (or fillers).
The outer layer is the first thing you’ll see and feel with a weighted blanket. It’s the fabric that encompasses all the padding and filling, and what you’ll be touching when the blanket’s actually on you.
When shopping for a weighted blanket, you need to determine what your preferences are when it comes to overall feel. For most, this will mean finding one that offers the desired softness. If you are a hot sleeper or someone who prefers to use a weighted blanket all day, you might also want to consider the breathability of fabric used for the outer layer.
Some outer layers are removable, meaning they have zippers or buttons to keep them in place and can be taken off for washing. Others are sewn directly into the blanket, so the entire piece must be cleaned together.
Moving inside, you’ll find most weighted blankets have one or more layers of insulation and padding. As with comforters and duvets, these inner layers are made up of additional fabric and cushioning that make the blanket warm, fluffier, and help evenly distribute weight.
When it comes to weighted blankets, the inner layers also serve another purpose: keeping the beads or fillers in place. This material typically includes small, sewn-in pockets for the weights themselves, or special fitted cushioning that wraps around them securely.
Most customers will probably never see or know about this construction, but it is one of the most crucial parts of a weighted blanket. The materials used for the inner layers can significantly affect the blanket’s durability and weight distribution, not to mention its overall feel.
Finally, we have the fillers. These are what give the blanket its weight, and can vary by brand or style. You might see them referred to as beads or pellets. In most cases, they are small pieces of glass or plastic sewn into the blanket’s inner quilted pockets. The number of beads or type of material used will dictate how heavy the blanket is.
There are several types of fillers available. It’s entirely up to you which you prefer. The top thing to consider would be how heavy you want the blanket to be. Next, you may want to see how different types of fillers feel when the blanket is on you, if they offer the comfort and breathability you’re looking for. Finally, certain fillers may be machine washable, while others are not. This is particularly important if your outer cover cannot be removed, and the blanket must be washed all together.
Now, for the important stuff. Let’s look at the different types of materials used to make the blanket’s outer layer. Weighted blankets come in a variety of fabrics. The most common ones you’ll see on the market use either cotton, polyester, or bamboo.
It is entirely up to you to decide which type is the best match for your personal needs and preferences. To help with the research process, here’s our analysis of the different materials, as well as the pros and cons of each:
Cotton is by far the most popular and widely used fabric in weighted blankets. And it's clear why. People tend to choose cotton over all other fabrics because it's soft, hypoallergenic, and simple to care for.
A natural fiber, cotton is more breathable than synthetic options such as polyester. But keep in mind that there are many cotton-blend fabrics out there. If you want to reap the full benefits of this material, we recommend choosing a blanket made of 100% cotton.
While cotton is one of the most comfortable fabrics available, it does have some drawbacks. Aside from being more expensive (particularly when made from organic materials), cotton is also notorious for shrinking quickly. This is important to consider when it comes to a blanket, which may be used and washed often.
And since they are considered natural fibers, cotton also tends to damage easily, more prone to wear and tear over time. It is also known to fade with prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Polyester is a manufactured textile, considered one of the most durable fabrics due to its pliant synthetic materials. It is highly resistant to shrinkage and the usual tearing associated with cotton. So, if you're looking for a weighted blanket with long-lasting construction, polyester is your best bet.
Surprisingly, this material is still quite lightweight to the touch. Polyester fabrics are also typically washing machine and dryer friendly, making them easy to clean without any special care instructions.
Now for the bad news. Unlike bamboo and cotton, polyester does not support airflow. This is due to the fact that, unlike natural fabrics, they do not have the same moisture-absorbing properties. Sure, they may seem snuggly and smooth to the skin, but when night time comes, this type of fabric can effectively trap heat, making you more prone to night sweats and poor sleep quality.
And since they are synthetic, polyester fabrics may not be a great choice for people with sensitive skin. Some may find the material to cause irritation, or in worst cases, an allergic reaction.
You may see bamboo used in weighted blankets that advertise themselves as “cooling”. That’s because the fabric is known for its superior breathability and moisture-wicking properties. Unlike cotton, bamboo fibers possess a unique structure consisting of micro-gaps and pores that allow for increased airflow. They also quickly absorb moisture and allow it to evaporate, keeping you dry throughout the night.
Made from natural materials, bamboo fabrics have the same luxurious feel as cotton, but are much more eco-friendly and sustainable. Furthermore, the material is inherently antibacterial and hypoallergenic, so those with textile sensitivities should have no discomfort when using it.
However, there are some drawbacks. Since bamboo tends to shrink, make sure to carefully follow all care instructions that come with the blanket. Additionally, because of the way they are made, bamboo weighted blankets are often more prone to wrinkles than cotton.
As previously stated, the inner layers of weighted blankets are vital to their construction because the fabrics and stuffing help keep the weight evenly distributed. Inner layers are made from various materials, the most popular of which are cotton, polyester, and “fluff”.
The pros and cons to each of these fabrics are similar to those discussed above. In many cases, you may not even know which is being used, unless you read the product description. However, one major thing to consider when it comes to this portion of the blanket is air flow.
Inner layers of a weighted blanket are what tend to impact temperature, since they’re composed of denser fabrics and stuffings. This is what keeps you warm on colder nights, but also what leads to overheating. So, be on the lookout for weighted blankets that call themselves “breathable”.
Remember, even if the outer layers provide nice air flow, the inner layer is still stuffed with several fabrics that might ultimately trap heat. To maximize use of your new weighted blanket, you’ll want something that offers some temperature regulation, to keep you comfortable in any condition.
We’ve made our way deep inside now, for a look at what makes these blankets “weighted” in the first place. If you’re not familiar with weighted blanket fillers, it may be hard to tell the differences between the different substances commonly used. But fear not! We’ve done all the legwork to bring you this quick and easy guide to the four main types: poly pellets, micro glass beads, steel shot beads, and sand.
Poly pellets are the most commonly used fillers in weighted blankets. This is due to the fact that they are not only affordable, but also considered safe, non-toxic, and hypoallergenic. These pebble-like beads are made from polypropylene plastic and are also used in dolls and stuffed toys. In terms of durability, they are tough and long-lasting, especially when compared to other weighted blanket fillings.
The downside to poly pellets is that they are made from plastic, so they are not eco-friendly or recyclable. Another factor to consider with these is that they tend to bunch together on the blanket’s edges, making the weight unevenly distributed. Plus, they are also noisier than micro glass beads, so those with sensory disorders might want to steer clear in order to avoid overstimulation.
Another standard weighted blanket filling, micro glass beads are the perfect alternative to plastic poly pellets. Along with being eco-friendly, they have a smooth, delicate texture, and tend to be more cooling than plastic. As such, cooling weighted blankets often use these beads instead of poly pellets, since they don’t trap heat.
Micro glass beads are washing machine and dryer-friendly, so clean up is a breeze. This type of filling is also ideal for hyper-sensitive people, because they are extremely quiet and don’t rustle around the blanket.
The main difference in feel between them and poly plastic pellets is that the weighted blanket tends to be much thinner and less bulky, because micro glass beads are denser. In terms of major drawbacks, the only thing to keep in mind is: micro glass beads can sometimes bunch up in one part of the weighted blanket, especially after machine wash. They also tend to leak after prolonged usage.
Steel shot beads are often used in DIY weighted blankets. They are larger than both micro glass beads and plastic poly pellets, and heavier, so the blankets that utilize them tend to weigh more. Due to this, smaller individuals, especially kids, may want to opt for a lighter weighted blanket with micro glass beads.
And even though most weighted blankets filled with steel shot beads advertise them as machine washable, that isn’t always the case. Since they are heavy, these beads can tear the fabric and leak when inside the machine. Sometimes, they can even damage your washer or dryer, so always take extra care when putting them in to clean.
We’ll end with the least common filler: sand. You may never encounter a weighted blanket filled with sand, but they exist (unfortunately). And although inexpensive, we can’t recommend you purchase one.
Since sand consists of extremely fine particles, these blankets can’t be washed regularly, as they are prone to leaking. Even worse, drying them takes much longer. This filling also tends to clump together on one side of the blanket, unable to be secured in place as well as pellets or beads.
If that wasn’t enough to deter you, sand is also the worst choice for those with sensitive skin, since it isn’t exactly hypoallergenic or non-toxic. These types of blankets can cause skin allergies and other health issues, due to their non-organic materials.
As we’ve seen, weighted blankets come in a variety of fabrics and fillings. At the end of the day, it’s up to you to decide which best suits your personal preference and needs. However, a general rule of thumb is to identify the type of materials used before purchasing, making sure you find something non-toxic, machine-washable, and long-lasting.
For a weighted blanket that checks all those boxes and more, look no further than the Nuzzie Knit.
The Nuzzie Knit does not contain any beads or pellets, which makes it exponentially more durable. Instead, the added weight comes from our luxurious fabric filling which keeps the blanket heft uniformly distributed.
But wait. How can it have all those amazing weighted blanket benefits when it doesn’t contain any fillings?
The answer is simple. Our weighted blankets are made from layers upon layers of delicately hand-knitted fabric. And compared with traditional weighted blankets, ours are softer and cozy. Plus, they can be used during the summer. Because the Nuzzie Knit has an open-knit weave design that encourages airflow, making it an ideal choice for hot sleepers.
And if that wasn’t enough: This beautiful blanket is washing machine-friendly! Nuzzie Knit has been tested for a wide range of different wash and dry cycles, so you won’t have to worry about damage and frays. Simply toss them in the washing machine, and you’re good to go!
Aside from its unique features and benefits, the Nuzzie Knit is simply the most stylish option on the market. Choose from a wide range of chic, aesthetically pleasing colors designed to complement the look of your home.
Ready to feel the difference? Order yours now at Nuzzie.
