Your Cart is Empty
- Orders $49.95+ save 15% with code: CALM15
- Free shipping over $199.95 Contiguous U.S.
Your Cart is Empty
July 21, 2025 4 min read
Short Answer
The standard recommendation is to choose a weighted blanket that’s about 10 percent of your body weight. But that’s just the starting point. This guide explains how to choose the right weight based on your needs, preferences, and comfort level—backed by expert insight and detailed recommendations.
The calming effect of a weighted blanket comes from deep pressure stimulation—a firm, even sensation that helps reduce stress, ease anxiety, and support better sleep. But that only works if the weight is right for your body and sleep habits.
Too light? You may not feel the calming effect.
Too heavy? It can feel restrictive or uncomfortable.
Getting it right can make the difference between a blanket you try and one you use every night.
This expanded chart helps you pick the right blanket based on your weight range. We’ve included an estimated 10 percent target, but also show flexible weight suggestions to fit your comfort preferences.
|
Body Weight (lbs) |
10% of Body Weight |
Recommended Blanket Weight |
|
50 – 60 |
5 – 6 |
5 – 6 lbs |
|
61 – 80 |
6 – 8 |
6 – 8 lbs |
|
81 – 100 |
8 – 10 |
8 – 10 lbs |
|
101 – 120 |
10 – 12 |
10 – 12 lbs |
|
121 – 140 |
12 – 14 |
12 – 15 lbs |
|
141 – 160 |
14 – 16 |
15 – 16 lbs |
|
161 – 180 |
16 – 18 |
16 – 20 lbs |
|
181 – 200 |
18 – 20 |
20 – 25 lbs |
|
201 – 220 |
20 – 22 |
20 – 25 lbs |
|
221 – 240 |
22 – 24 |
25 – 30 lbs |
|
241 – 260 |
24 – 26 |
25 – 30 lbs |
|
261 – 300 |
26 – 30 |
30 – 35 lbs |
|
301 – 360 |
30 – 36 |
30 – 35 lbs (max) |
The 10 percent guideline works for many people—but it’s not a strict limit. These are common reasons to adjust:
Go lighter if you’re sensitive to pressure, just starting out, or selecting a blanket for a child or older adult
Go heavier if you want deeper pressure, move around at night, or plan to use the blanket upright or during the day
It’s also worth knowing that the original 10 percent rule came from studies onweighted vests and backpacks, which affect the body differently. In contrast, a weighted blanket applies pressure to a resting body. That’s why manyoccupational therapists recommend going up to 15 or even 20 percent of body weight—especially for people with higher anxiety, ADHD, or sensory seeking needs.
True comfort often outweighs math. Trust how your body feels.
Weighted blankets engage theparasympathetic nervous system, which helps shift the body into a calmer, more restful state. This is often called the “rest and digest” response—and it balances out the “fight or flight” activity that comes with stress or anxiety.
Research shows weighted blankets may help:
Increaseserotonin, the mood-stabilizing hormone
Reducecortisol, the stress hormone
Supportmelatonin production for sleep
Lower heart rate and slow breathing
Promote relaxation by quieting overactive nervous system signals
When used consistently, this physical shift can make sleep come easier and stress feel more manageable.
Fill type affects how a weighted blanket feels and performs over time.
Glass beads are a popular option. They’re fine like sand, allow for a thinner blanket profile, and distribute weight evenly. However, they can be harder to wash, more fragile, and prone to clumping if the stitching isn’t precise.
Mosaic uses high-quality plastic poly pellets instead of glass beads. Here’s why:
More durable and long-lasting
Hypoallergenic and washable
Less prone to shifting or breaking down
Evenly distributed and quiet
“I purchased a grab bag blanket and was so surprised to receive a gorgeous purple blanket… It ended up being the perfect weight for me. Incredibly pleased!!” – Thomas P
Outer fabric makes a major difference in comfort, airflow, and feel.
Crisp, breathable, and naturally cooling—ideal for most sleepers
“It does not make me hot to be underneath this cover… Very comforting!!” – Jersey Mike
Advanced moisture-wicking and temperature regulation for hot sleepers
“He absolutely loves the Coolmax technology! This blanket truly helps to get a good night of sleep.” – The Tillman Family
Ultra-soft and cozy—perfect for colder nights or sensory comfort
“The blanket is silky and soft… Now with the weighted blanket he is getting restful sleep.” – Mary Anne P
Choosing between sizes? Here’s how to think about it:
Side sleepers may prefer a bit more pressure
Back sleepers may want slightly less
If you plan to share, size up
“Very cozy, soft and a nice grey color. Not too heavy but just right at 8lbs for my 10-year-old. Considering this is our first weighted blanket—we got a great one.” – Kaitlin
For most healthy adults, weighted blankets are safe to use nightly. But if you havesevere asthma, obstructive sleep apnea, circulatory conditions, or limited mobility, check with your doctor before using one. The same goes foranyone who may not be able to remove the blanket independently.
For a full breakdown of age guidelines and other safety tips, visit Are Weighted BlanketsSafe?
Weighted Blanket Collection
More Helpful Reads:
Choosing the right weighted blanket starts with numbers—but it ends with how you feel. Use the chart as a guide, but don’t be afraid to trust your instincts. If you have questions, our team at Mosaic Weighted Blankets is here to help you get it just right.
