In the deep dark depths of winter it is starting to get very cold and that means we all need to wrap up more to keep warm. That could mean wearing extra layers, turning on the heating or snuggling up under a warm blanket on the couch when we are watching television of a evening. I have a blanket over the back of the couch that I use when watching television but have recently switched to a weighted blanket and love it, it’s like receiving a warm comfy hug.
Weighted blankets have gained popularity in recent years, not just because they can be nice and warm, are also excellent for snuggling up on the couch when watching television, but also because they can have numerous health benefits and help aid better sleep.
Weighted blankets come in different sizes and weights and are filled with materials such as glass beads, plastic pellets or even small ball bearings and gently apply pressure to the whole body, mimicking the sensation of a comforting hug. This pressure, known as Deep Touch Pressure (DTP), has been shown to provide several benefits:
- Reduces Stress and Anxiety: The gentle pressure can help calm the nervous system, reducing levels of cortisol (the stress hormone), which helps the wearer relax.
- Improves Sleep Quality: They can help regulate sleep patterns and improve overall sleep quality by helping your body to increase the production of melatonin and serotonin.
- Eases Symptoms of Insomnia: Can help insomnia suffers by helping users fall asleep faster with fewer night-time awakenings.
- Provides Comfort and Security: Provide a sense of security with the weight of the blanket giving a sensation of being gently hugged, promoting relaxation and helping you unwind and promoting better sleep.
The OHS Weighted Blanket comes in different sizes, weights and colours, I have been using the 6kg (13.2lb) version that measures 125x180cm in a light grey/silver colour. It is also available as a 4kg (8.8lbs) version that measure 125x150cm or an 8kg (17.6lb) version that measures 150x200cm. The 6kg version is perfect for a single bed or using on couch. It has been designed with comfort and durability in mind. Featuring a soft, breathable fabric (waffle fleece cover with microfibre reverse), it feels gentle against the skin. The blanket is filled with non-toxic, hypoallergenic glass beads that are evenly distributed to provide consistent pressure across the body, stimulating the stress points and reduces aches and pains to deliver a restful sleep. The stitching is strong and secure, ensuring that the beads stay in place and the blanket maintains its shape over time.
The OHS Weighted Blanket while at first seems like it will be too heavy to use, is actually incredibly comfortable. The soft fabric and even weight distribution make it perfect for snuggling up on the couch or adding an extra layer of comfort to your bed.
Overall, I think that the OHS weighted blanket is excellent. The quality feels very good and once I got used to the weight it is extremely comfortable and it hugs my body well when laying on the couch watching the tv. And as it hugs better than my previous throw, it helps to keep heat in and keeps me warmer.
I have tried the blanket on the bed and the weight when going to sleep is comforting. Whether it helps reduce stress and anxiety I really couldn’t say, but it does feel good. As for better sleep, as the blanket stayed pretty much where it was all night, I clearly wasn’t tossing and turning as much and don’t remember waking up much, so it does seem to aid better sleep. I now wish that I had purchased the larger, heavier version and I think that I will do as I do love the blanket.
I was worried that due to the weight and that I used it as a topper over the duvet that it would get far too hot as I get too hot very quickly. While it does help keep the warmth in, it didn’t make me overheat, which is fantastic.
While I can’t speak for any potential medical benefits of using a weighted blanket, I do love the comfort and feel and I do feel that the weight helps aid calmness and relaxation. I found it much better than just using a standard blanket, but that may not be the same for everyone.
I love the OHS weighted blanket. The 6kg one is perfect for using on the couch and I will be buying the 8kb version for my bed.
Rating: 5/5
RRP: from £18.99 to £29.99 (depending on size and weight)
Available to buy from Amazon here.