What’s a weighted blanket?
A weighted blanket is a safe and effective way to apply weight and deep pressure to the body for calming. The blankets typically have quilted pockets filled with heavy plastic beads called poly pellets.
Why use a weighted blanket?
Weighted blankets provide the body with deep pressure input that helps calm the central nervous system. Weighted blankets can be very helpful for a child who feels restless, agitated or stressed. An occupational therapist can help you determine if your child would benefit from a weighted blanket and what size or weight is appropriate.
How should a child use a weighted blanket?
In general, children should wear weighted blankets for only 15 to 20 minutes at a time. A weighted blanket can lose its calming effect if you leave it on the body for too long. After 15 to 20 minutes of wear, you should remove the blanket to allow the child’s sensory system to rest. Wait at least one to two hours after the blanket has been removed before placing it on again.
Keep in mind that overarousal of the central nervous system can lead to a fright, fight or flight response. Carefully watch your child's responses when they are getting used to wearing a weighted blanket the first few times. If the child continues to fuss or does not become calm or accustomed to the blanket within a few minutes, you should remove the weighted blanket.
Important Safety Information for Weighted Blankets
- Weighted blankets should NEVER be used by children under 2 years of age.
- A weighted blanket should not be so heavy that it restricts a child’s self-initiated movements.
- A child should be able to remove the blanket themselves or get parts of their body (arms or legs) out from under the blanket independently.
- A weighted blanket should NEVER be placed over the child’s head or neck.
- The blanket should not be so big that it hangs off over the sides of a bed.
- Children should only use a weighted blanket under supervision of an adult.
- Weighted blankets are NOT intended to be used overnight. A weighted blanket should be removed once the child has fallen asleep.
In general, a weighted blanket should be no more than 10% of a child’s body weight. For example: if a child weighs 60 pounds, they should use a weighted blanket that weighs 6 pounds or less.
How do you care for a weighted blanket?
You should keep a weighted blanket clean just as you would any other bed linen. Machine- or hand-wash the blanket when necessary. Please follow the manufacturer’s cleaning instructions.
This information is for educational purposes only. It is not intended to replace the advice of your health care providers. If you have any questions, talk with your doctor or others on your health care team. If you are a Gillette patient with urgent questions or concerns, please contact Telehealth Nursing at 651-229-3890.