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The best weighted blankets for better sleep and relaxation, tried and tested
Get a solid night's rest with our experts' top-rated blankets
Tested by Yanar Alkayat and Kim Hawley
The humble weighted blanket has become a must-have for cosy comfort and relaxation, with a growing range of styles flooding the market in the name of self-care.
The best weighted blankets are usually made with quilted pockets that are filled with glass beads, although some have a more traditional, tight cotton weave. The pockets help to distribute the weight evenly across the throw and stop the glass beads from clumping in one corner.
Unlike regular blankets and throws, weighted blankets are designed to mimic a therapeutic technique called “deep pressure therapy”. Like a loving hug, this triggers the release of serotonin and dopamine, also known as the “happy hormones”. That's why many people find a weighted blanket helps to soothe anxiety and encourage a peaceful night's sleep.
What is the best weighted blanket for 2025?
Whether you’re a first-time buyer or shopping for a replacement throw, it can be tricky to know which weighted blanket to go for. To give you a helping hand, the Good Housekeeping Institute has tested the best weighted blankets on the market. These are our top picks for every need and budget at a glance:
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
We enlisted a panel of at-home testers to put a range of weighted blankets through their paces for a few weeks, judging design, comfort and performance. Our in-house team also conducted wash tests to check for shrinkage and colour fading. You'll find a detailed breakdown of our rigorous testing below, as well as our full reviews, and further information on weight guidelines, washing and medical advice.
Pros
- The weight is evenly distributed
- Flexible material that moulds around the body
- Soft and cosy
Cons
- More information on its benefits would have been useful
- It's quite warm
Score: 98/100
Drumroll, please, for our winning weighted blanket, which was praised by our panel for its “velvety-soft feel” and “perfect weight distribution”. Not only did it help them drift off quickly and peacefully, the fleecy material provided plenty of warmth and was ideal for cooler evenings on the sofa. “It’s such a game-changer – I’m buying it for the whole family!” said one enthusiastic tester.
The blanket moulded to testers’ bodies nicely without feeling claustrophobic and the glass beads were barely noticeable. Plus, it was super quiet – meaning no irritating rustling sounds in the middle of the night.
It was a tad bulky to lug around the house but that’s to be expected with weighted blankets. All in all, a seriously snuggly choice.
Key specifications
| Sizes available (cm) | 1 (121 x 198) |
|---|---|
| Weights available (kg) | 4.5, 6.8, 9 |
| Filling | Non-toxic glass beads |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Pros
- Soft, cosy fabric
- Storage case included
Cons
- Some testers found it tricky to locate the zip on the cover
Score: 91/100
This faux fur design from Next will fit right in with your interiors and help you get a restorative night’s sleep. It was an instant hit with our panel, who said it looked “luxurious” when draped over their sofa or laid across their bed.
Good looks aside, testers confirmed it was bliss to curl up with and helped them relax after a stressful day. Despite being comforting and cosy, they didn’t get too hot when using it at night, the beads rarely needed arranging, and the fabric felt gloriously soft against their skin. It's also easy to keep in tip-top condition – the cover is removable, so you can pop it in the washing machine if you spill your hot chocolate, or if it simply needs a refresh after a few months of consistent use.
Next offers a range of weights to suit all shapes and sizes and it comes with a neat storage bag. It's also large enough for two people to snuggle up beneath. Every single tester said they would recommend it to others.
Key specifications
| Sizes available (cm) | 1 (150x200) |
|---|---|
| Weights available (kg) | 4.5, 6.5, 9, 11.5 |
| Filling | Beads |
| Machine washable | Yes, cover only |
Pros
- Includes a storage bag
- Stylish quilted design
- Soft outer material
Cons
- Some testers overheated with it
- Not as breathable as other blankets
Score: 87/100
This quilted blanket looks like a traditional throw and would make a stylish addition to any bed. Testers loved the feel of the cotton exterior, saying it was incredibly soft without being too fluffy, and found the blanket worked just as well on top of a duvet as it did when used as a standalone cover. It also comes with a zip-up bag, complete with handles – ideal if you want to pack it away during warmer months or take it with you on the go.
It’s fully machine washable, making it that much easier to care for, though it didn’t do so well in our tumble dryer — it had to be left hanging overnight before it was fully dry. But that was our only qualm with this high-performing weighted blanket.
Key specifications
| Sizes available (cm) | 1 (150 x 200) |
|---|---|
| Weights available (kg) | 6.8, 9 |
| Filling | Glass beads |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Pros
- Two-sided cover for year-round use
- OEKO-TEX® certified, suitable for sensitive skin
- Storage bag included
Cons
- Minimal information included with product
Score: 87/100
Kudd.ly's therapeutic weighted blanket proved popular among our panellists, who rated its double-sided design. One side is crafted with soft, fleecy fabric to keep you snug on chilly winter nights, while the other features cooling bamboo to keep you comfy as you catch some Zs during the summer months.
Everyone found it a dream to cosy up with, noting that the weight distribution was on point and the microbead filling was barely noticeable. “This is my favourite weighted blanket I’ve tried,” one tested told us, while another said: “It helped me fall asleep quicker and have a deeper sleep.”
They found the lighter 4kg option super easy to pull into place without feeling claustrophobic, and they appreciated the neat drawstring bag – ideal if you want to pack it away or take it with you on the go. There’s also a removable cover to keep the blanket looking and smelling fresh.
Key specifications
| Sizes available (cm) | 2 (122 x 198; 152 x 203) |
|---|---|
| Weights available (kg) | 4, 6.8, 9 |
| Filling | Glass micro sand beads |
| Machine washable | Cover only |
Pros
- Good for those who run hot at night
- High-quality design
- Even weight distribution
Cons
- Limited range of sizes, colours and weights
- Lack of information on use and benefits
Score: 80/100
Another good choice for hot sleepers, this weighted blanket is part of Silentnight's Restore collection, designed for those prone to overheating. It’s made with breathable, cooling fabric to keep you comfortable throughout the night.
According to testers, it wasn’t ultra cooling, but it did a good job of regulating their temperature, allowing them to get a peaceful night’s rest without feeling hot and bothered. They praised its “high-quality feel” and said the weight distribution was spot-on. They also appreciated the bag for discreet storage.
There’s only one weight option (6.8kg) so it’s not suitable for everyone, and we would have liked a few more colour and size options, too.
Key specifications
| Sizes available (cm) | 1 (150 x 200) |
|---|---|
| Weights available (kg) | 6.8 |
| Filling | Beads |
| Machine washable | Yes |
Pros
- Storage bag included
- Impressive cooling properties
- Generous size suitable for all body shapes and sizes
Cons
- Spot clean only
- Not as soft as the fleecy options we tested
Score: 79/100
Wellness brand ESPA is best known for its luxury skincare and beauty products, but its weighted blanket is also worth considering. Made from 100% cooling cotton, it's another top pick if you tend to run hot at night.
It went down well with testers, who reported improved sleep quality and rated it highly. “I usually wake up throughout the night, but my sleep was uninterrupted when I used the weighted blanket,” said one satisfied panellist. Another described it as a “total game-changer.”
Our panel was also impressed with its generous size – the blanket comfortably covered their whole body, even when they were tossing and turning at night. It rarely needed readjusting thanks to effective, even filling distribution and it comes with a handy cotton drawstring bag for storage. There are also four different weights available (with helpful tips online to find which one is best for you).
The only downside? You can’t put it in the washing machine as it’s spot-clean only.
Key specifications
| Sizes available (cm) | 1 (150 x 200) |
|---|---|
| Weights available (kg) | 4.5kg, 7kg, 9kg, 11.5kg |
| Filling | Soft polyester and glass beads |
| Machine washable | No |
Emma Hug Weighted Blanket (with cover)
Pros
- Simple, chic design
- Material moulds around you
Cons
- Only one weight option
- Additional cover needs to be purchased separately for a cosy-feel
Score: 79/100
We liked the simple, elegant design of the Emma Hug Weighted Blanket, and found the weight spread evenly when it was laid out on top of a duvet. Testers also said it helped them unwind and relax in the evening, and the blanket’s generous dimensions meant it covered them completely with ease.
There is only one weight option (7kg) and the removable bamboo cover is only available as an optional extra (something our testers recommended for boosting the blanket’s cosiness credentials). But it earned praise for its comfort, with one tester saying the small glass beads seemed to mould around their body.
Key specifications
| Sizes available (cm) | 1 (150 x 200) |
|---|---|
| Weights available (kg) | 7 |
| Filling | Glass beads |
| Machine washable | Yes, cover only |
Pros
- Lightweight
- Affordable
- Developed for adults and children
Cons
- Hand wash only
- No instructions on how to attach a cover
Score: 79/100
If you're dipping your toe into the world of weighted blankets and are concerned about feeling claustrophobic, consider the brand's 4kg design. It's also a great choice for kids – one tester said they would definitely recommend it to other parents after it became an integral part of their daughter’s nightly routine. The only downside is that it’s hand-wash only, should you have any spillages or accidents to deal with. However, it’s a lightweight, soft blanket, with three different colours to choose from.
While many children may enjoy the feeling of sitting under a weighted blanket, note that they shouldn't be used for those aged under three. They also shouldn't weigh more than 10% of a person's body weight and when it comes to kids, it's best to go for the lightest option.
Key specifications
| Sizes available (cm) | 3 (125 x 150cm,125 x 180cm,150 x 200cm) |
|---|---|
| Weights available (kg) | 4, 6, 8 |
| Filling | Certified, non-toxic micro glass beads |
| Machine washable | No, hand wash only |
How we test weighted blankets
To earn a spot in our roundup of the best weighted blankets, throws had to win the approval of our panel of testers. Each blanket was used by at least three different people for three or more nights' sleep, as well as for unwinding on the sofa.
Our testers judged how comfortable the blankets were to lie under and whether they felt too restrictive. They also considered whether their weight and size felt appropriate, if they helped them feel relaxed, and how easy the care guide was to follow. They reported their findings to our experts via an in-depth survey.
Our in-house team also conducted additional tests in the Good Housekeeping Institute lab. They washed each weighted blanket three times to see how well they maintained their quality and if they dried quickly. They also checked for any colour fading or shrinkage.
Once all the testing was complete, they analysed the results and awarded final scores.
Why trust the Good Housekeeping Institute?
Kim Hawley, the Good Housekeeping Institute’s lead tester on weighted blankets, has reviewed a vast range of sleep and wellness products, from the best treadmills to the best massage guns. She is a level 4 qualified personal trainer, has a nutrition qualification and has worked in leading health clubs across the UK, so she knows what’s she’s looking for.
Sleep & wellness editor Priyankaa Joshi is also an expert in her field, with over six years’ experience in health and wellness journalism, during which she has written about hundreds of products (and tested many herself too).
At the Good Housekeeping Institute, our experts test thousands of products every year to find the very best on the market, from the best air fryers and best mattresses to the best hair dryers. We put each and every product through rigorous testing, both in real-world and lab conditions, to provide unbiased reviews you can trust.
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How do I know if I'd like a weighted blanket?
If you've never tried a weighted blanket before, you may be wondering if it's for you.
If you like to create a cocoon with your duvet or you enjoy the feel of a heavy cover or throw, then a weighted blanket may help you feel calmer and more relaxed. If claustrophobia is an issue, however, or you don't enjoy the tucked-in sheets when you're staying at a hotel, a weighted blanket may not be right for you.
Fortunately, many of the blankets we have tested offer money-back guarantees, so you can try them risk-free.
How heavy should a weighted blanket be?
A weighted blanket should feel like a firm hug, not like it's crushing you. As a general rule, it should weigh approximately 10% of your body weight. Most brand websites will also offer guidance about which weight to choose.
Who shouldn't use a weighted blanket?
Most people can use a weighted blanket. However, you shouldn't use one if you’re unable to move freely underneath it. They also shouldn't be used by the following:
- Children under three
- Pregnant women
- Those with respiratory disorders, e.g. sleep apnoea or asthma
- Those with circulatory disorders, e.g. type 2 diabetes
How to clean a weighted blanket
The cover on a weighted blanket is usually machine washable. For the inner blanket (the part with the glass beads or plastic pellets), check the washing instructions.
It’s also worth checking the maximum capacity on your washing machine, as many blankets will exceed it and therefore shouldn’t be machine washed. Instead, wipe the blanket gently with a damp cloth. Read our full guide on how to wash a weighted blanket for more detail.
The verdict: Which are the best weighted blankets?
Scoring an impressive 98/100, our winning Oodie Weighted Blanket is the perfect choice for those who want a snuggly and weighty comforter at night (or for a lazy Sunday afternoon).
For hot sleepers after something cosy but not too warm, this cooling Silentnight blanket is also a solid choice.
After an aesthetically pleasing design to fit in with your interiors? We love Next's faux fur blanket, which is equal parts cosy and chic.
Priyankaa is our sleep and wellness expert, specialising in expert-tested reviews and roundups on the latest health and fitness products. From walking boots to running machines, Priyankaa has written about hundreds of products and is passionate about providing in-depth, unbiased reviews. Plus, as an avid runner and gymgoer, she knows exactly what to look for when finding the right gymwear, fitness tracker or earphones.
Priyankaa has an MA in Magazine Journalism from Cardiff University and over five years’ experience in health and fitness journalism. Priyankaa has written for Stylist’s Strong Women Training Club, where she regularly wrote about diversity in the fitness industry, nutrition tips, training advice and her experience completing various fitness challenges. She has also written for a variety of publications including Business Insider, Glamour, Bustle, Metro, HuffPost UK, gal-dem and more. Outside of work, Priyankaa can usually be found trying out a new gym class, seeking out London's best eats or watching a Spanish TV show in a bid to keep up her language skills.
Yanar was our former health and wellness tester.
Kim Hawley is our health and fitness product tester. Her career in fitness has spanned over 30 years. Prior to joining the Good Housekeeping Institute, she worked as a personal trainer, writer and fitness instructor for some of London’s most prestigious health clubs, including The Harbour Club, David Lloyd and The Chelsea Club. Passionate about women’s health and fitness, especially in pre/post menopause, she is also a Level 4 PT and holds a professional nutritional qualification. Kim is responsible for rigorously testing everything from cross trainers to smart watches.
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