Weighted Blanket Calculator — How Heavy Should a Weighted Blanket Be?

What is a Weighted Blanket (Heavy Blanket)?

A weighted blanket is simply a heavy blanket. Of course, just like regular blankets, they come in a wide variety of colors, fabrics and sizes. What makes a weighted blanket different is the filling, which can include glass beads, plastic pellets, beads, discs, or flaxseeds. A mixture of one or more of these, along with lighter materials, will give you the perfect weighted blanket weight.

The idea behind the weighted blanket is that it applies gentle pressure to the body — like someone is hugging you. This has a similar result to a technique that therapists use called Deep Touch Pressure (DTP) therapy. DTP involves applying manual hand pressure to the body to treat stress, anxiety, and insomnia.

What Are the Benefits of a Weighted Blanket?

Various studies have shown the following benefits of regularly using a weighted blanket:

• Reduces stress and anxiety;
• Reduces sensory issues;
• Reduces restlessness;
• Helps you stay asleep when sleeping with a weighted blanket; and
• Simulates deep touch pressure therapy by merely using a heavy blanket.

A weighted blanket helps your body release endorphins, which make you feel good. DTP also encourages the body to release neurotransmitters serotonin and dopamine, which are associated with a sense of well-being and calmness. You get a similar feeling when settling down on a comfy couch or bed or cuddling a loved one.

How Heavy Should a Weighted Blanket Be?

So, how to calculate a weighted blanket weight? It's actually quite simple. Take your weight and divide it by 10, then add 1 to 2 pounds (around a half to one kilogram). For this calculator, we set the extra added weight to 1.5 pounds (680 grams). Writing this as a formula:

Imperial Formula

Weighted blanket weight (lb) = (Your weight (lb) ÷ 10) + 1.5 lb

Metric Formula

Weighted blanket weight (kg) = (Your weight (kg) ÷ 10) + 0.68 kg

For example, if you weigh 150 lbs (68 kg), your ideal weighted blanket weight would be:

• Imperial: (150 ÷ 10) + 1.5 = 16.5 lbs
• Metric: (68 ÷ 10) + 0.68 = 7.48 kg

Weighted Blankets for Couples

When choosing a weighted blanket for two people, you have a few options:

• Calculate the ideal blanket weight for each person separately and choose a weight somewhere in between (closer to the lighter partner's recommendation).
• Use a blanket that weighs approximately 10–15% of the lighter partner's body weight.
• Consider getting two separate blankets — one for each person — so both partners get their ideal weight.

Note that a blanket that's too heavy for one partner may feel uncomfortable or even restrict breathing. When in doubt, go lighter rather than heavier.

How to Use a Weighted Blanket?

Using a weighted blanket is simple — just replace your regular blanket with a weighted one at bedtime or when relaxing. Here are a few tips:

• Start gradually — begin by using it for short periods (30–60 minutes) and increase over time.
• Cover the whole body — for maximum DTP effect, place the blanket over your entire body from shoulders to feet.
• Use during relaxation — weighted blankets can also be used while watching TV, reading, or meditating.
• Not just for sleep — many people find them helpful during the day for anxiety relief.

How to Use This Calculator to Find the Perfect Weighted Blanket Weight

1. Select your preferred unit system — Imperial (lbs) or Metric (kg).
2. Enter your body weight in the selected unit.
3. Click Calculate Blanket Weight.
4. The calculator will show your recommended blanket weight, a suggested range, and the formula used.

The result is shown in both imperial and metric units for convenience.

Issues to Be Aware of With Weighted Blankets

While weighted blankets are generally safe for most adults, there are some situations where caution is advised:

• Children under 2 years old — weighted blankets are not recommended due to the risk of suffocation.
• Children under 50 lbs (23 kg) — consult a doctor before use.
• Claustrophobia — the pressure may feel uncomfortable for those with claustrophobia.
• Respiratory or circulation issues — always consult a healthcare professional if you have breathing or circulation problems.
• Don't go too heavy — a blanket that is too heavy can feel restrictive and may cause discomfort. Start within the recommended range and adjust accordingly.

If you're unsure whether a weighted blanket is right for you, consult a healthcare provider, occupational therapist, or sleep specialist.