Are you curious about what lies beneath a weighted blanket’s soft, cozy exterior? From micro glass beads to pebbles, weighted blankets are filled with various materials that add weight to the blanket, other than regular comforters, providing a sense of deep pressure and relaxation. 

But with so many different types of fillers to choose from, it can take time to know which one is right for you. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the different fillers used in weighted blankets and explore the pros and cons of each one, so you can make an informed decision about which weighted blanket is best for you. 

Whether you’re looking to improve a restful sleep, reduce anxiety, or add a cozy touch to your bedding, a weighted blanket may be just what you need.

Common fillers used in weighted blankets

Several types of fillers are used in weighted blankets, including micro glass beads, sand, steel beads, pebbles, and grains. Each weighted blanket filling has unique properties and benefits, and choosing the right one for you will depend on your preferences and needs.

Micro glass beads

Micro glass beads are small, smooth, and uniform in shape. They are commonly used as a filler in most weighted blankets. They are made from glass and are non-toxic and hypoallergenic.

Pros:

• They have evenly distribute weight, which helps to provide a consistent level of weight throughout the blanket.
• They are non-toxic and hypoallergenic, which makes them a good choice for people with allergies or sensitivities.
• They are also more durable and long lasting compared to other weighted blanket fillers.

Cons:

• They are relatively expensive compared to other fillers.
• They can be noisy when the cover is moved, which may be disruptive for some people.
• Some people may find them too heavy for their comfort level.

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Sand

Sand is a natural filler that is inexpensive and easy to find. A Sand filled weighted blanket gets more and more common and can add a unique texture.

Pros:

• Inexpensive and readily available
• Natural and Eco-friendly
• It can add a unique texture to the blanket

Cons:

• It can be heavy and more challenging to distribute evenly than some of the other fillers.
• Can shift and move around inside the blanket, which can disrupt the distribution of weight
• Can be messy if it leaks out of the blanket

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Steel beads

Steel beads are small, round, and made from steel. They are commonly used as a filler in many weighted blankets because they are durable and long-lasting.

Pros:

• Durable and long-lasting
• It can add weight to the cover without taking up much space

Cons:

• Heavier than other fillers, which may make the cover too heavy for some people
• It can be noisy when the blanket is moved, which may be disruptive for some people
• Not eco-friendly

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Pebbles

Pebbles are natural fillers that can add a unique texture to the blanket. They are usually made of stone or rock.

Pros:

• Natural and Eco-friendly
• Can add a unique texture to the blanket

Cons:

• It can be heavy and more challenging to distribute evenly than some of the other fillers.
• Can shift and move around inside the blanket, which can disrupt the distribution of weight
• Can be messy if it leaks out of the blanket

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Grains

Grains such as rice, barley, and wheat are natural fillers that can add a unique texture to the blanket.

Pros:

• Natural and Eco-friendly
• It can add a unique texture to the blanket

Cons:

• Can be heavy and more challenging to distribute evenly than some of the other fillers.
• Can shift and move around inside the blanket, which can disrupt the distribution of weight
• Can be messy if it leaks out of the blanket

It’s important to note that some manufacturers use a combination of fillers to make weighted blankets. Each type of filler has unique benefits and drawbacks, so it’s essential to consider your personal needs and preferences when choosing your own weighted blanket. 

Additionally, it’s important to ensure that the cover is made of high-quality, durable materials to ensure that it will last for a long time.

What are weighted blankets made of?

Weighted blankets are typically made of various materials used for the blanket cover. Some common materials include:

• Cotton: Cotton is a natural, breathable, comfortable material. It is also easy to care for and can be machine washed.
• Minky: Minky is other materials thats soft, plush and made from 100% polyester. It is known for its warmth and durability.
• Fleece: Is a soft and warm material made from synthetic fibers. It is lightweight and easy to care for.
• Microfiber: Microfiber is a synthetic fabric that is soft and lightweight. It is also known for its durability and resistance to wrinkles.
• Bamboo: Bamboo is an eco-friendly and sustainable fabric that is soft, breathable and hypoallergenic

When choosing a weighted blanket, it is important to select a high-quality, durable material that will last a long time. 

The outer layer of the cover should be made of a material that is comfortable to use and easy to care. It is also important to ensure that the material is safe for use and does not contain harmful chemicals.

It is also worth noting that the inner layer of the blanket should be made of a breathable fabric to prevent overheating and to ensure thecover can be washed easily.

How are weighted blankets made?

A Weighted blanket is typically made through a process called quilting. This process involves multiple sewing layers of fabric together to create the blanket. 

The fillers, such as micro glass beads, sand, steel beads, pebbles, or grains, are added to the cover during the quilting process.

1. The first step in the manufacturing process is to cut the fabric for the outer layer of the blanket and the inner layer that will hold the fillers.
2. Next, the fillers are added to the inner layer of the fabric. The fillers are usually added in small pockets called compartments to ensure they are distributed evenly throughout the blanket.
3. The inner and outer layers of the fabric are then sewn together, creating the blanket.
4. The quilted cover then goes through a quality control process to ensure that the fillers are even weight distribution, throughout the blanket.
5. After the blanket has passed quality control, it is packaged and shipped to the customer.

The manufacturer must use high-quality materials and construction techniques to ensure the blanket is durable and long-lasting.

Additionally, manufacturers should use techniques such as compartments and sewing the fillers in pockets to ensure that the fillers are distributed evenly throughout the blanket, providing a consistent weight distribution and making the cover more comfortable to use.

Materials to avoid in weighted blankets

When choosing a weighted blanket, it’s essential to avoid blanket filled with certain materials that may be harmful or low-quality. Some fillers to avoid include:

plastic poly pellets: plastic poly pellets are a cheaper alternative to tiny glass fillers, steel beads, and other fillers, but they are not as durable and may contain harmful chemicals. poly pellets can also be noisy and less comfortable to sleep with.

Cornstarch: Cornstarch is a natural filler, but it can attract pests. It can also become moldy, and it can be messy if it leaks out of the blanket.

Lead beads: Lead beads are very heavy, but they pose a health risk as lead can be toxic and can cause damage to the nervous system and other organs.

To identify low-quality weighted blankets, you should look for a few key things:

1. Check the materials thats used. Avoid blankets that are made with low-quality materials or fillers that may be harmful.
2. Look for information on the weight and size of the blanket. A high-quality weighted blanket should be available in various sizes and weights to accommodate different needs.
3. Read customer reviews. Look for feedback from customers who have used the cover and see what they have to say about its quality and durability.
4. Look for certifications and accreditation. Ensure the cover is made by a reputable manufacturer and is compliant with safety standards.

Summary

Weighted blankets have been gaining popularity as a natural way to improve to fall asleep, your sleep quality and reduce anxiety. 

The weight of the cover is used to simulate a “hug” sensation that helps to relax the body and mind. To select a high-quality weighted blanket, it is essential to know the different fillers used in the blanket and the pros and cons of each.

The most common fillers used in weighted blankets are micro glass beads, sand, steel shot beads, pebbles, and grains. Each filler has its unique properties and benefits, and it’s important to choose one that suits your needs. 

Additionally, it’s crucial to choose a high-quality, durable material for the outer layer of the blanket that is comfortable to use and easy to care. 

When purchasing a weighted blanket, it’s essential to look for certifications, reviews, and accreditation to ensure that you get a high-quality cover from a reputable manufacturer. Avoid fillers such as plastic pellets, cornstarch, and lead beads, which can pose a health risk.

With this knowledge, you can select a high-quality weighted blanket to help you get a better night’s sleep and reduce anxiety.