Are Weighted Blankets Hot? How To Stay Cool
Do you love the idea of a weighted blanket but find yourself sweating through the night? Weighted blankets have gained popularity for their calming effects, helping reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality.
But, let's be honest…they can sometimes feel like sleeping under a sauna, and that’s less than ideal for your comfort and your laundry situation. So, if you’re looking to save on detergent, combating night sweats is part of the answer.
As for the rest? Let's explore some practical ways to stay cool while still enjoying the soothing pressure.
What Are Weighted Blankets?
Weighted blankets are fantastic for promoting relaxation and deeper sleep. They're filled with materials like glass beads or plastic pellets to add weight, which creates a gentle pressure mimicking a hug.
This pressure, known as deep touch pressure, helps to relax the nervous system. It works by stimulating the production of serotonin and melatonin, hormones that help you feel calm and sleepy, while reducing cortisol, the hormone responsible for stress.
Weighted blankets can be a game-changer for those dealing with anxiety, insomnia, or even certain sensory disorders. They offer a comforting, cocoon-like sensation that can make falling asleep easier and staying asleep longer.
But with this added weight, many people wonder, "Are weighted blankets hot?" The concern is valid, especially if you live in a warmer climate or tend to sleep hot naturally. The good news is that there are ways to enjoy the benefits of a weighted blanket without overheating.
Why Do Weighted Blankets Get Hot?
The primary culprits behind the heat are the materials and fillings used. Many weighted blankets are made from cozy fabrics like fleece or microfiber, which can trap heat.
These fabrics, while soft and comforting, aren't very breathable. Additionally, the dense filling required for the weight can impede airflow, making it harder for your body to stay cool.
The fillings, whether glass beads, plastic pellets, or even sand, add to the overall density and insulation of the blanket, which can contribute to retaining body heat.
Another factor is the blanket's overall design — the stitching and compartmentalization, while necessary to keep the filling evenly distributed, can further reduce breathability. This can be particularly challenging if you're prone to night sweats or if your bedroom tends to be warm.
How Do You Stay Cool With a Weighted Blanket?
It's not all bad news. By choosing the right materials and adopting some smart sleep strategies, you can mitigate these issues and enjoy a comfortable night's sleep under your weighted blanket.
1. Choose the Right Weighted Blanket
The type of blanket you choose plays a significant role in how hot you feel. Opt for blankets made from breathable materials such as cotton or bamboo. These fabrics are known for their moisture-wicking properties, helping to keep you cool throughout the night.
You can also look for blankets designed specifically with cooling technology in mind, which often include features like breathable mesh layers or temperature-regulating fabric blends. Another tip is to consider the weight of the blanket itself.
Sometimes a lighter weighted blanket can still provide the calming effects without as much heat retention. Your comfort is key, so don't hesitate to explore different options to find what works best for you.
2. Optimize Your Sleep Environment
Keeping your bedroom cool is crucial. Aim for an ambient temperature of around 65°F. This might mean cranking up the air conditioning or using a fan to ensure adequate airflow. You might also consider using a dehumidifier if you live in a particularly humid area, as dry air can feel cooler.
Blackout curtains can help keep your room cool by blocking out sunlight during the day so that when you’re ready to snuggle up, your room is at a lower temperature to begin with. This can help save you money on electricity when it comes to air conditioning or fans.
Not only does a cooler room temperature help with sleeping under a weighted blanket, but it also promotes overall better sleep quality by lowering your body's core temperature, which is essential for deep, restful sleep.
3. Dress Lightly
When using a weighted blanket, less is more when it comes to sleepwear. Opt for lightweight, breathable pajamas.
Natural fibers like cotton or bamboo are excellent choices as they allow your skin to breathe and wick away moisture while you sleep. The less heat your pajamas trap, the better for your overall temperature.
Avoid heavy or layered clothing that can trap heat against your body. Simple, loose-fitting sleepwear is best. If you tend to get very warm at night, you might even consider sleeping in minimal clothing, if any at all. The goal is to keep your body as cool as possible so your blanket can provide calming pressure without causing you to overheat.
What Else Can You Do To Stay Cool at Night?
In addition to being more selective about your weighted blanket options, you can help yourself stay cool while you sleep by upgrading the rest of your bedding to promote an optimal sleeping temperature.
Use Cooling Sheets
If you’re worried about overheating, your sheets can make a huge difference. Our Miracle Made® Sheets are ultra-luxurious and infused with silver to help regulate temperature. They also prevent up to 99.7% of bacterial growth, which not only helps with hygiene but also reduces odors.
Our extra luxe Miracle sheet set helps reduce night sweats, which means they also stay fresher for longer. This means fewer laundry days and more nights of uninterrupted, comfortable sleep.
Additionally, the silver-infused fabric offers a soft, silky feel that enhances your sleep experience. With the Miracle Made® Sheets, you can maintain a clean and cool sleep environment effortlessly, waking up refreshed and ready to tackle the day.
Upgrade to a Cooling Comforter
For added comfort, swap your stuffy duvet for a miracle comforter that keeps you cozy yet cool, even if you’re also using a weighted blanket. Our comforter is designed with thermoregulating technology inspired by NASA, keeping you at the perfect temperature all night long. It’s extra fluffy but helps you stay cool, thanks to the silver-infused fabric that prevents bacterial growth.
Plus, it’s hypoallergenic and 100% vegan, ensuring a comfortable and guilt-free sleep experience. The comforter’s breathable fabric and innovative design make it ideal for those who tend to overheat during the night.
By incorporating the Miracle Made® Comforter into your bedding, you can enjoy the cozy, comforting weight of a blanket without the added heat, achieving the perfect balance for restful sleep.
The Bottom Line
Weighted blankets don’t have to mean sweaty nights. With the right materials, a cool sleep environment, and the use of innovative cooling products like ours, you can enjoy the benefits of a weighted blanket without the heat.
Keeping your bedroom cool, dressing lightly, and choosing breathable materials can make all the difference when adding a weighted blanket to your bedding lineup.
Sources:
Best Temperature for Sleep | Sleep Foundation
The Effects of Deep Pressure Touch on Anxiety | National Library of Medicine
Weighted Blanket Benefits | Sleep Foundation
