Are Weighted Blankets Good for Side Sleepers?

People use weighted blankets to calm themselves and become more comfortable for a restful night of sleep. While these blankets are used for a variety of purposes, ranging from relieving insomnia to dealing with anxiety or pain that interferes with sleep, people may wonder if the blankets are effective for every sleeping position.

Many people find the side sleeping position to be comfortable, and they may discover that they breathe better when sleeping on their sides, especially if they struggle with allergies or breathing problems. The good news for side sleepers is that there are weighted blanket side sleeper options that are comfortable and effective.

• What makes a quality side sleeper weighted blanket?
• What does a weighted blanket do for side sleepers?
• Benefits of Weighted Blankets for Side Sleepers, Beyond Comfort
• Aricove Weighted Blankets for Side Sleepers

What makes a quality side sleeper weighted blanket?

Weighted blankets for side sleepers can be useful, but you must ensure that you are getting a quality blanket. What is most important when choosing a side sleeper weighted blanket is that the blanket is able to mold itself to the contours of your body. A quality weighted blanket is capable of doing this.

In addition, experts recommend that a side sleeper weighted blanket be at a lower weight than blankets for back or stomach sleepers, to avoid placing too much stress on the hips. A good rule of thumb for a weighted blanket for side sleepers is to choose one that is 7 percent of your body weight, as opposed to the standard recommendation of 10 percent of body weight. For example, someone who weighs 150 pounds would typically use a 15-lb weighted blanket, but a 10-lb blanket may be a better option for those who prefer the side sleeping position.

What does a weighted blanket do for side sleepers?

Many people find the side sleeping position to be the most comfortable, and a side sleeper weighted blanket can increase comfort even further. According to scientists, weighted blankets apply deep touch pressure (DTP) to the body. This calms the nervous system, lowers the heart rate, and relaxes the body for sleep. This means that a weighted blanket for side sleepers can make this sleeping position even more relaxing, especially for those who find that they are struggling to get a good night’s sleep. 

Benefits of Weighted Blankets for Side Sleepers, Beyond Comfort

Weighted blankets can make the side sleeping position even more comfortable, but there are benefits of side sleeper weighted blankets that extend beyond comfort. According to the result of a 2020 study in the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine, weighted blankets have the following advantages:

• Large improvements in insomnia
• Ability to be more active during the day
• Lower levels of fatigue throughout the day
• Less depression and anxiety

If you are struggling with insomnia, especially as a result of mental health problems like depression or anxiety, side sleeper weighted blankets can help you to get the rest you need to feel your best. With these blankets, you can expect to stay asleep longer, wake up refreshed, and even see an improvement in your mental health.

These benefits aren’t simply marketing hype. Since experts have conducted studies with weighted blankets, the benefits are based on science and not just anecdotes. In fact, the study mentioned above compared people using weighted blankets to those using standard lightweight blankets, and results showed that people using the weighted blankets had significant improvements in sleep and mental health when compared to those not using weighted blankets.

Aricove Weighted Blankets for Side Sleepers

For side sleepers looking for a quality weighted blanket, Aricove offers weighted blanket adult versions in up to 20 lbs. Lighter weighted blankets are typically better for side sleepers, so our weighted blanket in 15 lbs or 10 lbs may be a better option for some adults. What makes Aricove a top-quality side sleeper weighted blanket is the size, at 48 inches by 72 inches. This means that it is large enough to contour to your body, even in the side sleeping position.

Aricove weighted blankets are also made from high quality bamboo fabric, so you can count on them for comfort. They are naturally breathable to keep side sleepers at an ideal temperature for sleeping throughout the night, even in those who are prone to sweating or overheating. Our smart weight distribution also makes Aricove weighted blankets appropriate for side sleeping.