Quiet Your World: Essential Products for Noise Sensitivity
Find essential products designed to reduce noise sensitivity, creating a calmer environment for relaxation and focus. Transform your space into a peaceful haven.
Published: April 07, 2025
As someone who has explored various methods to support my family, I understand the challenges that come with dysregulation. Weighted blankets have emerged as a helpful solution often recommend by the autistic community, providing comfort and relief for the whole family. These blankets offer a sense of security and calm, which can significantly improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety.
In this article, I want to share why weighted blankets are essential for autistic families and how they can benefit you
When choosing a weighted blanket, it’s important to consider factors such as weight, material, and any special features. It's essential to select a blanket that matches the user's weight for optimal comfort and effectiveness. The “right” weight for a calming blanket is usually based on the user's body weight. Occupational therapists commonly recommend a blanket that is between 5% and 12% of body weight, with 10% being the sweet spot for most people.
Here's how to calculate it:
1. Weigh the Person
• Have them stand on a reliable scale (or weigh them together and subtract your own weight).
• Record the result in pounds (lbs) or kilograms (kg).
2. Choose Your Percentage
• 5 %–7 % for very young children, very small adults, or those with low muscle tone.
• 8 %–12 % (10 % is typical) for most older children and adults without contraindications.
3. Work out the Blanket Weight
Convert body weight to pounds if needed (1 kg ≈ 2.2 lbs).
Multiply by your chosen percentage:
• Weight (lbs) × 0.10 = Blanket weight (lbs)
• e.g., 140 lbs × 0.10 = 14 lbs blanket
Optional: add 1–2 lbs if they like extra pressure, or subtract 1–2 lbs if they find even 10 % too firm.
Example Calculations
• Child, 50 lbs, moderate need:
– 50 lbs × 0.10 = 5 lbs blanket
• Teen, 120 lbs, prefers firmer pressure:
– 120 lbs × 0.10 = 12 lbs → +1 lb for comfort → 13 lbs blanket
• Adult, 180 lbs, low muscle tone:
– 180 lbs × 0.08 = 14.4 lbs → round to 14 lbs
4. Practical Considerations
Maximum Spread: Don't exceed about 15 % of body weight.
Size & Coverage: Choose a blanket that covers from shoulders to feet—so weight is evenly distributed.
Fabric & Fill: Breathable cotton or bamboo covers + non-toxic glass beads for even, low-profile weight.
Safety:
• Young children (under 2 years) generally should not use weighted blankets.
• Always monitor for discomfort, overheating or restricted movement.
• If there are medical/respiratory issues, consult a healthcare professional first.
5. Trial & Adjustment
Start with the calculated weight.
Observe usage over a week:
Does it feel too light (fidgeting, restlessness)?
Too heavy (complaints of pressure, difficulty moving)?
Adjust by 1–2 lbs up or down as needed.
Additionally, the material should be breathable and hypoallergenic, especially for those with sensory sensitivities.
This Highams Weighted Blanket is designed to provide a cozy, calming experience for adults, especially those dealing with anxiety.
Measuring 125 x 180 cm and weighing 6 kg, it’s perfect for a single bed or even for snuggling on the couch. The blanket uses deep touch pressure therapy to help you relax and sleep better. Made from breathable cotton and filled with non-toxic micro glass beads, it’s both comfortable and durable. I’ve found it to be a game-changer for those restless nights, providing that extra layer of comfort that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re winding down after a long day or just need a little extra support, this blanket is a great addition to your home.
I love my weighted blanket! I initially bought one for my stepson… …It calms him down and makes him sleep much better. I tried it and liked it so much that I ordered one for myself. It keeps you warm at night, and if you have anxiety or sleep problems, I definitely recommend it. I feel so relaxed and can fall asleep much easier.
- @Rebecca
Provides calming deep touch pressure therapy
Helps improve sleep quality
Durable and breathable materials
Perfect for cozy nights in, movie marathons, or even just to help you unwind after a stressful day. It’s also great for those who need a little extra comfort during challenging times.
Current Price: £30.99
Rating: 4.6 (Total: 5122+)
The OHS Weighted Blanket is a cozy companion designed to provide comfort and relief. Weighing in at 8 kg and measuring 150 x 200 cm, it’s perfect for snuggling on the couch or adding an extra layer of comfort to your bed. Made from soft waffle fleece, this blanket uses deep touch pressure therapy to help you relax and sleep better. I’ve found it to be incredibly soothing, making those restless nights feel a lot more manageable. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or just need a little extra support, this blanket is a wonderful addition to any home.
Users often mention how this blanket helps them feel more secure and relaxed.
This blanket is amazing. I got this because I need to have something that is heavy to weigh down my quilt when I sleep. I will say I didn’t realize it had like sand in it like in the beany toys, but turns out that’s what makes it so good.
- Paula M.
Provides calming deep touch pressure therapy
Helps improve sleep quality
Soft and breathable materials
Current Price: £29.99
Rating: 4 (Total: 56+)
The OHS Pink Weighted Blanket is a delightful addition to any home, especially for those who want something a bit ‘prettier’. Weighing 8 kg and measuring 150 x 200 cm, it’s designed to provide that comforting, snug feeling we all crave. Made with soft materials and filled with micro glass beads, this blanket uses deep touch pressure therapy to help soothe anxiety and improve sleep quality. It can be a game-changer during restless nights, making it easier to drift off and stay asleep. Whether you’re cuddling up on the couch or looking for a little extra comfort in bed, this blanket is a cozy companion that truly delivers.
Best nights sleep my daughter (query autism) has had in ages! Would definitely recommend for those that have anxiety or difficulties sleeping / getting off to sleep.
- L Talulah
Calming deep touch pressure therapy
Improves sleep quality
Soft, breathable materials
Current Price: £13.99
Rating: 3.3 (Total: 8+)
The Silentnight Restore Cooling Weighted Blanket is a fantastic option for hot sleepers. Weighing in at 6.8 kg and measuring 150 x 200 cm, this blanket is designed to provide a comforting hug that can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. What I love about it is the innovative cooling fabric that helps prevent overheating, making it perfect for those warm nights or for anyone dealing with night sweats. Whether you’re using it for a good night’s sleep or just to feel a little more secure while relaxing on the couch, it’s a great addition to any home.
Many families have shared how this blanket has become a staple in their home, providing a sense of calm and security. It’s especially praised for its cooling properties, which make it suitable for warmer nights, ensuring that everyone stays comfortable while enjoying the benefits of deep touch pressure.
Nice and soft, good weight, good quality. Helps my autistic child to feel a little cooler, but still comfortable under a weight.
- A Jones
Cooling fabric for comfort
Reduces anxiety and stress
Encourages restful sleep
Current Price: £59.99
Rating: 4.2 (Total: 13+)
The Brentfords Teddy Weighted Blanket is a delightful addition to any home, especially for sensory seekers who love soft, fluffy things. Measuring 125 x 150 cm and weighing 4 kg, this blanket is designed to provide that comforting, snug feeling that many of us crave. It’s made from super soft teddy fleece, which not only feels luxurious but also helps in creating a calming environment. It’s perfect for those nights when you just need a little extra comfort or when you’re curling up on the couch with a good book. It’s not too heavy, so great for those who need a lighter option. Whether you’re using it for relaxation or as part of a bedtime routine, it’s a cozy companion that can truly make a difference.
Families have shared how this blanket has become a go-to for comfort and security. Many appreciate its soft texture and calming weight, which can help create a peaceful atmosphere, especially for those who experience sensory sensitivities.
Oh my dayz. I bl@@dy love my weighted blanket. I don't sleep well, but this definitely helps keep me feeling snuggled. Lovely dusky pink colour. Matches my Denelm dusky pink range of accessories.
- Karen
Super soft teddy fleece for ultimate comfort
Helps reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality
Perfect for both relaxation and bedtime routines
Current Price: £26.99
Rating: 3.6 (Total: 6+)
The Sienna Fluffy Weighted Blanket is a cozy companion that can truly transform the way we relax and sleep with deep fur texture that many enjoy. Measuring 150 x 200 cm and weighing 8 kg, this blanket is designed to provide that comforting embrace we all crave. Made from plush fleece, it not only feels incredibly soft but also helps create a calming environment.
Nice weighty, very soft, no leakage. Only thing was that there was a fair amount of lint and beads stuck in the fluffy when it first arrived, could have used a good shake before packing.
- Kat
Engineered for deep touch pressure therapy
Ultra-soft and breathable coral fleece for comfort
Helps reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality
Current Price: £21.99
Rating: 3 (Total: 11+)
The Good Nite Weighted Blanket weighs in at 4 kg and measuring 125 x 150 cm, this blanket is designed to provide a soothing, comforting embrace that can help ease anxiety and promote better sleep. Made from breathable polyester and filled with tiny glass beads, it feels soft against the skin while offering that gentle pressure we all crave.
Users appreciate its soft texture and calming weight, which can help create a peaceful atmosphere, especially beneficial for those with sensory sensitivities.
Absolutely love this weighted blanket, and so does my cat! At 8kg, it's quite weighty and perfect to help keep me from fidgeting throughout the night. Since using this, I've slept much better and woke up feeling rested. It's a great price and fantastic quality.
- LeeLee
Provides a calming effect through deep touch pressure
Soft and breathable material for comfort
Helps improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety
Current Price: £24.99
Rating: 4.5 (Total: 573+)
The Mellie Luxury Weighted Blanket weighs 6.8 kg and measures 135 x 190 cm. This blanket is designed to provide a comforting hug that can help ease anxiety and promote restful sleep. Made from breathable cotton and filled with hypoallergenic micro glass beads, it offers a soft touch while delivering that gentle pressure we all need. It’s perfect for those who need to avoid polyester for sensitivity reasons. I find it perfect for those cozy nights on the couch or during bedtime routines.
I usually don't write reviews, but this blanket has changed my sleep for the better. The quality is top-notch, and the weight feels incredibly cozy. The glass beads are evenly distributed, so it stays comfortable without making noise. It's definitely worth the investment for anyone looking to improve their sleep.
- Adrian C.
Provides deep touch pressure for a calming effect
Made from soft, breathable materials for ultimate comfort
Helps improve sleep quality and reduce anxiety levels
Current Price: £89.99
Rating: 4.6 (Total: 138+)
The LØFTE Blue Adult Weighted Blanket is a fantastic addition to any home. Weighing in at 6.8 kg, this blanket is crafted from 100% cotton, providing a soft and breathable experience. It’s perfect for those avoiding synthetic fabrics and is a really lovely weight too.
First impressions were great. The soft cotton fabric feels premium, and the weight is evenly distributed, which really enhances comfort. It’s perfect for relaxation and stress relief, especially when winding down before bed. The breathable material prevents overheating, making it a great choice for all seasons.
- Achs
Gentle, evenly distributed pressure for a calming effect
Breathable cotton material for year-round comfort
Ideal for reducing anxiety and improving sleep quality
Current Price: £74.99
Rating: 5 (Total: 1+)
The Dreamscene Star Teddy Fleece Weighted Blanket is a cozy companion that kids will love. Measuring 100 x 150 cm and weighing 3 kg, it’s designed to provide that gentle, comforting pressure that many find soothing. The soft teddy fleece material feels luxurious against the skin, and it’s light enough for younger children to enjoy.
This blanket is incredibly soft and warm. The weight is just right, and it really helps my child feel more secure at night. We’ve noticed a significant improvement in their sleep quality since we started using it. Plus, it looks great on the bed.
- HappyMom123
Soft teddy fleece for ultimate comfort
Gentle weight helps reduce anxiety and improve sleep
Perfect size for single beds or cozy couch sessions
Current Price: £15.99
Rating: 4.5 (Total: 50+)
They provide a sense of security and comfort through deep touch pressure, which can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. For many the gentle weight feels like a warm hug, making it easier for them to relax and fall asleep, leading to significant improvement in their overall mood and restfulness. Many autistic people also find a weighted blanket can help them when recovering from a meltdown or burnout.
Choosing the right weight is crucial. A good rule of thumb is to select a blanket that is about 10% of the user's body weight. For instance, if your child weighs around 30 kg, a 3 kg blanket would be ideal. I recommend starting with a lighter option if you're unsure, as it’s easier to adjust to the weight. The first weighted blanket I ever bought was 10% of my body weight, but my hyper mobile joints couldn’t cope with it, so I needed something lighter. It’s all about finding what feels comfortable, so be prepared to experiment a bit. It may be worth seeing if you can borrow one from someone to try out before committing to purchase.
Yes, caring for a weighted blanket is important to maintain its quality. I usually hand wash mine to avoid damaging the filling, but some blankets are machine washable. Always check the care label before washing. If it’s too heavy for your washing machine, consider using a large laundry bag and taking it to a laundromat. I also recommend using a duvet cover to keep it clean and make washing easier. This way, I can enjoy the benefits of the blanket without worrying too much about maintenance.
In conclusion, weighted blankets can be transformative tools in your sensory diet programme that can help reduce anxiety and improve sleep quality. By investing in a quality weighted blanket, you are not only enhancing your own well-being but also creating a more peaceful environment for your loved ones. I encourage you to explore the options available and find the perfect blanket that meets your family's needs.
| Product | Image | Rating | Highlights | Pros | Cons | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Highams Weighted Blanket 6kg |  |
4.6/5 (5,122 reviews) | 100% Cotton cover, Certified Glass Beads, Durable. | High-quality stitching, effective for anxiety relief. | Glass beads may raise concerns in case of fire. | £30.99 |
| OHS Weighted Blanket Adult 8kg |  |
4/5 (56 reviews) | 100% Waffle Fleece Polyester, Deep Touch Pressure Stimulation. | Comfortable and great for winter. | Leaking weighted beads reported. | £29.99 |
| OHS Pink Weighted Blanket 8kg |  |
3.3/5 (8 reviews) | Hypo-allergenic micro glass beads, Deep Touch Pressure Stimulation. | Good for anxiety and stress relief. | Noisy beads and leaking issues. | £13.99 |
| Silentnight Restore Cooling Weighted Blanket |  |
4.2/5 (13 reviews) | Cooling fabric, designed for night sweats. | Helps with hot flushes, good quality. | Some find it too light. | £59.99 |
| Brentfords Teddy Weighted Blanket |  |
3.6/5 (6 reviews) | Deep Touch Pressure Stimulation, Super Soft. | Good quality and value for money. | Material not soft enough for some users. | £26.99 |
| Sienna Fluffy Weighted Blanket |  |
3/5 (11 reviews) | Fluffy fleece, micro glass beads. | Soft and comforting. | Leaking beads reported. | £21.99 |
| Good Nite Weighted Blanket |  |
4.5/5 (573 reviews) | Skin friendly, breathable material. | Great for restlessness and anxiety. | Not very thick. | £24.99 |
| Mellie Luxury Weighted Blanket |  |
4.6/5 (138 reviews) | Breathable cotton, hypoallergenic. | High-quality and comfortable. | Expensive. | £89.99 |
| LØFTE Blue Adult Weighted Blanket |  |
5/5 (1 review) | 100% Cotton, anxiety relief. | Soft and premium feel. | Strong plastic smell initially. | £74.99 |
| Dreamscene Star Teddy Fleece Weighted Blanket |  |
N/A | Soft fluffy quilted throw. | Affordable and cozy. | Limited weight options. | £15.99 |
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