What is a Weighted Blanket?

A weighted blanket is a blanket that is heavier than your standard blanket. Weighted blankets usually range from four to 25 pounds

How Do Weighted Blankets Help?

A weighted blanket provides pressure and sensory input for individuals with autism and other disorders.

A weighted blanket can be used as a calming tool or for sleep. The pressure of the blanket provides proprioceptive input to the brain and releases a hormone called serotonin which is a calming chemical in the body. A weighted blanket calms and relaxes a person similar to the way a hug or Temple Grandin’s Squeeze machine does.

Where Can I Find A Weighted Blanket?

Unfortunately picking up a weighted blanket is not as easy as heading out to your local department store. Chances are you will get a blank stare and a shrug of the shoulders.

Here are 13 online stores and marketplaces that sell weighted blankets.

Have you purchased a weighted blanket from any of these web-stores? Do you have a site to add? Let us know in the comments.

Marketplaces

In this section you will find marketplaces that have vendors selling weighted blankets.

1.  Amazon.Com
   Amazon lists a  number of weighted blankets from various vendors. When purchasing through Amazon.com you have the additional security of knowing that the vendors listed are generally reliable and quick to fulfill their orders.
2. Etsy.Com
   Etsy is a marketplace full of the best handmade goods including weighted blankets. With the Etsy Marketplace you have the ability to choose from a number of different patterns, order a custom made weighted blanket and view seller feedback.
   
3. Ebay.Com
   The obvious advantage to Ebay is price. Look for a seller who’s child has outgrown their weighted blanket and willing to sell at a discount. You can also find new weighted blankets at discounted prices on Ebay as well.

Therapy Stores

Check out these therapy shops and special needs stores that sell weighted blankets.

1. Fun and Function
   Fun and Function offers weighted blankets ranging in price from $40-$180. In addition they also offer weighed accessories such as slipcovers, vests and more.
2. e-Special Needs
   e-Special Needs offers a number of weighted blankets, pillows and vests. They offer free shipping on all orders over $100. For school check out their weighted lap pad.
3. National Autism Resources
   An online store selling all things autism related, including the Sleep Tight weighted blanket which was recently featured on Extreme Makeover Home Edition.
4. Therapy Shoppe
   The Therapy Shoppe offers weighted blankets that are priced between $100 and $200. The Therapy Shoppe also offers scented blankets with just the right blend of self-regulating herbs and spices: lavender, peppermint, cinnamon, and cloves.

Dedicated Blanket Sites

These stores are websites dedicated exclusivity to weighted blankets.

1. Mosaic Weighted Blanket
   Miracle Weighted Blanket offers a huge selection of blankets in different sizes and weights. All blankets are 100% cotten and are made to order.
2. SensaCalm
   SensaCalm (formerly affordableweightedblankets.com) prides itself on making their blankets affordable. In addition they offer over 60 different prints and fabrics.
3. The Magic Blanket
   Blankets at the Magic Blanket start at $50. Fabrics include chenille, fleece and cotton. All blankets are sewn in America and are 100% satisfaction guaranteed.
4. Peace Weighted Blankets
   Peace Weighted Blankets offer blankets that can accommodate toddlers, animals and everything in between. Check out their clearance section for some great deals.
5. DreamCatcher Weighted Blankets
   DreamCatcher offers pre-made and made to order blankets. Unfortunately the website is hard to navigate and could use a refresh.
   
6. Cozy Calm
   Cozy Calm sells blankets in child size through queen size giving adults the ability to enjoy a weighted blanket as well.

Make your own Weighted Blanket

If you have some time on your hands you may want to consider saving yourself some money and making your own.
Here are a few places that give you instructions on how to make a weighted blanket.

1. Craft Nectar
2. The Squishy Pickles
3. eHow
4. Crafting my way through motherhood

Good Luck!