Weighted blankets use evenly distributed glass beads or pellets to provide gentle pressure, which many people find calming. The widely used guideline is about 10% of body weight. Weighted blankets are not recommended for infants and toddlers, and children and people with medical conditions should check with a doctor first.
How to use the Weighted Blanket Calculator
- Blanket for
- Your weight
- Partner’s weight
Results update as you type, and every field accepts the units shown in its menu.
How it works
Choose single or couple, and enter your weight (and your partner’s for a shared blanket).
Tips
- Measure over thin clothing with a soft tape held snug but not tight, and keep the tape level all the way round.
- Take each measurement twice; if you are between sizes, the larger size is usually the safer choice.
- Size charts vary by brand and country – check the maker’s own chart when it is available.
- For sewing projects, pre-wash fabric before cutting and buy 10% extra for shrinkage, pattern matching and mistakes.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Mixing inches and centimetres between the tape and the size chart.
- Forgetting seam and hem allowances when cutting fabric.
- Measuring an old, stretched garment instead of your body.
Inputs explained
| Field | What to enter |
|---|---|
| Blanket for | Choose one: One person, A couple |
| Your weight | Units: lb, kg, g, oz |
| Partner’s weight | Units: lb, kg, g, oz |
Example values
How the main result changes when Your weight changes and everything else stays at the example values above:
| Your weight (lb) | Recommended blanket weight (lb) |
|---|---|
| 80 | 9.5 |
| 120 | 13.5 |
| 160 | 17.5 |
| 200 | 21.5 |
| 240 | 25.5 |
| 320 | 33.5 |
Formula
Single: blanket ≈ 10% of body weight + 1–2 lbCouple: blanket ≈ 7.5% of combined weightRound to the nearest standard weight (5, 7, 10, 12, 15, 20, 25, 30 lb)Worked example
Inputs — Blanket for: One person; Your weight: 160 lb; Partner's weight: 140 lb.
Results — Recommended blanket weight = 17.5 lb; Nearest standard weight = 20 lb; Couple check = OK.
Frequently asked questions
How heavy should a weighted blanket be?
About 10% of your body weight – a 150 lb adult usually chooses a 15 lb blanket.
Can couples share a weighted blanket?
Yes, with about 7.5% of combined weight spread over a larger blanket, but separate blankets suit very different body weights better.
Are weighted blankets safe for children?
They are not recommended for infants or toddlers; ask a paediatrician before using one with a child.
What formula does the Weighted Blanket Calculator use?
Single: blanket ≈ 10% of body weight + 1–2 lb.