Understanding the unique needs of autistic children can be challenging for parents, especially when it comes to improving their sleep quality. A weighted blanket for autism may be a valuable tool in supporting sensory needs, as it provides the deep-pressure tactile input that some children on the spectrum crave.
This type of blanket leverages proprioceptive input, the body’s ability to sense positioning and pressure through muscles and joints. It helps children with proprioceptive dysfunction feel grounded and calm.
By offering a consistent level of deep pressure, weighted blankets can support relaxation and self-regulation, making them a popular choice for children who seek sensory comfort.
What does the weighted blanket for autism do?
A weighted blanket for autism, also known as a sensory blanket, is filled with materials that apply deep pressure stimulation on those wearing it.
They are often filled with glass beads, cotton, or other materials to apply weight to the body which gives a sense of security and relaxation.
Sometimes weighted blankets are referred to as gravity blankets. They can be used to aid sleep but can also provide anxiety reduction in the daytime.
How do weighted blankets work?
The human body is a very sensitive instrument that responds to touch and pressure. In the same way that a baby can be soothed when it is picked up, the human body can also be soothed by applying deep pressure stimulation.
When we apply a weighted blanket or vest for autism, the body releases oxytocin in the same sense way as it does when we are hugged or held like a baby.
While some people are open to being hugged, those with autism or sensory processing issues may not be and so this kind of blanket is an ideal thing to use.
Autism and weighted blanket benefits for sleep
We all know the impact it can have when we are sleep-deprived. We become overly emotional and have difficulty concentrating. For children with autism or other kinds of special needs, this is even more pronounced.
Many children with ASD struggle with sensory issues, including sensory processing disorder (SPD). This can appear in the form of difficulty processing sensory input of the five senses as well as internal emotions. Often, this can create anxiety and problems with sleep.
Parents might wonder what to do when their autistic child gets stuck in the cycle of anxiety, causing sleep dysregulation and vice versa. Holistic options are often more favorable over medication for many families.
Research has shown that weighted blankets are beneficial for:
- Anxiety reduction
- Better sleep quality
- Deescalation of meltdowns and sensory overload
- Release of serotonin which is needed to create melatonin for sleep
- The release of oxytocin gives a sense of security and warmth
- Reduces stress hormones in the body
- Calms nervous system
- Children who don’t like to be hugged
Best weighted blankets for kids with autism
If you are looking for the best weighted blankets for kids with autism, we’ve compiled a list of suppliers that are suitable for those with special needs. We evaluated each blanket in accordance with the sensory needs of autistic children.
Please note Autism Parenting Magazine will receive an affiliate commission for products purchased using our affiliate link. Many of the below options come with free shipping in the USA.the USA.
A unique neck cut out design
Sleep tight with cut out neck design
Often kids with sensory needs are sensitive not only to the fabric of the blanket but also its layout. What we like about this autism blanket is that it has been designed by an occupational therapist to have several features that make it more comfortable.
It has a curved neck cut out at the top, which allows it to fit smoothly over the shoulders and chin without placing the blanket over the head. Parents often report its ability to deescalate meltdowns.
Weight is available in 5 lbs all the way up to 25lbs. Both waterproof and soft covers are available depending on your child’s sensory needs.
Wipe clean sensory blanket
With this pressure blanket you get the benefit of something that is easy to clean, with no washing required. Not only is it waterproof, breathable, and tear-resistant, but it also features a special design with the neck cut out for sensory issues.
Soft fabric blanket design for sensory issues
This soft design is great for kids with sensory seeking or over-responding issues. Children with autism generally feel quite cozy in this design by providing sensory input. It has a weight of 3 lbs and is machine washable, unlike other similar blankets.
Animal lap pads
While these are not strictly weighted blankets, we wanted to include them here because they are both cute and practical. They employ the same deep-pressure techniques as an autism-weighted blanket.
Having your child use one of these while sitting can help in grounding to improve calm and focus.
Best cost-friendly weighted blankets
In this section, we evaluated blankets that had the benefits of soothing sensory needs while not being highly priced.
The Snuggle weighted sheet
Snuggle sheet $40.99
If you are looking for the effectiveness of a weighted blanket for autism without spending a fortune, this is for you. The snuggle sheet can be applied over a regular blanket, providing compression with a hug-like feel.
Washable weighted blanket
Washable blanket $82.99
This is the most affordable regular weighted blanket designed for special needs children that we could find. Prices start at $82.99.
Daytime drape weighted blanket
Daytime drape and all purpose blanket $89.99
Starting at $89.99 for 5 lbs, this blanket is great for sensory needs and promoting sleep. It can be draped around the shoulders during the day or used for naps and bedtime.
Choosing the right weighted blanket for an autistic child
The choice of weighted blankets can feel like a complicated and strenuous exercise, especially when considering your child’s specific needs. So take it easy! You don’t have to make a decision right away.
Very often, making the choice of material or pattern is easier by looking at the type of clothing your child tolerates or the materials or items your child tends to use to satisfy their sensory needs.
Before looking at the bigger picture, break it down into parts. You’ve got this!
FAQ
Q: How heavy should a weighted blanket be?
A: To some extent, this is a matter of preference, but as a general rule, we can say that it’s good that the blanket weight is approximately 10% of the weight of the individual’s body weight plus a couple of lbs.
Q: Can a weighted blanket be too heavy?
A: Yes, it is possible for the weight to be too much. Children should be able to remove the blanket without assistance.
Q: What size weighted blanket should I get?
A: It is important to be comfortable when sleeping, so a blanket for sleeping should cover the user’s feet, legs, and abdomen. For daytime or general sensory blankets, the size can be smaller. One thing to bear in mind when considering younger children is the size of the bed and to accommodate for growth.
Q: Do weighted blankets really work?
A: Many parents find weighted blankets effective, with reviews highlighting their benefits. Scientific studies also show that deep pressure stimulation from weighted blankets can significantly reduce anxiety and improve sleep for people with ADHD.
Q: Which texture is best for a weighted blanket for autism?
A: Which texture is best for my child? It’s important to consider your child’s sensory preferences, as materials like cotton, fleece, or cooling fabrics may feel soothing, while others, such as waterproof fabrics, could be triggering; using a cover tailored to their needs can help.
Q: Are weighted blankets safe?
A: Be sure to check the supplier uses a filling that is safe such as glass beads or cotton. Some manufacturers use fillings such as lead which are toxic to the body.
Q: What are the alternatives to weighted blankets?
A: For reducing anxiety in the daytime, some parents have also benefited from the use of special autism clothing and/or a weighted vest for autism sensory issues. You may also want to consider creating a special sensory space or bedroom and possibly the use of essential oils or supplementation like melatonin.
References
Edelson, S. M., Edelson, M. G., Kerr, D. C., & Grandin, T. (1999). Behavioral and physiological effects of deep pressure on children with autism: A pilot study evaluating the efficacy of Grandin’s Hug Machine. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 53(2), 145-152. https://research.aota.org/ajot/article-abstract/53/2/145/4271
Bolic Baric, V., Skuthälla, S., Pettersson, M., Gustafsson, P. A., & Kjellberg, A. (2023). The effectiveness of weighted blankets on sleep and everyday activities–A retrospective follow-up study of children and adults with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder and/or autism spectrum disorder. Scandinavian Journal of Occupational Therapy, 30(8), 1357-1367. https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/11038128.2021.1939414
Gee, B. M., Lloyd, K., Sutton, J., & McOmber, T. (2020). Weighted blankets and sleep quality in children with autism spectrum disorders: a single-subject design. Children, 8(1), 10. https://www.mdpi.com/2227-9067/8/1/10
Zimmerman, K. N., Ledford, J. R., & Severini, K. E. (2019). Brief report: The effects of a weighted blanket on engagement for a student with ASD. Focus on Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities, 34(1), 15-19. https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/abs/10.1177/1088357618794911
