Sleep

Does Weighted Blanket Help with Insomnia?

Linda Girgis | MD

Medically reviewed by Linda Girgis | MD, Girgis Family Medicine on August 21st, 2026.

Weighted blankets can help improve sleep quality for some people with insomnia. Research shows that weighted blankets, typically weighing 10% of body weight, use deep pressure stimulation to activate the parasympathetic nervous system, promoting relaxation and reducing cortisol levels. A 2020 study found that 60% of participants experienced improved sleep quality when using weighted blankets. The gentle pressure mimics the feeling of being hugged, which can increase serotonin and melatonin production while decreasing stress hormones. However, effectiveness varies by individual, and weighted blankets work best for anxiety-related insomnia rather than sleep disorders caused by medical conditions.

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