Weighted blankets contain weighted materials designed to provide deep pressure stimulation, a technique known to promote relaxation. This pressure is often likened to a gentle hug, which helps calm the nervous system. The cost of these specialty blankets varies widely, from affordable budget options easily found at mass retailers to high-end luxury models. Price differences result directly from variations in size, filling material, and outer fabric quality.
Core Price Ranges Based on Size and Weight
The two most significant factors determining the final price of a weighted blanket are its physical dimensions and total weight. Since weighted blankets are typically purchased based on ten percent of the user’s body weight, heavier blankets require substantially more filling material and cost more. A smaller, single-user blanket, such as a 15-pound twin size, generally falls within a budget-friendly range of $50 to $100.
As the size and weight increase, the price scales up proportionally due to the greater volume of materials needed for both the shell and the filler. A 20-pound queen size blanket often moves into the $120 to $170 range, reflecting the larger surface area and increased weight. The heaviest and largest options, like a 25-pound or 30-pound king size blanket designed for sharing, commonly start around $150 and can exceed $250. Premium features or ultra-heavy models, such as a 35-pound blanket, can command even higher prices.
Material and Design Factors Affecting Cost
Beyond size and weight, the internal filling material is a primary driver of price variance between comparable blankets. The most common fillers are either plastic pellets (poly pellets) or micro glass beads. Plastic pellets are the most budget-friendly option, but they are bulkier and can sometimes produce a slight rustling sound.
Micro glass beads, which resemble fine sand, are denser and provide a smoother, quieter, and more evenly distributed weight, offering a premium feel. Blankets using glass beads are typically priced higher, though less volume of the denser material is needed to achieve the target weight. The outer fabric also contributes significantly to the final price. Standard cotton or polyester covers are the most economical choice.
Premium materials add a layer of luxury and often specific functionality. For instance, covers made from bamboo viscose or Tencel are priced higher because they offer superior breathability and a cooling sensation, desirable for hot sleepers. High-end minky fabric or velvet materials are also popular, adding warmth and a plush, soft texture that increases the overall price. The brand’s reputation and construction quality, such as precise gridded stitching to prevent bead shifting, also factor into a higher price, even with similar materials.
Retail Environment and Opportunities for Savings
The price is heavily influenced by where you purchase the blanket. Large online marketplaces and mass-market retailers frequently offer the lowest prices, with budget options starting as low as $40 to $50. Conversely, blankets sold through specialized wellness stores or high-end department stores often carry a higher price tag reflecting the brand’s reputation.
A separate duvet cover, recommended for easy cleaning and protecting the inner weighted portion, represents an additional expense, often ranging from $40 to over $100 depending on the material. Many retailers offer combined bundles that include the blanket and a cover at a reduced rate. Significant savings can be found during major retail sales cycles, such as holiday weekends and Black Friday events, where discounts can average around 27% off the regular price. Utilizing discount codes or watching for clearance sales are effective ways to reduce the final investment.