Welcome to the WH Lab, where we put health-related products through rigorous testing to see which items deserve a place in your wellness arsenal
While various anxietyreducing sleep aids have hit the market, weighted blankets in particular are being praised for their stress-relieving qualities. Originally designed to help comfort distressed patients in hospital, these blankets tend to have pockets of glass or plastic beads stitched into them to offer heavier ‘deep-touch pressure’ that feels like a big hug (the recommendation is to find one that’s 10% of your body weight). They’re usually made from a soft fabric in a neutral colour, too, adding to their calming impact. Hard science to back the claims is tricky to find, but evidence suggests the ‘safe’ feeling that lying under them elicits raises serotonin levels – and anecdotally they’re praised for their ability to improve sleep and ease the symptoms of restless-leg syndrome. A weight off your mind?
WINNER
01
Kudd.ly Weighted Blanket £99 to £112, kudd.ly
Score
Behind most great workouts is an even greater night’s sleep, and our testing panel had no problem drifting off with this ultra-cosy weighted blanket. The fleecy outer felt like a warm hug, helping us unwind on the sofa, while the glass beads were so fine our testers could barely feel them. Put simply, we love it. The weights available are on the lighter side, but our testers still found it heavy enough to provide the soothing benefits. Add in the fact that it’s machine washable, comes with a handy carry case and is one of the most affordable blankets around, and there’s very little not to like.
Key specifications
Sizes available: 122cm x 188cm, 152cm x 203cm
Weights available: 5kg, 7kg
Filling: Glass beads
Machine washable: Yes
RUNNER-UP
02
John Lewis & Partners Specialist Synthetic Weighted Blanket £80 to £110, johnlewis.com
Score
Looks can be deceiving, and this proved to be the case with John Lewis’s understated weighted blanket. We liked the simple grey design, but this throw really excelled when it came to comfort. Our testers said it helped them feel more relaxed, and the incredibly soft outer material made it a comfy Netflix-bingeing companion on the sofa. It’s available in four different weights, too, so you’re sure to find one that suits.
Key specifications Sizes available: 150cm x 200cm
Weights available: 4.5kg, 7kg, 9kg, 11.5kg
Filling: Glass beads
Machine washable: No
BEST FOR GENEROUS SIZE
03
Cloverlane Weighted Blanket £200, cloverlanehome.co.uk
Score
Cloverlane is a brand that gives glass beads a miss, using a tight weave of organic cotton instead. While the beads in low-calibre
