The lowdown: Aeyla (previously Mela) has a good selection of weighted blankets with three covers to choose from. So when the sun comes out and you don’t want to be snuggling up under a velvety blanket, you can switch to a more cooling eucalyptus or cotton cover instead and continue to reap the relaxing benefits. The most significant health benefits of weighted blankets include improved sleep and reduced feelings of anxiety and stress.

Newer versions sometimes swerve the beaded inners entirely, instead creating heaviness by layering up cotton into a weave – like this one from Remy Sleep. This makes it easier to wash, and they can look a little cuter when hung over your sofa arm or bed, too. Do weighted blankets work? Many people will understand the frustration of nights spent tossing and turning, when counting sheep does little to take you into the land of Nod. Treatments are available for insomnia, but those looking for a non-medicated route to better sleep would do well to give weighted blankets a go. We also have an 8 lb weighted blanket, the Nappling, designed especially for kids. How do you wash a woven weighted blanket? Your Cotton Napper comes with a natural cotton dust bag that makes it easy to store, wash, or take along.

What is the science behind weighted blankets?

We didn’t like: There wasn’t much to dislike, although I’d prefer a choice of colours. It’s also on the pricey side, but I felt that it it’s worth it. Recommended. Weighted blankets have been medically proven to aid naturally deeper sleep cycles. The weight on your body stimulates the production of serotonin (the happy hormone), reduces cortisol (the stress hormone), and increases melatonin, which helps you fall (and stay) asleep. Your Napper should be roughly 10% of your body weight (i.e 150lb body weight = 15lb Napper) So, keeping these weight guidelines in mind, we tried out the most-hyped weighted blankets on the market. Here’s the lowdown on what we thought.

Weighted blankets were originally created for medical use," says Dr Nauf AlBendar. "They are typically one of the sensory tools commonly used in psychiatric units and occupational therapy to help comfort restless individuals." If you tend to sleep hot and often find yourself waking up feeling a bit sweaty every night – the Tree Napper is your new best friend. Tumble dry on low heat – please note it may take more than one round for your Napper to dry completely So that it’s weighted where it matters, the glass beads are focused in the centre of the blanket rather than on the edges. Our tester wasn’t sure if this would mean that the weight would cover not all of their body, but the area is generously large enough to do the job.We liked: I loved this blanket. It was a little lighter than some of those I’ve tried, but still heavy enough to stop me tossing and turning in bed, so I sleep really deeply when I use it. The cover is removable but there are enough ties inside to keep it secure, so it’s easy to move. Even better, unlike the John Lewis one, which can only be spot cleaned, I can throw this one’s cover in the wash to refresh it if I ever need to. From the studies that have been done, there is a common theme that weighted blankets may be a useful tool to help with anxiety symptoms,” says Henderson. “There have been various studies in different scenarios, from patients in a psychiatric facility to patients receiving chemotherapy. Results have shown that anxiety levels were reduced by up to 60 per cent with the use of the weighted blanket.” However, experts agree more research is needed. How do I choose the right one/weight for me? We were also thrilled with the quality for the price because weighted blankets aren’t always the most budget-friendly buys. But the blyss is an excellent value-for-money investment that is brilliant for use in bed and for getting cosy during the day while working from home or evenings in front of your favourite Netflix series. The blanket also comes with a drawstring dust bag to keep it fresh while it’s not being used.

Wash separately in cold water, on a delicate or permanent-press cycle, using mild or eco-friendly detergent. Tumble dry on low. Something we especially liked about the Baloo weighted comforter is its 100 per cent cotton exterior and interior and that it’s made with only natural and chemical-free materials. The result is a breathable, super-soft blanket that helps you adapt to changing temperatures for a comfortable night’s sleep. It’s up to you – some people like to replace their duvet with a weighted blanket, whereas others like layering them both, particularly during the colder months. If the sizes match up, you can also use a duvet cover on your weighted blanket, to keep it clean.Note: your Cotton Napper may take more than one cycle to be fully dried. Avoid hanging your Napper to dry – it'll stretch out its lovely loops. Avoid top-loading washing and drying machines. The main priority is that it feels comforting, not too heavy and not too light. It is always a good idea, where possible, to try a few different weights around the 10 per cent guide, to see what feels good. The blanket should encourage the feeling of rest and relaxation and help soothe and calm the body and mind. It’s important to choose a texture that feels soothing too, nothing that will irritate your skin.” Is it OK to sleep with a weighted blanket every night? If you're between weights, we recommend you go with the lower weight category (e.g. 170lb body weight is best suited to a 15lb Napper).

Our organic long-staple cotton is pre-washed for buttery softness – just like your favorite T-shirt. A healthier choice for your home and the environment: organic cotton uses up to 90% less water than conventional farming methods and is free from harmful chemicals, pesticides, synthetics, or artificial softeners. It’s possible to use the blankets overnight if they feel good and the user is comfortable doing so, but short periods of time up to 20-30 minutes can also be helpful to slow down and encourage rest during busy or stressful times. It comes down largely to personal preference and comfort.” OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 ensures this product is safe for your family, the people who manufactured it and the environment.We liked: You know that meme where Homer Simpson is snuggled up and comparing himself to a toasty cinnamon bun? This is that meme in blanket form. The sheer weight of this thing has to be felt to be believed. Granted, I went for the heaviest option – 11kg – and while lugging it around is enough to warm you up anyway, curling up underneath it is so damn cosy. Used over a duvet at night it’s reassuringly weighty, but thanks to the aesthetic knitted design it’s now taken up permanent residence on my sofa as a comforting Netflix companion. Science shows that sleeping under weight improves sleep quality, lowers stress, and eases anxiety – and when those things are better, everything’s better!