Do weighted blankets cause overheating?
Written by
Stella Nilsson
Reviewed by
Prof. William Dalton, Ph.D.Weighted blankets of today block overheating with a modern design. Earlier styles caused overheating, creating the same sauna-like atmosphere that traditional bed covers do. Over time, solutions to this problem were found through modern chemical engineering and various fabric techniques. Many hot sleepers now enjoy the weighted comfort during all seasons.
Smart Materials
- Phase-change fabrics absorb and release heat at specific temperatures
- Bamboo fibers provide natural breathability and moisture control
- Cotton blends allow continuous air circulation during sleep
- Specialized synthetics wick moisture away from skin instantly
Structural Designs
- 3D ventilation channels create continuous airflow pathways
- Perforated bead compartments prevent heat accumulation spots
- Layered construction separates thermal regulation from weight function
- Edge-free designs maximize breathable surface area
Thermal Regulation
- Maintains 92-97°F (33-36°C) optimal skin temperature range
- Automatically adjusts to body heat fluctuations overnight
- Prevents humidity buildup through moisture-wicking action
- Reflective layers deflect excess environmental heat
Phase-change technology works to regulate temperature throughout the night actively. Those special fabrics contain microcapsules that absorb heat when your body temperature rises. When your body cools, it releases stored heat, maintaining the ideal range of 92-97 degrees. This prevents overheating associated with conventional bedding.
Correct sizing improves cooling efficiency. Select blankets that match your bed size. A blanket that is too big traps superfluous heat on its edges. Ensure that there is sufficient space on all sides for proper air circulation. In my weighted summer blanket, I have 6 inches all around the outside of the blanket.
Environmental conditions contribute greatly to thermal comfort. For optimal results, maintain bedroom temperatures between 65°F and 68°F. Use breathable protectors for the mattress and sheets to ensure a comfortable night's sleep. Direct fans so that air circulates across the blanket surface. These measures will enhance the effect of the cooling technologies of the blanket.
Certain populations require additional considerations. Women going through menopause have been found to gain from using phase change materials to control acute hot flashes. A child's higher metabolism necessitates increased breathability. The blankets chosen for patients with medical needs should also be considered, looking for blankets that carry a clinical cooling certification.
Read the full article: 10 Weighted Blanket Benefits for Better Sleep
