Weighted Blankets for Teens — Safety & Sizing
OT‑informed basics for teens and caregivers: when to use a weighted blanket, how to size it safely, and practical do’s & don’ts.
What a Weighted Blanket Does (for Teens)
A weighted blanket provides steady, evenly distributed deep‑pressure input—often described as a “gentle, full‑body hug.” For many teens, this can help settle the nervous system, reduce sensory overwhelm, and cue the body for rest or study breaks.
Safety First
- Independent removal: Your teen must be able to lift and remove the blanket on their own.
- Medical considerations: Avoid with respiratory, cardiac, or circulation concerns unless cleared by a clinician.
- Placement: Use on the body, not the face/neck; do not wrap or restrict movement.
- Heat & climate: Watch for overheating; choose breathable fabrics or knit designs if they run warm.
- Routines: For bedtime, start with short wind‑down periods and build gradually.
This page is educational only and not medical advice. Always follow your therapist’s and clinician’s guidance.
Sizing & Weight Chart
A common starting point is about ~10% of body weight, then adjust based on comfort, fabric, and your OT’s guidance. If unsure, begin lighter.
| Teen body weight | Typical blanket weight | Common blanket size | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 90–110 lb | 9–11 lb | 48×72″ (twin) or 41×60″ | Start lighter if warm sleeper. |
| 110–130 lb | 11–13 lb | 48×72″ or 60×80″ (taller teens) | Choose size by height/bed. |
| 130–150 lb | 13–15 lb | 48×72″ or 60×80″ | Balance pressure vs. temperature. |
| 150–180 lb | 15–18 lb | 60×80″ (full/queen) | Heavier = warmer; monitor comfort. |
| 180–220 lb | 18–22 lb | 60×80″ (full/queen) | Consider knit/cotton for airflow. |
Guidelines are general—not prescriptions. Consider preferences, motor skills, and any clinician recommendations.
Fabric & Climate Choices
| Fabric | Best for | Pros | Watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton / Bamboo | Warm sleepers, year‑round | Breathable, easy to wash | Less “plush” feel |
| Minky / Fleece | Cozy comfort, colder rooms | Soft, sensory‑friendly texture | Can feel warm; consider lighter weight |
| Knitted (bead‑free) | Hot sleepers | Open weave for airflow; even drape | Open knit can snag; spot wash |
| Duvet + Inner Insert | Easy washing & season swap | Swap covers by climate; tie‑downs prevent bunching | Check tie points to avoid shifting |
How to Introduce a Weighted Blanket to Your Teen
- Start during a calm activity (reading, audiobooks, study breaks). Use for 10–20 minutes over the lap/legs.
- Check comfort and temperature. Ask how it feels and observe breathing and movement.
- Increase gradually to longer wind‑down periods or part of the bedtime routine.
- Let the teen self‑advocate: try cotton/knit if heat is the issue; try lighter weight if pressure is “too much.”
- Reassess weekly with your OT/clinician notes. Adjust weight or duration if needed.
Never force use. If your teen resists or overheats, remove and try again later or try a lighter option.
Alternatives & Complements
- Weighted lap pads — portable pressure for homework and travel.
- Weighted supports comparison — blankets vs lap pads vs vests.
- Compression clothing — discreet layers for day‑long light pressure.
- Sensory lamps — soft visual cues to wind down at night.
- Quiet fidgets — for restless hands during study (follow school rules).
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a weighted blanket safe for a 13‑year‑old?
Discuss with your clinician if there are respiratory/cardiac/circulation concerns. Ensure independent removal and start with short, supervised trials.
What weight for a 120‑lb teen?
About 12 lb as a starting point (≈10%), then adjust to comfort, fabric, and your OT’s advice.
Overnight use: yes or no?
Some teens do fine with the right weight/fabric and clinician clearance. Start with wind‑down only; monitor comfort and temperature before extending.
My teen runs hot—what should we choose?
Go lighter and choose breathable cotton/knit designs; consider using it for wind‑down only and removing before sleep.
When should we avoid a weighted blanket?
When the teen cannot remove it independently, or with certain medical conditions (respiratory/cardiac/circulation) unless cleared by a clinician.