What are the benefits of weighted blankets? Here's what science says

Weighted blanket's firm touch may calm brain's fight-or-flight response; but they are not recommended for babies or toddlers

honda James was skeptical when her husband ordered a weighted blanket for her online. But five minutes after she wrapped it around her body, she zonked out. "It felt like a really big hug," said James, a banker in Charleston, South Carolina. As outside temperatures grow chilly, weighted blankets can be a popular choice to warm up. Some people say the added pressure helps them soothe the worries of the day and get to sleep faster.

But research on the effectiveness of weighted blankets is limited. Here's what to know.

Weighted blanket Weighted blankets come with extra heft in the form of glass beads, pellets, cotton or another filling. Scientists haven't studied exactly how the blankets work, but they have a few ideas.