Why do you need a heavy blanket and what kind of filler helps you sleep better? A somnologist tells us

When it comes to sleeping, everything is very individual. Some people prefer orthopedic pillows and mattresses, others like featherbeds and down pillows. The same goes for blankets. However, many people like the heavy large versions. Why so, how useful it is and what blanket is better to choose?

doctor-somnologist

The most important thing to remember is that the blanket is suitable for you.

What kind of blankets are there?

Cotton

Perhaps the most affordable on the budget, but also the most impractical. Such models quickly absorb odors, including unpleasant, and poorly tolerate washing.

Woolen

For lovers of the warmest blankets. Well absorb moisture. On such an option should pay attention to those who have musculoskeletal, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and excessive sweating.

Not suitable for allergic people: if there is an intolerance to animal hair (usually used sheep, goat or camel hair).

Down

Usually duck or goose down. They are warm, breathable, elastic, lightweight. Such a blanket will last a long time. But it absorbs moisture and quickly dries out.

Synthetic

Inside the blanket there can be synthetic synthetic, hollofiber, polyester fibers. These are thin blankets for those who like coolness. They are durable, lightweight, hypoallergenic. However, over time, they clump together, electrify and poorly drain moisture.

Modern models

Ultra-modern models with woven silver threads, antistatic impregnation, loon down and everything that can make the cost of a blanket skyrocket. Experience shows that there is no point in overpaying for “contrivances”, quality models of blankets are not inferior to them. But the choice is always yours.

Why do many people like heavy blankets?

The coziest today are considered heavy blankets, which seem to press the body and create a feeling of tightness similar to when a child is in the womb. In the fetal position under such a blanket, it is easier for us to feel safe and secure and therefore to relax and fall asleep faster. It can also be compared to the feeling of being hugged by a loved one or parents, which helps us to fall asleep sooner.

Daria: Once during the filming of a program we conducted an experiment about a heavy blanket. We checked the patient’s sleep under a light blanket and under a heavy one. It turned out that in the second case the sleep was a little deeper. However, all this is very subjective, says the somnologist, and can not recommend a heavy blanket to everyone without exception. I have patients who cannot sleep like this and prefer terry sheets.

In order not to waste money and not to buy a heavy blanket right away, you can simply weight the existing ones by putting a plaid on top, for example. This way, the blanket will feel stronger and you will get almost the same effect as a heavy blanket.