Compare: Weighted Blanket vs Electric Blanket In NZ

Sleep is one of the most important things we need to survive and function well. And while it's the most natural thing, many of us still suffer from sleep deprivation, and a lack of quality sleep. In fact, according to a study by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, one in three adults don't get the ideal number of sleeping hours (it's at least seven hours), which can result in health problems like heart disease, stress, and more.

One of the easiest ways to make sure you're getting enough sleep is by controlling your environment. You'd be surprised how little things such as changing your blankets can improve your quality of sleep.

Specialty blankets like weighted blankets and electric blankets have become popular over the years, proving that they can make a difference in your bedtime. These two blankets are not the same, though, so if you're planning to get one for yourself or your family, it's best to know the difference to see which one works best for you.

What is an electric blanket?

An electric blanket looks like your typical blanket at first glance, but it comes with an integrated wiring system that provides even warmth, especially during the colder seasons. This type of blanket needs to be plugged into an electrical outlet so you can set it on different heating levels. The materials are made from acrylic and polyester to help prevent potential fire hazards.

Note that you'll need to consider your electric blanket's cord length and make sure its controller is within easy reach, and its plug reaches a comfortable length from your bed to your power outlet.

What is a weighted blanket?

Weighted blankets are usually between 5 to 30 pounds, and are mainly used for therapeutic purposes. The extra weight is to copy deep pressure stimulation, a therapeutic technique known to relieve pain, reduce stress and anxiety, and improve the user's overall mood. The idea is for the blanket to give you deep pressure, and for the weight to make you feel like you're being swaddled.

Weighted Blanket vs Electric Blanket

Electric Blanket

Pros	Cons
Can be cleaned and washed easily at home	Needs electricity to function which may result in a higher power bill
Provides a good source of heat, especially during colder months	Should not be used if you sleep with a pet as they might damage the wires and the blanket
Can be beneficial to those with poor circulation	May eventually lose heating power over time, especially if not used properly
Newer models use low wattages of electricity	Must be used and cleaned with caution. Manuals say that they should be 100% dry before using them again to avoid electrocution.
Gives comfort for muscle cramps, or dysmenorrhea

Weighted Blanket

Pros	Cons
Has stress-, anxiety- and insomnia-relieving effects	Can be heavy and difficult to bring during travels
Provides mental and physical health benefits	Can be pricey
Cheaper and a more sustainable option to aid you to sleep better, than buying a prescription sleeping pill	May require extra care when cleaning

Do weighted blankets provide warmth?

Just like a regular blanket, a weighted blanket provides warmth if not a bit more, as they are a lot thicker and have more weight than a regular one. This makes them a better option during the colder season or if you get cold easily.

Can you use a weighted blanket with an electric blanket?

Using a weighted blanket with an electric blanket is alright, and will depend on someone's personal preference. If you already have both then you may use them to keep you warm by placing the electric blanket above or below the weighted blanket.

Are electric blankets bad for you?

Electric blankets are safe, but like any other items that need electricity to function, taking safety precautions is advised to avoid potential dangers. It's also best to update your electric blankets if you've been using them for a long time already.

Do electric blankets give off radiation?

Similar to most electrical devices, electric blankets emit a low electromagnetic field (EMF) when in use, but they do not have links with cancer.

Do weighted blankets make a difference?

Compared to regular blankets, weighted blankets' ability to mimic a technique called deep pressure stimulation, which makes them more effective in improving mood and relieving pain. Studies have shown its effectiveness for some conditions, including autism, ADHD, anxiety, insomnia, chronic pain, and more.

Kiwi Brands to Consider When Buying an Electric or Weighted Blanket:

Weighted Blanket

Groundd Weighted Blanket

Groundd is a great Kiwi brand that has everything you're looking for a quality weighted blanket without breaking your wallet.

Why choose Groundd:

Their weighted blankets are available in two colors and 3 weight options (3.2, 7, or 9 kg).
They offer free shipping.

Sleep Heavy

Similar to Groundd, Sleep Heavy is a Kiwi-owned brand by a couple who were searching for better tools to improve the quality of their sleep.

Why choose Sleep Heavy:

Three weighted blanket options to choose from
Weighted blankets for kids
3 weights are available for adults (6.8, 9, or 11 kg) and a 13.6 kg for the King/Queen sized option
All blankets have glass bead filling
Available in different colors to suit your liking
Competitive prices and occasionally run sales
Offers a 30-night trial
Offers free shipping

Sensory Sam

Sensory Sam is an NZ company founded by a mother who had a hard time finding the right products to help her child on the autism spectrum. Aside from well-designed weighted blankets, they offer products that help reduce sensory overload.

Why choose Sensory Sam:

Five cover options, including fun designs such as rainbows and whales
Available in 2.2, 4.5, 6.8, or 8 kg
Blankets have soft cotton covers and have glass bead filling
Low shipping fee
Has a 14-day return policy

TSB Living Ltd.

TSB Living is another Kiwi store where you can get affordable items for your home, including weighted blankets. They take pride in offering thousands of retail products of good quality, as well as exceptional customer service.

Why choose TSB Living Ltd.:

Breathable and absorbent weighted blankets with removable zipped cover
Washer-friendly
Offers 1-year warranty

Electric Blanket

Goldair

Goldair is one of the leading brands when it comes to household products. They have a nice electric blanket collection, which comes in different sizes, fabrics, and features to match your needs.

Why choose Goldair:

Their electric blankets are affordable
With 3 heat settings and a detachable controller
Machine washable

Sheffield

Sheffield was developed in 2008 and has grown over the last 10 years with over 50 products, including appliances and a wide range of heating products such as electric blankets.

Why choose Sheffield:

Easy-to-use temperature controllers with 3 heat settings
Lightweight polyester fabric
Tie tabs to fit your bed
Has overheat protection

Sunbeam

Sunbeam is a popular brand and has been providing Kiwis appliances and home products with good quality and innovative designs and features. Their electric blankets adjust to the right temperature and offer great features such as a digital timer to give you the best sleep.

Why choose Sunbeam:

Quilt top layer to provide comfort and warmth
Fast heat buildup
Automatically adjusts to the right temperature
Has a digital timer for 1 or 9 hours
Removable controls
Machine washable
3-year replacement warranty

Improving the quality of your sleep is important, so you're always at your best. Aside from investing in a good blanket, make sure your home has the best Power plan for a smart and cozy home life.