When you're searching for a weighted blanket, you want a product that will gently weigh you (not your wallet) down. One of the most common misconceptions people have about weighted blankets is that a high price automatically equals high quality.
The reality is that a high price point doesn’t always mean you’ll get a high-quality product. Instead, there are several factors that can tell you whether a weighted blanket manufacturer produces a superior product. At SensaCalm, we're proud of the fact that we offer a 100% American-made product that anyone can afford. Here's what to look for (and what to avoid) when you shop.
What’s the Best Price For a Weighted Blanket?
First, let’s cut to the chase: you can expect to pay somewhere between $130 — $400 for a weighted blanket. Generally, you can find cheaper, amateur-made blankets on sites like Etsy, while heavily-marketed pop-up brands typically charge upwards of $300 for a blanket of similar quality.
If you’re looking for something that’s higher quality — and more affordable — your best bet is to find a manufacturer of weighted blankets that’s been in business before they became a sensation. That way, you know you’re buying a product from a company that has perfected their process — and can produce a higher quality blanket for less money.
Three Types of Weighted Blanket Manufacturers
How did you first hear about weighted blankets? Maybe a friend or neighbor told you how they’re getting the best sleep of their life, or a doctor or therapist might have suggested one as a drug-free way to get better sleep. Perhaps you read an article online or saw an ad on social media.
Now you’ve decided to buy one, and you need to know two things: (1) Where to shop, and (2) how much to pay.
The first thing you might notice as you start to search for weighted blankets online is the sheer number of sellers. Weighted blankets have been around for a decade or more, but they have skyrocketed in popularity over the past few years.
As with any popular product, the second it becomes mainstream, copycats and less-than-scrupulous sellers flood the market. While it may seem like there are thousands of weighted blanket manufacturers to choose from, you can really break these sellers down into three types:
Big Box Stores Reselling Other Brands
These days, you can find “weighted blankets” just about everywhere. We use the quotation marks intentionally, because many of these blankets aren’t custom-made or weighted for the individual user. Rather, they are mass produced in factories overseas and then resold in big box stores and online retailers like Amazon. You might have even seen a weighted blanket on the shelf at your local Walmart or Target.
While these blankets might work for some people, it’s important to take a hard look at what you’re really paying for — because there’s a good chance you’re paying too much. Before you spend your hard-earned dollars, ask yourself a few questions.
- Is the weighted blanket made just for you?
- Can it go in the washing machine and dryer without falling apart?
- What kind of materials are inside?
- Are the materials hypoallergenic and non-toxic?
When you buy a generic weighted blanket, you usually can’t answer any of these questions. In fact, you might have a hard time even finding the name of the company that made it!
When you compare prices to hand-crafted weighted blankets made by American manufacturers who specialize in sensory products, you’ll typically find that you pay just as much and usually more for a mass produced, off-the-shelf product than you would for a weighted blanket made in the USA.
Newcomer Sellers Who Mass Produce Overseas
They say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. It’s also an easy way to make a quick buck. Unfortunately, some weighted blanket sellers have seized on the weighted blanket industry’s popularity and are aggressively marketing their products in an effort to cash in on what they see as a trend.
You don’t have to look hard to spot these sellers. In most cases, they sell just one or two types of weighted blanket, with limited weights and only one or two color options. They typically spend more on advertising and marketing than they do on their product, and they enlist overseas factories to pump out as many units as possible in the shortest amount of time.
Worse, the blankets these sellers offer are almost universally priced well above their actual value. Prices vary, but it’s common to see one of these generic, mass produced blankets sold for $250, $350 or more. In some cases, these types of sellers have accepted orders and taken customers’ money without the ability to actually deliver the blankets.
Smart Consumer Tip: When you search for weighted blanket sellers and manufacturers, check their websites for their “story” or “about us” page. Really look at their background and how much information they’re willing to show the public.
If it’s a generic paragraph or two, without any real detail, you’re probably looking at more of a marketing company that also happens to sell weighted blankets. At SensaCalm, we’re incredibly proud of our team, and we want our customers to get to know us. Check out our story and the people behind the blankets.
Small and Family-owned Specialty Manufacturers
Fortunately, you have a third option for buying a weighted blanket. You can buy from small and family-owned, independent specialty manufacturers that make weighted blankets to order right here in the USA, pay their craftspeople a living wage and believe in the product they’re selling.
And the best part? You won’t pay more for this high-quality, custom weighted blanket. At SensaCalm, we’re proud to offer blankets that fit every budget. As cost-conscious consumers and working people ourselves, we know that every dollar counts, which is why we price our blankets competitively and stand behind our product as a phenomenal value for the money.
Our weighted blankets range in price based on the size, weight and optional features like monogramming and cuddle fabric lining. When you put them side by side with store-bought comforters, quilts and bedding, you’ll find they are extremely affordable and priced comparably to bedding in general.
Why a DIY Weighted Blanket Usually Won’t Save You Money
There is a fourth option for getting a weighted blanket. You could make one yourself, and some people have found success going that route.
However, the reality is that making your own weighted blanket usually won’t save you money. Premium weighted blankets are designed to be sensory products, which means they use ultra-soft fabric and high-end materials.
If you’re considering a DIY weighted blanket, it’s also important to be real about your schedule and level of skill. Is a project like this worth your time? Are your sewing abilities at a professional level? Do you have the tools and equipment to create a blanket that will last?
There’s no question that some people have the crafting chops to produce a beautiful and effective weighted blanket. Even if you do, though, you might end up spending just as much (if not more) on fabric and materials than you would by purchasing a weighted blanket from a specialty manufacturer that buys fabric and supplies on a commercial scale.
SensaCalm Weighted Blankets
For ten years, SensaCalm has been the leader in weighted blankets. Founded by the grandmother of a child with autism, we are an American company based in Tennessee. Our blankets are made right here in the USA by local artisans. Start your custom weighted blanket order today, or choose from our wide selection of ready-to-ship finished weighted blankets.
For questions, you can call us at 855-736-7222 or use our contact form and one of our experienced team members will be in touch.
Disclaimer: The content on this website is not intended as a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your doctor or healthcare provider before undertaking any type of therapy or treatment.