The Best Weighted Blankets

This elegant, machine-washable comforter features polyester jersey on one side and bamboo-based rayon on the other. Its glass microbeads, which give it its heft, are nearly imperceptible. Best for: This blanket will appeal to those seeking a cozy but elegant option for the bed or couch, as well as people who don't sleep hot. How it feels: The Nest Bedding weighted blanket feels like a smooth, slightly silky, heavy comforter. Weight: 18 pounds (queen) Why it's great It's dual-sided. The Nest Bedding Luxury Weighted Blanket features polyester jersey on one side and bamboo-based rayon on the other, but the two materials feel very similar: smooth, soft, and slightly satiny to the touch. The microbeads are nearly imperceptible. Like most weighted blankets, the Nest Bedding blanket gets its poundage from small glass microbeads sewn into "pockets." But you really have to massage the quilted pockets to feel them, and they make no noise. Other weighted blankets we tested have more noticeable beads that rustle when they shift. It has an elegant design. With its bold herringbone-pattern stitching and neutral color combination, this blanket has an understated look that is likely to blend well with various decor styles. It's both machine-washable and -dryable. We machine-washed it in cold water, as directed, and then tumble-dried it on low for 90 minutes. The blanket retained 5 pounds of water out of the wash and dried just fine after one cycle. Flaws but not dealbreakers It doesn't offer the most direct pressure. People who like a lot of direct pressure (say, in the 20- to 25-pound range) might find this blanket too light. Most of the weight is distributed around -- not on -- the body. It's not for people who sleep hot. Since polyester and rayon are less breathable than cotton, this blanket may not be a suitable choice for people who get hot easily. It comes in only one color combination. The blanket's understated hues (indigo on one side, gray ombré on the other) should work well with most decor, but if you prefer another color, you'll have to add a duvet cover.