Kmart launches $49 weighted blanket that people use to help fall asleep

The budget superstore has released a ridiculously cheap version of an expensive sleep cure – and tired Aussies are all over it.

We’ve all had those nights where no matter what you do, you just can’t get any shut-eye.

And while the odd bad night’s sleep isn’t harmful, too many nights of insomnia can quickly be detrimental to your health.

And for the 7.4 million adults who experienced regular sleep-deprivation in a report by the Sleep Health Foundation, the threat of bad health is real.

Which is why weighted blankets have proved so popular, as the “hug effect” it gives users is thought to lower the heart rate as well as increase serotonin and dopamine which can help people nod off easier.

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Kmart has released a $49 weighted blanket that people swear by to help fall asleep. Picture: Supplied

However with prices reaching $339 for the clever sleep aid, it has proved unattainable for some.

But now Kmart has got in on the action, revealing a new $49 weighted blanket that rivals high-end brands.

The charcoal-coloured product weighs 7kg and is designed for adults who weigh between 65-85kg.

Despite the new addition only hitting shelves recently, a Kmart spokesperson told news.com.au the item was “in high demand, but there are still a few left”.

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The weighted blanket creates a ‘hug’ effect that lowers the heart rate and increases serotonin and dopamine which can help people fall asleep. Picture: Supplied

Kmart’s version is far cheaper than expensive brands, including Calming Blanket’s weighted blanket for $299 and Adairs’ which sell for as much as $219.99.

Australian-owned Neptune blankets are the highest priced on the market, selling a knitted variety for as much as $339.

While those who’ve tried the blankets swear by them, scientists say concrete evidence is “unfortunately lacking”.

“There are no reputable scientific studies to back up the claims, said Dr Cristina Cusin, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Harvard Medical School.

“A randomised clinical trial to test the blankets would be very difficult. A blind comparison is impossible because people can automatically tell if the blanket is heavy or not.”

Aldi and Coles have both also offered budget versions. Aldi restocked its $89.99 Special Buys item back in July, selling out for the second time in minutes.

Coles’ offer was also in high demand in June with its $79 version – which weighed 6.5kg – being snapped up by shoppers.

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