Plastic Pellets vs Glass Beads for Weighted Blankets: Which is Best?

Choosing the right fill for your weighted blanket can make all the difference in comfort, durability, and therapeutic effectiveness. If you're deciding between glass beads and plastic pellets (also called poly pellets), this guide will help you understand the key differences and choose the best option for your needs.

What Are Glass Beads?

Glass beads are small, smooth, spherical beads made from high-quality glass. They're approximately 1mm in diameter and are significantly denser than plastic pellets, meaning they provide more weight with less volume.

What Are Plastic Pellets (Poly Pellets)?

Plastic pellets, also known as poly pellets or poly beads, are made from high-density polyethylene (HDPE). They're approximately 3mm in diameter and are lighter per volume than glass beads, making them ideal when you want more fill and cushioning.

Glass Beads vs Plastic Pellets: The Key Differences

Weight & Volume

Glass Beads: Approximately 2.5x denser than plastic pellets. This means you need less volume to achieve the same weight, resulting in a thinner, more flexible blanket.

Plastic Pellets: Lighter per volume, so you'll need more fill to reach your target weight. This creates a fuller, more cushioned blanket.

Feel & Texture

Glass Beads: Smoother and quieter. They create a more subtle, evenly distributed weight that many people find calming.

Plastic Pellets: Slightly more textured with a gentle rustling sound. They provide a softer, more cushioned feel.

Flexibility

Glass Beads: Because they're denser, glass bead blankets are typically thinner and drape more naturally over your body.

Plastic Pellets: Create a fuller blanket with more loft, which some people prefer for extra coziness.

Durability

Both: Victory Pellets and Victory Glass Beads are both washer and dryer safe and built to last for years of regular use.

Price

Plastic Pellets: More budget-friendly option without sacrificing quality.

Glass Beads: Slightly more expensive per pound.

How to Choose: Plastic Pellets or Glass Beads?

Choose Plastic Pellets if you want:

• A fuller, more cushioned blanket
• More precise weight control
• A budget-friendly option
• Extra softness and loft

Choose Glass Beads if you want:

• A thinner, more flexible weighted blanket
• Maximum weight with minimal bulk
• A smoother, quieter feel
• A blanket that drapes naturally over your body

How Much Fill Do You Need?

A general rule of thumb is to use 10% of the user's body weight for the blanket weight:

• For a 150 lb person: 15 lb weighted blanket
• For a 100 lb person: 10 lb weighted blanket
• For a 50 lb child: 5 lb weighted blanket

Whether you choose glass beads or plastic pellets, you'll need the same weight in fill—but glass beads will take up less space in your blanket.

Why Choose Victory Pellets?

Both Victory Pellets and Victory Glass Beads are:

• Made in the USA since 2009
• Non-toxic and hypoallergenic
• Washer and dryer safe
• Trusted by crafters and therapeutic product makers
• Available in multiple sizes for any project

Ready to Create Your Perfect Weighted Blanket?

Whether you choose glass beads or plastic pellets, Victory Pellets delivers the quality and consistency you need for professional results. Shop our full selection of weighted blanket fills and start creating your perfect therapeutic blanket today.

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