How do The DIY Lap Pads Work?
Let's take a closer look at our unique, fillable lap pads!
About the Insert
Our proprietary DIY insert allows for complete weight customization. You no longer have to settle for the limited predetermined weights on the market!
Easily zip the insert open and closed to adjust the weight as many times as you like (great for growing kids!). The zipper features an elastic catch to protect against accidental openings during regular use.
The chevron stitching pattern keeps the weight evenly distributed as you carry it and adjust it.
Our DIY insert features 7 loops that allow it to be securely snapped into place inside the animal shell, while also allowing it to be easily removed and cleaned as needed.
What do I fill it with?
Dry Foods
Dried foods like rice, beans, and corn barley are some of the most cost effective and accessible options. But they do have some substantial drawbacks that must be noted.
Pros: cheap, might already be in your home, easily accessible
Cons: can grow mold or attract insects, eventually breaks down and rots
Estimated maximum weight our insert can fit using this filler: 5lbs
Plastic Pellets / Glass Microbeads
One of the most commonly used fillers for weighted goods are plastic poly pellets and micro glass beads. While not as cost effective as some of the other options, this is still a great option for your DIY insert.
Pros: safe to wash, contours to the body, glass beads are considered sensory friendly and hypoallergenic
Cons: glass beads are one of the more expensive options, poly pellets can be too lumpy for those with sensory issues
Estimated maximum weight our insert can fit using glass beads: 10lbs
Smooth Rocks / Marbles
Another option is smooth aquarium rocks, glass marbles, or river stones. These options can be found in nature for free or purchased for a fairly low cost. It's important that the stones be small, rounded, and similar in size.
Pros: potentially free, heavy, safe to wash (do not wash rocks in washing machine, and be sure to dry them thoroughly!)
Cons: can be less comfortable than other options, would take some work to collect and clean, might be bad for those with sensory issues, jagged edges could damage the insert
Estimated maximum weight our insert can fit using this filler: 10lbs
Steel Shot Beads
One of the heaviest options available, steel shot beads are another common filler for weighted goods.
Pros: due to their heavy nature, less beads are needed, extremely durable, washable, affordable, virtually allergen-free
Cons: if you don't need much weight, these beads won't fill up the insert - meaning you may wish to add another filler (like stuffed animal stuffing) to help fill the insert and keep the weight evenly distributed, stitching may not last as long with >10lbs in it
Estimated maximum weight our insert can fit using this filler: 20lbs
What's the right weight for me?
Most therapists advise using a lap pad that's 5%-10% of your body weight (so around 5lbs for every 100lbs you weigh). The total weight should not exceed 15% of your weight.
However, there is no exact weight necessary for it to be considered beneficial. You can use something that weighs more or less 5%, though you should be careful not to get something too heavy. What's most important is that you use a weight that you find comfortable. The pressure it provides should feel soothing, not heavy.
The best thing about our DIY pets is that you can adjust the weight until it feels right for you!
Weighted Vs DIY Fill
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5LB WEIGHTED LAP PADS
Our 5lb weighted lap pads contain a 5lb insert that has been prefilled with glass microbeads. The 5lb inserts are sewn shut meaning weight cannot be removed or added to these inserts. This insert contains 12 sewn-in chambers to ensure the weight remains evenly distributed at all times.
Same as the DIY insert, the weighted insert securely attaches to the outer shell via 7 strategically placed snaps and loops. You can remove and clean the insert as needed.
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DIY CUSTOM WEIGHT
Our do-it-yourself (DIY) custom weight lap pad comes unweighted with our specially designed fillable insert. Giving you the flexibility to find the right weight for you, this insert can be filled, adjusted, emptied and refilled easily! This insert allows you to divide the filler of your choice across 5 chevron-shaped channels that keep the weight evenly distributed at all times.
Same as the 5lb weighted insert, our DIY insert can be attached to its outer shell via seven strategically placed snaps and loops. You can remove and clean the insert as needed.
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Weighted
• Strictly 5lbs
• Weight is not adjustable
• Ready to go
• Includes filler (glass microbeads)
• Children cannot access filler (unless insert is broken)
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DIY
• Customizable weight up to ~15lbs
• Adjust weight whenever you want
• Requires set up
• Does not include filler/weight
• Children may access filler
• Budget friendly
Watch Us Fill A DIY Weighted Pet
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