Grounding is when you physically connect your body with the Earth. It’s said to come with many health benefits, which is why products that offer a connection with the ground are becoming all the rage. They let the Earth’s natural electrical charge flow through you, which might help stabilize your atoms and naturally reduce pain and inflammation.
Grounding sheets and mats are some of the newer products out there, but which one is best for you? Let’s break down the benefits and differences between the two so you can decide which product best suits your needs and lifestyle.
What is a grounding sheet?
Also called earthing sheets, grounding sheets are bed linens made from materials like cotton or polyester — but with silver or carbon threads woven in. Those threads are what connect your sheets, and you, to the Earth — all through the night while you sleep.
The sheets come with a cord, just like a heated blanket, and you plug it into a grounding outlet in your bedroom. If you don’t have a grounding outlet, you can get sheets that come with a rod that you ground outside your home (just be sure to follow the instructions carefully). The silver and carbon threads then allow the electrons from the Earth to flow through the sheet and touch your body while you sleep. You only need to be sure that your electrical wiring is safe and that you sleep with your arms and legs exposed to get the full connection.
Benefits
What makes the sheets different from other products is that they make grounding a simple and regular part of your routine — you don’t need to build a new habit for this one. That makes them one of the easiest ways to ground yourself without putting in much effort. Another benefit is that you can get more of your body exposed to the Earth’s energy if you sleep with your arms and legs exposed. Plus, you’ll likely get the longest time in the grounding mode since most people sleep around seven hours a night or so.
Some people say they even sleep better, whether it’s placebo or the real deal from grounding is unknown since more research is needed — but if it works for you, that’s what matters.
Side effects
Grounding sheets aren’t for everyone, such as people with electrical or skin sensitivities. For example, some people might get irritated skin because of the conductive materials, like the silver threads.
What is a grounding mat?
Grounding mats are similar to grounding sheets in that they often have carbon or silver-coated fabric. You just plug your mat’s cord into a grounding outlet or a grounding rod placed outside. Like the sheets, the electrical connection is meant to create a flow of electrons from the Earth, through the mat, and into your body. You can also use them for a long period of time — as long as you’re following the instructions and it’s comfortable.
Benefits
Mats might be smaller than sheets, but they’re also more versatile. You can take the mat with you anywhere and get creative with how you use them. For example, you can take a mat to your office and place it on your chair or under your feet below your desk while you work. They’re more of an “on-the-go” option.
Mats are also great if you want to target a specific spot on your body, like your feet if you have foot pain. You can also place them on the couch or floor and place whatever body part you like on it while you relax reading a book or watching TV.
Side effects
The same side effects that apply to grounding sheets also apply to mats — be careful if you have skin or metal sensitivities and watch out for rashes. Always speak to your doctor before giving any type of grounding product a try.
Grounding mat vs grounding sheet: differences
While they might seem similar, here are a few of the key differences between grounding mats and sheets:
| Feature | Grounding Mat | Grounding Sheet |
| Size | Small and portable | Large, meant to cover the entire bed |
| Placement | Under feet, on a chair or couch, under a desk | Goes on top of the mattress and below a regular sheet |
| Best use | Localized (e.g., feet, legs) | Whole-body grounding, as long as the skin is exposed |
| Portability | Easy to transport and travel with | Used just on the mattress |
| Setup | Quick and easy; plugin and place where you like | Needs to fit over the entire mattress and connect with a grounding cord |
| Ideal for | Desk/office work or on-the-go grounding | People who want long periods of non-stop grounding |
Grounding mat vs grounding sheet: which one is right for you?
Which one you choose all depends on your needs and lifestyle. Here’s what to think about to help you decide:
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- Sleep. When getting a better night’s rest is the main goal, grounding sheets might be the best option. You lie down knowing that you’re fully connected to the Earth, which might help you feel more relaxed and sleep better throughout the night.
- Work stress. A grounding mat could be for you if you’re tense and stressed while working. You can place it under your feet or on your chair, and feel a little more peace of mind knowing that you’re doing something to take care of yourself.
- Specific pain. If you want to focus on certain parts of your body alone, like sore knees or feet, the mat is your choice. You can target specific areas while you work or rest on the mat.
- Space and lifestyle. Mats are small but you still need to store them. Sheets fit over your mattress and then you don’t have to worry about them, so they take up less space. However, if you want to take your mat with you or just leave it under your desk for your feet, you don’t have to worry about storage.
- Budget. Mats are usually more affordable since they’re smaller, so they’re a great option if you don’t want to invest too heavily.
Who should avoid using grounding products?
Grounding products aren’t recommended for children, pregnant people, or anyone with an implanted medical device or autoimmune disorder. In general, everyone should check with their doctor (and electrician) before using a grounding product. If you have a health condition, it’s essential you speak with your medical professional before giving them a try.
Both grounding mats and sheets have their unique advantages, but there’s no clear-cut answer as to which one is best for you. If you want to focus on better sleep, get the sheets. If you want portability or to target specific areas, the mat might be best.
Just be sure that your electrical wiring is safe and your doctor gives the go-ahead before you buy. Follow the safety instructions, and watch out for any side effects.
Have you given grounding sheets or mats a try? We’d love to hear your experience. Let other readers know what to expect and if it worked for you.
FAQs:
- Are grounding mats as effective as grounding sheets for sleep?
It depends on your needs. Grounding mats target specific areas of the body, while the sheets offer full-body coverage (providing your skin is exposed). They’re both effective, it just depends on what you’re using them for.
- Are grounding mats portable enough for travel?
Yes, you can travel with a grounding mat. They’re usually light and can be easily rolled up so they’re convenient to carry around.
- Can I use both a grounding mat and a sheet at the same time?
Yes, you can use both at the same time for different uses. For example, you can sleep on the sheets while using the mat under your feet while you work at your desk or sit on it while you meditate.
- When should you not use a grounding mat?
Grounding mats aren’t for children, pregnant people, or anyone with an autoimmune disease or implanted medical device. It’s also not recommended for people with skin or metal sensitivities. Speak to your doctor before buying any grounding product.
- What’s better, a grounding mat or a grounding sheet?
It depends on what you’re using it for. If you want a good night’s sleep more than anything, try the sheets. If you have specific pain or want to ground on-the-go, the mat might be best.
