Nation's sleep habits revealed in new survey
Our bedroom habits can significantly impact how well we sleep. A new survey has revealed the truth behind our bed-making routines, including how many pillows we like to use and how often we actually make the bed.
One of the key takeaways of the survey, carried out by M&S, was that 60% of Brits make their bed daily: a morning ritual linked to getting a better night's sleep by creating an inviting environment. Yorkshire proved to be the tidiest part of the UK in bed making, with 67% of those surveys making their bed daily.
Karen Thomas, Head of Homeware Design at M&S, suggests that those who opt for a "leave it messy" approach could be missing out on better quality sleep. She explains: "Taking a few moments each morning to make your bed can set a positive tone for the day.
"It creates a welcoming space to return to and promotes a sense of calm and order. Adding a stylish throw or neatly arranged cushions can elevate the look, making your bed look both inviting and put together."
Pillows were also a focal point. Unsurprisingly, half of the nation opts for the usual 3-4 pillows, but among the younger generation of 18-24-year-olds, it's popular to pile up anything up to seven pillows on the bed for a cosier experience.
Meanwhile, comfort was cited as the most essential consideration for pyjamas, and a full-length design is the style of choice. Among women, 39% credited comfortable pyjamas as essential to helping them drift off, compared to 25% of men.
Other key factors in achieving quality rest included minimal noise (49%), complete darkness (43%), and room temperature control (36%).
So, how much sleep are we all actually getting?
Most Brits (52%) report getting the recommended 7–8 hours of sleep, with those aged 35–44 getting the most at 59%. However, 6% of respondents aged 18–24 and 65+ admit to averaging less than 5 hours of sleep.
The survey also noted that 8% of 18–24-year-olds get 9–10 hours of sleep - well above the recommended minimum.
For those who aren't getting enough shut-eye, the team at M&S say even slight tweaks to your routine, like establishing a consistent bedtime, choosing the right sleepwear, or creating a calming sleep environment, can help you achieve better quality rest.
Cool Comfort™ Striped Pyjama Top
Egyptian Cotton Sateen 400 Thread Count Pillowcases
Apothecary Sleep Pillow Mist
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