Does Sharing A Bed Affect Your Sleep?

With almost 60% of Eight users sharing a bed, it’s no wonder our smart mattresses were designed with couples in mind. Despite what some of us may think, sharing a bed with a partner does not cause significant sleep disturbances. Although some people may wake up due to snoring or a partner’s toss and turns, the reality is that sleeping next to someone isn’t a factor in bad sleep. Our data found that those who shared a bed had almost the same sleep score as those who slept alone. In fact, people who shared a bed had a slightly higher average score (71.24) than solo sleepers (70.48). 

If your partner is disrupting your sleep quality, there are two easy ways to resolve the issue (without kicking him or her to the couch): 

1. Upgrade your mattress 

You need a foam mattress that minimizes motion transfer. This way you won’t feel your partner move as he or she switches sleep positions. 

2. Check the temperature 

It can be tough to agree on the perfect bed temperature. The Eight Smart Mattress solves the biggest issue when sharing a bed by offering dual-zone temperature control. One person can warm up their bed while the other can keep it as is. In addition, it’s important to set your bedroom thermostat to a cool temperature of 60-67 degrees. This is the ideal temperature for good sleep. 

Some sleep experts are now saying the sharing the bed with someone improves sleep quality. A 2009 study found that women in long-term stable relationships fell asleep quicker and woke up less during the night compared to single women. The researchers also hypothesized that shared sleep in healthy relationships may lower levels of cortisol, a stress hormone and boost oxytocin, the love-hormone that eases anxiety. If you share a bed, it’s also recommended to have sex right before bed – it may be the key to a good night’s sleep. Oxytocin, which is released during an orgasm, influences sleep processes and dreams. 

If you’re single, don’t fret! Good sleep is still possible for you. Many people still find sharing a bed too be annoying and uncomfortable. In a survey by the University of Leeds and Silentnight, 29% of people said their partner was an obstacle to their sleep. And poor sleep could hurt everything — from your mood to your weight. Likewise, 60% of couples polled by The Today Show reported sleeping better alone. 

Since there seems to be data supporting single sleepers and couples, it’s really up to you. Both types of sleeping are great, as long as you are comfortable. 

 

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