Sleep expert's verdict after bizarre 'potato bed' claims to help you fall asleep faster
If you're struggling to fall asleep at night, you might be desperate enough to try anything, but is it worth trying the 'potato bed' trend? A sleep expert has issued a verdict
With as many as one in three people in the UK affected by insomnia, where you struggle to fall asleep or stay asleep, it's no wonder people will try anything to get some shuteye. One viral hack which has been making the rounds on social media is 'potato bed', which involves turning a fitted sheet upside down so the elastic edge is upright, filling the edges with pillows, and then placing a duvet on top of this structure before adding your normal duvet. This construction creates a plush, nest-like bed, which mimics the look of a jacket potato.
It sure looks cosy, but can it help you fall asleep and stay asleep? Hannah Shore, Head of Sleep Science at Mattress Online has shared her verdict on the trend, as well as the pros and cons. Speaking of the benefits, she said: "If you love the cocooning feel of being wrapped up and staying nice and warm, then you will probably find yourself relaxing and falling asleep that little bit easier in a 'potato bed'."
The amount of cushions, which create a cocooning feel, may feel the same as someone giving you a cuddle. It could also create a similar effect to weighted blankets. She added: "The additional low amount of pressure releases feel-good hormones, which can leave you feeling relaxed, happy, and secure, the perfect combination to fall asleep."
However, if you're not someone who likes the feeling of being "cocooned", having your sheets tucked in around you for example, you might not feel as comfortable.
Hannah explained: "With the addition of extra pillows and blankets, this may decrease the airflow, trapping extra warm air and making you feel warmer. When we sleep at night, our core body temperature needs to drop a couple of degrees in order to help us get access to the good quality sleep we need.
"Support may also be an issue. Your mattress and pillows are designed to be used in a specific way to provide you with the optimum support to help your body recover throughout the night. By piling extra cushions, duvets, and blankets around your body, you may find a lack of support, leading to increased morning aches and pains the following morning."
Issuing a verdict, the sleep expert said: "The potato bed is similar to a nest bed, having raised edges, lots of blankets, and providing that snuggly feeling. These types of beds are normally great for lounging in, but may not be the best option for a full night's sleep."
Instead, Hannah recommends trying a weighted blanket, which can mimic the feeling of pressure and warmth without impacting the body's support or reducing airflow. She added: "These are filled with beads or sand and apply pressure all over your body. It should feel like someone is cuddling you, much like a potato bed."
If you are struggling with insomnia and nothing seems to help, it's always best to speak to your GP.