5 Tips to Enjoy a Night’s Sleep Without Crossing Your Partner

Listen to this article

Few things are more reassuring than falling asleep next to your significant other. Unfortunately, however, sharing a bed can create some complications.

This is particularly true if one or both of you suffer from sleep apnea or snore.

Other issues, like hogging the blanket and taking up too much space can also create problems. Some couples also prefer different beds and pillows. All of these issues can create strain, and when combined with a poor night’s sleep, can become serious marital issues.

Sleep is vital for your physical and mental health.

A poor night’s sleep can reduce productivity and leave you irritable. This can lead to problems at work and home.

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to ensure a better night’s sleep:

1. Address snoring and sleep apnea right away

Snoring and sleep apnea can tear couples apart.

Studies indicate that between 25 to 40 percent of couples regularly sleep in separate rooms, with snoring being one of the primary motivating factors.

First, you need to talk about the issue. You may be snoring and not realize it, likewise your significant other may not realize that he/she is snoring.

Next, you need to solve the issue. Snoring and sleep apnea are caused by blocked or obstructed airways. There are many ways to address snoring, including devices, such as CPAP machines, surgery, and using different pillows.

Snoring and sleep apnea may be linked to a serious health condition. It’s smart to seek out professional advice from a sleep apnea expert. He or she can help you figure out why you’re snoring and also how to address it.

2. Talk about your preferences

Healthy conversations are the foundation of healthy relationships.

You and your significant other should discuss sleeping preferences and identify any issues, say accidentally hogging blankets.

Often, there are simple solutions, such as buying a bigger blanket or adding a second blanket to the bed.

It’s also important to make sure you’re both comfortable with your bed. Your significant other may like soft beds, but you may need a firm bed to support your back, for example. Fortunately, you can buy beds that allow you to adjust the firmness of each side.

If your partner is tossing and turning in their sleep, this may indicate that they aren’t comfortable with the bed. They may not even recognize it.

Many people consciously prefer softer beds, but their body may actually need the support of a firmer mattress.

However, if you don’t discuss your preferences, the issue may not be addressed. Even if you’re comfortable with your sleeping arrangement, it’s wise to discuss it with your significant other. He or she may not be expressing his/her feelings.

3. Make sure your bed is big enough for both of you

Getting kicked in your sleep?

Your partner might not have enough room to sleep comfortably. Many couples try to make do with a full sized bed, but this actually leaves each person with only about as much space as a standard crib.

A queen or king-sized bed will better serve most couples. This will give both people more space to stretch out and catch a good night’s sleep.

4. Don’t let your bedroom become an office

Your bedroom is your bedroom. It’s where you catch your Z’s and engage in intimacy.

It’s best to leave your bedroom strictly to that. Don’t work on your laptop while in bed, and don’t bring that work report with you to sleep.

It’s fine to read a book if that helps you fall asleep, but what you do in bed should be restricted to pleasure and relaxation.

If your partner is bringing work to bed, talk with him or her about it.

5. Make sure the temperature is right for both of you

60 to 65 degrees Fahrenheit is considered the optimal sleeping temperature.

However, some people will prefer a warmer setting. If your partner needs some extra heat, while you want the room to remain cooler, invest in an electric blanket. This way, both of you get what you want.

Remember, it all starts with a conversation

As you can see, there are many steps and solutions you can take to improve you and your partner’s sleep. In order to identify a solution, however, you need to identify the problems. And that starts with having a conversation.

So make sure you discuss sleeping arrangements with your significant other and that both of your needs are being met.