According to The Sleep Charity, 40% of us suffer from sleep issues. In light of the last few years, it seems unlikely that this figure is set to improve in the near future. Sleep is a complex matter, but there are some factors which can positively influence our sleep experience and which we can easily control. This blog takes a look at how you can transform your bedroom into a haven of tranquillity, where you can shake off the stresses of the day, relax….and sleep.

1 Bedroom Environment Is Key

Don’t neglect the basics when it comes to sleeping better. Your bedroom environment plays a part in achieving a good night’s sleep.

It should be cool, quiet and dark. This is a room where you should feel calm and clear headed. For adults, a room above 24°C can produce restlessness, whereas below 12°C can result in trouble sleeping. For lighting, absolute darkness is always best – a bright room makes our bodies think it’s time to wake up. To stop light from sneaking in, blackout blinds or an eye mask will help.

2 A Comfortable And Supportive Bed

The bed is often overlooked when it comes to getting a good (or bad) night’s sleep, yet it plays a crucial role. Instead of waking up refreshed, energised and ready to face the world, sleeping on a mattress that is past its best is likely to give you a disturbed night and a stiff neck or back in the morning. Due to wear and tear, after 7 years it may not be giving you the support or comfort you need for a replenishing night’s sleep.

Memory foam mattresses can relieve body stresses, muscle pains and aches, and The Sleep Council says that we gain an average of 42 extra minutes of sleep when we swap an old mattress for a new one. Your pillow will also effect the quality of your sleep; it also needs to tuck into the neck and shoulder area to effectively support your head. If your sleep is suffering, it’s worth checking if your mattress is to blame. And if you’d like to find out if you need a new one, you can put your bed through an MOT with Bed Advice UK.  In addition the NBF (The National Bed Federation) has lots of advice on how to buy a new one.

3 Consider Colour

It has been found that those who sleep in rooms painted blue tend to snooze longer, as well as having reduced blood pressure. This is because blue is associated with a feeling of serenity.

Other cooling colours can also help boost a soothing mood. Relaxing shades of greys, silvers and neutrals have been found to lower the heart rate too. By opting for a calming palette of colours for your décor and soft furnishings – from silver hand-painted furniture to lightly toned wood grains – you’ll be well on your way to a peaceful night’s slumber.

You might be interested to know that The Sleep Charity recently teamed up with big paint brand, Valspar, to create a bank of specially curated hues that can help to encourage a better night’s sleep; you can read all about it right here.

4 Set The Scene

When we turn down the lights, our melatonin levels start to increase – this is the hormone we need to feel sleepy. Avoid using harsh, bright light in an evening, softer lighter or lamps are ideal in setting the scene. Candles also create an appealing ambience. This is why devices are not deemed a good idea in bed – the blue light suppresses the hormone that makes us feel ready to nod off.

5 Declutter And Spring Clean

Clutter has a negative effect on our lives: when you’re surrounded by a mess, you may be able to ignore it, but your brain will always register its surroundings. On a subconscious level, your brain will believe it needs to complete a task, such as sort laundry, collect cups and glasses or clear away piles of magazines. When you finally get around to clearing away the clutter, your brain is finally able to relax, release tension and allow you to enjoy a more restful night’s sleep.

Combat clutter with a spring clean, no matter the time of year. This will make your space fresher, calmer and and more organised. In addition, if you suffer from asthma, symptoms will be relieved with the removal of the dreaded dust mite!

If you are struggling to create space, fitted furniture options will maximise your room. Fitted wardrobes don’t just improve storage and accessibility around the room, they also help to enhance it visually. When you next enter your bedroom, you won’t be preoccupied with mess, and you’ll find it easier to nod off.

If you’re considering a new bespoke storage solution in the near future, do get in touch on 01756 700471 or via our Contact Us page. You can also view our Showroom 3D Tour for more information. We look forward to hearing from you, and in the meantime, may we wish you a restful night’s sleep!