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Sleep is a bit like money and time; you could always use a little more of it. But if you're not sleeping well, it'll certainly cost you. According to Healthline, if you're not getting the recommended 7-9 hours of sleep each night, you're more likely to experience memory and concentration issues, mood swings, weakened immunity, high blood pressure, weight gain, low sex drive and even an increased risk of heart disease and diabetes.
But getting better sleep could be as simple as making some changes to your sleep environment. In fact, making these changes to your bedroom could help you catch some Zs better than ever before.
Nix the television
There's no shame in indulging in a Netflix binge here and there. But doing so from bed could actually be undermining your sleep. According to Each Night, watching TV in bed can disrupt your natural circadian rhythm because the blue light emitted from the set can signal you to remain awake, inhibiting melatonin production.
Additionally, sleeping with the TV on can affect your sleep quality and even encourage insomnia. If you want to improve your sleep, give the bedroom TV the boot. Of course, this rule isn't exclusive to TVs. Other screens will have the same effect on sleep, so keep tablets and computers out of the bedroom as well.
Install (or reinstall) carpet
Hardwood throughout the home may be gaining popularity in recent years, but don't sell that carpet short; plush, warm carpet in your bedroom might help you actually get better sleep.
According to The Spruce, this is due to a number of reasons – first and foremost carpet's natural noise-cancelling and softening properties. Noise reduction is often synonymous with better sleep, and a carpet's absorption qualities can help keep your bedroom quiet.
Additionally, waking to the idea of stepping onto a cold, slippery floor can certainly increase your feelings of drowsiness and sleep deprivation, while an inviting floor can help motivate you to step out and get your day started.
Invest in window coverings
While a good dose of sunshine can bring you a shot of endorphins during the day, it can do just the opposite when it keeps you from getting an adequate amount of sleep. While a brightly lit bedroom might sound ideal in theory, it can really sabotage your rest – unless, of course, you have a way to block out excess light.
If waking too early is an issue for you, try installing blackout shades. Keep in mind, not all window coverings are created equal. The New York Times ranked blackout blinds for sleep, with a cellular-style shade taking the lead. For better sleep, avoid light curtains or slatted shutters that allow light to creep in.
Move the office
If you're like most people, your work environment got a little more flexible circa 2020. And for many people, that meant creating makeshift office space in homes with no dedicated office space. But if you've turned your bedroom into an office-by-day, it might be helpful to restore the space to a sleep sanctuary.
If you're now back in the office most of the time, restoring your space might be as simple as moving desks and electronics out of your bedroom. You can always set up a laptop at the kitchen table or in the living room in a pinch. If you're still working from home, think about a more long-term solution. Converting a section of your garage or installing a new wall to differentiate office from sleep space are two effective solutions.
Create a dreamy bed
There's just something oh-so-inviting about soft, cool and crisp bedding. Buying the right sheets, coverlets, pillows and duvets can make a huge difference in how you sleep – particularly if you tend to wake up when you get too hot or too cold.
When selecting new bedding, you'll want to make sure you're choosing breathable, natural fabrics – and of course, the softer, the better. Sleep Foundation provides a comprehensive list of favorite bedding in n all price points if you need help choosing the right pieces.
If you're ready to commit to better sleep, Giant Carpet One can help. The company's wide variety of plush, sound-absorbing carpet and other flooring can help you build the sleep sanctuary of your (very restful) dreams. Visit a Giant Carpet One for locations and hours.
