Let’s talk about sleep. Specifically, the kind of sleep where you wake up feeling like a Disney princess, birds chirping, sun streaming, and not like you just did ten rounds in the ring. You know, the good stuff. 

But for the longest time, that kind of sleep was a myth in our household. Why? Because two grown adults (one being a restless sleeper), two duvet hogging dogs, and one blanket just wasn’t cutting it.

In the middle of the night, fed up with the constant disruption, I decided to try something different. I grabbed a second comforter, not really thinking much of it—just hoping for a bit of peace. 

To my surprise, it was an immediate game-changer. I finally slept through the night without waking up in the cold or fighting for a scrap of blanket. 

Discovering the Scandinavian Sleep Method (Without Even Knowing It!)

I didn’t know it at the time. But what I stumbled upon that night was something people in Scandinavian countries (Sweden, Norway, and Denmark) have been doing for ages.

The Scandinavian sleep method involves each person using their own duvet instead of sharing one. It’s a simple concept and practical solution that addresses a common issue many couples face: trying to get a good night’s sleep while sharing the same covers.

What is the Viral Scandinavian Sleep Method?

If you’re hearing about this for the first time, let me explain. 

The Scandinavian sleep method is all about using two separate duvets or comforters instead of sharing one. Each person gets their own blanket. Meaning, no more fighting over who has more coverage or who’s hogging the duvet. If you run cold at night, grab a heavier duvet.

If you tend to overheat, opt for something lighter. It’s a simple idea that makes a huge difference in getting a restful night’s sleep.

Benefits of the Scandinavian Sleep Method

Let’s look at why this method works so well, not just for us, but for so many couples.

1. Fewer Sleep Disruptions:

Having separate duvets drastically cuts down on disturbances from your partner’s movements. According to the National Sleep Foundation, a significant number of sleep disruptions among couples are due to movement transfer. By having your own duvet, you reduce the chances of being woken up by someone else’s restless sleep.

2. Personalized Comfort Equals Better Sleep:

Research published in Sleep Medicine supports the idea that when bedding is tailored to individual needs—like having a heavier duvet for cold sleepers and a lighter one for those who get hot—it leads to better sleep quality. When you sleep better, you wake up feeling more rested and ready for the day.

3. Improved Relationship Satisfaction:

It might sound dramatic, but sleep really can make or break a relationship. Studies from the University of California, Berkeley found that couples who get enough sleep are more satisfied in their relationships. Less irritation from interrupted sleep means fewer arguments and a happier household overall.

4. Expert Recommendations:

Even experts are starting to take notice of the Scandinavian sleep method. According to a recent article by the Cleveland Clinic, adopting separate duvets can significantly improve sleep quality and reduce nighttime disturbances. The article highlights how this approach can lead to fewer sleep disruptions, more personalized comfort, and better overall sleep hygiene—benefits that can contribute to a more peaceful and harmonious relationship.

How Two Duvets Saved Our Sleep (and My Sanity)

Let me be clear: I am not someone who can function without good sleep. If I don’t get my full night of rest, I’m basically a zombie the next day—moody, unfocused, and counting down the hours until I can crawl back into bed.

Sleep is non-negotiable for me and my mental health. 

As a light sleeper who struggles to get into deep sleep and REM sleep, even the smallest disturbance can pull me out of whatever rest I manage to get. That’s why finding a solution that actually works has been life-changing.

Since adopting the Scandinavian sleep method, not only have I been sleeping better, but I’ve noticed a significant improvement in the quality of my sleep. (Shout out to my Oura ring for gamifying my health.) I’m finally getting those precious moments of deep and REM sleep that I need to feel truly rested.

Since adopting the Scandinavian method and having separate blankets, not only have I been sleeping better, but our mornings have transformed from grumpy and groggy to, dare I say, almost blissful.

We wake up more refreshed, there’s less bickering over who was hogging the blankets, and our dogs get to keep their side of the bed without disturbing us. It’s a win all around.

I can’t even begin to tell you the difference it’s made. I used to dread the nights, knowing they’d be full of sleep disturbances and discomfort.

But now, at the end of the day, I’m actually excited to crawl into bed because I know I’ll have my own cozy space that no one—human or canine—can encroach on. The dogs can snuggle up wherever they want, and my husband can toss and turn to his heart’s content without me waking up cold.

Everyone gets what they need, and we all sleep better for it.

How to Try the Scandinavian Sleeping Method for Yourself

If you’re curious about trying this out, here’s how you can start:

Choose Your Comforters Wisely: First, think about what kind of sleeper you are. Then choose your own duvets based on your different temperature preferences. If you’re always cold, get a thicker duvet. If you’re a hot sleeper, pick something lighter and more breathable. (I use this one since I’m a cold sleeper, and Graham is a hot one, so he uses this one. We like this brand because the eucalyptus fibers help regulate temperature, their duvet covers are our favorite.) Then, we have a Percale fitted sheet as a happy medium for our different sleep temperatures. 

Get the Right Sizes: On a king size bed, two twin comforters or duvets usually work perfectly. This setup gives each person their own space without compromising comfort. And if you’re wondering about a top sheet or flat sheet, you have options. You can either skip them entirely—many people who use the Scandinavian sleep method do. Or choose individual top sheets to match each duvet. This way, each person can decide if they want the extra layer or prefer to go without.

Style Your Bed for a Cohesive Look: Just because you’re using two duvets doesn’t mean your bed can’t look stylish. To create a cohesive bed look, start with matching or complementary duvet covers that blend well with your bedroom decor. Layer on a throw blanket across the bottom of the bed to tie everything together and add texture. And don’t forget to finish it off with some decorative pillows—they’re perfect for adding a pop of color or a bit of personality. This way, your bed not only feels comfortable but also looks inviting and well-styled.

Switching to the Scandinavian sleep method might sound a little unconventional at first. And almost feeling like a sleep divorce having separate comforters.

But if you’re tired of waking up freezing, frustrated, or on the brink of a sleep-deprivation-induced meltdown, having individual duvets is definitely worth a shot. I mean, who wouldn’t want a setup that lets you get a decent night’s sleep without waging a nightly blanket war?

So, if you’re ready to finally stop fighting over the covers (and maybe stop low-key resenting your partner for stealing them), why not try the Scandinavian sleep method? 

Worst case, you’re out a couple of duvets. Best case, you actually start looking forward to bedtime. Trust me, your nights—and your mornings—might just become a whole lot more peaceful.

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