A new wave of the coronavirus seems to be creating major ripples in people’s lives – affecting their concerns, behaviors and shopping habits, according to the Q4 2021 “Inside the Mind of Today’s Mattress Consumer” survey by the Better Sleep Council. The research suggests that people are partially retreating into their homes – increasing their prioritization of optimizing them for comfort and efficiency. The study found that mattress purchase intent, specifically, is also rising as people continue to make getting a good night’s sleep their No. 1 health and wellness priority.

Preference for shopping and buying mattresses online rose in the fourth quarter, edging ahead of in-person mattress shopping, compared with the previous quarter. Despite recent increases in people’s overall concerns and preferences for not going out, consumers remain significantly more confident about going to the doctor, shopping/purchasing in-store, and traveling/patronizing a public establishment than they were a year ago at this time.

More details about what mattress shoppers are thinking, feeling and doing can be found in the full report here: BSC Tracker Results: Q4 2021.

In Q3 of 2021, Americans experienced a major COVID-19 resurgence – through the number of cases, in people’s news feeds and in consumers’ concerns and behaviors. According to the Better Sleep Council’s Q3 2021 Tracker, people are reverting toward some attitudes and behaviors exhibited earlier in the pandemic. This comes after seeing some relaxation of COVID-19 concerns and shopping behaviors earlier in 2021. In these third-quarter results, consumers are showing revived concerns about COVID-19 and the overall environment they live in. Confidence in travel and in brick-and-mortar shopping and purchasing has declined in this quarter, as opposed to the previous quarter, and preference for online shopping and purchasing remains strong.

Not surprisingly then, many people – almost two-thirds of those surveyed – said the current environment is affecting their sleep. Interestingly, more people are reporting their sleep as “good” and “very good”– perhaps reflecting the impact of strong mattress purchasing over the past 18 months and the fact that sleep remains their most important health priority.

People are cocooning again, spending much more attention and dollars on optimizing their homes for work, education and living. Bedroom products/sleep accessories purchases are still the No. 1 actual and planned purchases, and purchase intent for mattresses rose slightly. This suggests demand will continue. Brick-and-mortar purchases of mattresses surpassed online purchases for the first time since the BSC tracker began monitoring people’s shopping behaviors in 2020. All of this suggests that sleep will remain a high priority for consumers, and that demand for mattresses is unlikely to dip significantly. It also suggests retailers and manufacturers with effective digital and eCommerce programs will compete more effectively than others.

More details about what mattress shoppers are thinking, feeling and doing can be found in the full report here: BSC Tracker Results Q3 2021.

Does it feel like you’re the only one lying awake at night? Trust us, you’re not. In fact, the Better Sleep Council’s 2021 State of America’s Sleep study finds a growing percentage of Americans are battling poor sleep. Yet more people than ever report sleeping great too. It seems there’s no in-between when it comes to sleep. And the reasons you’re not getting your zzz’s can be as obvious as they are complex.

For the third year in a row, we surveyed 2,000 Americans to gauge sleep quality and monitor sleep trends. And like so many things in 2020, when this study was fielded, sleep was more polarized than ever.

“The percentage of people we classify as poor sleepers has gone up 6% since our first study in 2019,” says Mary Helen Rogers, vice president of marketing and communications. “At the same time, the number of excellent sleepers has also risen, up 2% in the same time period. There’s hardly anyone in the middle anymore.”

The Great COVID-19 Pandemic Wedge

No surprise here, but the COVID-19 pandemic has played a big role in pushing us to sleep extremes. Both direct and indirect effects of the pandemic appear to have a bearing on who’s getting restful sleep and who’s struggling as of late.

• Poor sleepers were 3 times more likely than excellent sleepers to have been diagnosed with a medical condition in the last 12 months. They were nearly twice as likely (17% versus 10% respectively) to have lost a loved one in that time too. While we can’t draw a direct connection to the COVID-19 pandemic in either case, the sheer numbers of widespread illness and death suggest that the disease contributed to lack of sleep and sleepless nights for many.
• Excellent sleepers were able to save for college (70%) and home expenses (63%) in the last year. And more than one-third (37%) feel good about the economy. It’s likely that these folks held on to their jobs throughout the lockdowns, felt secure about their financial standing, and may have used stimulus payments as windfalls for their nest eggs.
• On the other side of the mattress, two out of five poor sleepers say their financial situation has worsened in the last year. Almost half (48%) feel like their mental/emotional health has suffered during the pandemic as well. Income pressures and isolation were daily stressors (in turn, sleep blockers) for many throughout 2020.

Better Sleep Starts with Better Habits

Many factors that impact our sleep are beyond our control. But our study finds a number of personal lifestyle choices may define our status as an excellent or poor sleeper too.

• Three-quarters (74%) of excellent sleepers regularly exercise, with nearly one-third (32%) increasing their activity in the last year. On top of that, excellent sleepers are 7 times more likely than poor sleepers to say they enjoy exercise. So, try putting on a smile with your yoga pants if you want to sleep better.
• Poor sleepers report significant increases in screen time (42%) and alcohol consumption (22%) in the past year. And as we know, blue light and booze are not good for sleep.

“In addition to practicing good sleep hygiene, I encourage people to assess their mattress situation,” says Rogers. “Consciously putting good sleep habits into practice won’t do much good if you retire to a lumpy or sagging mattress from the ‘90s.”

Which Side Are You On?

Think you’re an excellent sleeper? Or is sleep just a nightmare for you? See how your experience stacks up with the rest of the nation. Dive into the full results of our 2021 State of America’s Sleep study:

• Learn if people in cities or in the country tend to sleep better.
• Find out if a Boomer sleeps more soundly than a Millennial.
• See who’s more likely to use noise machines at night.
• Discover how much an excellent sleeper earns per year versus a poor sleeper.
• Read up on these and dozens of other sleep traits – good and bad.

This blog provides general information about sleep and sleep products. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified healthcare professional. This blog should not be construed as medical advice or used to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease or condition. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately licensed physician or other healthcare professional. This blog is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and should not be relied upon to make decisions about your health or the health of others. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or elsewhere on bettersleep.org. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.

To give the industry insight into shifting consumer attitudes and behaviors in today’s environment, the Better Sleep Council has set about to conduct a quarterly national survey of mattress buyers.

The first quarter of 2021 (the second installment of the research) has seen some changes and some consistencies in how people are sleeping, how they are shopping and what they’re buying for their homes.

This installment of the Better Sleep Council’s quarterly tracker found:

• Respondents still say that a good night’s sleep is more important than diet, exercise and even relationships when it comes to their health.
• Almost half of respondents still aren’t getting a good night’s sleep – many of those who are credit their mattress and sleep environment for the quality of their sleep.
• In Q1 2021, mattresses became a lower priority for people’s purchases, falling from 5^th most important to 8^th – although the larger bedroom products category remains a priority for home product purchases.
• While online mattress shopping remains strong, people who are shopping for mattresses are starting to return to in-person shopping as they become more confident about going out to public spaces.
• Slightly more people are shopping locally, while interest in new retailers and new brands fell in the first quarter of the year.

More details about what mattress shoppers are thinking, feeling and doing can be found in the full report here: BSC Tracker Results: Q1 2021 .

Go here to see the first installment of the BSC’s quarterly research.

Background

In 2019, the BSC launched The State of America’s Sleep, a benchmark survey (Wave 1 [W1]) with the goal of measuring the quality of sleep in the United States Year over Year (YoY). In 2020, year two, the BSC fielded the research prior to the pandemic (W2) and deployed additional research in the early days of the pandemic to understand its initial impact. This current study (W3) analyzes not only current sleep findings, but also trends that are beginning to emerge.

Methodological overview

2,000 surveys were fielded between March 5-12, 2021, among a representative sample of U.S. adults (age 18+), using a questionnaire lasting approximately 15 minutes. Sample size provides a confidence interval of ±2.19% at 95%.

Respondent Profile

SLEEP INDEX

Analysis was conducted to establish a Sleep Index (SI) that could be used to track America’s sleep quality over time. The SI is calculated using the following questions:

Q2. On average, how would you describe your sleep within the past two weeks?

Q7. Within the past two weeks, how often have you felt the following when you wake up in the morning?

The multiplicative index was scaled so the average score is 100. The index was used to create three groups, as depicted below, for analysis purposes.

The sleeping divide  

The “Divided States of America” has become a paradigm for the political, social, economic and health experiences of people. This wave of The State of America’s Sleep shows that this divide now characterizes how Americans are sleeping. The research shows for the first time a dramatic dichotomy in how America is sleeping – with far more people reporting they’re sleeping poorly or sleeping excellently, and few people with average sleep quality. This divided sleep experience has been exacerbated by the direct and indirect effects of the ongoing pandemic and its economic fallout.

The sleeping divide – who are the poor and excellent sleepers?

Beyond just the profound divide in how people are sleeping, the research shows other differences across America that correlate to sleep quality. For example, you will find more excellent sleepers in urban areas. They are more likely to be older and have a higher education. Their outlook is more positive, and they are more likely to feel good about the economy, think the country is moving in the right direction and be confident in the current administration.

You will find more poor sleepers in rural areas. They are more likely younger and will have less education. Their outlook is not as positive, and they are more likely to not feel good about the economy, not think the country is moving in the right direction and not be confident in the current administration.

How has COVID-19 exacerbated that divide?

COVID-19 has affected poor sleepers even more: They are experiencing physical and emotional pain, as well as a decline in mental health – almost half (48%) say their mental health has declined in the past year. We know poor sleepers have more stress, but they are also more likely to say that being a parent is a significant source of stress for them.

As expected, poor sleepers struggle with sleep – they do not sleep enough, struggle to fall asleep, wake up frequently and cannot go back to sleep after waking up. Over two-thirds (70%) wake up tired, and over half (60%) say they rarely, if ever, wake up rested or refreshed. Although most people don’t use sleep-promoting medication or other tools to help them sleep, poor sleepers are more likely to do so than excellent sleepers.

Poor sleepers are more likely to have increased their screen time during the pandemic, as well as increased their alcohol consumption – both behaviors reflected in other research on the effects of the pandemic.

What can poor sleepers learn from excellent sleepers to close the divide?

Although the research shows the depth of America’s sleep quality divide, it also suggests things poor sleepers can learn from excellent sleepers that would improve their sleep quality. Excellent sleepers have been participating in a variety of activities and continue to do so. They are also trying new activities and sticking with them. Excellent sleepers are regularly exercising, and many have increased their exercise in the last year.

Excellent sleepers are financial savers and have even significantly increased their savings since the COVID-19 pandemic hit.

Key Takeaways

 A Nation Divided

• While both excellent and poor sleepers live in both rural and urban areas, poor sleepers are more likely to live in rural areas and excellent sleepers are more likely to live in urban areas
  • 38% of excellent sleepers live in urban areas (30% of poor sleepers)
  • 20% of poor sleepers live in rural areas (15% of excellent sleepers)
• Excellent sleepers are more likely to be older and poor sleepers are more likely to be younger
  • More than one-third (44%) of excellent sleepers are 55+, which is significantly higher than poor sleepers (31%)
  • More than one in four (27%) excellent sleepers are 65+, which is significantly higher than poor sleepers (16%)
  • More than one-third (36%) of excellent sleepers are Boomers, which is significantly higher than poor sleepers (27%)
  • While the Silent Generation represents a small percentage of excellent sleepers, Silents are roughly twice (1.6) as likely to be excellent than poor sleepers
• Excellent sleepers are more likely to have a higher education and poor sleepers are more likely to be less educated
  • Over half (55%) of excellent sleepers have a bachelor’s degree or higher, which is significantly higher than poor sleepers (40%)
  • Over half (60%) of poor sleepers have less than a bachelor’s degree, which is significantly higher than excellent sleepers (44%)
• Excellent sleepers are more likely to feel good about the economy, think the country is moving in the right direction and be confident in the current administration
  • More than one-third (37%) of excellent sleepers feel good about the economy, which is significantly higher than poor sleepers (23%)
    • Almost half (47%) of poor sleepers do not feel good about the economy, and that is significantly higher than excellent sleepers (34%)
  • Over half (53%) of excellent sleepers think the country is headed in the right direction, which is significantly higher than poor sleepers (39%)
    • The percentage of excellent sleepers who think the country is headed in the right direction has been increasing YoY and their agreement is significantly higher in 2021 than 2020 and 2019
    • More than one-third (36%) of poor sleepers do not think the country is headed in the right direction, and this is significantly higher than excellent sleepers (28%)
  • Over half (55%) of excellent sleepers are confident in the administration, which is significantly higher than poor sleepers (40%)
    • The percentage of excellent sleepers who are confident in the administration has been increasing YoY and their agreement is significantly higher in 2021 than 2020 and 2019
    • About one-third (35%) of poor sleepers are not confident in the administration, and this is significantly higher than excellent sleepers (28%)

What Has Been Affected By COVID?

• Poor sleepers are more likely than excellent sleepers to experience physical and emotional pain, as well as stress. They also are more likely to have experienced a decline in their mental health over the last year.
  • More than one-third (37%) of poor sleepers experience pain when sitting or standing and more than one in four (26%) experience pain when lying down, which is significantly higher than excellent sleepers (27%/12%)
  • Almost one in four (23%) poor sleepers have been diagnosed with a medical condition (e.g., anxiety, depression, cancer, etc.) in the last year, which is 2.3 times more likely than excellent sleepers (10%)
    • 17% of poor sleepers have experienced the loss of a loved one in the past year, which is significantly higher than excellent sleepers (10%)
  • Almost half (48%) of poor sleepers say their mental/emotional health has declined over the past year – which is 2.5 times more likely than excellent sleepers (19%)
  • Close to half (45%) of poor sleepers often or very often feel stress and are four times more likely than excellent sleepers (11%) to say they feel stress often or very often
    • Poor sleepers are also more likely to say that being a parent is a very significant source of stress, with more than two-thirds (40%) feeling this way – which is significantly higher than excellent sleepers (29%)
  • Poor sleepers struggle with sleep in a variety of ways and are more likely to use sleep-promoting medication or other tools to help them sleep
    • Over half (56%) of poor sleepers do not get the recommended seven to eight hours of sleep per night – compared to less than one-third (31%) of excellent sleepers
    • Poor sleepers are more likely to take more than 30 minutes to fall asleep, wake up more often, and struggle going back to sleep after waking up
      • More than one-third (35%) of poor sleepers take more than 30 minutes to fall asleep (compared to 9% of excellent sleepers)
      • More than half (53%) of poor sleepers wake up often or frequently during the night (compared to 28% of excellent sleepers)
      • More than one-third (38%) of poor sleepers have trouble going back to sleep after waking up at night (compared to 9% of excellent sleepers)
    • Poor sleepers are more likely to wake up tired; stiff, in pain or sore; or not rested/refreshed
      • More than two-thirds (70%) of poor sleepers wake up tired (compared to 3% of excellent sleepers)
      • More than one-third (39%) of poor sleepers often or frequently wake up stiff, in pain or sore (compared to 9% of excellent sleepers)
      • More than half (60%) of poor sleepers rarely or never wake up rested/refreshed (compared to 1% of excellent sleepers)
    • Most sleepers do not use sleep-promoting medication or other things to help them sleep; however, poor sleepers are more likely to use them than excellent sleepers
      • Poor sleepers are more likely to often/frequently use sleep-promoting supplements or vitamins to help them sleep (16% of poor sleepers/9% of excellent sleepers)
      • Poor sleepers are more likely to often/frequently use sleep-promoting OTC or prescription medications to help them sleep (12% of poor sleepers/7% of excellent sleepers)
      • More than one in four poor sleepers (26%) regularly sleep with a pet (18% of excellent sleepers)
      • More than two-thirds (38%) of poor sleepers regularly sleep with a fan (27% of excellent sleepers)
      • 11% of poor sleepers regularly sleep with a sound machine/white noise/ phone app (6% of excellent sleepers)
    • Poor sleepers are more likely to have increased their screen time during the pandemic, as well as increased their alcohol consumption
      • More than two-thirds (42%) of poor sleepers have increased their screen time somewhat or a lot in the past year (30% of excellent sleepers)
        • Poor sleepers (14%) are more likely to say their total screen time has increased a lot in the past year (8% of excellent sleepers)
      • Alcohol consumption has increased somewhat or a lot in the past year for more than one in 10 (22%) poor sleepers (14% of excellent sleepers)
    • Poor sleepers struggle with finances and have lower incomes
      • More than one in 10 (21%) poor sleepers have an income under $25K
        • The average income for poor sleepers = $71K/excellent sleepers = $90K
      • More than one-third (36%) of poor sleepers say they typically do not buy what they want when they want it (22% of excellent sleepers)
      • Almost half (47%) of poor sleepers say they live paycheck to paycheck, which is significantly higher than excellent sleepers (33%)
      • Two in five poor sleepers (40%) say their financial situation has changed negatively as a result of COVID-19 – this is significantly higher than excellent sleepers (30%)
    • Poor sleepers have relationship issues and feel isolated
      • More than two-thirds (41%) of poor sleepers’ relationships have suffered (e.g., friends, family, extended family) in the past year (27% of excellent sleepers)
      • Almost one in five (19%) poor sleepers have a difficult relationship with their spouse/partner (8% of excellent sleepers)
      • More than one in five (22%) poor sleepers do not have deep, meaningful friendships with people outside their family (14% of excellent sleepers)
      • More than two-thirds (41%) of poor sleepers wish they had more friends (31% of excellent sleepers)
      • More than two-thirds (39%) of poor sleepers have difficult times in social situations (19% of excellent sleepers)
      • More than two-thirds (36%) of poor sleepers would love to go out but do not have anyone to go out with (21% of excellent sleepers)

What Are the Excellent Sleepers Doing?

• Excellent sleepers are exercising regularly, increasing their exercise and enjoying it – as well as participating in a variety of activities and continuing to do so
  • Almost three-quarters (74%) of excellent sleepers have been exercising for more than a year – and almost one in five (19%) of those excellent sleepers who exercise tried exercise in just this past year and continued to participate
    • More than one-fifth (22%) of poor sleepers say they tried exercising in the past year and then stopped
  • Over half (54%) of excellent sleepers have tried outdoor activities (e.g., hiking, bike riding, kayaking, etc.) in the past year and continue to participate, or have participated in these outdoor activities for more than a year (and still participate)
  • Excellent sleepers are more likely to have been participating in gardening, meditating and yoga for more than a year
    • Over half (52%) of excellent sleepers have been participating in gardening for more than a year – 16% of excellent sleepers tried gardening this year and continue to participate
      • More than two-thirds (41%) of poor sleepers have never participated in gardening or haven’t in several years
    • More than one-third (38%) of excellent sleepers have been practicing meditation and one in four (25%) has been practicing yoga for more than a year
  • Excellent sleepers are more likely to say they enjoy physical activities (completely agree that they enjoy the activity)
    • More than one-third (37%) of excellent sleepers completely agree that they enjoy exercising, which is almost two times (1.7) more likely than poor sleepers (22%)
    • About one-third (33%) of excellent sleepers completely agree that they enjoy participating in outdoor activities (e.g., hiking, bike riding, kayaking), which is 1.3 times more likely than poor sleepers (25%)
  • Excellent sleepers are more likely to say they have increased their exercise during the pandemic – almost one-third (32%) of excellent sleepers
    • Close to one-third (33%) of poor sleepers say they have exercised less during the pandemic
    • Poor sleepers are more likely to say they don’t engage in vigorous activity (e.g., running, tennis, aerobic dancing, spinning, CrossFit, etc.) or moderate activity (e.g., brisk walking, power yoga, water aerobics, etc.) at all
      • Over half (54%) don’t engage in vigorous activity
      • 30% don’t engage in moderate activity
    • Excellent sleepers are financial savers and have even increased their savings
    • Excellent sleepers are more likely to save money than poor sleepers
      • More than two-thirds (70%) of excellent sleepers save money to pay for their children’s college education (46% of poor sleepers)
      • Almost two-thirds (63%) of excellent sleepers save money for unforeseen home expenses (48% of poor sleepers)
      • Over half (58%) of excellent sleepers regularly save money, so they have enough for retirement (42% of poor sleepers)
      • Over half (54%) of excellent sleepers save money for unforeseen medical expenses (39% of poor sleepers)
      • Over half (54%) of excellent sleepers regularly save money for vacation (40% of poor sleepers)
    • Excellent sleepers have significantly increased their savings since pre-pandemic (2020)
      • More than two-thirds (70%) of excellent sleepers saved money for their children’s college education in 2021 (46% in 2020)
      • About two-thirds (63%) of excellent sleepers saved money for unforeseen home expenses (56% in 2020)
      • Over half (54%) of excellent sleepers saved money for vacation (48% in 2020)
      • Over half (54%) of excellent sleepers saved money for medical expenses (48% in 2020)
      • Over half (58%) of excellent sleepers saved money for retirement (49% in 2020)
      • More than one-third (40%) of excellent sleepers invested in the stock market (34% in 2020)

Survey Details: Better Sleep Council March 2021

There’s no argument that 2020 was a crazy year. Uncertainty, turmoil and change hit virtually everyone and all sectors of the economy, including the bedding products industry. Unlike other sectors of the economy, mattress sales and revenue were strong in 2020, but how companies did business and how consumers thought about, shopped and bought bedding products underwent significant transformation.

To give the industry insight into shifting consumer attitudes and behaviors in this environment, the Better Sleep Council has set about to conduct a quarterly national survey of mattress buyers. The initial study, conducted in late November, surveyed 500 people, all of whom had purchased a mattress in the last month or planned to do so within 30 days.

The study uncovered several interesting facts about mattress shoppers’ mindsets and actions, and about how they’re adapting to the current environment. For example:

• Mattress buyers say a good night’s sleep is even more important than diet and exercise when it comes to their health.
• With home being the place where people have to live, work and attend school, consumers are spending money on all kinds of things to optimize their homes – and the broad category of bedding products is their top purchase, while mattresses rank fifth.
• Not surprisingly, people are buying mattresses online more frequently, but they miss the in-store shopping experience.
• With so much of their lives being affected by change, people are reacting by searching for and shopping new brands and retailers.

More details about what mattress shoppers were thinking, feeling and doing in Q4 of 2020 can be found in the report here: BSC Tracker Results: Q4 2020

From curbside grocery pickups to daily deliveries from Amazon, COVID-19 has had a heavy impact on the way we shop for almost everything, including mattresses.

So, how exactly has COVID-19 affected mattress shopping in 2020? Well, the Better Sleep Council asked people who planned to purchase or had purchased a mattress and here are some of our key findings.

Sleep on It

During COVID, shoppers are making faster decisions and are spending less time researching before making a purchase.

• In 2020, almost half of those who bought new mattresses said they spent one week or less shopping, while in 2019, only 31% spent that same amount of time shopping.
• Not only were people taking more time to make a purchase pre-COVID, but they were also doing more homework. In 2020, people researched three to four sources before making a decision, compared to seven to eight sources in 2019.

Count Stars Before Counting Sheep

The study revealed the importance of online reviews in mattress shopping research. Mary Helen Rogers, vice president for marketing and communications at the Better Sleep Council, states, “Shoppers who look at online reviews value them and find them influential – our findings reiterate this. For instance, of the 47% of mattress shoppers who read or had planned to read online reviews, 74% considered them a top factor in their final purchase decision.”

Since it can sometimes be difficult to tell which online reviews will be the most helpful to you, it’s best to use a mix of different sources to guide and influence your decisions while mattress shopping.

• Ask friends – a tried-and-true method. Our personal sense of self is derived from other people, and social psychologists have even said that the more of your identity you draw from a group, even when you’re not around that group, the more likely you are to uphold those values. Friends will give you all of the unfiltered pros and cons of their mattresses, may open your eyes to some new options you hadn’t thought of, and could sway your opinion while mattress shopping.
• Social media – What’s the conversation around the mattress you’re looking at purchasing? Social media sites like Twitter, Facebook and Reddit have entire communities based on mattresses and mattress buying.
• Online mattress tools – Online tools, like our Better Bed Quizzz, are built to help you find a mattress that suits your exact needs. And the best part? They’re free.

Power Your Sleep with the Power of Research

A late 2019 Better Sleep Council study showed that people who take shopping shortcuts aren’t satisfied with their mattress purchase. They feel less informed and reported being less satisfied with their sleep quality. Shoppers who spend time researching feel more satisfied with their purchase, enjoy their shopping experience and are more likely to be satisfied with their sleep quality.

All of this means your new mattress is affecting your sleep before you even buy it. So, you should take your time to study up on what works for you. Our Better Bed Quizzz can give you a personalized summary of your mattress needs and even tips on testing a mattress in-store.

Speaking of in-store, you may feel a bit apprehensive going to a physical location to shop for a mattress, but many retailers have taken measures to ensure the shopping environment is safe during the pandemic. The Better Sleep Council always recommends trying before you buy, using the S.L.E.E.P test mentioned in our guide to choosing the best mattress.

The pressures of COVID can make it feel like there is less time to spend all around, but if our findings have taught us anything, it’s that better sleep is worth the research. Take your time on your research, use a mix of reviews and other sources for a better-informed opinion, and you can find a mattress that’s perfect for you. You can even check out our full COVID-19 Mattress Shopping Study for more information.

Source:

• https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20190520-how-your-friends-change-your-habits—for-better-and-worse

This blog provides general information about sleep and sleep products. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified heath care professional. This blog should not be construed as medical advice or used to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease or condition. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other health care professional. This blog is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and should not be relied upon to make decisions about your health or the health of others. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or elsewhere on bettersleep.org. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.

The goal of this study is to understand the details of people’s shopping, buying and receipt of mattresses in the current (COVID-19) environment.

There were 501 online surveys completed October 31 through November 5, 2020, with adults 18 years and older.

• 314 (63%) respondents had purchased a mattress within the last two months.
• 187 (37%) respondents planned to purchase a mattress within the next one to two months.

Respondents who purchased a mattress within the last two months received questions about their recent mattress purchase (Q1-Q10). Respondents who were planning to purchase a mattress in the next two months received questions about their planned upcoming mattress purchase (Q11-Q20).

Detailed findings are also included in the PowerPoint presentation report (BSC Sub-Study: Mattress Shopping Behavior During COVID-19, November 2020).

REPORT SUMMARY

This summary encompasses combined overall results from both mattress purchasers and those who plan to purchase a mattress.

• Consumers are shopping both online and in-store for mattresses and looking at an average of three to four different channels on their shopping journey.
• Shoppers who want to shop in-store are willing to travel up to 20 to 40 minutes to do so.
• Online reviews are an important part of the shopping and purchasing journey, but there is not a real distinction between the various review sources.
• About half of all mattress shoppers search for and read online reviews and visit an average of three to four review websites during their shopping journey.
• Online reviews are an important factor in the final purchase decision for all mattress shoppers, and even more so for those who purchase their mattress online.
• Consumers are more likely to purchase online, but more than one-third are still buying or planning to buy in-store because they want to try out the mattress, see it in person, etc.
• About 61% of consumers who shop online do so because of COVID-19 concerns; other reasons include a better price, it’s easier and fast/free shipping.
• The buyer journey lasts a week or less for about half of all mattress shoppers, and those who purchase in-store are more likely to have a shorter journey.
• More than half of all consumers will set up their mattress on their own.

QUESTION BY QUESTION RESULTS

Mattress Purchasers (respondents who purchased a mattress in the last 60 days)

Q1. Which of the following were part of your shopping experience BEFORE you purchased your mattress? Select all that apply.

Q2. Where did you go online to read reviews when you were shopping for a mattress? Select all that apply.

Q2A. Please rank the following in order of usefulness, with 1 being the most likely to be useful, 2 being the second most likely to be useful and so on.

Q3. You said in your shopping journey you visited at least one brick-and-mortar store. How long did it take you to get to that store? (If you visited more than one store, please think of the store that was the farthest away and/or took the most time to get to.)  

Q3A. You said in your shopping journey you did not visit any brick-and-mortar mattress stores. Which of the following best describe why? Check all that apply.

Q3B. You said there were not brick-and-mortar mattress stores close enough for you to shop at. How far away was the closest mattress store to you?

Q4. Where/how did you purchase your mattress?

Q5. What kind of mattress did you purchase?

Q6. How important were the following to your final purchase decision?

Q7. About how much time did your entire journey last? Think of when you first started shopping for a mattress until you purchased it. (Do not include delivery and setup.)

Q8. How did you get your mattress home?

 Q9. How did you receive your new mattress?

Q10. After your mattress was delivered, how did it get set up?

Plan to Purchase a Mattress (respondents who plan to purchase a mattress in the next 60 days)

Q11. You said you plan to purchase a mattress in the next one to two months. How will you shop for this mattress? Select all that apply.

Q12. Where will you go online to read reviews when you are shopping for a mattress? Select all that apply.

Q12A. Please rank the following in order of usefulness, with 1 being the most likely to be useful, 2 being the second most likely to be useful and so on.

Q13. You said in your shopping journey you will visit at least one brick-and-mortar store. How long do you think it will take you to get to that store? (If you plan to visit more than one store, please think of the store that is the farthest away and/or will take the most time to get to.)

Q13A. You said in your shopping journey you will not visit any brick-and-mortar mattress stores. Which of the following best describe why? Check all that apply.

Q13B. You said there are not brick-and-mortar mattress stores close enough for you to shop at. How far away is the closest mattress store to you?

Q14. Where/how do you think you will purchase your mattress?

Q15. What kind of mattress do you think you will purchase?

Q16. How important are the following to your final purchase decision?

Q17. About how much time do you think your entire journey will last? Think of when you will first start shopping for a mattress until you purchase it. (Do not include delivery and setup.)

Q18. How will you get your mattress home?

Q19. How will you receive your new mattress?

Q20. After your mattress is delivered, how will it be set up?

All Respondents – Profile Questions 

Survey Details: Better Sleep Council November 2020

It’s hard to hit the hay when the cows are mooing. And with all your financial worries right now, you could be dealing with a downright noisy herd in your head. Not only are financial worries stressful to think about during the day, but they can also invade your nighttime routine and make getting enough quality sleep feel like a faraway dream. Below, we have tips for better sleep during your financial stress.

A Financial Stress Wake-Up Call

In an attempt to discover positive and negative factors that impact sleep, the State of America’s Sleep study asked individuals questions related to their day-to-day lives and sleeping environment. It found that more than half (60%) of self-rated poor sleepers live paycheck to paycheck and three out of four (75%) are concerned about their own financial future.

Financial state plays a huge role in how we see and feel about ourselves, and 2020 has thrown a wrench into everyone’s financial stability.

Am I making enough money? Am I saving enough money? How am I going to pay that bill? Do I have enough to support my family? These are the questions that may already have been keeping you up at night and are now amplified due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 “The pandemic has created an environment of uncertainty and instability,” said Ellen Wermter, board-certified family nurse practitioner. Wermter continued, “All this change and instability creates immediate concerns, such as how to provide for self and family, but also longer-term worries about what the future holds.”

With everything going on, it’s no wonder that getting some shut-eye has become a lot more challenging, but the following can get you back to catching some Z’s:

Sleep Now, Worry Later

The goal isn’t to outright ignore your finances, but to set aside a time to think about them so they don’t pop up at bedtime and in your nightmares. What Wermter suggests is scheduling a specific time of the day or week to address financial concerns. “It is easier to tackle problems in small steps, and avoiding the problem only causes that nebulous cloud of worry to grow. Instead, concentrate on your money problem-solving efforts during the time you set aside, and then move out of that worry cycle.” Addressing your concerns during your worry cycle helps you minimize interruptions during your sleep cycle.

Work It Out

We all know the physical benefits of exercise, but don’t forget about the stress-busting benefits as well. When you exercise, your brain activates neurotransmitters called endorphins. (You may have heard of the “runner’s high.”) Endorphins are responsible for feel-good feelings of happiness and content. And feeling good aids in the sleep process. Exercise is a lullaby for your body, and just 30 minutes a day can prepare you for a good night’s rest.

Improve Your Pre-Bed Ritual

You can’t just jump straight into sleep. You’ve got to set the mood. Wermter suggests building a bedtime routine at the end of the day in order to “help prepare your body and mind for sleep.” A few simple pre-sleep activities you can add to your routine are to turn off your devices, submerge yourself in darkness with black-out curtains or enjoy a nice, relaxing drink like chamomile tea.

Find Financial Help

Even though sleep helps melt all of your troubles away, financial worries will still be there when you wake up. If you’re struggling, there are a number of groups, such as the National Foundation for Credit Counseling, that can help you get back on track. The NFCC is a nonprofit financial counseling organization that helps you manage debt at no cost. You can have an online chat or speak directly over the phone with a financial counselor. Through the pandemic, they’ve been advising people on emergency credit card payments and mortgage forbearance, while providing resources for COVID-19 emergency financial help.

Financial stress has been robbing you, leaving restless nights and even more stress in its wake. But the key to getting some shut-eye is to keep your eyes open. Set a time to handle your financial stress, create a better sleep routine and seek out financial help if needed to get back to a restful sleep.

Sources:

• https://www.cnbc.com/2020/05/11/how-to-reduce-financial-stress-triggered-by-coronavirus-pandemic.html
• https://www.nfcc.org/resources/coronavirus-financial-toolkit/
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/in-depth/exercise-and-stress/art-20044469

This blog provides general information about sleep and sleep products. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified heath care professional. This blog should not be construed as medical advice or used to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease or condition. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other health care professional. This blog is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and should not be relied upon to make decisions about your health or the health of others. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or elsewhere on bettersleep.org. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.

The fireplace and furnace aren’t the only sources of indoor heat in the winter. Americans retreat to the bedroom to get through their coldest, darkest days by having some of the best winter sleep and sex of the year.

In a survey conducted by the Better Sleep Council, 48% of responders say they definitely spend more time in bed during the winter. The biggest reason? It gets dark early. About two-thirds (64%) said those early sunsets and the switch to standard time make them want to get under the covers and stay there.

Time to Rev up the Intimacy

So it’s only 9 p.m. and you find yourself already in bed. What might start as spooning up to your bed partner just to stay warm on a chilly winter night often ends up in steamy sex. It’s a fact. Research done by the University of Texas reports the peak period for conception occurs between November and January.

Our responders say, bring on all that extra lovemaking! More than three-quarters (77%) think sex is better in the winter. When asked to explain why, people most often cited “cuddling” and “warmth” as reasons. It appears that the emotional oxytocin rush from the intimate contact, plus the added physical benefit of sharing body heat, give cold-season sex such appeal.

A Chance to Get Some Rest

It’s not just sex that Americans get a lot of in the winter. More than half of us (51%) will get more hours of sleep in the winter compared to the other three seasons too. Those who report having a comfortable bed (36%) are the most likely to say they’ll get more sleep.

While 42% of people say the season that offers the best sleep is winter, there was a small minority (10%) who said that breathing issues from dry winter air and the added stress of the season negatively impact their sleep.

“If you’re not in the group who sleeps well in the winter, you might consider upgrading your mattress,” says Mary Helen Rogers, vice president of marketing and communications for the Better Sleep Council. “Using room humidifiers and practicing relaxation techniques can also help alleviate some of the things that commonly get in the way of quality sleep this time of year.”

Or you can just have sex.

One in five responders (19%) said the extra time they spend in bed during the winter is due to the fact that they slept better after making love.

Sources:

• https://journals.lww.com/greenjournal/fulltext/2001/06000/seasonality_in_conception_ofbirths_and_influence.20.aspx

This blog provides general information about sleep and sleep products. The words and other content provided in this blog, and in any linked materials, are not intended to replace a one-on-one relationship with a qualified heath care professional. This blog should not be construed as medical advice or used to diagnose, treat, prevent or cure any disease or condition. If the reader or any other person has a medical concern, he or she should consult with an appropriately-licensed physician or other health care professional. This blog is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment, and should not be relied upon to make decisions about your health or the health of others. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this blog or elsewhere on bettersleep.org. If you think you may have a medical emergency, immediately call your doctor or dial 911.