A quiet night? CNET Research Finds 4 in 10 U.S. Adults Struggle to Get Quality Sleep During the Holiday Season

During the holidays, not everything is always beautiful, especially when it comes to sleeping. A recent survey by CNET found that about 42% of US adults experience sleep problems during the holiday season. Gen Z and Millennials struggle the most to get quality sleep during the holiday season, with over 50% of each generation reporting sleep problems.

Key findings

• 42% of US adults struggle with sleep problems during the holiday season, suggesting a seasonal effect on sleep patterns. Notably, the holiday season significantly affects sleep quality for more than half of Gen Z and Millennials.
• American adults would be willing to spend on average $78 per month (almost $1,000 a year) to improve sleep quality.
• Six out of 10 would consider investing in a better sleep setup. More specifically, 46% are ready to invest in better mattresses or bedding.
• More than half of US adults (56%) currently use some method to deal with sleep-related challenges. of these, 21% take supplements such as melatonin, valerian root and magnesium.
• One in four (22%) US adults currently use sleep technology (sleep headphones, wearables, AI chatbots, sleep apps) to deal with sleep-related challenges.

The true cost of a good night’s sleep in the US

It’s no secret that sleep products they often come with a hefty price tag. Whether it’s beautiful, silky bedding eye mask or a meditation appproducts developed to help you sleep well don’t come cheap.

Let’s see how much it would cost the average person to set up a bed. A budget mattress it can cost you anywhere from $250 to $1000, bedding for a queen size mattress averages $150 (sheets and comforter), a simple metal frame is around $100 and individual quality pillow it can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 ($100 to $200 for two). When you add it up, a basic bed setup can cost an average of $1,000. It does not include any supplementsaccessories such as eye masks, special pillow cases, sleep subscriptions or advanced sleep technology (e.g sunrise alarm clocks).

Read more: The best choice of mattress for healthy sleep in 2024

The investment you make in your bed is not a monthly expense unless you choose to finance everything. You will most likely invest up front and not have to change your mattress, pillows, sheets and frame for years. Although the initial costs of a good bed setup can be high, the long term the benefits of improved sleep qualitywhich directly affects your mood, productivity and cognitive function, outweigh the initial costs.

6 out of 10 Americans are willing to invest in better sleeping arrangements

A CNET survey found that roughly six in 10 American adults are willing to invest in making their bed, which includes items like mattresses and sheets. Among the things Americans are willing to spend money on to get better sleep are supplements (melatonin, magnesium, and so on), subscriptions (such as meditation apps), and sleep technology (such as alarm clocks and white noise machines. About 20 % said they were not). willing to invest their money, but to improve habits that contribute to better sleep.

More than half of Americans use some method to cope with poor sleep

CNET’s survey also highlighted the widespread use of products to address sleep challenges. More than half of US adults (56%) currently use some method to deal with sleep problems. This highlights the collective understanding of the importance of addressing sleep problems and the need to find tailored solutions based on individual needs.

Research has revealed a wide range of coping mechanisms for poor sleep – from more natural practices such as meditation, relaxation techniques and establishing a bedtime routine to modern solutions such as sleep-enhancing products, supplements and technology.

The predominant use of sleep products is worth billions of dollars

The high demand for sleep products has contributed significantly to a thriving industry worth tens of billions of dollars. According to Straits Researchthe sleep market is estimated at $64 billion in 2023 alone and is expected to grow by 70% by 2032 ($108 billion).

As people become more educated about the importance of not only getting enough sleep, but also the quality of it, the market for sleep improvement products continues to expand. Retailers have responded to this demand by offering new and improved sleep products and services, such as smart sleep technology, artificial intelligence, specialized bedding, sleep monitoring devices and innovative supplements.

Americans’ willingness to prioritize sleep

Americans are willing to make sacrifices to get the quality vacation they need. According to research data, 63% of American adults are willing to give up something in exchange for a good night’s sleep. This desire to prioritize sleep over other aspects of their daily lives sheds light on the value individuals place on the importance of rest.

Among the most common victims identified in the survey are:

• Reducing screen time (30%)
• Cutting back on sweets and snacks (26%)
• Limiting coffee consumption (22%)
• Limiting the use of alcohol or tobacco (21%)
• Abstaining from night exercises (17%)

Less common victims have been recorded, including:

• Adjusting your sleep schedule by forgoing sleep with: Pets (12%), partner (11%) and children (8%)
• Leaving a job (7%)
• Waiver of entire savings (2%)

Tips for a good night’s sleep this holiday season

While many products on the market may promise to solve your sleep problems, in reality, basic good sleep hygiene doesn’t have to cost you much at all. Follow these simple steps for quality resteven during the busiest holidays.

1. Building and maintaining a consistent sleep schedule: This means going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. And yes, even on weekends. Maintaining a sleep schedule helps regulate your body’s internal clock and circadian rhythm.

2. Create a relaxing bedtime routine that will help you wind down at night. This might look like this:

• Taking a warm bath
• Reading
• Diary
• Listening to soothing music
• Turn off electronics at least 30 minutes before bed

3. Create a relaxing sleeping environment: Having an ideal sleeping environment ensures that when you fall asleep, you stay asleep, and 65 degrees Fahrenheit is the ideal temperature for optimal sleep.

4. Avoid caffeine at least 4 to 6 hours before bed: Too much caffeine can reduce the amount of melatonin your body produces.

5. Try to avoid large meals at least a few hours before bedtime: Holidays are often synonymous with big, family meals. It’s perfectly fine to indulge in your favorite meals and desserts. Just try to have them at least 2 hours before bed.

6. Avoid strenuous activities at least 2 hours before bedtime: It is best to opt for low impact stretching or yoga to promote relaxation.

7. Get morning sunlight as soon as you wake up: Getting sunlight as soon as you wake up is linked to the regulation of your body’s circadian rhythm.

8. Make sure you have the right mattress for your desired sleeping position: Side sleepers need a softer mattress to relieve pressure points on their shoulders and hips. Meanwhile, back and stomach sleepers will need a firmer mattress to ensure proper spinal alignment.

9. Rub the inside of the wrist for 2 to 3 minutes: Still lying in bed with holiday anxiety? Try rubbing the inside of your wrist for a few minutes. This is a calming technique that experts love Katherine Hallsleep psychologist for Happy Bedsto recommend.

Methodology

CNET commissioned YouGov PLC to conduct the research. All figures, unless otherwise noted, are from YouGov PLC. The total sample size was 1,214 adults. Fieldwork was conducted from October 21 to 22, 2024. The survey was conducted online. The figures are weighted and representative of all US adults (age 18 and older).