Bedtime rituals are no longer just about winding down for the night; they are increasingly being recognised as essential to our overall well-being. A recent survey by Marks & Spencer (M&S) has shed light on Britons’ sleep habits, exploring how routines, bedding choices, and sleepwear influence rest quality.
The findings underline how simple changes, such as making the bed or choosing the right pyjamas, can significantly impact sleep hygiene and create a more inviting and restful environment. Experts Karen Thomas, Head of Homeware Design, and Soozie Jenkinson, Head of Lingerie Design at M&S, offered insights and tips to help individuals improve their bedtime rituals.
The bed-making debate
For many, bed-making is more than a chore – it’s a daily ritual that sets the tone for the day. The survey revealed that 60% of Britons make their bed each morning, with Yorkshire leading the way at 67%. Karen Thomas notes that this simple act fosters a sense of calm and order, creating a welcoming space to return to at night.
“Taking a few moments each morning to make your bed can set a positive tone for the day,” Thomas explains. “Adding a stylish throw or neatly arranged cushions elevates the look and makes your bed both inviting and functional.”
The great pillow divide
Pillow preferences remain a topic of debate. Half of Britons prefer three to four pillows, while younger adults (aged 18–24) are more inclined to embrace excess, with 4% admitting to having seven or more.
Karen highlights that while cushions add aesthetic appeal, the primary focus should be on a good pillow that supports the head and neck. “Your pillow setup is key to better sleep,” she advises. “The right pillow, whether feather-filled, down, memory foam, or synthetic, ensures alignment with the spine. While natural feather fillings are softer, they may trigger allergies for some, making synthetic options a better alternative.”
Pyjama preferences and hygiene habits
Sleepwear is another essential component of bedtime routines. The survey found that full-length pyjamas are the nation’s favourite, with 32% of respondents choosing them for comfort.
Hygiene also plays a role in sleepwear choices. Most respondents (40%) wash their pyjamas after 2–3 wears, while 38% wait until 4–5 wears.
Soozie Jenkinson emphasises the importance of breathable fabrics for a restful night. “Choosing soft, breathable materials like our 100% cotton or cotton-modal blend pyjamas can help regulate body temperature,” she says. “Our Cool Comfort technology adds an extra layer of comfort to ensure undisturbed sleep.”
Finding the sleep sweet spot
The survey revealed that 52% of Britons achieve the recommended 7–8 hours of sleep, though variations exist across age groups. On average, respondents reported sleeping 6 hours and 47 minutes per night.
Interestingly, 35–44-year-olds were most likely to hit the 7–8-hour mark (59%), while 18–24-year-olds showed the highest percentage of long sleepers, with 8% sleeping 9–10 hours. At the other end of the spectrum, 6% of 18–24-year-olds and adults over 65 reported averaging less than 5 hours of sleep.
Soozie stresses the importance of tailoring bedtime routines to individual needs. “Sleep is vital to our health and wellbeing,” she explains. “Small adjustments, like establishing a consistent bedtime or creating a calming environment, can make a significant difference.”
M&S continues to champion better sleep practices by offering a wide range of premium bedding, nightwear, and accessories designed to enhance comfort and well-being. These insights not only highlight how Britons wind down but also reinforce the growing focus on sleep as a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle.
