Everything isn’t always holly jolly during the holidays, especially when it comes to sleep. A recent CNET survey found that roughly 42% of US adults face sleep-related issues 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 issues.
Key findings
- 42% of US adults struggle with sleep issues during the holiday season, indicating a seasonal impact on sleep patterns. Notably, the holiday season significantly affects the sleep quality of over half of Gen Z and Millennials.
- US adults would be willing to spend an average of $78 monthly (nearly $1,000 a year) to improve their quality of sleep.
- Six in 10 would consider investing in a better sleep setup. More specifically, 46% are willing to invest in better mattresses or bedding.
- More than half of US adults (56%) currently use some method to cope with sleep-related challenges. Of these, 21% take supplements like melatonin, valerian root and magnesium.
- One in four (22%) US adults currently use sleep tech (sleep headphones, wearable devices, AI chatbots, sleep apps) to cope with sleep-related challenges.
The real cost of a good night’s sleep in the US
It’s no secret that sleep products often come with a hefty price tag. Whether it’s nice sheets, a silky eye mask or a meditation app, products developed to help you get good sleep aren’t cheap.
Let’s look at how much a bed setup would cost the average person. A budget mattress can cost you anywhere from $250 to $1,000, bedding for a queen-size mattress on average costs $150 (sheets and comforter), a simple metal frame is around $100 and a single quality pillow can cost anywhere from $50 to $100 ($100 to $200 for two). When you add that up, a basic bed setup can cost an average of $1,000. That’s not including any supplements, accessories like eye masks, special pillowcases, sleep subscriptions or advanced sleep tech (like sunrise alarm clocks).
Read more: Best Mattress Picks for Sound Sleep in 2024
The investment you make on your bed isn’t a monthly expense unless you decide to finance everything. You’ll most likely make the upfront investment and won’t have to replace your mattress, pillows, bedding and frame for years. While the initial cost of a good bed setup can be high, the long-term benefits of improved sleep quality, which directly impacts your mood, productivity and cognitive functions, outweigh the initial expenditure.
6 in 10 Americans are willing to invest in a better sleep setup
CNET’s survey found that roughly six in 10 US adults are willing to make an investment in their bed set up, which includes items like their mattress and bedding. Among other things Americans are willing to spend money on to get better sleep are supplements (melatonin, magnesium and so on), subscriptions (like meditation apps) and sleep tech (like alarm clocks and white noise machines. Around 20% said they aren’t willing to invest their money but rather improve habits that are conducive to better sleep.
More than half of Americans use some method to cope with poor sleep
CNET’s survey also shed light on the prevalence of using products to address sleep-related challenges. More than half of US adults (56%) currently use some method to cope with sleep issues. This underscores a collective understanding of the importance of addressing sleep concerns and the need to find tailored solutions based on individual needs.
The survey revealed a wide range of coping mechanisms for addressing poor sleep — from more natural practices like meditation, relaxation techniques and establishing bedtime routines to modern solutions like sleep-enhancing products, supplements and technology.
The prevalent use of sleep products is worth billions of dollars
The high demand for products to address sleep challenges has contributed significantly to a thriving industry worth tens of billions of dollars. According to Straits Research, the sleep market was valued just shy of $64 billion in 2023 and is expected to grow 70% by 2032 ($108 billion).
As people become more educated about the importance of not only enough sleep, but the quality of it, the market for sleep-enhancing 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 tracking devices and innovative supplements.
Americans’ willingness to prioritize sleep
Americans are willing to make sacrifices to get the quality rest they need. According to the survey data, 63% of US adults are ready to give up something in exchange for a good night’s sleep. This eagerness 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 sacrifices identified in the survey include:
- Reducing screen time (30%)
- Cutting back on sweets and indulgent snacks (26%)
- Limiting coffee consumption (22%)
- Curbing alcohol or tobacco use (21%)
- Refraining from late-night exercise (17%)
Less common sacrifices were noted, including:
- Adjusting sleeping arrangements by renouncing sleeping with: Pets (12%), a partner (11%) and children (8%)
- Leaving a job (7%)
- Forgoing entire savings (2%)
Tips to get a good night’s sleep this holiday season
While many products on the market may promise to solve your sleep issues, in reality, having basic good sleep hygiene doesn’t have to cost you much at all. Follow these simple steps to get quality rest, even during the busiest of 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 your sleep schedule helps regulate your body’s internal clock and circadian rhythm.
2. Create a relaxing bedtime routine to help you drift off at night. This can look like:
- Taking a warm bath
- Reading
- Journaling
- Listening to soothing music
- Turning off electronics at least 30 minutes before bedtime
3. Create a relaxing sleep environment: Having the ideal sleep environment ensures that once you fall asleep, you stay asleep, with 65 degrees Fahrenheit being 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 big meals at least a few hours before it’s time to head to bed: The holidays are often synonymous with big, family meals. It’s totally OK to indulge in your favorite meals and desserts. Just try to have them at least 2 hours before bedtime.
6. Avoid strenuous activities at least 2 hours before bed: It’s best to opt for low-impact stretches or yoga to promote relaxation.
7. Get morning sunlight as soon as you wake up: Getting sunlight as soon as you wake up has been linked to regulating your body’s circadian rhythm.
8. Make sure you have the right mattress for your preferred sleeping position: Side sleepers need a softer mattress to alleviate pressure points on the shoulders and hips. Meanwhile, back and stomach sleepers will need a firmer mattress to ensure proper spinal alignment.
9. Rub the inner part of your wrist for 2 to 3 minutes: Still lying in bed with holiday anxiety? Try rubbing the inside part of your wrist for a few minutes. This is a calming technique experts like Katherine Hall, the sleep psychologist for Happy Beds, recommend.
Methodology
CNET commissioned YouGov PLC to conduct the survey. All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from YouGov PLC. The total sample size was 1,214 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken Oct. 21-22, 2024. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all US adults (aged 18+).