Are You Over-Optimizing Sleep? Experts Weigh In on Sleepmaxxing : Tiffy Taffy

Getting a good night’s sleep has become an obsession for many, especially among Gen Z. The latest trend, known as ‘sleepmaxxing,’ encourages people to optimize their rest using various techniques. From mouth-taping and digital sleep trackers to extreme sleep schedules, young people are trying everything to achieve the perfect night’s rest. Online searches for “ways to improve sleep quality” have surged by 67% in recent months. But can focusing too much on sleep actually make it harder to rest? Some experts warn that overanalyzing sleep can increase stress and worsen insomnia. Instead of chasing perfect sleep metrics, simple lifestyle changes may be more effective. Josie Towells, a soft furnishings expert at DUSK, shares five expert tips to improve your sleep naturally and stress-free.

Adjust Light Levels Naturally

Your body follows a natural sleep cycle, and light exposure plays a big role. Ignoring your body’s cues can lead to difficulty falling or staying asleep. Josie (Soft Furnishings Senior Buyer at DUSK) suggests mimicking natural light changes to help regulate your sleep. Use dimmable lamps in the evening to gradually reduce brightness, signaling your body that it’s time to wind down. In the morning, increase light intensity slowly to help you wake up more naturally. This method supports your internal clock and reduces sleep disruptions. Reducing blue light exposure from screens before bed is also crucial. The artificial light from phones, tablets, and TVs can trick your brain into staying awake longer. Try switching to a warm-toned nightlight or reading a book instead of scrolling on your phone. Training your body to respond to natural light patterns can lead to more restful sleep.

Keep a Comfortable Temperature

adjusting, adult, air, apartment, appliance, caucasian, climate, cold, comfort, conditioner, conditioning, control, cool, cooling, device, electric, equipment, fan, flat, flow, heat, home, house, indoors, leisure, lifestyle, lying, male, man, mode, modern, on, operate, operating, people, person, relax, remote, rest, resting, room, smart, sofa, split, switching, system, technology, temperature, ventilation, young — Credit: Shutterstock

As seasons change, so should your bedding. Many people use the same setup year-round, even when temperatures vary from below freezing to above 20°C. Josie recommends adjusting your bedding to match the season. A winter duvet can provide warmth in colder months, while a lighter option works best for summer. Keeping your bedroom at an optimal sleep temperature also helps. A range of 15 to 20°C is ideal for minimizing restlessness while keeping you cozy. A well-regulated sleep environment improves your chances of uninterrupted rest. Beyond bedding, consider other ways to control room temperature. Use blackout curtains to keep the room cool during warmer months, and try a fan or humidifier to create a more comfortable atmosphere. Small changes to your sleep setup can make a significant impact on how well you rest each night.

Choose Soft, Breathable Bedding

Housekeeping, laundry day concept. Clean bedding, memory foam pillows in french pillowcases and down blanket on mattress in bedroom. Textile on bed, blanket and cushions against copy space background — Credit: Shutterstock

The type of bedding you use impacts sleep quality. Many people overlook thread count, but it makes a difference. Josie recommends a 400-thread count sheet for a soft, breathable feel. This allows airflow to keep your body at a comfortable temperature throughout the night. Investing in high-thread-count bedding can improve your sleep environment, making it more relaxing and enjoyable. Natural materials like cotton, bamboo, or linen are excellent choices for breathability and moisture-wicking properties. Beyond sheets, consider the weight of your blankets. A weighted blanket can provide a sense of security and help reduce anxiety before bed. Swapping heavy blankets for lighter ones in summer can also prevent overheating. Paying attention to the fabrics and textures in your sleep space can lead to a more restful experience overall.

Invest in a High-Quality Mattress

Woman covering mattress with protector indoors, closeup — Credit: Shutterstock

A good mattress is key to restful sleep. A poor-quality mattress can cause discomfort, making you toss and turn throughout the night. Memory foam mattresses mold to your body shape, offering support and pressure relief. The right mattress can prevent back pain and improve sleep posture, leading to deeper, more restorative rest. If a new mattress isn’t in your budget, a high-quality mattress topper is a cost-effective alternative. It can enhance comfort and extend the life of your existing bed without a major investment. Consider rotating your mattress regularly to prevent uneven wear and sagging. Mattress materials also play a role in sleep quality. Natural latex and hybrid mattresses offer a balance of support and softness. Investing in a mattress suited to your sleep position and body type can significantly impact how well you sleep each night.

Maintain Good Sleep Posture

Young man lying on bed with orthopedic pillow at home — Credit: Shutterstock

Proper sleep posture is crucial for avoiding discomfort and improving sleep quality. Poor alignment can lead to aches and pains, making it harder to rest. Josie highlights the importance of supportive pillows to keep the spine aligned. To check if your pillow still provides enough support, fold it in half. If it quickly springs back, it’s in good shape. If it stays folded, it’s time for a new one. The right pillow can prevent neck strain and enhance overall sleep comfort. Side sleepers may benefit from a thicker pillow to keep the neck and spine aligned, while back sleepers need a flatter pillow for optimal support. Adding a small pillow under the knees can also relieve lower back pressure. Adjusting your sleeping position to improve posture can reduce pain and improve your overall sleep quality.

Focus on Practical Changes, Not Perfection

Image of beautiful young woman wearing lingerie smiling and drinking tea on bed in white apartment — Credit: Shutterstock

Chasing perfect sleep metrics may cause unnecessary stress. Instead, focus on practical adjustments that make a real impact. By controlling temperature, light, bedding, and posture, you can improve sleep without overcomplicating the process. Simple, natural habits lead to better rest and overall well-being. Rather than relying on sleep apps or gadgets, try listening to your body. Everyone’s sleep needs are different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Experiment with different strategies to find what helps you rest best. The goal isn’t perfection—it’s creating a sustainable routine that leads to consistently good sleep.

Final Thoughts

Night shot of a young woman in her bed. She is going to turn off her lamp to sleep — Credit: Shutterstock

While sleepmaxxing may seem like the ultimate solution to better rest, overthinking your sleep can backfire. Fixating on numbers and strict schedules might add pressure instead of relaxation. Instead, focus on small, natural changes that align with your body’s needs. Improving your sleep doesn’t require expensive gadgets or extreme routines. Adjusting your bedding, controlling light exposure, and maintaining good posture can make a real difference. The key is consistency—building habits that support restful nights without unnecessary stress. Sleep should be restorative, not a competition, so focus on what works best for you.