AUSSIES PREFER A GOOD SNOOZE TO SOCIALISING, NEW REPORT REVEALS
Australians are prioritising a good snooze over socialising and proving to be some of the world’s most unique sleepers, according to a new report..
The IKEA Global Sleep Report. Study, one of the largest sleep research projects ever conducted, examines bedtime habits across 57 markets, offering deep insights into how people worldwide are catching their Zs.
The findings show that 66% of Australians would choose a good night’s sleep over a night out, significantly higher than the global average of 58%.
Meanwhile, 16% of Australians sleep in a ‘cuddling’ position, and a surprising 42% rarely sleep alone—highlighting our preference for companionship at bedtime.
THE QUIRKS OF AUSTRALIAN SLEEPERS
The report revealed some fascinating facts about Australian sleepers, including:
4% of Australian children were conceived in an IKEA bed
10% are ‘bed hoggers’, meaning they take over the whole bed and move around frequently
35% are ‘bed companions’, taking over half the bed but moving around occasionally
39% of Australians sleep back-to-back, compared to just 29% globally
5% share a bed with a pet, more than double the global average of 2%
WHAT’S KEEPING US AWAKE?
The report also explores the factors preventing Australians from getting the sleep they need.
Stress, screen time, and room conditions all play a significant role in disrupting rest.
The study found that Australians, like the rest of the world, are missing an average of 1 hour and 20 minutes of sleep per night, amounting to over 20 full days of lost rest annually.
HOW TO IMPROVE YOUR SNOOZE
IKEA’s research highlights key strategies for a better night’s sleep, including:
Stick to a routine – Regular bedtimes and wake-up times can improve sleep quality.
Create a sleep sanctuary – A clutter-free bedroom with comfortable bedding promotes relaxation.
Limit screen time – Avoid using phones, tablets, or TVs right before bed.
Unwind properly – Relaxation techniques like meditation or a warm bath can help.
Be mindful of diet and exercise – Avoid heavy meals, caffeine, or alcohol before bedtime, and engage in regular physical activity.
THE ROLE OF THE SLEEP ENVIRONMENT
According to the IKEA report, bedding, sleepwear, storage, and room temperature significantly impact sleep quality. 66% of respondents stated that a tidy room improved their rest, reinforcing the importance of a well-organised bedroom.
Jasper Wuts, Range Insights Manager at IKEA of Sweden, emphasises the importance of creating a restful space: “By better understanding these realities around the globe, we can apply these learnings and design products that address real challenges.”
