A new survey by Mattress Online has revealed the bedtime habits of Britons, showing how common routines may affect sleep quality and overall health. From scrolling on phones to letting pets share the bed, the results highlight behaviours that can both harm and help rest.
The survey found that 45% of UK adults scroll on screens before bed, with young people aged 18–24 the most likely to do so at 70%. Women are more prone to this habit at 50% compared with 38% of men. More than half of couples say late-night screen use interferes with bedtime conversations, and one in five report it negatively affects their relationship.
Sharing beds with pets is another widespread practice, with 33% allowing animals into bed. This is most common in Newcastle at 44% and least common in Belfast at 17%. Hannah Shore, Sleep Scientist at Mattress Online, explains, “Sleeping with your pets may disrupt your sleep, from temperature issues to increased dirt. Our core body temperature needs to drop a couple of degrees at night to access the good quality sleep we need. Having your pet in your bed can be like sleeping with a furry little hot water bottle.” She adds that pets’ irregular sleep patterns and potential allergens can disturb rest but notes there are benefits too: “The love you share for your pets, when you cuddle or stroke them, can have a positive effect on your sleep. They can help you to relax and feel happy and safe, all of which are needed to help you fall asleep more easily.” Shore recommends using a larger bed, lowering duvet thickness and washing sheets weekly.
Cities with the highest rates of pet co-sleeping include Newcastle (44%), Manchester (41%) and Southampton (40%), while the lowest are Norwich (25%) and Belfast (17%).
Oral hygiene is another concern, with 41% of adults skipping toothbrushing before bed. This is most common in Belfast at 53% and Nottingham at 50%, while Manchester reports the lowest at 31%. Eating in bed is also widespread, with 34% admitting to it, particularly 18 to 24-year-olds at 53%. Shore warns against heavy meals before sleep as they can disrupt digestion.
Other habits include 27% going to bed after unresolved arguments, which may affect emotional well-being, and 15% using alcohol to fall asleep, a practice linked to poor sleep quality. Less frequent but still notable routines include sleeping in day clothes at 24%, changing sheets monthly or less at 22% and sleeping in makeup at 20%.
The survey shows clear regional differences, with Newcastle leading for pet co-sleeping and Belfast reporting the highest rate of skipped toothbrushing. These variations suggest local lifestyle factors shape how Britons approach bedtime.
Experts advise limiting screen time, brushing teeth consistently and keeping eating separate from sleeping spaces to improve rest. Addressing these habits, they argue, could support both sleep and overall well-being.
