You And Your Partner Need To Try The Scandinavian Sleep Method

Don't snooze on the Scandinavian sleep method. This increasingly popular approach to co-slumbering has been trending as late, thanks to its reported benefits of improving sleep. But what makes this Scandinavian sleep method a starry standout is how it can allegedly work wonders for your relationship, too.

For insights into this northern European lifestyle import, we spoke with six experts:

• Jennifer Martin, Ph.D. is a psychologist, professor of medicine at UCLA, and spokesperson for the American Academy of Sleep Medicine.
• Aric A. Prather, Ph.D. is a professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at the University of California, San Francisco, plus the author of The Sleep Prescription.
• Wendy Troxel, Ph.D. is a senior scientist at the RAND Corporation and the author of Sharing the Covers: Every Couple's Guide to Better Sleep.
• Tina Fey is a relationship expert, founder of Love Connection, and the author of Breaking the Attachment.
• Susan Miller is a lead researcher and certified sleep expert at SleepMattressHQ.com.
• Dr. Raffaello Antonino is a UK-based counseling psychologist, senior lecturer in counseling psychology at London Metropolitan University and clinical director/founder of Therapy Central.

Ready to ban bedroom sheep and boost your bond? Take inspiration from this Scandinavian sleeping style and learn all of the ins and outs of it below.

What Is The Scandinavian Sleep Method?

As Dr. Prather explains, the Scandinavian sleep method involves using two separate duvets or blankets (one for each bed partner), rather than sharing a larger bed covering. Also known as the "two duvet system," it might seem a bit unconventional to those accustomed to sharing a blanket. However, the approach is very popular in northern Europe and increasingly catching on worldwide, Dr. Antonino notes.

4 Benefits of the Scandinavian Sleep Method

The method could be beneficial for bed partners who don't align on sleep preferences. "It's a good alternative for couples struggling with waking each other up at night," says Dr. Martin. For more detail, read on.

1. Helps resolve temperature differences

Some sleepers run cooler or warmer than others, which can create relationship conflict around the type of bed covers to use. One sleeper might choose a heavier weight top cover, while the other would prefer a lighter weight alternative, observes Dr. Martin, who reveals this is the primary reason she recommends the approach to patients.

2. Cuts down on sleep disturbances

The Scandinavian sleep method can reduce sleep disturbances arising from one partner going to bed much later than the other. Thanks to separate blankets, it might not be as apparent when the later-to-bed partner finally gets in under the covers. The approach can also come in handy when one bedmate has a sleep disorder that makes them move around at night, she adds.

3. Preserves the shared bed experience

Many couples praise the Scandinavian sleep method because it allows each partner to have their individualized sleep experience—yet still sleep together. "This is a benefit for many couples who fear the stigma attached to separate beds," explains Dr. Troxel.

Plus, partners can still easily curl up and cuddle when they desire closeness or intimacy. While it respects individual sleep preferences, it also maintains a shared sleeping space. This balances personal comfort with connection, explains Fey.

5. Improves relationships

With the Scandinavian sleeping method, each partner has individual control over their comfort and space, encouraging autonomy, says Dr. Antonino. "Secure attachment, a concept in psychology that describes a healthy, trusting bond, thrives when both partners feel independent yet connected."

"When both partners respect each other's independence, including sleep preferences, it not only leads to better sleep quality but also contributes to a stronger, healthier relationship."

Are There Any Negatives?

Some couples might find the transition to separate duvets alienating: Because of the different covers, the method does hinder skin-to-skin contact. Plus, some might not like the way it looks, adds Dr. Martin, who suggests covering the separate duvets with one larger quilt during the day.

Shop Our Picks For Scandinavian Sleep Method Bedding

"The key to making the method work for you is to find the right bedding that caters to your individual preferences," Dr. Antonino explains. "Try out different types and thicknesses of blankets until you find the one that provides you with the most comfortable sleep."

Casper Lightweight Down Duvet

Photo: Courtesy of Casper

Featuring breathable materials, this light and comfortable duvet helps to regulate body temperature, says Miller. The fan-favorite company makes several additional cooling bedding pieces, including duvet covers, sheets, pillows and mattresses.

Brooklinen Luxe Core Sheet Set

Photo: Courtesy of Brooklinen

Miller loves these cotton sheets for both their breathability and durability. With an impressive 480 thread count and a slightly luminous finish, the set comes complete with one fitted sheet, one flat sheet and two pillowcases.

The Buffy Breeze Comforter

Photo: Courtesy of Buffy

Made from 100% eucalyptus fiber, this comforter is hypoallergenic, ultra-breathable and earth-friendly, says Dr. Antonino. You'll love it because it's soft and fluffy, and as a bonus it's also sustainably made.

ZonLi Cooling Weighted Blanket

Photo: Courtesy of Zonli

Some people find the gentle, even pressure of a weighted blanket comforting, according to Dr. Antonino. These blankets offer that sensation and come in various weights to suit different preferences.