A recent University of Arizona study suggests that sharing your bed with a romantic partner may enhance sleep quality—but the type of bedmate matters significantly.
While many prefer sleeping solo, most share their bed with a partner, family member, child, or pet. Published in the journal Sleep on May 25, 2022, this research from the University of Arizona examined sleep quality among solo sleepers versus those sharing beds. Over 1,000 Pennsylvania residents completed an online questionnaire detailing bed-sharing frequency and partner types, including romantic partners, family members, children, pets, or sleeping alone.
Results showed that those sleeping with a romantic partner experienced fewer insomnia issues than solo sleepers. They fell asleep faster, enjoyed longer sleep duration, had fewer awakenings, and faced lower sleep apnea risks.
In contrast, parents co-sleeping with children reported poorer sleep quality, including more insomnia, daytime fatigue, and unintended naps. Sharing with other family members yielded similar but milder issues. Solo sleepers were also linked to higher rates of severe depression, shallower social connections, and lower life satisfaction.
These findings favor romantic co-sleeping but come with important limitations. Data relied on self-reported questionnaires without clinical verification, and the sample was small and regionally limited (Pennsylvania only). Approach these results skeptically and consult professionals for personalized sleep advice.
