The Scandinavian Sleep Method: What is it, & Should You Use It?

When researching for a better night’s sleep, you might have heard of the Scandinavian sleep method - but what exactly is it? Sleep is absolutely vital for our health and wellbeing, and sadly, not a lot of us get enough of it. 

If you’re sick of collapsing into bed while scanning your phone and want to update your evening routine, it might be the method you need. It’s most commonly adopted by couples, who are perhaps tired of the other person stealing their bedding and fidgeting throughout the night. 

In this blog, we’ll explore the Scandinavian sleep method, finding out what it is and if it really works. For couples who are looking for an alternative to sleeping in separate beds, let's uncover the benefits of adopting this sleep routine. 

What is the Scandinavian sleep method?

Rather than the traditional method of sharing one duvet with your partner, the Scandinavian sleep method opts for two separate duvets, one for you and one for your partner. To adopt this method, simply swap your shared duvet for two individual ones instead. 

What is the aim? > To simplify sleep. Having your own single-size duvet, instead of sharing a larger one, can minimise sleep disruptions and allow each person to regulate their own temperature at night. 

While this method wasn’t created by a sole individual, it’s a traditional and cultural sleeping norm that evolved organically across Nordic countries like Sweden, Norway, and Denmark over centuries, before becoming popular online.

What are the pros?

If, like us at Christy, you love your sleep, this method might prove successful. Here are some of the benefits: 

• It’s easier to regulate body temperature - During sleep, temperatures can vary and often are not in sync with your partner. When you’re unable to regulate temperature, insomnia can worsen, and sleep quality suffers. 

• It minimises disruptions - If you have a restless partner, you might wake up more often in the night. Separate duvets mean that there is less disturbance from tossing or turning. 

• You can still co-sleep with your partner - There’s no need to sleep in different beds. In fact, bed sharing with a loved one can release oxytocin, which is linked to improved emotional regulation and lower stress levels. 

What about the cons? 

While this method is popular with some, not all sleep troubles can be solved with two separate duvet covers. Other logistical issues might make the Scandinavian sleep method undesirable, such as: 

• It’s more difficult to cuddle - If you love cuddling up to your partner during the night, sleeping under two separate duvets can make it more difficult and restrict couple-friendly sleep positions. 

• It’s harder to make your bed - Your bed might not look as neat and tidy with two duvets sprawled out on top. Try to use two matching duvets for better cohesion. Or, learn how to dress a bed from our experts. 

• It can’t fix all problems - Even though you’re under two separate duvets, if your partner constantly wriggles around or snores, it probably won’t help, as you’re still in close proximity to your sleeping partner.

What size duvet is needed for the Scandinavian sleep method? 

If the idea of having your own quiet cocoon to wrap up in sounds intriguing, it’s worth giving it a try. For this method to work, you’ll need two separate single duvets and duvet covers instead of your one large shared duvet. 

- If you have a double bed, two standard single duvets will work fine. This also applies to king-sized beds. 

- If you have a super king bed, two single duvets will also work, however, some couples prefer to use two double-sized duvets and bedding for extra generous coverage. 

Because you’re using two separate duvets, it also gives you the freedom to choose. If you love the feel of a soft, feather-filled duvet, you can happily snuggle up under your choice while your partner might opt for something different. We’ve written a complete duvet buying guide that will help you make the right choice if you’re unsure. 

How to make your bed when using the Scandinavian sleep method 

For those whose bed is the centre of the room, the Scandinavian sleep method might present some challenges. How can you make a bed look the part with two duvets rather than one? 

Whether you choose matching bedding or different colours, you can still make your bedroom uniquely yours. You can still keep the same amount of pillows and the same bedsheet - all that is changing is the duvet. If you have a guest bedroom, your old duvet might work perfectly in there. 

For your bed, however, a few upgrades might hide the point where your separate duvets overlap. The best thing to do is to dress your bed with a gorgeous Christy throw or bedspread. You can find designs that are large enough to cover the bottom half of your bed and will give the illusion that there is only one duvet underneath. Don’t forget to scatter decorative bed cushions, available in intricate floral patterns that will add charm to any bedroom.  

Why Christy is the perfect sleep partner

So, whether you adopt the Scandinavian sleep method depends on whether it aligns with your sleep routine. If you’re fed up with sheet stealing, snoring, and constant fidgeting, it might feel like a purposeful change. Of course, no sleep method is complete without silky soft bed linen, expertly crafted by experts. 

That’s where Christy comes in. For a restful night’s sleep for both parties, discover our carefully curated bed linens, designed with perfect sleep in mind. We use data-driven designs, clever fabrics, and expert techniques and have been doing so for nearly 180 years. 

For more information about our products or general advice, do get in touch with our friendly team.