The viral TikTok trend known as the “potato bed” offers a cozy way to enhance sleep quality by creating a nest-like environment with pillows and blankets, according to sleep experts.
The latest sleep trend taking TikTok by storm is the “potato bed,” which promises a better night’s rest by enveloping individuals in a cozy arrangement of pillows and blankets. This playful concept encourages users to transform their beds into a snug nest, reminiscent of being wrapped like a baked potato.
To create a potato bed, the first step involves laying out a fitted bedsheet upside down. Next, the perimeter is stuffed with thick pillows and blankets, forming a soft barrier. Once this foundation is established, the center of the nest is filled with additional blankets, comforters, and any other items that contribute to a cozy atmosphere. Many users recommend adding a laptop for a movie or a good book to enhance the experience.
Numerous TikTok creators have embraced the trend, sharing their experiences online. One user, Alice (@alicekateea), expressed in her video caption that she “had the best night’s sleep ever.” Comments from viewers reflect the trend’s appeal, with one user quipping, “So just an adult-sized baby nest? No wonder you slept good!” Another added, “I’m already a couch potato, now I’m going to be a bed potato too.”
In an interview with Fox News Digital, Dr. William Lu, medical director of Dreem Health, described the potato bed as a “fun, cozy take” on the concept of “cocooning.” This term refers to creating a nest-like environment conducive to sleep. “I’m not surprised it’s catching on,” said Dr. Lu, who is based in California. “People are craving comfort, calm, and security right now, and the potato bed taps right into that. While it looks playful, it’s really about recreating that snug, safe feeling we associate with deep rest.”
Dr. Lu explained that the sensation of being gently surrounded by pillows and blankets can mimic the effects of a weighted blanket or the feeling of being cuddled. “That light, even pressure can help lower stress hormones like cortisol while boosting serotonin and oxytocin, chemicals that make you feel relaxed and sleepy,” he noted. “When your body feels secure and your mind feels safe, it’s easier to drift off and stay asleep.”
However, the sleep expert did offer some cautionary advice. He warned that excessive warmth could disrupt sleep, as optimal rest typically occurs when the body’s core temperature drops slightly. “Piling on too many layers can trap heat, making it harder for the body to cool down,” he explained. Additionally, surrounding oneself with soft pillows might lead to improper spinal alignment, which could result in neck or back pain over time. “If you wake up feeling sore or sweaty, that’s your sign to scale it back,” Dr. Lu advised.
He suggested that the potato bed should be viewed as a “cozy relaxation ritual” rather than a permanent sleep solution. Building a potato bed for a short nap, as a wind-down before bed, or as a warm retreat during colder months are the best uses of this trend. Dr. Lu also recommended using one lightweight duvet and fewer layers to ensure that the mattress and primary pillow continue to provide adequate support.
“The goal isn’t to bury yourself in fluff — it’s to create a comfortable, calming space that helps your body and mind relax before sleep,” he concluded.
Source: Original article