How to Sleep More Soundly in University Halls

3 min read

Last Modified 16 February 2021 First Added 8 June 2014

By Laura Barns

Ok we might not have a degree in ‘sleepology’ here at Dreams, but as Britain’s leading bed specialist we know more than most about the importance of getting a great night’s sleep. And that includes educating people on how to sleep more soundly in University Halls, which are not ideal places for getting your head down and can lead to all sorts of problems with sleeping.

With the hectic lifestyle and odd hours that students keep, many people may struggle to sleep in student halls. Whether it’s a crowd coming in late from the pub or the guy in the room next door keeping his TV on until 4am, even heavy sleepers could have problems with sleeping in this kind of environment.

So if you’re heading off to a University residence yourself, or some of your offspring are, here are a few tips on how to avoid sleeping problems.

Students in halls

Create the right environment

Start by doing everything you can to create an environment that promotes sleep. This means comfortable and cool and dark and quiet – so no TV or radio on in the background. If the quiet section of the list is out of your control why not invest in some earplugs or a white noise machine?

Cut out late night snacking

Try to avoid eating too late at night, as your digestive system will keep you awake. It’s recommended that you should stop eating between 1 and 3 hours before you go to bed and to avoid dairy, pasta and caffeine close to bedtime.

Keep your bedroom for sleeping in

We know that it’s not always possible but only use your bedroom for sleeping and not as the hub of your social life; that way you only associate it with sleep. Many halls offer communal areas with TVs, so try hanging out in the kitchen with a brew or going out to see friends. Not only will this improve your university experience but it could help you to sleep too.

Student sleeping

Unwind with your own routine

Create a routine to unwind before you go to sleep. It could include going for a short walk, having a hot bath or curling up with a good book. Set a point where you put your university work away and ready yourself for sleep to ensure your mind isn’t racing.

Improve your comfort

Although in halls you don’t get to choose your mattress there are many affordable mattress toppers available at your local Dreams store, which can significantly improve your comfort in bed. The type and number of pillows that you use can also add to your comfort, and It’s advised that you should have two pillows rather than one.

So, whether you take our advice with you, or pass it on to a son or daughter, we hope we’ve given you a few things to think about and a few ideas to put your mind at rest, regarding problems with sleeping in university halls.

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