The Sleep Paradox: Do We Really Rest Enough?
On paper, India seems to be doing well — 71% of Indians believe they get enough rest, but nearly 50% admit that stress is a major sleep disruptor.
| Stress Stats | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Get enough rest | 71% |
| Stress disrupts sleep | 48% |
| General stress | 30% |
| Work-related stress | 18% |
| Women reporting higher stress levels | 38% |
| Men reporting higher stress levels | 23% |
“Many people in India are prioritising sleep, but stress, especially from work, often gets in the way,” says Adosh Sharma, Country Commercial Manager at IKEA India. “It makes falling asleep harder and disrupts sleep throughout the night, impacting both mental and physical health.”
The gender divide in sleep patterns
While men and women in India wake up at around the same time (6 am), men tend to hit the bed earlier at 10 pm, while women stay up an hour later. Their approach to sleep also varies.
How India Sleeps
| Pattern | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Believe a good diet aids sleep | 12% | 12% |
| Prioritise exercise | 13% | 11% |
Then come sleep personalities—some people are bed hoggers (14%), others thrive with a bed companion (30%), and minimalists (8%) prefer an uncluttered sleeping space. The study highlights how these habits define sleep quality across the country.
A nation that loves its naps
If nighttime rest is unpredictable, Indians make up for it during the day. An overwhelming 70% indulge in naps, with women leading the trend at 78% compared to 63% of men. The ideal nap lasts around 30 minutes, just enough to refresh without grogginess.
“Naps are a simple and effective way to recharge and reduce stress,” says Sharma. “With busy lifestyles and increasing stress levels, short naps help people feel refreshed and ready to take on the day.”
Sharing beds, sharing sleep challenges
India’s sleeping arrangements are just as unique as its people. Nearly half (48%) of Indians rarely or never sleep alone, with 71% sharing their bed with a partner and 28% with their children.
| Shared Space | Share |
|---|---|
| Rarely or never sleep alone | 48% |
| Share bed with a partner | 71% |
| Share bed with children | 28% |
This dynamic affects sleep patterns, with interruptions from movement, noise, or even differing bedtime preferences.
“Shared sleeping spaces play a big role in sleep quality. A clutter-free bedroom can help create a sense of calm,” says Sharma. In fact, 68% of Indians believe that an organised space leads to better sleep.”
The role of rituals: No more counting sheep
For many Indians, good sleep starts before they even get into bed. The study found that 32% unwind with music or podcasts, while 24% prefer reading. Special mattresses and pillows are key for 23%, while 16% swear by blackout curtains to create a pitch-dark sanctuary.
| Bedtime Rituals | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Unwind with music or podcasts | 32% |
| Reading | 24% |
| Special mattresses and pillows | 23% |
| Blackout curtains | 16% |
Technology, however, is the biggest sleep disruptor. Despite concerns over its impact on sleep, 86% of Indians use their phones in bed, with the number jumping to 90% among 18-24-year-olds. Excessive screen time before bed can interfere with the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, making it harder to fall asleep and stay asleep.
Sleep personalities: Lovers, worriers, and skeptics
How people feel about sleep varies widely. IKEA’s research identified three distinct sleep attitudes:
- Sleep Lovers (65%): These individuals prioritise sleep over socialising and consider it one of life’s greatest joys.
- Sleep Worriers (52%): Constantly anxious about getting at least seven hours of sleep, they turn rest into a source of stress.
- Sleep Skeptics (48%): These individuals see sleep as a waste of time, often sacrificing rest for productivity.
“The research revealed fascinating insights into sleep attitudes, each influencing how people approach sleep,” explains Sharma. “While sleep duration matters, a restful environment and bedtime routine play a key role in sleep quality. Many people underestimate the importance of air quality in sleep.”
Designing sleep for a better tomorrow
For IKEA, good sleep isn’t just about the right mattress — it’s about creating the perfect sleep environment. “…we believe that every good day begins with a restful night’s sleep,” says Susanne Pulverer, CEO & CSO (Chief Sustainability Officer), IKEA India.
“With 80 years of experience, we know that quality sleep isn’t just about the right mattress—it’s about the right environment. In India, where busy lifestyles, shared spaces, and daily stress can make unwinding a challenge, we design solutions that bring comfort and order to the home.”
IKEA’s research-driven approach helps shape its product design. “Sleep remains one of our key priorities because it is such an essential part of life at home and personal well-being,” says Jasper Wuts, Range Insights Manager, IKEA. “While many people understand the importance of sleep, they still struggle to achieve the rest they want and need.”
This year, IKEA is promoting six key sleep essentials—Comfort, Light, Sound, Temperature, Air Quality, and Decluttering—as part of its mission to improve sleep quality.
“As urbanisation and small-space living become more common, we see a growing demand for adaptable furniture that seamlessly transitions between different functions,” adds Wuts.
From multi-purpose sofa beds to window solutions that are said to minimise light and noise, people have their pick to create restful environments suited to modern life.
Because, in the end, better sleep leads to better living.
