What is ‘Potato Bed’ hack and can it help you sleep better? |
Quick fixes and health fads are trending these days, and the internet is full of them. The latest “miracle” social media has now latched onto is the viral “Potato Bed” hack. Millions are scrolling through Instagram and other platforms to build their own potato beds. But before you rush to grab some potatoes from the kitchen to make your own potato bed, let’s clear one thing up that this hack has nothing to do with real potatoes. So what exactly is a “potato bed” and can it actually help sleep better?
What exactly is the “Potato-bed” hack
Since there’s no proper evidence of its origin (except for TikTok), the idea of “potato” in the title most likely comes from the shape of the setup this hack involves. In this viral hack, people layer soft pillows, blankets, and duvets to form a cozy, cocoon-like setup on their beds. Videos with the hashtag #PotatoBed have amassed millions of views, with users claiming they’ve had the “best sleep” after trying it.
How to make a potato bed
The setup takes only a few minutes. First, flip a fitted bed sheet so the elastic edge comes on top. Throw in some pillows, curled up blankets and maybe some soft toys to create something like an oval-shaped fluffy nest. Leave space for yourself in the center, and put a blanket to pull over yourself. Climb in the potato-shape bed and snuggle in the little space.
Why is this hack gaining popularity
As per a data published in ScienceDirect, 10% of the global population is affected by insomnia. Since this problem is mostly blamed on poor sleeping habits, many tend to look for quick-fixes rather than identifying the root cause of the problem. The reason this hack has gained widespread popularity is because it’s cost-effective and easy to make. People can create their own “potato bed” using whatever pillows and blankets they already have at home. Also, the cozy and aesthetic appeal is what’s grabbing attention. People are praising the cocooned feeling and sense of calm the potato bed snuggles.
Can a Potato Bed help you sleep better
The “potato bed” hasn’t been studied in controlled trials. A possible connection that can help identify its effectiveness is the gentle pressure the cushions and blankets provide. The scientific term for gentle pressure is Deep Pressure Stimulation (DPS). DPS just means gentle, even pressure applied to the body, like the comforting weight of a hug, a pet lying on lap, or a snug blanket wrapped around. An NIH study-review found that using weighted blankets, which is a common DPS tool, improved sleep quality and reduced negative emotions in various populations.In a Health and me report, Hannah Shore, Head of Sleep Science at Mattress Online, explained, “ if you enjoy being wrapped up and surrounded by warmth, you may find it easier to drift off inside a potato bed. The snug pressure from the cushions mimics the feeling of being held, similar to the soothing effect of a weighted blanket.”
Potato bed hack doesn’t guarantee better sleep for everyone
In case of Deep Pressure Stimulation, the results may not generalize for everyone. Another factor is individual comfort preferences. According to Hannah Shore, temperature control is also responsible. She adds, “adding more pillows and blankets can reduce airflow, trapping warm air around the body. During sleep, our core body temperature needs to drop slightly for us to reach the deep, restorative stages of sleep.”
Why the “Potato Bed” can be more harmful than helpful
While the potato bed can help feel cozy, in contrast, it may also restrict movement and trap heat. A ScienceDirect study linked a cooler sleeping environment to better sleep quality and deeper restorative rest. So, while this viral hack can offer a good night’s sleep for some. It does not guarantee to be a one-fit-for-all trend. However, specific scientific trials are required to fully understand the potential of this internet trend. Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider or sleep specialist before trying new sleep techniques or making significant changes to your sleep routine.
