Author: Texas Mattress Makers

So, you finally decided to invest in yourself and your sleep quality and bought a brand-new mattress. Congratulations! You were probably really looking forward to getting a great night’s sleep. But when you go to lie down on that first night, you feel as if your new mattress is too firm. It’s firmer than you remember it being, and you’re worried there was a mistake. 

If this sounds familiar, you’re not alone. If you purchased your bed from Texas Mattress Makers (as you should), we can assure you there is nothing wrong with your new mattress. Is your mattress too firm for your liking? Don’t worry, it won’t feel this firm forever. 

Our mattress experts are here to explain why your mattress feels firmer than you anticipated and what to expect from your new bed.

My mattress is too firm. What’s going on?

Let’s paint a picture: you visited one of our fabulous Houston showrooms in search of your dream mattress. After trying out a few beds with the help of an expert, you found the one that was just right. We deliver it to your home, set it up in your bedroom for you, and you’re counting down the hours until you can get your first night of restorative rest on your new bed.

But when it’s time to hit the hay and finally climb into bed, something feels different. This feels way firmer than I remember. There are a few reasons why your mattress might feel firmer upon arrival:

1. Your mattress needs to be broken in
2. The store’s mattresses are already broken in
3. You purchased a mattress that is too firm for your preferences

Our mattress experts are here to explain all of the reasons why your mattress is too firm and what you can do and expect from a brand-new mattress.

1. Your mattress needs to be broken in 

When you buy a newly produced mattress at Texas Mattress Makers, the components may initially feel firmer because they are fresh and unused. Unlike other big-name retailers, our mattresses aren’t sitting in a warehouse waiting to be bought — they are made to order with brand-new components. 

Both the supportive base and the top comfort layers are designed to adapt to your body over time, but this adjustment process, also known as “breaking in a mattress,” requires a bit of patience.

How long does it take to break in a mattress? Your mattress should be broken in after sleeping on it consistently for 30-60 nights, depending on the type of mattress you have. Our founder Youvall Meicler and mattress expert Rachael discuss this process in detail.

How do I soften a firm mattress?

Breaking in a mattress is a crucial part of getting the best night’s sleep for years to come, but how do you break in a mattress that is too firm? The answer is pretty simple: keep sleeping on it! If your new mattress is too firm, trust that your bed will feel exactly how you envisioned it after the break-in period. To speed up this process, you can also try walking on it. If you feel that your mattress still isn’t comfortable after 60 nights, contact us to ask about our 90-Night Comfort Guarantee.

Breaking in a mattress can be a lot like breaking in new shoes –– the more they adjust to your body, the more comfortable they feel. Over time, your mattress’s components will adapt to your body, forming a natural body impression. This process helps the mattress support proper spinal alignment while you sleep so you can wake up feeling refreshed and pain-free.

2. The store’s mattresses are already broken in

Why does my mattress feel different than in the store? It’s highly likely that the mattress you tried in-store was already broken in. Why do retailers do this? 

At Texas Mattress Makers, we want to give our customers the most realistic idea of what their new mattress will feel like in the long term. To do this, all of the mattresses on our showroom floors have already broken in so that when our customers try out different models, they can choose the mattress that best aligns with their preferences. 

Our experts make the customers aware of this fact before they start shopping and inform them about the mattress break-in period. Shopping with us means you will be more informed about what to expect from your new mattress.

If you’re looking for answers to how to make a firm mattress softer after purchase, we’ve got you covered. As your mattress adjusts to your body (remember the break-in period), the components will soften over time from consistent pressure. This does not mean that your mattress will alter significantly, but you might find it more comfortable as time goes on. 

3. You purchased a mattress that is too firm for your preferences

If you’re unhappy with how firm your new mattress feels, it is possible that you may have chosen a comfort level that was too firm for your preferences. For example, If you chose a firm mattress, assuming it would provide better support, you might find it too stiff. If this happens, our team is ready to help. Every mattress at Texas Mattress Makers comes with our comfort guarantee, so if you’re not sleeping well after the initial 30-night break-in, give us a call.

The overall feel of your mattress will depend on the comfort level you choose. Here at Texas Mattress Makers, we have six mattress firmness levels that range from ultra-soft to ultra-firm. Note that there is no such thing as a “best mattress firmness” level, because comfort is subjective, and different levels work for different people. It’s best to ask our experts what comfort level would benefit you based on your:

• Body type
• Height and weight
• Preferred sleeping position 
• Health concerns (such as sciatica or arthritis)

Can a too-firm mattress hurt your back?

While it’s normal to experience mild aches as your body and mattress adjust to each other, the discomfort should be minimal and temporary. If your back pain persists after the mattress break-in period, contact the retailer for assistance. 

Most people might think they need a hard mattress for back pain even if this doesn’t align with their comfort preferences; however, this could only hurt your back more over time. If you shop with Texas Mattress Makers, our experts will recommend the best supportive and comfort components to accommodate your body and specific preferences. No more back pain, just soothing comfort.

Keep reading: Is your mattress too soft for your liking?

Our Mattresses are Designed for Lasting Comfort

Do you want to hear a secret? Many customers who feel their new mattress is too firm purchased their bed from a store that did not educate them on the mattress break-in process. When you buy your mattress from Texas Mattress Makers, you leave knowing exactly what to expect from your new bed, especially regarding how it will feel for the first few weeks.

Our customers are more informed, more confident, and more comfortable than most because our experts take the time to explain why a certain mattress will work for you long-term. Whether you prefer soft, medium, firm, or anything in between, we prioritize your unique needs. 

If you want a mattress that will feel perfectly comfortable for life, visit any of our mattress stores in Houston or shop online to see our amazing mattress selection. Say goodbye to aches and pains and hello to restorative, healthy sleep.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• Unpacking the Hype: What is a Bed in a Box?
• Mattress Coils: Do Count and Quality Matter?
• Benefits of Shopping for a Mattress in Person
• Mattress Body Impressions vs. Sagging Mattresses
• What Type of Mattress is Best for Back Pain?

Let’s talk about sleep, baby; let’s talk about you and me. Let’s talk about how sleep and libido go together healthily. 

Now that we have your attention, you can probably guess what today’s topic entails. That’s right, we’re going to be talking about sex and sleep. 

As mattress experts, we know better than most how quality sleep can positively impact every aspect of our lives. There are many benefits of sleep, but its effects on your romantic relationships are often glossed over. Sleep affects your mood, decision-making, and how you’re able to show up for your partner — and that includes physical intimacy.  

If you’re searching for the perfect bed for you and your partner, Texas Mattress Makers can give you the best mattress in Houston for the best price. A good mattress can help you sleep soundly, and sleeping soundly can have a pretty big impact on your sex life. Here are a few ways in which sleep and libido affect one another.

KEY  TAKEAWAYS:

• Sleep deprivation can negatively impact your libido.
• Sex and sleep are important parts of our overall health and complement one another.
• Quality sleep is a great way to improve libido.
• Find a mattress that both you and your partner love.

Does sleep affect your libido?

Yes, it does! The relationship between lack of sleep and sex drive is a scientific one, as both sex and sleep deal with our bodies and our brains. Libido, the fancy term for sexual desire, can look different for each person, and there is no “right amount” to have. We’re here to explain how sleep and libido affect one another so you can be better educated on how quality sleep impacts your relationships.

Physical effects

“Not tonight, I’m too tired” is a statement we have all heard or said in a relationship. If you’re not getting adequate sleep, you will have no energy to carry you through the day. When we’re exhausted, the last thing we want to do is engage in extra activity. So, how does sleep deprivation affect sex?

Sleep helps regulate all of the body’s sex hormones, including sex hormones — testosterone for men and estrogen for women — to ensure they stay balanced. Fatigue, especially in the form of chronic sleep deprivation, can lower the body’s estrogen and testosterone levels, decreasing your desire for sex overall. Some people naturally have a lower libido, but if you find that fatigue is getting in the way of your quality time, poor sleep quality is likely the culprit.

Mental effects

Intimacy is so much more than just a physical act; it’s a mental process as well. Because sleep and mental health heavily impact one another, if you’re exhausted or not in the right headspace, your desire to have sex will decrease. 

Feeling in the mood for sex depends on your brain’s ability to release and manage the proper hormones and chemicals that occur during sleep. Dopamine, the chemical that regulates mood, and oxytocin, the hormone that manages our reproductive systems, are necessary for libido. If you’re not sleeping well, your brain can’t keep these in balance, and your interest in sex can plummet. 

Stress also heavily affects both sex and sleep, as increased cortisol levels make it difficult to relax and fall asleep. When you’re stressed, exhausted, and despondent, your sleep quality and your sex life will take a huge hit.

Does having sex help you sleep better?

Studies have shown that sex promotes healthy sleep outcomes. The sleep benefits come both from the physical activity itself and from the emotional aspects of intimacy, such as feeling close to and experiencing affection from a partner. Here’s why:

• Your brain releases all of the good hormones: Hormones that make you happy and help you to relax are released during and after sex, making it easier for you to fall and stay asleep. Some people say that sex is better than sleeping pills.
• You feel closer to your partner: Does sleeping next to someone create a bond? Absolutely. Sleeping in the same bed as a partner can promote feelings of connection and safety while reducing stress, which in turn can help you sleep.

Unfortunately, many couples who share a bed are not getting enough quality sleep — with or without sex. If your partner has different preferences and sleep habits, or your mattress is low-quality, you may be on the brink of a sleep divorce, which can have negative impacts on your rest and relationship.

So, how can couples get a better night’s sleep? With a new mattress from Texas Mattress Makers. 

Get a Mattress You and Your Partner Will Love

For all of you lovers out there who feel like something is missing in your love life, take a minute to reflect on how well you and your partner are sleeping at night. Because sleep and libido affect one another, it’s important to prioritize quality sleep — and the best way to ensure that you’re getting great sleep is to invest in the right mattress.

What is the best kind of mattress for couples? What happens if my partner and I have different needs? What is a split king mattress? These are all common questions that we hear from our customers in a couple. 

Rest assured that Texas Mattress Makers has the solution to any sleep-related problem you and your loved one might face. Say goodbye to fatigue, stress, and aches and pains. Ready to get the best sleep of your life and improve your relationship? Visit any of our mattress stores in Houston to view our top-quality mattresses for amazing prices.

We can guarantee you’ll fall in love with your new bed.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• What to Do if Your Partner Snores
• Sleeping with Pets: Benefits and Drawbacks
• Benefits of Shopping for a Mattress in Person
• Tips for What To Do If You Can’t Fall Asleep
• The Best Motion Isolation Mattress

Every January, millions of Americans set weight loss or fitness goals as part of their New Year’s resolutions. Gym memberships skyrocket, meal prep routines kick into high gear, and fitness apparel sales go through the roof. Now that you have a shiny new pair of running shoes and a dumbbell set, you’re ready to change yourself for the better! But there’s one crucial factor often overlooked in the quest for a healthier lifestyle: sleep.

We’re going to tell you a hard truth: all of the effort you put into running, healthy meals, and weightlifting essentially means nothing if you’re not getting a good night’s sleep. All that effort can be undermined by neglecting your sleep routine — so if you’re wondering “Can lack of sleep cause weight gain?” The answer is yes, it can. Ignoring your sleep quality will only set back your progress and make it harder to achieve your weight loss goals.

Even if you don’t have weight loss goals, it’s still important to understand what happens to your body when you don’t get enough sleep. Keeping your health in top shape should always be a priority — and it can only be done with a good night’s sleep. Let’s talk about it.

What happens to your body when you don’t get enough sleep?

Food, water, and sleep fuel your body to do all the amazing things bodies can do every single day — without them, you’re like a car trying to run on no gas. When we’re asleep, our brains and bodies have enough time to carry out a range of recovery and regenerative processes. Therefore, if you’re not experiencing the full five stages of sleep (wake, N1, N2, N3, and REM) each night, your body and mind will suffer.

The symptoms of not getting enough sleep can include but are not limited to:

• Daytime sleepiness or general fatigue 
• Lack of energy 
• Decreased brain function
• Mood swings and irritability (learn more about sleep and mental health)
• Memory problems 
• Trouble focusing 
• Lowered immune system 
• Weight gain

Trying to operate during a work or school day on no sleep is a nightmare. And if you’re really trying to hit those health goals in 2025, your inconsistent sleep schedule will hinder your progress.

Does lack of sleep make it harder to lose weight?

Yes, there is evidence that sleep can have lasting effects on your body and your ability to maintain a healthy weight. We’re mattress experts, so we’ll leave the science talk to the scientists. Here’s what they have to say.

Studies indicate that poor sleep quality may lead to metabolic disorders, weight gain, and an increased risk of obesity and other chronic health conditions. According to Esra Tasali, MD, Director of the UChicago Sleep Center at the University of Chicago Medicine, “Sleep restriction affects appetite regulation that leads to increased food intake, and thus puts you at risk for weight gain over time.”

It’s important to note that a few nights of bad sleep here and there won’t ruin all of your fitness progress; however, insufficient sleep or chronic sleep deprivation will have lasting negative impacts on your health. 

How does sleep affect weight loss?

Sleep isn’t just about feeling rested; it’s an active process that restores and recharges your body to keep you healthy. When these processes are disturbed, your body responds negatively. Here’s how:

• Less energy for workouts: Sleep and exercise have always gone hand-in-hand. To get a good night’s sleep, you need to exercise; to get a good workout, you need energy from sleep. Less sleep leads to less energy for exercise, which can lead to weight gain over time.
• Reduced muscle recovery: No sleep? No gains. Sleep is the body’s main recovery tool after a workout that helps your muscles grow properly. Without it, you won’t get to reap the benefits of all of your hard work.
• Hormone imbalances: Sleep regulates the hormones in your body that tell you when you’re hungry (ghrelin) and full (leptin). Sleep deprivation lowers your leptin levels, making it harder for your brain to recognize when you’re full, which can result in overeating. Gherlin, on the other hand, increases with lack of sleep, leading to constant cravings. Experiencing fatigue after eating consistently can be a sign that these hormones are out of balance.
• Slows your metabolism down: Your metabolism is what allows your body to take energy from food and drink to help you burn calories. Less sleep equals less calories burned throughout the day.
• Higher stress levels: The stress-sleep cycle makes it almost impossible to get quality rest. Because sleep deprivation triggers cortisol, the stress hormone, you’re more likely to experience higher stress levels that can cause the body to store fat.

Does sleeping help you lose weight?

While you don’t burn any fat or calories while sleeping, you do lose some water weight over the course of the night through breathing and sweating. However, the most important takeaway from questions like this is that without sleep, your body can’t perform its essential functions that help you lose weight in the long run. That being said, you must prioritize sleep for weight loss success.

How much sleep is needed for weight loss? Most adults should aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. This allows your body to complete all necessary sleep cycles, including deep sleep and REM, where physical and mental restoration happens. So, how can you get quality sleep? With the right mattress.

Get the Sleep Your Body Needs with Texas Mattress Makers

So, can lack of sleep cause weight gain? Absolutely. While diet and exercise often get the spotlight in weight loss conversations, you should not neglect the importance of having the right sleep tools: a top-quality mattress that suits your needs. Because sleep is the key to maintaining a healthy body, you need a mattress that will promote quality sleep every night. 

Not just any mattress will do. We’re all unique sleepers with needs that not every mattress can address. Shopping at Texas Mattress Makers is the best way to guarantee going home with a mattress you’ll love forever. Not to mention, no mattress stores in Houston can match our factory-direct prices for the quality of our products. Houston voted us the Best of the Best for a reason!

Ready to get the best sleep of your life in the new year? Visit any of our Houston mattress stores today or shop online to find your forever mattress. You deserve to get deep, restorative rest every night to live your life to the fullest.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• Best Mattress for Sleep Apnea
• Is Oversleeping Bad? The Dangers of Too Much Sleep
• 5 Unexpected Benefits of Sleep
• What To Do If You Can’t Fall Asleep
• How Coffee Affects Sleep: When to Cut Out Caffeine

Have you ever woken up feeling exhausted even after a full 7–9 hours of sleep? Or, have you found yourself wide awake in the wee hours of the morning for no apparent reason? If so, your internal clock — also known as your circadian rhythm — might be out of sync. While it’s easy to blame stress or a late cup of coffee, there’s more at play when it comes to your sleep-wake cycle.

Understanding what affects your circadian rhythm and how to reset it can make all the difference in achieving the restorative sleep you deserve. Here are our expert tips on how to fix circadian rhythm so you can wake up feeling refreshed and ready to conquer the day.

1. Create a consistent sleep schedule
2. Prioritize natural light exposure during the day
3. Avoid stimulants such as caffeine or alcohol before bed
4. Choose the right mattress 

What is circadian rhythm?

Think of your circadian rhythm as your body and mind’s built-in sleep tracker: it regulates when you feel sleepy or awake based on light exposure and other environmental cues. For example, when the sun goes down, and you are exposed to less light, your brain begins to release certain hormones to help you get ready for bed — and in the morning, your circadian rhythm will raise your body temperature to let you know when it’s time to wake up. 

When this rhythm gets thrown off, your sleep quality can take a serious hit. 

How do I know if my circadian rhythm is off?

It may not be super simple to tell when your internal clock is not ticking correctly, especially if you suffer from sleep disorders like insomnia or sleep apnea. Here are some signs your circadian rhythm might be out of balance:

• You struggle to fall or stay asleep (Keep reading: How long should it take you to fall asleep?)
• You feel groggy or fatigued even after a whole night’s rest
• You have no energy in the afternoon but get a second wind at night
• You’re more irritable or anxious than usual
• You have trouble focusing or staying productive during the day

As we always say, sleep allows your body to function properly during the day. Without it, you put yourself at risk for a plethora of different health problems. So, how do you get to the root of your sleep problems? Let’s discuss it.

What can throw off your circadian rhythm?

Keeping your circadian rhythm in line is directly linked to your daily habits that help promote quality rest, also known as your sleep hygiene. The following factors could be the cause of your restless nights as well as signs of not getting enough sleep:

• Too much exposure to artificial light. Whether you enjoy watching TV before bed or scrolling through social media while actually in bed, artificial light, also known as blue light, that comes off of your devices can trick your brain into thinking you need to stay awake, thus making it difficult for you to fall asleep.
• Irregular sleep schedules. Falling asleep and waking up at different times every day confuses your internal clock. Am I supposed to get sleepy at 10 p.m. or at 3 a.m.? When am I supposed to wake up? Consistency is key.
• Feeling stressed or anxious. When your mind is racing or you’re feeling worried, your brain can’t signal to your body that it’s time to unwind for bed.
• Uncomfortable sleep environment. A noisy, hot, or uncomfortable mattress can disrupt your ability to relax. 
• Travel and jet lag. Changing time zones forces your body to adjust to new light cues, often leaving you wide awake when you should be sleeping. Even if you’re not traveling far, the strain that travel can put on your body can have negative effects on your sleep quality.
• Stimulants too close to bedtime. We know we said earlier that you can’t always blame your sleepless nights on that afternoon caffeine, but indulging in stimulants such as coffee and dark chocolate too close to bedtime can keep you alert for longer.

In order to get your internal clock back on track, you’ll need to know how to reset your circadian rhythm. Luckily, it can be done with just a few simple adjustments.

How do I reset my circadian rhythm?

Create a consistent sleep schedule

The best way to reset circadian rhythm is to keep yourself on a strict sleep routine. Your body needs to follow a consistent sleep schedule to determine when to release those sleep hormones at the appropriate time. This includes going to sleep and waking up around the same time every day — yes, even on weekends. Be sure you’re getting a full 7-9 hours of sleep each night for optimal performance.

Struggle to fall asleep? Check out our tips for how to fall asleep when you can’t

Soak up the sun

When there is light outside, we’re meant to be awake — and when there is darkness, we’re meant to be asleep. Natural sunlight in the morning and afternoon tells your body to stay awake throughout the day! If you’re experiencing daytime fatigue, take a brief walk outside in the sun and let your skin soak in the rays to give you an energy boost (but wear sunscreen and sunglasses to protect yourself). 

If you struggle with getting enough natural light, especially in winter, consider using a light therapy box in the morning (also known as a SAD lamp that is marketed toward those with seasonal affective disorder). It mimics natural sunlight and can help reset your internal clock.

Read our tips on how to adjust to daylight savings

Cut off stimulants before bed

To experience uninterrupted sleep through the night, you must avoid any stimulants for a while before heading to sleep. While we know caffeine and electronics will keep our brains alert, alcohol actually inhibits your ability to get deep REM sleep — so while it’s not necessarily a stimulant, it can disrupt your sleep quality.

How many hours before bed should I avoid stimulants?

• Caffeine: At least six hours before bedtime
• Artificial light: At least two hours before bedtime
• Alcohol: At least four hours before bedtime

Choose the right mattress

Your mattress plays a crucial role in how well you rest. If your bed is uncomfortable or unsupportive, you’ll likely toss and turn no matter how in-sync your circadian rhythm is.

At Texas Mattress Makers, we manufacture handcrafted mattresses tailored to your specific comfort and support needs. No matter who you are or how you sleep, we’ll help you find the perfect mattress for deep, restorative rest. Only then will you reap the benefits of a good night’s sleep.

No One Makes Mattresses Like Texas Mattress Makers

Now that we’ve laid out our tips for how to fix circadian rhythm, we hope that you take your sleep quality seriously. To reset circadian rhythm, you have to prioritize your health, rethink your current habits, and invest in a top-quality mattress that will actually satisfy all of your needs.

If the idea of shopping for a new mattress intimidates you, then you will appreciate the Texas Mattress Makers experience. As a locally owned and operated family business, we want to ensure every customer who enters our doors feels comfortable and cared for. Our mattress experts have helped thousands of Texans improve their sleep through our mattresses crafted with the highest quality materials available. Here’s what a customer had to say about their recent shopping experience with us:

“This is my first mattress from Texas Mattress Makers and I’m super satisfied with my purchase and in-store experience. They are also a Houston-based company, so you’re dealing with people who know and support our city and its communities. 100% recommend to anyone looking for a new mattress!”

Abimael C. | Satisfied Sleeper | Meyerland Location

Visit any of our Houston mattress stores to find your dream mattress. Whatever budget you’re working with or preferences you need satisfied, we can guarantee that you’ll experience better rest after sleeping on our mattresses.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• Solutions for the Most Common Sleep Problems
• Is Oversleeping Bad? The Dangers of Too Much Sleep
• Reasons We Feel Tired After Eating
• 5 Unexpected Benefits of Sleep
• How Much Sleep Do I Really Need?

Have you ever wondered why you feel exhausted after a night of drinking, even when you technically “slept” for eight hours? While that glass of wine might help you drift off to sleep initially, alcohol can seriously impact your sleep quality — and not in the ways you might expect. In fact, that nightcap you’re using to unwind could be the very reason you’re tossing and turning all night long.

As mattress experts who’ve helped thousands of Texans improve their sleep quality, we’ve noticed that many of our customers don’t realize how their evening drink habits affect their rest. While investing in a quality mattress is crucial for better sleep, understanding how alcohol affects sleep patterns is equally important for achieving the restorative rest your body needs.

Let’s dive into the relationship between alcohol and sleep and what you can do to ensure you’re getting the quality rest you deserve, whether you’re enjoying a weekend cocktail or are looking to improve your sleep habits overall.

Myth busting: does alcohol improve your sleep quality?

It’s a common belief that having a drink before bed helps you fall asleep faster — and technically, that’s true. But here’s the catch: while alcohol before bed might help you drift off initially, it severely compromises your overall sleep quality.

What many people don’t realize is that this “sleep aid” approach to alcohol actually creates a troubling cycle. Your body begins to associate falling asleep with having a drink, making it harder to drift off naturally on nights when you don’t drink. Plus, as your body builds tolerance to alcohol’s sedative effects, you might find yourself needing more drinks to get the same sleep-inducing result. This isn’t just bad for your sleep, it’s a pattern that can lead to both sleep disorders and unhealthy drinking habits.

Why does alcohol mess up your sleep?

There are a ton of ways in which alcohol can negatively affect your sleep quality, including:

• Disrupting your REM sleep
• Causing you to wake up frequently throughout the night
• Worsening snoring and sleep apnea
• Disrupting your circadian rhythm
• Making you sleep hot, causing discomfort 
• Triggering vivid or disruptive dreams

Let’s dive deeper into these topics to give you a better understanding of the impacts nighttime drinking can have on the mind and body. 

1. Alcohol disrupts REM sleep

That stage of sleep where your brain processes emotions and integrates memories? Alcohol throws it into chaos. When alcohol interferes with your rapid eye movement (REM) sleep, you’re missing out on much more than just rest. 

Think of REM sleep as your brain’s filing system: without it, those important memories and emotional experiences don’t get properly stored away, leaving you foggy, irritable, and stressed the next day. Your brain needs consistent, uninterrupted REM sleep to function at its best, but alcohol prevents you from getting enough of this vital sleep stage, no matter how many hours you spend in bed.

2. Drinking causes sleep fragmentation

Ever notice how you tend to wake up throughout the night after drinking? That’s sleep fragmentation in action. While you might not remember these brief awakenings, they prevent you from reaching those deeper, more restorative sleep stages. It’s like trying to watch a movie that keeps buffering — you might get the general plot, but you’re missing all the important details that make it worthwhile.

3. Being drunk worsens snoring and sleep apnea

If you’ve ever slept next to someone who’s had a few drinks, you’re probably familiar with the increased snoring. But alcohol’s effects on your breathing during sleep go beyond being a nuisance as it can actually worsen or trigger sleep apnea by relaxing the muscles in your throat. This means less oxygen reaching your brain throughout the night, leading to more serious health concerns down the road.

While alcohol may worsen these breathing issues, sleeping on the right mattress for sleep apnea can help minimize their impact. Our experts often recommend an adjustable base paired with a supportive mattress for sleep apnea sufferers, as elevating your head can help keep airways open and improve breathing throughout the night.

4. Alcohol disrupts your circadian rhythm

When alcohol disrupts sleep, it affects multiple aspects of your rest cycle. How long does it take an average person to fall asleep? Typically, you should drift off within 10-20 minutes of lying down. While alcohol might speed up this process initially, the trade-off isn’t worth the poor sleep quality that follows.

Your circadian rhythm is like your body’s internal timekeeper, but alcohol acts like a wrench in the gears. Even if you stick to your regular bedtime, drinking can confuse your body’s natural sleep-wake cycle, making it harder to fall asleep and wake up at your normal times. This disruption can last for several days, even after just one night of drinking.

While you might find yourself sleeping in to make up for poor sleep quality, oversleeping is bad for maintaining your body’s natural rhythm and can actually make you feel more tired throughout the day. This creates a frustrating cycle that keeps your internal clock out of sync long after your last drink.

5. Drinking leads to nighttime sweats

Ever wondered why you wake up drenched after a night of drinking? As your body metabolizes alcohol, it causes your blood vessels to dilate, leading to those uncomfortable night sweats. If you’re already prone to sleeping hot, alcohol can make this problem even worse, turning your peaceful night’s sleep into a sweaty, uncomfortable experience. Not only does this disrupt your sleep, but it can also leave you dehydrated and even more exhausted in the morning. 

This combination of alcohol-induced night sweats and sleeping hot can make it nearly impossible to get the quality rest your body needs.

6. Intoxication triggers vivid or disruptive dreams

How does alcohol affect the brain during sleep? While alcohol might make you feel sleepy, it can turn your dreams into vivid, often disturbing experiences. This happens because your brain is trying to catch up on missed REM sleep in the latter half of the night, leading to intense dream activity that can jolt you awake and leave you feeling unsettled. 

When alcohol alters your brain’s natural sleep patterns, it creates a kind of rebound effect, where your brain attempts to make up for lost time by intensifying your dream experiences. This can result in more nightmares, stress dreams, and fractured sleep that leaves you feeling drained instead of refreshed.

Continue reading: How does stress affect sleep? How does sleep affect mental health?

How long before bed should you stop drinking alcohol?

If you want to minimize the effects of alcohol on sleep, timing is everything. Our sleep experts recommend stopping alcohol consumption at least 4 hours before your regular bedtime — and here’s why.

Your body typically metabolizes one standard drink per hour, but that doesn’t mean the sleep disruption stops when the alcohol is out of your system. Think of it like throwing a stone into a pond: even after the stone sinks, the ripples continue to spread across the water. Similarly, alcohol continues to affect your sleep quality long after your last sip.

Here’s a simple timeline to follow for better sleep:

1. Last Call (4+ Hours Before Bed):

• Stop drinking alcohol completely
• Switch to water or caffeine-free tea
• Give your body time to metabolize the alcohol

2. Pre-Bed Routine (1-2 Hours Before Bed):

• Have a light snack if needed
• Begin your normal bedtime routine
• Keep your bedroom cool and comfortable

When you pair smart drinking habits with a high-quality mattress that’s designed to support proper sleep alignment and temperature regulation, you’re giving yourself the best possible chance at a restful night’s sleep, even on those occasions when you do enjoy a drink or two.

Texas Mattress Makers: Your partner for better sleep

Understanding how alcohol affects sleep is the first step toward better rest. While the occasional drink won’t ruin your sleep forever, being aware of alcohol’s impact can help you make better choices for your sleep health. Remember, quality sleep isn’t just about how many hours you spend in bed — it’s about how restorative those hours are.

At Texas Mattress Makers, we understand that various factors influence your sleep quality, from your evening habits to your sleeping surface. Our experts can help you find a mattress that promotes better sleep, even on those nights when you’ve had a drink or two.

Visit any of our Houston mattress stores to speak with our sleep experts about finding the perfect mattress for your needs. We’re here to help you get the restful sleep you deserve, whether you’re dealing with alcohol-related sleep issues or just looking to upgrade your sleep setup to a good queen mattress.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• Sleeping with Pets: Benefits and Drawbacks
• What is a Mattress in a Box?
• Reasons For Feeling Fatigue After Eating
• How to Choose a Split King Bed vs. King Bed
• Do Count and Quality Matter for a Coil Mattress

We’ve put together our best mattress shopping tips to educate consumers on how to buy a mattress that lasts and won’t break your budget — or your spirit — in the process. If mattress shopping feels overwhelming but you’re ready to take the plunge, Texas Mattress Makers is well-known for providing an easier shopping experience than other mattress stores in Houston. 

Texas Mattress Makers was formed with the mission of helping people avoid common mistakes when shopping for mattresses, as well as providing them with mattresses that improve their sleep quality and quality of life. You can make 2025 the year of better sleep when you shop with us.

Planning to upgrade your mattress in the new year? Find your perfect mattress easily with our best mattress shopping tips for 2025!

• Shop for a mattress in person
• Avoid “smart mattresses”
• Invest in the components that work best for you
• Don’t focus solely on the price tag
• Protect your mattress
• Read the mattress warranty
• Seek guidance from mattress experts

What are the top aspects to consider when buying a mattress?

If you’re unsure what to ask when buying a mattress, here are some things to consider when selecting your forever mattress.

• Components: These are the materials that make up the comfort and supportive portions of the mattress. Different components provide different levels of comfort, support, and pain relief, along with other benefits.
• Comfort level: There is more than just “soft” or “firm.” Choose a mattress that feels comfortable for your preferred sleeping position so that you’re content all night. Texas Mattress Makers’s comfort levels range from ultra-soft to ultra-firm to provide you with a variety of choices and feels. 
• Cooling features: Invest in a mattress with cooling technology if you tend to sleep hot or live in a warmer climate like Texas.
• Motion isolation: If you share your bed, consider a mattress with good motion isolation to minimize sleep disruptions between you and your partner.
• Trial period: Make sure you have at least 30-60 nights to properly break in your mattress. This will let you know whether or not the mattress you bought will suit you long-term.
• Overall quality of construction: Mattresses that have been tested for their quality are more likely to last longer and be worth your investment. Texas Mattress Makers’s mattresses have all gone through rigorous testing procedures that proved their durability and longevity.

Tip 1: Shop for a mattress in person

This may be the most important of all of our mattress shopping tips: try out a mattress in person before you buy it. While browsing beds online is great for the research phase, you can’t know how a mattress will feel and perform through a screen. Is it comfortable enough? Does it support your body correctly? Does it feel high-quality? You won’t know unless you try it in person.

Shopping in person gives you as a consumer the following benefits:

• You will know exactly what you’re buying before you commit.
• You will save time and money.
• You can shop alongside an expert (more on this later).
• You’re more likely to get a mattress you will love.
• You’ll get better sleep for a healthier life.

Laying on a mattress for about 10-15 minutes in your preferred sleep position will give you the best idea of how that mattress will perform. The mattresses in our showroom are already “broken in” so you can get a better idea of how the bed will feel after it has been slept on frequently. Texas Mattress Makers offers multiple in-person showrooms in the Houston area where you can try various options of our top-quality beds.

Tip 2: Avoid “smart mattresses”

As technology advances, “smart mattresses” have made their way into retail stores. And while technology has improved some areas of our lives, smart mattresses — which often come with apps and sensors to monitor your sleep — don’t guarantee better sleep. 

As experts, we’ve noticed that these high-tech mattresses focus more on tracking and monitoring your sleep patterns and overwhelming you with data rather than helping you fix your sleep problems.

Instead of spending a fortune on features that are not directly related to comfort or support, focus on finding a mattress that meets your actual needs. A good mattress will promote restful sleep without unnecessary apps, gadgets, or gizmos.

Tip 3: Invest in the components that work best for you

No two mattresses are the same at Texas Mattress Makers. Each mattress that we manufacture has a unique combination of our top-quality components that cater to a wide range of sleep needs. In order to get the best sleep possible, it’s important to know which components will benefit you best.

• If you sleep hot, invest in a mattress with cooling technology that will regulate your body temperature throughout the night.
• If you need more support, our exclusive Quantum™ Coil component is the most supportive coil in the mattress industry and is built to last with unmatched durability.
• If you need optimal pressure relief, our all-natural latex component eases joint pain and provides soothing comfort while being breathable, hypoallergenic, and eco-friendly.
• If you prefer cradling comfort, our foam components, including memory foam and 100% foam mattresses, offer balanced, pain-relieving body support that helps you sleep soundly in any position without the sinking feeling.

Unsure which components would work best for your needs? Our experts will work with you to determine which mattress will suit you best overall for unmatched comfort and support.

Tip 4: Don’t focus solely on the price tag

For most buyers, the most stressful part of mattress shopping is the idea of spending a large chunk of change. This leads many people to purchase a cheap mattress that they believe will “get the job done.” However, buying a cheap mattress might save you money upfront, but it often costs more in the long run. A low-quality mattress may wear out faster, lack adequate support, and compromise your sleep quality, meaning it will need to be replaced more frequently. And that will add up over time.

Texas Mattress Makers carries the highest quality mattresses in Houston for the best prices available.  Although you should be mindful of your budget, go into mattress shopping with the goal of finding the best model for you. Focus on the components that make up the mattress and what feels best for your body and sleep needs — because that will be worth every penny.

Our experts can help you find a mattress that will suit you perfectly within your means so you won’t feel like you’re breaking the bank.

Tip 5: Protect your mattress

Your mattress can harbor irritants and other gross things over time, which can affect its lifespan. Some examples include:

• Stains
• Body fluids such as sweat and urine 
• Liquids and moisture
• Allergens such as pet dander, dust, and dirt
• Mold
• Bed bugs and other insects

If you want your mattress to last as long as possible, investing in a quality mattress protector will keep your mattress clean and shield it from any hazards that can seep into the materials. This will protect your bed from excessive wear and tear, and extend the lifespan of your mattress by years, allowing you to sleep comfortably on your bed for as long as you want!

Protect your investment in 2025 for better sleep that can last a lifetime.

Tip 6: Read the mattress warranty

This tip should be obvious, but you would be surprised how many customers skip over reading their mattress warranty before purchasing. Even though we pride ourselves on matching people with their perfect mattress, sometimes, it may not be the best fit, and that’s okay! If you want to avoid any hassle, read through our warranty and return policy carefully.

We offer our customers what we call our Comfort Guarantee: if you feel that your new mattress is not perfect after 30 – 60 nights of consistent sleep, you may call us before the 90-night deadline so that we can help you find a solution. 

See what our factory warranty does and does not cover. 

Tip 7: Seek guidance from mattress experts

Finding your perfect mattress match can be overwhelming, especially with many available options and information. So, how do I know what mattress is best for me? The best way to ensure that you are bringing home the best bed possible is to shop alongside a mattress expert from Texas Mattress Makers.

You mean like a salesperson? Nope. Better.

Because they are trained to understand our manufacturing processes, our mattress experts can help clarify the nuances between mattress types, materials, and sleep benefits, guiding you to a mattress that aligns with your needs and preferences. In short, they know more about our mattresses than any salesperson ever could. Their expertise allows them to recommend certain components and solutions that can aid in a variety of sleep issues.

At Texas Mattress Makers, our team is passionate about helping you find the best mattress for your unique sleep style and budget. We believe that everyone deserves a great night’s sleep and are here to ensure you get it.

Shop at the Best Mattress Store Houston Has to Offer in 2025

If you put off buying a new mattress in 2024, this is your sign to upgrade to a better mattress with Texas Mattress Makers. With these mattress shopping tips, you’re now well-prepared to make an informed decision when selecting a mattress that suits both your lifestyle and your sleep needs in 2025. 

When you’re ready to get better sleep, visit any of our Houston-area mattress stores today. Our showrooms are designed to make mattress shopping as simple and stress-free as possible. See you soon!

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• How to Find a Good Quality Mattress
• How Much Does a Good Mattress Cost?
• Bad Pillow Symptoms: When to Upgrade Your Pillow
• Do You Need a Mattress Protector? Yes, Here’s Why.
• Do I Need a Foundation for My Mattress?

Do you find it more difficult to sleep in the winter? If so, you may be experiencing winter insomnia. Winter insomnia is similar to regular insomnia, during which you experience difficulty falling asleep, staying asleep, and grogginess throughout the day; the only difference is that winter insomnia, because of its seasonality, isn’t a medical diagnosis, and may stem from other health issues or disorders. 

So, what is the issue with struggling to sleep in the winter? While many sleepers shrug off the possibility of having any form of insomnia, winter insomnia can be particularly problematic as wintertime is typically a busy season. With major holidays trailing one right after the other, it’s tough to feel in the spirit when you’re exhausted.

Luckily, winter insomnia can often be easily treated with a number of tips — and the right mattress.

Do we need more sleep in winter? 

Research suggests that humans require more and deeper sleep in the wintertime than we do in other seasons. Think about it: mammals, amphibians, and other animal species get to take the whole season off to hibernate — we humans, especially here in Texas, are forced to face the colder temperatures and shorter days head-on. And while it doesn’t get particularly freezing here in the Lone Star State (except for that one time), our southern bones aren’t built to brace the cold for too long. 

To keep ourselves healthy and strong, we need to get proper sleep each night. But those who struggle with insomnia, especially during the winter months, are constantly battling with themselves to have a peaceful night. 

How long does it take for someone to fall asleep? You should be able to fall asleep within 10-15 minutes of lying down, but insomniacs might take 30 minutes or longer to finally drift off to sleep. Less sleep causes a domino effect of mental and physical health issues that make life harder every day.

What causes seasonal insomnia?

Winter insomnia, also known as seasonal insomnia, is influenced by several factors that make falling and staying asleep more difficult. Some of these factors include:

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD)

SAD is a type of depression that lasts throughout the same seasonal patterns each year. Most people experience seasonal depression during fall and winter because there is less sunlight — and reduced sunlight exposure causes dips in serotonin and melatonin levels in the brain that regulates your sleep cycle, causing seasonal insomnia. This can also cause some individuals to oversleep (hypersomnia).

Seasonal affective disorder usually lasts around 4-5 months, with symptoms becoming more manageable as the spring season rolls around and the days get longer. If you believe that you are affected by seasonal depression disorder, speak to a professional to pinpoint which route of treatment is best for you.

Keep reading: Is oversleeping bad?

Increased stress

While the holiday season is portrayed as a very joyous time of year, it’s no secret that its demands can make even the jolliest individual stressed out. The stress of social obligations, traveling, family gatherings, presents to purchase, and food to make can lead you to feel overly stressed and burnt out. 

The effects of stress on sleep can be pretty severe for your sleep quality. When you’re stressed, your cortisol levels increase, which is meant to give you more energy to handle the tense task, and then melatonin will swoop in to help calm you down to get a good night’s sleep. Well, too much stress tells your brain that you need to stay alert and can result in insomnia. Combatting stress-induced winter insomnia will require you to prioritize relaxation and delegating your many tasks.

Holiday eating habits

The most wonderful time of year also brings some of the most wonderful food we eat all year — but we have to admit that it’s not always the healthiest. Many of us feel tired after eating a large holiday meal because the foods are typically high in sugar and fat and cause blood sugar spikes that result in fatigue. 

That after-meal nap you feel compelled to take after your second plate will throw your sleep schedule off-balance, making it hard for you to fall asleep at night. Not to mention that heavy, late-night meals can lead to discomfort and sleep disruptions throughout the night. 

Less exercise

Speaking of unhealthy holiday habits, it’s not uncommon for anyone to skip their weekly workouts during the busy holiday season. But what some of you may not realize is that working out and sleeping go hand-in-hand to provide restful sleep. Regular exercise promotes better sleep by reducing stress and regulating your sleep cycle. If you skip your workouts, you may notice that it is more difficult for you to fall asleep.

Consistent traveling

Whether you’re flying to visit family or packing the kids in the car for a road trip, if you can’t sleep when traveling, you’ll have a hard time getting the rest you need this winter. Traveling stress, uncomfortable guest beds, and late-night parties can all throw your sleep schedule off. If you know you’ll be on the road or in the air this season, try your best to reduce stress and prioritize relaxation to combat insomnia.

How do you fix winter insomnia?

Our expert tip for how to get more sleep in the wintertime is to invest in the best mattress for your needs. Sleeping on a bad mattress can cause unnecessary discomfort, leading to restless nights and even more frequent awakenings. If you want to address your winter insomnia, invest in the right mattress.

While there is not one best mattress for insomnia, a quality mattress that supports your body’s natural spinal alignment can improve comfort, reduce tension, and encourage deeper sleep cycles to help you sleep well each night. If the idea of mattress shopping stresses you out, then try Texas Mattress Makers. Our online and in-person shopping experience is designed to make finding your perfect mattress easier and more affordable.

Aside from purchasing a top-quality mattress, here are some other tips for treating winter insomnia:

• Exercise regularly for a minimum of 20 minutes
• Soak in the sunlight soon after waking up
• Limit naps to 10 – 20 minutes
• Invest in a SAD lamp for light therapy
• Keep your home around 65 – 68° during the night 
• Prioritize relaxation before bedtime
• Stick to a consistent sleep schedule
• Seek medical help from a psychologist or sleep specialist

Don’t Let Winter Insomnia Ruin Your Holidays

Getting quality sleep in the winter and every other season is incredibly important, and you cannot get a good night’s rest without a proper mattress. If you need a new mattress, you should highly consider shopping with Texas Mattress Makers.

Unlike other mattress stores in Houston, we make all of our mattresses in our on-site factory in Downtown Houston. Buying directly from the manufacturer allows you to save money while receiving a top-quality product. 

We understand that the holidays can be full of stressful shopping — but you won’t have to worry about that with us. Visit any of our Houston-area mattress stores and shop alongside an expert who can help you find your best mattress match in no time. 

You deserve only the best of the best, and we guarantee that you won’t find a better quality mattress for a better price. Our gift to you is the gift of better sleep.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• How Much Sleep Do I Really Need?
• Tips for What To Do If You Can’t Fall Asleep
• Why You Shouldn’t Invest in a Smart Mattress
• Pros and Cons of Taking Melatonin for Sleep
• 5 Unexpected Benefits of Sleep

9:00 a.m.: “I’m still a little sleepy from waking up this morning.” 

10:00 a.m.: “Waiting for the coffee to kick in.”

11:00 a.m.: “I still feel sleepy. Maybe I should get a second cup of coffee?”

12:00 p.m.: “I really wish I could take a nap.”

1:30 p.m.: “I really, really need a nap.”

2:45 p.m.: “I can barely keep my eyes open.”

3:15 p.m.: “Is it bedtime yet?”

Daytime drowsiness — also known as excessive sleepiness or hypersomnia — occurs more often than people realize. While it’s normal to feel a little sleepy during the day, falling asleep at work, taking excessive naps, or needing caffeine to stay awake is not normal.  

Daytime sleepiness is one of the most common signs you’re not getting enough sleep during the night, as it’s your body’s way of combating sleep deprivation. However, as you might have experienced first-hand, it causes disruptions in productivity, lapses in your ability to focus, and hurts your overall health if experienced consistently. 

Are you tired of experiencing daytime drowsiness? The mattress experts at Texas Mattress Makers are here to share some tips on how to stay awake during the day and combat that sluggish state. 

What causes daytime drowsiness?

What’s the deal? Why am I sleepy during the day? Well, your need for a midday snooze could be attributed to many factors, including your own sleep habits and your overall health. Daytime sleepiness or hypersomnia can be a sign of:

• Sleep apnea
• Narcolepsy
• Chronic fatigue syndrome
• Sleep disorders
• Poor sleep hygiene  
• Restless leg syndrome
• Depression or anxiety
• Bipolar disorder
• Misuse of stimulants or alcohol
• Overall poor health
• Side effects of certain medications
• Idiopathic hypersomnia (which has no known cause)

Is oversleeping bad? Yes, it can be. If you need more than nine hours of sleep at night and still find yourself longing for a nap, you could be dealing with hypersomnia or chronic fatigue. If you believe you have any type of sleep disorder, speak with your primary care physician or consult with a sleep specialist to address the root of your daytime sleepiness.

How to fight daytime sleepiness

If you’re someone who is searching for “how to get rid of daytime sleepiness instantly,” you have to know that combating sleep deprivation is not so simple. However, you can implement these tips on how to stay awake during the day and how to get more sleep at night to fight fatigue.

How to stay awake during the day

• Try healthier caffeine products: Instead of refilling the coffee pot or cracking open a soda, try a cup of green tea, matcha, or Earl Grey to perk you up without the excess sugar.
• Soak up the sun: Being out in the daylight for little bits every day can help you soak up that good Vitamin D and expose yourself to light. Take a little walk, check the mail, or simply step out for a moment of fresh air when you’re feeling sluggish.
• 20-20-20 Rule: If you’re working at a computer, take a 20-second break every 20 minutes and focus on something 20 feet away. This can reduce eye strain and mental fatigue.
• Eat an energizing snack: Sugar may be a stimulant but it won’t keep you alert for long. Opt for low-sugar, high-fiber snacks to help you maintain more energy: peanut butter, yogurt, berries, carrots with dip, etc. Make sure you’re hydrating as well!
• Take a short nap: A 10 – 20 minute nap can recharge you without making you groggy. Avoid napping longer than 30 minutes to prevent disrupting your nighttime sleep.

Getting better sleep at night

• Manage your caffeine intake: Even if you’re not drinking coffee at night, caffeine can linger in your system for hours after consumption and can make it tougher for you to fall asleep. Avoid caffeine at least six hours before your bedtime. 
• Stick to a sleep schedule: Establishing and keeping a consistent sleep schedule means going to bed and waking up at the same time every day. This will help your body regulate your circadian rhythm, which tells you when it’s time to go to sleep and wake up.
• Be wary of sleep supplements: Sleep aids like melatonin can help you to fall asleep faster, but they can also have negative side effects that lead to daytime drowsiness. Read our blog on melatonin pros and cons to get the full story.
• Invest in a top-quality mattress: The true answer to how to get more sleep is to find a mattress that will help you fall asleep and stay asleep to get a full night’s rest. Think of a mattress as the foundation of your sleep quality. When you wake up refreshed, you’ll experience less daytime sleepiness. 

The right mattress for you can be the solution to many sleepless nights. Each of our mattresses in Houston is crafted for optimal support and comfort, helping to reduce nighttime tossing and turning and improve morning energy. 

Say Goodbye to Daytime Drowsiness

The solution to daytime drowsiness includes a top-quality mattress (from Texas Mattress Makers, of course), establishing healthy habits during the day, and prioritizing good sleep hygiene at night. When you get the rest your body needs, you will be able to limit daytime sleepiness and maintain energy throughout the day. Say goodbye to falling asleep at work!

We can create the best mattress Houston has to offer you due to our on-site manufacturing team, our top-quality components, and our lower factory-direct prices. Mattress shopping with our experts is simple, stress-free, and straightforward. We take the guesswork out of finding the perfect mattress for your needs.

Visit any of our mattress stores in Houston to begin your journey to better sleep today.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• How Much Sleep Do I Really Need?
• 5 Unexpected Benefits of Sleep
• Benefits of Shopping for a Mattress in Person
• How Long Does it Take to Fall Asleep?
• Tips for Adjusting to Daylight Savings Time

While the idea of sleeping with pets can feel comfortable and cozy, it’s important to recognize that the reality of letting your pets sleep in your bed has both benefits and drawbacks. Now, when we’re talking about sleeping with pets, we’re mainly referring to housebroken pets like dogs and cats. If you want to sleep with your pet snake or chinchilla… that’s another conversation. 

As members of your family, your furry friends are more than welcome to stay in your bed with you; however, sleeping with dogs and cats can negatively impact your sleep quality — and bad sleep will not make you feel warm and fuzzy. 

What are the pros and cons of having your dog sleep with you? If you’re still deciding if Fluffy and Spot should share your bed with you, here are the pros and cons of sleeping with your dog or cat.

Pros and Cons of Sleeping with Pets
Pros	Cons
Emotional comfort	Allergies and germ exposure
Bonding	Sleep disturbances
Security	Hygiene concerns
Increased immune system	Space and comfort issues

Pros of sleeping with pets

Do pets help you sleep better? In some cases, they can make falling asleep a simpler task. Here are some of the benefits of sleeping with pets in your bed:

1. Emotional comfort

Many pet owners adopt a furry friend because they want a companion that helps them feel less alone. Dogs and cats can provide emotional comfort and affection, which releases endorphins like oxytocin in our brains to help us stay calm and happier. Studies have shown that snuggling with a pet you love lowers your blood pressure and calms your mind. If you’re experiencing anxiety, depression, or stress — which makes it difficult to fall asleep — sleeping alongside your pet can help you to relax and fall asleep faster. 

2. Bonding

Our beds are our safe places where we go to relax, unwind, and be comfortable. Sharing your bed with your pet can deepen the bond you and your pet share. Because many pets enjoy being close to their humans, especially dogs, this time together can reinforce trust and affection. This emotional connection can help some individuals feel safer and more relaxed at night, leading to a more peaceful sleep. Also, if you tend to get cold at night, dogs and cats typically radiate a good amount of body heat, keeping you cozy all night long.

3. Security

Sleeping next to someone you love has many benefits for your sleep and your well-being. However, for single individuals or those who may live alone, a pet’s presence in bed can help them feel more secure and safe as they fall asleep. For those who struggle with conditions that make sleeping difficult, an emotional support pet can bring a sense of comfort that makes sleeping easier for the individual. 

4. Increased immune system and overall wellness

It’s no secret that having a pet, especially a dog, keeps you active. If you own a dog, you likely spend more time outside taking them on walks, playing with them, and training them. Because of this activity, dogs have been proven to improve cardiovascular health and lower blood pressure, making falling asleep easier. Many sources also document that dogs and cats change the makeup of bacteria that is found in our homes — and researchers hypothesize that being exposed to different types of bacteria can strengthen your immune system over time. 

Sharing a bed with your pet can increase your emotional wellness and make it easier to fall asleep. However, there are many drawbacks to sleeping with a pet in your bed that may outweigh the benefits. 

Cons of sleeping with pets

Should I let my dog sleep with me? Making the decision to let your animal into your bed every night is one that you should not rush. While there can be some nice benefits to sleeping with pets, it can have negative impacts on your sleep quality. Here are some reasons why your dog shouldn’t sleep with you.

1. Allergies and germ exposure

If you suffer from allergies, sleeping with pets is a huge no-no. In short, a bed with pet fur covering it will cause allergy flare-ups. Pets naturally shed dander, which is a combination of dead skin cells and hair, substances that are also incredibly common allergies. When your pet sleeps in your bed, this dander can accumulate in your bedding, pillows, and mattress, causing allergy flare-ups such as sneezing, runny nose, or itchy eyes. If you don’t want to ruin your sleep quality with late-night sneezing and difficulty breathing, it’s better to keep Spot and Fluffy out of your bedroom for the night.

One way to avoid allergy flare-ups in general is to invest in a mattress protector. Do you need a mattress protector? Absolutely! A mattress protector shields your bed from wear and tear, extending its lifespan while keeping your sleep environment clean and comfortable. If you absolutely MUST have your pet sleep in your bed, the least you can do is protect you and your mattress from dander, dust, bed bugs, and other hazards.

Keep reading: Best mattress for allergies

2. Sleep disturbances

Picture this: you and Spot are snuggling soundly, fast asleep, when suddenly you feel a kick. Spot rolls over, and his paws hit you in the face. He decides to take up the entire bed and pulls off your blankets — and he snores like a chainsaw. You wake up in the middle of the night multiple times because your pet cannot lay still or keep quiet, causing you to get less sleep. 

Sleeping with pets in your bed can cause sleep disturbances that leave you feeling unrested, groggy, and with aches and pains. Your sleep quality shouldn’t suffer for a mere few hours of cuddling.

3. Hygiene concerns

Truthfully, pets are gross sometimes. Dogs and cats spend time outdoors or in environments where they may come into contact with bacteria, parasites, or dirt. Imagine what kinds of contaminants they bring with them when they hop into your bed! Fleas, ticks, and other parasites, along with dirt and dust, can compromise the cleanliness of your bed, which could lead to health concerns for both you and your pet.

Even if your pet and sleep environment stay clean, there’s still a risk that you and your pet can make your bed an unhygienic place to be. Remember how we mentioned earlier that pets naturally radiate a lot of body heat? If you’re a hot sleeper already, sleeping with a pet will only exacerbate the problem, leaving you a sweaty mess. Sweat and other fluids, such as drool from your pet’s mouth, can seep into the mattress and damage it — and this will only get worse if you don’t own a mattress protector.

4. Space and comfort issues

Co-sleeping with a pet can become a burden to your comfort while you sleep. Pets can take up a significant amount of space on your bed, especially larger dogs. They may sprawl out, leaving little room for you to move around comfortably. Additionally, some pets like to sleep pressed up against their owners, which can make it difficult to shift positions or maintain a comfortable sleeping posture throughout the night. 

Poor sleep posture (or sleeping with your spine out of alignment) can result in aches and pains that affect your sleep quality. If you’re not comfortable, you won’t sleep well. If you’re someone who needs extra space to stretch out or moves a lot in their sleep, sharing your bed with a pet could become more of a burden than a benefit. 

Keep reading: Best mattress for co-sleeping 

Tips for sleeping with dogs and cats

If after reading the risks you are still determined to snuggle with your fur child, here are some ways to make sleeping with pets easier.

• Get a mattress protector. If there is one thing that you take away from this blog, let it be that you need a mattress protector. This will shield your mattress from dander, pet fur, and other hazards to keep your bed clean and durable. 
• Invest in a larger bed. Getting a king-sized bed or larger can help ensure enough room for you, a partner, and your pet to have space while sleeping. Note that this doesn’t always fix the issue, but it’s a good start.
• Look into cooling technology. Cooling mattresses are a great way to keep hot sleepers comfortable throughout the night, especially if your pet is warm like a furnace. 
• Provide your pet with their own bed in the bedroom. This way, they can still be close to you without sharing your personal sleeping space.
• Designate a specific sleeping spot for your pet on the bed. Giving them a specific spot on the bed can reduce their chances of disturbing your sleep.

If you want your mattress to last as long as possible, it’s important to invest in a mattress that will suit your needs. We have the best mattress store Houston has to offer with great prices, great products, and great deals for you to take advantage of.

Expert Tip: If you want to protect your living space from pet fur and dirt, try adding performance fabrics like Crypton to your upholstery furniture! Your sofas, sectionals, chaises, and chairs can be a comfortable place for both you and your pet to lounge. Our sister company Living Designs Furniture allows you to upgrade your furniture fabric for less. 

Mattresses that Every Family Member Will Love

While the idea of sleeping with pets can bring comfort, security, and relaxation, it’s important to recognize the potential drawbacks. From sleep disturbances and allergy flare-ups to hygiene concerns, sharing your bed with pets can impact your sleep quality and health. Your quality of rest should be your top priority. 

However, with the right precautions — such as investing in the right mattress for you and a good-quality mattress protector — you can enjoy the benefits of having your furry friend in bed while getting the quality sleep you need. 

Ready to find your perfect mattress? Visit any of our Houston mattress stores to browse our top-quality mattresses, cooling technology, and mattress protectors. We can also make your pet their own custom bed! The possibilities are endless at Texas Mattress Makers, Houston’s best mattress store.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• 5 Reasons Why You’re Waking Up Tired
• Signs You Aren’t Getting Enough Sleep
• How to Find a Good Quality Mattress
• Solutions for the Most Common Sleep Problems
• Do I Need a Foundation for My Mattress?

Oversleeping: we’ve all done it. We forget to set our alarm for the morning. A 20-minute power nap accidentally turns into two hours of deep slumber. We decide that weekends are for “sleeping in,” and before we know it, our day is gone. 

Besides causing us inconveniences, is oversleeping bad? Surprisingly, yes, oversleeping can be bad for you. Here at Texas Mattress Makers, we always preach the importance of getting enough sleep — but did you know that too much sleep can be just as concerning as too little? People always say too much of a good thing isn’t that great after all, and the same applies to sleep.

The mattress experts at Texas Mattress Makers are here to discuss how much sleep is too much sleep, the dangers of oversleeping, and how to stop oversleeping. If you’re on the hunt for a new mattress, we have been voted the best mattress store in Houston for the past few years because of our amazing customer service and wide mattress selection. Stop by a showroom today! 

How many hours is oversleeping?

Whether you’re fighting off an illness or catching up from an all-nighter, oversleeping every once in a blue moon is not a big deal. However, if you notice that you are oversleeping consistently, it can be a sign of a larger issue. 

How much sleep do adults need? On average, an adult needs 7 – 9 hours of sleep each night for the body and brain to perform their necessary restorative functions. If 7 – 9 hours is just enough sleep, how many hours is oversleeping? If you need more than nine hours of sleep every night to feel completely rested when you wake up, this is a red flag.

Why am I sleeping so much?

Aside from sleeping for more than nine hours every night, oversleeping symptoms can include:

• Daytime drowsiness
• Excessive or frequent napping
• Headaches and muscle aches
• Feeling groggy or lethargic when awake
• Difficulty with memory, concentration, or decision-making
• Having trouble waking up 
• Decreased appetite

We want to note that oversleeping symptoms can vary from person to person, but if you happen to notice any of the following scenarios above occurring frequently, it’s best not to hesitate and seek professional help. A psychiatrist, sleep specialist, or doctor can run tests to pinpoint the causes of your oversleeping and recommend personalized treatment plans.

Why does oversleeping occur? 

Oversleeping can be a result of certain health factors and habits:

• Sleep disorders, including insomnia, hypersomnia, sleep apnea, and narcolepsy
• Mental health disorders such as depression, anxiety, and ADHD
• Feeling overwhelmed or stressed consistently (Learn more about the sleep-stress cycle)
• Conditions such as heart disease, obesity, and chronic pain
• Frequent alcohol consumption
• Inconsistent sleep schedule 
• Sedentary lifestyle (poor diet, little to no exercise, staying inside too often)
• Certain medications

Similar to the effects of sleep deprivation, too much sleep can negatively impact your daily life and ability to function. It can also be the cause of long-term complications, including diabetes, obesity, and can make you more prone to strokes.

Ensuring that you are getting the correct amount of sleep each night is crucial for your overall health and well-being.

Keep reading: How does sleep affect your mental health?

How to stop oversleeping: Our expert tips

If you want to get your sleep schedule back on a healthy track, here are some tips for how to stop oversleeping.

See a health professional

If you believe your oversleeping stems from a health issue, your first step should be addressing the source with a healthcare professional. Whether you see a psychiatrist, sleep specialist, or a primary care physician, obtaining a diagnosis, medicine, or other treatments can help you sleep a healthy amount each night.

Establish (and stick to) a regular sleep schedule

Consistent sleep schedules will vary from person to person depending on their specific needs and daily routines but getting 7-9 hours of sleep per night is the goal. The gist of it is to try to go to sleep and wake up at the same time every day. Your body will become accustomed to these times and you will have an easier time falling asleep and waking up at the appropriate times. 

Create a relaxing sleep environment

To limit sleep disturbances throughout the night and get a full night’s rest, make sure your bedroom is a calming environment for sleep. 

• Keep the room cool by turning on a ceiling fan or lowering your thermostat to about 66-69 degrees.
• Have soft and comfortable bedding and a quality pillow suitable for your sleep position.
• Limit as much excess noise and light as possible with an eye mask, a noise machine, or blackout curtains.
• If you are a hot sleeper, invest in mattress cooling technology to keep you cool and comfortable

Practice healthy habits

Eating a healthy diet, limiting excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption, and exercising regularly for at least 30 minutes a day will keep your body and brain in top shape which aids in establishing healthy sleep habits. Working out allows your brain to release endorphins that reduce stress and anxiety, making it easier to relax and fall asleep at night. These hormones also reduce stress which can cut out any tossing and turning throughout the night, allowing you to get the deep sleep your body needs. 

Find a mattress that is right for you

Your mattress could be the reason that you are oversleeping consistently. If your mattress is low-quality or is simply not addressing your needs, your sleep quality is likely suffering, resulting in tossing and turning all night or making it difficult to obtain that deep sleep. If you don’t sleep well throughout the night, your body is trying to make up for it by making you sleep longer. Investing in a top-quality mattress that meets your needs is the best way to get the rest your body and brain need to be healthy.

Luckily, we can help with this step.

Get Quality Sleep Every Night with Texas Mattress Makers

So, is oversleeping bad? Yes, oversleeping can have negative effects on your health and can be a sign of underlying issues that need to be addressed. While seeking professional help should be a priority, you also need to have a quality mattress to get quality sleep every night. Think of your mattress as the foundation of your sleep: if your foundation is weak, your sleep quality will be weak and you will be more susceptible to less and excessive sleep.

Deciding when to get a new mattress is not always easy for some people, but Texas Mattress Makers makes the shopping experience simple and stress-free. After learning about your preferences and sleep habits, our experts let you try out mattresses that they believe are great options until you find your perfect match. 

Our locally manufactured mattresses are top-of-the-line in terms of quality and are sold for lower, factory-direct prices, so you don’t have to break the bank to get great sleep. If you’re searching for a mattress sale in Houston, we always have amazing deals you shouldn’t sleep on! 

When you’re ready, visit any of our Houston-area mattress stores to find your perfect mattress and put oversleeping to rest.

More Helpful Articles by Texas Mattress Makers:

• What is the Relationship Between Sleep and Exercise?
• How Long Does it Take to Fall Asleep?
• Signs You Aren’t Getting Enough Sleep
• Tips for What To Do If You Can’t Fall Asleep
• How to Keep a Consistent Sleep Schedule