Sleeping with a partner often brings challenges, such as blanket-hogging, tossing and turning, tangled top sheets, and different temperature preferences. While achieving the perfect sleep method is rare, the Scandinavian sleep method offers a promising solution. This clever bed-making technique is becoming a favorite among co-sleepers worldwide.

8 Ways to Create a Stress-Free Bedroom for Better Sleep

What Is the Scandinavian Sleep Method?

The Scandinavian sleep method focuses on how you make your bed and design your sleep space, rather than the physical act of sleeping. Visitors to Scandinavia—which covers Sweden, Norway, and Denmark—are adopting unique bed-making strategies that help couples avoid blanket tug-of-war at night. Popular Scandinavian influencers are sharing their top sleep tips, often gaining widespread attention on social media. Here are some smart ideas to help enhance your sleep using this method.

Use Separate Duvets

Instead of using a single comforter or duvet for both partners, the Scandinavian approach recommends using two separate duvets, one for each person. Make sure to choose down-filled duvets and put each in a matching duvet cover. Many couples prefer two twin-size or twin XL duvets. This size allows the duvets to overlap slightly in the center, making them look like one single unit. In order to keep them in place during the night, you should tuck the ends at the bottom of the bed.

We Tested Dozens of Duvet Covers—Here Are the Ones Worth Buying

Forgo the Top Sheet

Many different couples debate whether a top sheet is essential. The Scandinavian sleep method suggests skipping it completely, although it still includes a fitted sheet. Top sheets can become tangled and create another layer to contend with during the night. If you typically use a top sheet when sleeping, consider omitting it to see if your sleep improves.

Peter Peirce

Make It Pretty

These specific bed-making methods may change your bedroom's look, but you can still achieve your desired aesthetic. After layering your two duvets, you should pull them back at the top as you would with a regular comforter. This step creates room for layering decorative pillows to give a cozy, plush feel. You can also add a stylish throw over your duvets to complete the look.

Related

Should You Sleep with the Window Open or Closed? Experts Settle the Debate

Layering Your Bedroom's Decor Is the Secret to Better Sleep, According to IKEA

What Are the Benefits?

The Scandinavian sleep method's primary goal is to let each partner choose their sleep preferences. By using your own duvet, you completely eliminate the urge to tug or steal covers. You can select a duvet insert and cover that match your preferred thickness and material, helping to regulate body temperature. This way, one partner isn't shivering in the middle of the night while the other overheats. This method also reduces disruptions if partners have different sleep schedules or one gets up more frequently during the night.

Best Cooling Sheets to Help You Sleep

While sleeping in separate beds can solve many different sleep problems, it can also mean missing the benefits of co-sleeping. According to the Sleep Foundation, sharing a bed can decrease stress and improve sleep quality overall.

"Bed-sharing with a loved one can release oxytocin, which is linked to improved emotional regulation, lower stress levels, and better well-being. In studies of happy couples, participants say that they value sleeping within easy reach of their partner and that sleeping together is comforting," says The Sleep Foundation.

10 Best Comforters and Duvet Inserts of 2026—Tried, Tested, and Loved by BHG

What Are the Cons?

The Sleep Foundation points out that using two different duvets isn't a universal fix for all couple's sleep problems. Issues like restless leg syndrome, sleep talking, snoring, and apnea require different solutions beyond duvet arrangements.

It can be challenging to make a bed with two separate duvets appear neat and tidy. You'll need to overlap them cleverly. Additionally, those who enjoy cuddling at night might find separate duvets difficult to manage.