Relationships3 min(s) read
Published 16:17 20 Apr 2026 GMT
More couples are choosing to have a "sleep divorce," a term that refers to partners opting for separate sleeping arrangements.
New research shows the shift is becoming increasingly common, with experts now suggesting it could actually strengthen relationships rather than harm them.
According to Hilton’s 2025 Trends report, 63 percent of travelers admitted they sleep better in their own bed, while 37 percent said they prefer separate beds when on vacation, particularly when traveling with children.
An online survey by the American Academy of Sleep Medicine (AASM) also discovered that over one-third of Americans are already embracing the trend.
The data revealed that men are 45 percent more likely to sleep on the sofa or in a guest room, while 25 percent of women said they are the ones who move instead.
Experts say the reason is simple: poor sleep can put serious strain on a relationship. Dr Seema Khosla explained: "Getting a good night’s sleep is important for both health and happiness, so it’s no surprise that some couples choose to sleep apart for their overall well-being."
Mental health counsellor Stacy Thiry told Fox News the arrangement can ease tension between partners.
"[Sleep divorce] Could even boost connection for some people, reporting that they feel closer since they’re not waking up a little bit resentful [after] a bad night’s sleep," Thiry said.
However, she pointed out that sleeping apart could affect "closeness" and intimacy if not managed carefully.
Meanwhile, Pharmica superintendent pharmacist Carolina Goncalves spoke about the potential benefits of "sleep divorce".
"Sleeping in separate beds can provide couples with the opportunity to appreciate the intimacy of sleeping together," she said, per The Independent. "The physical distance from sleeping in separate beds may enhance longing and desire for one another, contributing to a more passionate and fulfilling relationship, and increasing how meaningful the relationship is for both individuals."
From a scientific perspective, she explained that a partner’s body heat can interfere with sleep, particularly during REM cycles.
The trend sparked debate on social media, with a married TikToker, who goes by the handle @grandma.robles, going viral for saying she needs her own personal space.
"I may be married, but this is my bedroom," she said in a video, explaining that she and her husband each have their own rooms and bathrooms.
"I am in my bed, I have my own bathroom, that sharing bedroom nonsense is for grown folk. That’s not for me," she continued. "He has his own bedroom downstairs, and he has his own bathroom downstairs, don’t come in my room.
"People always ask us 'How do you guys sleep together, like are you guys just roommates?' He sleeps in here all the time, he sleeps in here almost every night, and sometimes I sleep in his room, but this is my bedroom, and don’t use my bathroom.
"I don’t use his bathroom, he don’t use mine," she continued. "We are not grown like that. We are married but we’re not grown like that. I don’t think we’ll ever be grown like that."
The video divided users, with some supporting the idea as a healthy way to maintain personal space. Meanwhile, others questioned whether it could harm intimacy.
"This is scientifically proven to lead to a happier marriage," one commenter said. "This gives chance for temptation, even time to connect with other people," another disagreed.
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