How Bed Sharing on Love Island Impacts Sleep

As the new series of Love Island kicks off today, so do the challenges of getting a good night’s sleep, with contestants sharing beds from day one. A recent 2,000 person poll by MattressNextDay found that it takes the average couple 14 days to adjust to co-sleeping, but villa contestants don’t have that luxury.¹

Martin Seeley, CEO and sleep expert at MattressNextDay, shares his insights on the key sleep challenges contestants are facing and how they can improve their rest—even in the villa.

1. Sleep Talking and Nighttime Disruptions

Scott Thomas has already made headlines for shouting in his sleep, something that can be disruptive in a shared bedroom.

Martin explains, “Sleep talking is often triggered by stress or irregular sleep schedules—both of which are common in the Love Island villa. To minimise this, contestants should practice relaxation techniques before bed, like deep breathing or progressive muscle relaxation. Earplugs can also be a lifesaver for light sleepers dealing with a noisy partner.”

2. The Snoring Struggle

In the past, snoring has been noted as an issue for Islanders. With 47% of Brits citing snoring as their top sleep annoyance, it’s no surprise that this is likely to cause tension.

Martin advises, “Snoring is often caused by poor sleep posture or nasal congestion. Encouraging side sleeping or using a slightly elevated pillow can help reduce snoring. If this is a long-term issue, it might be worth considering medical intervention once back on UK soil.”

3. Anxiety Over Sharing a Bed

Many contestants will be sharing a bed with exes, new partners, or even people they’re unsure about, creating a high-stress sleep environment. In fact, 19% of Brits say they feel self-conscious about their looks when sleeping next to someone new, while 18% worry about intimacy pressures.

Martin explains, “Anxiety about co-sleeping can lead to fragmented sleep, which in turn increases irritability and poor decision-making. Creating small bedtime rituals—like a short conversation to set boundaries or a relaxation routine—can help ease discomfort and build trust between partners. Practice cognitive reframing—remind yourself that everyone is in the same situation and focus on comfort rather than self-judgment”

4. Sleep Disruptions from Late-Night Drama & Early Wake-Ups

From midnight chats to emotional re-couplings, contestants are dealing with irregular sleep schedules that disrupt their body clocks. In real life, 12% of couples cite partners waking up too early as their biggest annoyance—mirroring the unpredictable sleep cycles in the villa.

Martin says, “Poor sleep affects the prefrontal cortex, the part of the brain responsible for impulse control. That means contestants are more likely to react emotionally, make rash decisions, or misinterpret situations—all of which can impact their time in the villa. Where possible, they should aim for short power naps, or the ‘sleep banking’ technique, during the day to compensate for lost nighttime sleep. Using a pillow barrier can also be a method for minimising movement disturbances.”

5. Bed-Hogging & Personal Space Issues

In a high-pressure environment, personal space is crucial for sleep quality, yet 24% of Brits say their partner takes up too much of the bed. In Love Island, contestants might find themselves paired with, and therefore sharing a bed with, a partner they’re still unsure about—or worse, an ex—which can cause physical and psychological discomfort.

Martin recommends establishing “sleep zones” early on. Light physical contact (like foot or hand contact) can help release oxytocin, promoting bonding while still maintaining enough space to rest properly.”

6. The Emotional Toll of Sleep Deprivation

Lack of sleep heightens emotions—something well-documented in past seasons. Research shows that sleep loss increases amygdala activity², making contestants more reactive and prone to emotional outbursts.

Martin explains, “When you don’t get enough sleep, your brain processes negative emotions more intensely. That’s why small disagreements can quickly escalate into full-blown arguments. Contestants should prioritise any opportunity to rest—whether that’s a daytime nap or winding down before bed without engaging in villa drama.”

With tensions running high, getting quality sleep could be the ultimate advantage for contestants. Those who sleep better will be able to think clearer, make smarter decisions, and avoid unnecessary arguments—potentially leading to a longer stay in the villa and a better chance at love (and winning).

To view more information on the UK’s sleep habits, please visit:  https://www.mattressnextday.co.uk/snooze-news/post/pillow-talk-how-does-your-partner-affect-your-sleep