Woman in bed with knitted weighted blanket

How to Stop Waking Up at Night

Waking up in the middle of the night is common, but it doesn’t have to be your normal. The good news? Most nighttime awakenings have identifiable causes, and practical solutions.

Quick answer: To stop waking up at night, improve your sleep environment, manage stress, avoid stimulants late in the day, and consider calming tools like weighted blankets.

🧠 Why You Might Be Waking Up at Night

There are several common reasons people wake up during the night:

  • Stress or anxiety

  • Too much screen time before bed

  • Alcohol or caffeine intake

  • Inconsistent sleep schedule

  • Hormonal changes or temperature discomfort

  • Sleep disorders (like sleep apnea)

Identifying your personal trigger is the first step to better sleep.

🛌 How to Stay Asleep Through the Night

Follow these science-backed tips to sleep more soundly:

  1. Stick to a Consistent Sleep Schedule

    • Go to bed and wake up at the same time every day—even on weekends.

  2. Limit Caffeine and Alcohol Late in the Day

    • Caffeine stays in your system for up to 8 hours. Alcohol may help you fall asleep but often disrupts deeper stages of sleep.

  3. Create a Calm, Dark, and Cool Sleep Environment

    • Ideal room temperature is around 18°C (65°F). Use blackout curtains and reduce noise.

  4. Use a Weighted Blanket

    • Weighted blankets provide deep pressure stimulation, which calms the nervous system and reduces nighttime anxiety—helping you fall back asleep faster.

  5. Avoid Screens Before Bed

    • Blue light disrupts melatonin production. Try reading or meditating instead.

  6. Manage Stress Before Bed

    • Journaling, stretching, or breathwork can lower nighttime cortisol and help your mind stay quiet.

🧶 Why a Knitted Weighted Blanket Can Help

Unlike traditional weighted blankets filled with beads, knitted weighted blankets:

  • Provide even, breathable pressure

  • Are less likely to trap heat

  • Help your body feel secure without being restrictive

This physical sense of calm can make a big difference if your middle-of-the-night awakenings are stress-related.

💤 Final Thoughts

Waking up at night is frustrating, but it’s often fixable. With a few smart habits, the right environment, and tools like a knitted weighted blanket, you can get deeper, more consistent rest.

Summary: To stop waking up at night, create a calming routine, limit stimulants, use a weighted blanket, and make your sleep space cool, dark, and quiet.

❓ FAQ

Is it normal to wake up at night?
Yes, but frequent waking that disrupts your rest can usually be improved with simple lifestyle changes.

Do weighted blankets help you stay asleep?
Yes. They calm the nervous system and help reduce nighttime anxiety or restlessness.

What is the best temperature for sleep?
Around 65°F (18°C) is ideal for most people.

Back to blog