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The Sleep Olympics: Which Country Rests Best? (and What the UK Can Learn)

Dec 02, 2025

Ever feel like you're in a constant battle for a good night's sleep? You're not alone. While we often think of sleep as a personal issue, it turns out our nationality might play a bigger role than we realise. From late-night dinners in Spain to the intense work culture in Japan, global sleep habits vary dramatically around the world.

This post will explore which country sleeps best, looking at the data to see who’s winning the gold medal for rest. We'll examine the fascinating cultural sleep differences that shape our bedtime routines and uncover why some countries sleep better than others. More importantly, we’ll take a close look at UK sleep quality, pinpointing what Brits often get wrong and exploring practical lessons we can borrow from the world's best sleepers. By the end, you'll have a clear roadmap for improving your own rest, backed by global insights and supportive solutions.

The Global Sleep Leaders

So, how much sleep do people get around the world? Several studies have tried to answer this question, each offering a slightly different podium.

According to a 2016 Science Advances study, the Netherlands takes the gold, with citizens averaging an impressive 8 hours and 5 minutes per night. New Zealand and France aren't far behind. However, a more recent study from the University of British Columbia crowned France the world's most rested nation at 7 hours and 52 minutes, with the Netherlands close behind.

Despite slight variations in the rankings, a clear pattern emerges. The countries with best sleep are consistently found in Europe and Oceania. According to data from World Population Review, the top five countries for sleep duration are:

Finland: 422 minutes (7 hours, 2 minutes)
Netherlands: 420 minutes (7 hours)
Ireland: 420 minutes (7 hours)
New Zealand: 423 minutes (7 hours, 3 minutes)
Estonia: 419 minutes (6 hours, 59 minutes)

On the other end of the spectrum, countries in Asia consistently report the shortest sleep durations. Data from Oura Ring users showed that nocturnal sleep in East Asia is significantly shorter than in Europe and the USA. Japan and South Korea frequently appear at the bottom of the sleep statistics world league tables, with some studies showing the average Japanese person gets just 6 hours and 17 minutes a night.

Why Do Some Countries Sleep Better?

What explains these stark cultural sleep differences?

It’s not just about time zones; it’s about deep-seated cultural attitudes towards work, rest, and life itself.

One of the biggest factors is work culture. A study in the journal Science of Sleep found that "seven out of the ten countries with the longest work hours are in Asia, and eight out of the ten countries with the shortest work hours are in Europe." The long hours and intense pressure in many Asian work environments leave little time for rest, pushing bedtimes later and shortening overall sleep.

In contrast, countries like the Netherlands and Finland prioritise a healthy work-life balance. Shorter working days and generous holiday allowances mean people have more time to unwind, exercise, and prepare for a restful night.

These cultures view sleep not as a luxury but as a crucial component of a healthy, productive life.

Other factors at play include:

Social Norms: In some cultures, like France, long evening meals and socialising are common, yet they still manage to get enough rest. This suggests a cultural prioritisation of winding down.
Environment: Climate, noise levels, and even bedroom design can impact sleep. Quiet, dark, and cool environments are universally recognised as being better for sleep.
Evening Routines: Bedtime routines vary significantly. While some cultures embrace relaxing activities like reading or bathing, others are more connected to screens late into the night.

Where Does the UK Rank?

So, where does the UK fit into this global picture?

The data shows we’re somewhere in the middle. The University of British Columbia study placed the UK (Daily Mail) as the world’s fifth sleepiest nation, with an average of 7 hours and 33 minutes per night. This is well within the recommended 7-9 hours.

However, duration isn't the whole story.

UK sleep quality is where we seem to fall short. Many Brits report feeling tired despite getting a seemingly adequate number of hours. The fast-paced lifestyle, high work demands, and increased screen time, especially in big cities, are major culprits.

The UK's work culture often means long commutes and pressure to stay connected outside of office hours, which eats into our relaxation time. We also have a tendency to deprioritise our sleep environment. Poor bedding, uncomfortable pillows, and bad posture during the day can lead to a night of tossing and turning, even if we're in bed for eight hours. This is what we need to address.

Cultural Habits We Can Borrow

The good news is we don't need to move to Finland to sleep better.

By adopting some of the habits from the world's sleep champions, we can significantly improve our national rest. What the UK can learn about sleep is that small, intentional changes can make a huge difference.

Prioritise a Wind-Down Routine: In the Netherlands, it’s common to disconnect from work and screens an hour before bed. Instead of scrolling, try reading a book, listening to calming music, or taking a warm bath to signal to your body that it’s time to rest.
Embrace the Outdoors: Kiwis in New Zealand are known for their love of the outdoors. Spending time in natural light during the day helps regulate your circadian rhythm, making it easier to fall asleep at night. A brisk walk during your lunch break can work wonders.
Create a Sleep Sanctuary: Make your bedroom a haven for rest. This means investing in a comfortable environment free from clutter and distractions. The Finns understand the importance of a cool, dark, and quiet room.

How Better Comfort Improves National Sleep

While we can't change the British weather, we can control our immediate sleep environment. One of the most overlooked aspects of UK sleep quality is physical comfort. Poor posture throughout the day leads to muscle tension at night, while unsupportive bedding can cause chronic neck and back pain.

This is where investing in high-quality, British-made products can make a tangible difference. Ergonomic support doesn't just feel good; it actively promotes the alignment your body needs for deep, restorative sleep.

Products That Support Better Rest at Home

At Putnams, we're dedicated to raising the UK's sleep standards with products designed by experts right here in Britain.

Putnams Memory Foam Pillow: If you wake up with a stiff neck, your pillow is likely the culprit. Our ergonomic memory foam pillows are designed to promote optimal spinal alignment, reducing neck pain and helping you sleep more soundly.
Putnams Wedge Pillow: Versatility is key. Our wedge pillows provide support whether you’re reading in bed or need to sleep in an elevated position for respiratory comfort. They alleviate pressure points, helping your body fully relax.
Putnams Back Supports: Good sleep starts during the day. Using our back supports while you work improves your posture, reducing the muscle tension and discomfort that can keep you awake at night.
Putnams Knee Pillow: For side sleepers, lower back and hip pain can be a nightly struggle. Our knee pillows fit comfortably between your legs, aligning your spine and providing much-needed pain relief.

Discover Better Sleep Solutions

Improving our nation’s rest starts at home. By learning from the countries with best sleep and investing in our own comfort, we can climb the global sleep rankings and wake up feeling truly refreshed.

Ready to transform your sleep?

Explore our range of British-made pillows and supports designed to help you achieve the deep, restorative rest you deserve.

[Discover Better Sleep Solutions Today]