This TikToker Uses a Sweatshirt to Get the “Best Sleep Ever” — Here’s What to Do Instead

I’ll admit, I’ve fallen victim to quite a few foolish social media hacks, from banana hair masks to stomach churning recipes. It can be quite humbling to try something out thinking, “this is definitely going to work,” just to find that you wasted your time and could’ve found a more effective alternative. 

The internet is chock full of sleep, health, and wellness hacks, and before testing them out, it’s always a good idea to check if there are any proven strategies that can help you achieve your goal. Especially the one we’re about to discuss, which involves using a sweatshirt as a DIY eye mask.  

The Sweatshirt Sleep Hack, Explained: 

Our silly hack of the day is explained in a TikTok video created by Callie Galey. Galey told her TikTok viewers, “I have been getting the best sleep of my life.” She then told viewers how she’s “hacked the system” with nothing but a sweatshirt. (1)

Galey explained, “Get the sweatshirt, fold it in half.” She then put the sweatshirt over her eyes, allowing it to cover the top half of her face. “Leave your nose and your mouth open. Then, once you get on your pillow, grab the arm sleeves and wrap them around your face,” said Galey. (1)

In the video, Galey covered her eyes with her sweatshirt, rested her head onto her pillow, then proceeded to wrap the arms of the sweatshirt around her chin. The video has captivated TikTokers, accumulating over 19 million views and 2.4 million likes since January of 2024.

While the TikTok creator said this hack has been comfortable for her, we were skeptical of its safety and effectiveness. 

Sleepopolis spoke with Dr. Jessica Andrade, ambassador for Natrol and board-certified physician with double specialization in pediatric medicine and primary sports medicine with special interest in exercise science and sleep health, for her thoughts on the video.

Andrade said that this sleep hack can be dangerous; “ Wrapping a sweatshirt around your head can restrict air flow, causing breathing difficulties and tension in the neck and shoulders.” (2)

Not only is this dangerous, but it might also cause discomfort, rather than helping you get a better night’s sleep; “It will disrupt the body’s temperature regulation, potentially leading to discomfort and overheating during sleep,” explained Andrade. 

Andrade warned,  “There’s a risk of accidental suffocation, especially for children and individuals with certain medical conditions, making it an unsafe practice for improving sleep quality.”

So, what can you do instead of this wild sleep hack?

Alternatives to the Sweatshirt Sleep Hacks

If you’re looking for a comfortable eye mask, an oversized sweatshirt is probably not the best way to go. Sleep mask designs have come a long way, and there are plenty of options available that can fit your own unique preferences. From silk to memory foam to contoured designs, you are more than likely to find a better option than a sweatshirt. 

Andrade explained to Sleepopolis that some of the best sleep hacks are simple lifestyle changes. 

“Rather than wrapping a sweatshirt around your head to get a good night’s rest, you can establish a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine to optimize your sleeping environment.” (2) 

Andrade also recommended reading a book before bed rather than engaging in screen time. Blue light suppresses our melatonin production, making it more difficult to fall asleep at night.  

Lifestyle changes can also help you get a better night’s rest; “Eat a healthy diet, hydrate, and engage in regular exercise to promote relaxation and reduce stress for a great night’s sleep every night,” Andrade added. 

Social media is full of health and wellness hacks that are not always the best answer for your problems. Before you find yourself participating in a DIY sleep hack gone wrong, it’s a good idea to talk to an expert for safe, effective sleep strategies. 

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