How to get a good night's sleep: make your bed

A "Bedroom Poll" found that great sleepers get an average of about one hour more shuteye than others. On weekdays, a great sleeper gets an average of seven hours and nine minutes of slumber per night, compared with an average of six hours and two minutes for those who get good sleep less often.

Only 42% of people said they slept well almost every night and can therefore be categorised as "great sleepers," according to a new National Sleep Foundation survey in the US.

On weekends, a great sleeper gets an average of seven hours and 41 minutes of sleep per night, compared to an average of six hours and 52 minutes for others, the poll found.

The survey of 1,500 adults aged 25 to 55 also found that most people believe the comfort and cleanliness of their bedroom are key to getting a good night's sleep.

Bedding key to good sleep

More than nine out of 10 respondents said mattresses and pillows play an important role in good sleep, and more than three-quarters also believe the comfortable feeling of sheets and bedding are crucial. In fact, more than 70% reported being more comfortable when sheets have a fresh scent.

Other important factors include keeping the bedroom at a cool temperature, keeping the sleeping area dark and quiet, and making sure the room has clean air that is free of allergens, according to two-thirds of the survey participants.

The poll also found that people who make their bed every day are 19% more likely to say they get a good night's sleep than those who don't make their bed every day.

"Love your bedroom and make it the best place you can, but at the end of the day, it's crucial to give yourself enough time to wind down and get the seven to nine hours of sleep that most people need to feel their healthiest and best," said David Cloud, CEO of the National Sleep Foundation.

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