Is the TikTok Trend “Sleepmaxxing” Doing More Harm Than Good? Experts Weigh In

The TikTok trend “sleepmaxxing” has taken the platform by storm, with users focusing on maximising their sleep quality and quantity to boost physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing. While the concept sounds appealing, some sleep experts warn that this viral TikTok trend could have unintended consequences.

Dr Deborah Lee, a leading sleep specialist at Dr Fox Online Pharmacy and collaborator with Bed Factory Direct, cautions that sleepmaxxing might lead to an unhealthy obsession with sleep. “Sleepmaxxing can create a rigid and often counterproductive relationship with sleep, where people prioritise quantity over quality,” she explains. “Sleep should be intuitive and flexible, not a source of stress or pressure to achieve perfection every night.”

Why the TikTok Trend Might Be Problematic

The sleepmaxxing TikTok trend encourages users to focus heavily on hitting specific sleep targets, but Dr Lee emphasises that this approach can backfire. “While getting enough sleep is important, the quality of your sleep matters far more than simply clocking a set number of hours,” she says. “Deep, restorative sleep—like REM and deep sleep stages—is what truly benefits physical recovery and mental clarity.”

Tips for a Healthier Sleep Cycle

Instead of rigidly following the sleepmaxxing TikTok trend, Dr Lee shares her expert advice for achieving a balanced and healthy sleep routine:

1. Focus on Sleep Quality, Not Just Quantity

A good night’s sleep isn’t just about duration—it’s about how refreshed you feel when you wake up. “Deep, restorative sleep provides the most benefits, so aim for quality over quantity,” Dr Lee advises.

2. Be Flexible with Your Sleep Schedule

Life is unpredictable, and a rigid sleep schedule isn’t always realistic. “Allow yourself the occasional late night or early morning without guilt or anxiety,” she suggests. Flexibility is key to maintaining a healthy relationship with sleep.

3. Practice Good Sleep Hygiene

Creating a calming bedtime routine can significantly improve sleep quality. “Keep your sleep environment cool, dark, and quiet, avoid caffeine or heavy meals late in the day, and incorporate relaxing activities like reading or meditation into your evening,” Dr Lee recommends.

4. Listen to Your Body

Your body knows best when it comes to sleep. “If you wake up feeling rested and alert, there’s no need to stress over arbitrary sleep targets set by trends or devices,” she says. Pay attention to how you feel rather than obsessing over numbers.

The Bottom Line on the Sleepmaxxing TikTok Trend

While the sleepmaxxing TikTok trend has brought attention to the importance of sleep, experts like Dr Lee urge caution. Prioritising sleep quality, maintaining flexibility, and listening to your body are far more beneficial than rigidly chasing a specific number of hours.

As this TikTok trend continues to gain traction, it’s essential to approach sleepmaxxing with a balanced perspective. After all, sleep should enhance your wellbeing—not become a source of stress.

By following these expert tips, you can enjoy better sleep without falling into the pitfalls of this viral TikTok trend. Remember, a healthy sleep routine is about balance, not perfection.