Header burger open
Search Logo

Jump To

Currently Viewing:

Eating in Bed – How to Eat in Bed Without Making a Mess?

a profile image of TSA author Andjela

Written by Anđela Rajković

Sleep Consultant

Featured image for Eating in Bed.

7 November 2023 6 min read

If you're anything like us, the words “eating in bed” probably elicit memories of crumbs in the sheets, spilled drinks, and maybe even a few regrets. But hear us out – eating in bed can actually be a delightful and indulgent experience, as long as you do it right.

Eating in bed – it's a taboo practice that has been frowned upon by parents, partners, and cleanliness enthusiasts alike. But let's be honest, there's something undeniably appealing about snuggling up with your favourite snack and a good book or movie.

Whether you're nursing a hangover, battling a bout of insomnia, or just looking for a cozy night in, eating in bed can be a guilty pleasure that we all secretly crave. But is it really as bad as everyone says? In this article, we'll explore the pros and cons of eating in bed and offer tips for doing it in a way that won't leave you with crumbs in your sheets. So grab a snack (or two), fluff up your pillows, and let's dig in.

The pros of eating in bed

Ah, eating in bed – the ultimate indulgence. There are so many reasons why this cosy activity can be a true game-changer in your life. For one thing, it's a great way to unwind after a long day. There's something about snacking in bed and watching TV (or watching Netflix) that feels like a delicious rebellion against the rules of society (society called the dining table) – after all, we've been taught since childhood that just like eating and sleeping, food and beds don't mix. But who cares about rules when you're wrapped up in blankets with a plate of nachos?

Another pro of eating in bed is the sheer convenience of it all. No need to get up and go to the kitchen – you've got everything you need right there within arm's reach. And if you're feeling particularly lazy, you can even order food delivery straight to your bed. Plus, eating in bed can be a great way to multitask – catch up on your favourite show, read a book, or even get some work done, all while satisfying your hunger pangs.

An image of a person eating in bed.

But perhaps the best thing about eating in bed is the pure pleasure of it. There's something about the combination of comfort, cosiness, and delicious food that creates an experience that's greater than the sum of its parts. It's like you're wrapping yourself up in a warm, cosy hug that happens to taste like pizza. What's not to love?

The cons of eating in bed

While there are definitely some appealing aspects to eating in bed, there are also some downsides to consider.

For one thing, it's not exactly the most hygienic practice. Let's face it, crumbs and spills are pretty much inevitable when you're snacking in bed. Not only can this lead to unpleasant surprises like finding a stale chip under your pillow, but it can also attract unwanted guests like ants and other critters – or it may even become a breeding ground for bacteria and yeast.

Another con of eating in bed is the potential for discomfort. Sure, it might feel cosy and indulgent at first, but after a while, you might start to notice that your neck is cramping from hunching over your plate, or that your stomach feels uncomfortably full from eating in a horizontal position. Plus, if you're prone to acid reflux or heartburn, eating in bed can make those symptoms worse.

Finally, there's the risk of ruining your bedding or furniture. Even if you're the most careful eater in the world, accidents can happen – a rogue drip of sauce, a crumb that falls between the cushions, or a spilt drink can all leave unsightly stains that are tough to get out. And if you're eating in bed frequently, those stains can really add up over time.

How to eat in bed with no regrets

If you've decided to throw caution to the wind and indulge in some bed-bound snacking, here are some fun and creative tips and tricks to make the experience as enjoyable as possible:

Invest in a lap desk

One of the biggest challenges of eating in bed is finding a stable surface to balance your plate and utensils. A lap desk can make all the difference, providing a flat and sturdy surface that you can adjust to your preferred angle. Plus, many lap desks come with built-in cup holders, so you can sip your favourite beverage without worrying about spills.

Stick to finger foods

Avoid the mess and hassle of utensils altogether by sticking to finger-friendly snacks like chips, popcorn, grapes, or bite-sized candies. Bonus points for foods that won't leave residue on your hands, like pretzel sticks or cheese cubes.

Use a serving tray

If you're eating a full meal in bed, a serving tray can help keep everything organized and in one place. Plus, it can add a touch of elegance to your snacking experience – who says you can't have a fancy dinner party for one in bed?

Bring in some entertainment

Eating in bed can be a great opportunity to catch up on your favourite show or read a book. Just make sure to position your device or book in a way that doesn't interfere with your snacking.

Embrace the mess

If you're feeling daring, you can always embrace the messiness of eating in bed and make it a fun part of the experience. Set up some paper towels or napkins within arm's reach, and revel in the joy of getting a little messy.

Should you be eating before bed?

The idea of eating before bed is a contentious topic, with some experts arguing that it can lead to weight gain and disrupted sleep hygiene, while others maintain that it's perfectly fine as long as you choose the right foods and eat in moderation.

On the one hand, eating too much or consuming meals that are high in fat, sugar, or caffeine can make it harder for your body to wind down for sleep. Your digestive system may be working overtime, causing discomfort and even acid reflux. Additionally, high levels of sugar or caffeine in the bloodstream can make it more difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep throughout the night.

On the other hand, eating a small meal before bed can actually have some benefits. For one thing, it can help stabilize blood sugar levels, which can prevent you from waking up in the middle of the night feeling hungry. Certain foods, such as complex carbohydrates or proteins, can also promote the production of serotonin and melatonin, hormones that can help you feel calm and relaxed.

Ultimately, the decision to eat before bed will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

An image of a person eating on bed and taking picture of it.

Conclusion

So there you have it – the pros, cons, and tips for enjoying a snack in the comfort of your bed. Whether you're a die-hard bed eater or a cautious sceptic, there's no denying the simple pleasure of munching on your favourite treat while snuggled up under the covers. Just remember to keep it balanced, be mindful of your portions, and above all, enjoy every delicious bite!

Recommended reading:

Comments (0)

There are no comments yet

Related Posts

Articles you don’t want to miss

Lemon slices in water
10 May 2023

Should You Drink Lemon Water Before Bed Time?

First things first, we have to get one thing out of the way. Most of these benefits are mostly anecdotal and aren't really backed by researc...
Featured image for best Herbal tea for sleep
24 April 2023

Best Herbal Tea for Sleep

Before we start listing off the different tea types and determining which one is the best, let's talk about how drinking tea helps you ...
Don't Miss Out!
Get the latest reviews, special offers, new releases and more…
@thesleepadvisors
Deal Alert!
We loved this Deluxe microfibre duvet from Otty. And we love it more now that it's on Black Friday sale!
Hit the link in bio to check this deal and all the rest this Black Friday

#DealAlert #BlackFridaySale #MicrofibreDuvet #Otty #DeluxeQuality #SleepInStyle #ComfyBedding  #LuxurySleep #BlackFridayDeals #Discounts #ShopTillYouDrop #BedroomUpgrade #HomeDecor #CozyNights #SleepWell #BedroomGoals #LimitedTimeOffer #SaveBig #BestDeals #OnlineShopping #BargainHunting #MustHaveItem #SaleAlert  #SleepInComfort #BudgetFriendly #ShopSmart #DuvetLove #BlackFridaySpecials  #GetItWhileItsHot #HomeComforts
Shhhh.... I'll tell you a secret! Black Friday isn't over!
We've rounded up the stragglers to cater for your Black Friday FOMO. 
Mattresses, Beds & Bedding are still on MAJOR discounts, so don't delay! Get a bargain today.

Links in bio

#BlackFriday #SecretDeals #MattressSale #BedSale #BeddingSale #Discounts #Bargains #BlackFridayFOMO #MajorDiscounts #StillOnSale #LimitedTimeOnly #DealAlert #ShopSmart #SaveMoney #SleepBetter #QualitySleep #LuxuryBedding #ComfortableMattress #GoodNightSleep #BedroomUpgrades #HomeDecor #InteriorDesign #HappyCustomers #OnlineShopping #Convenience #LinkInBio #Don'tMissOut #ShopNow #GetABargain #GreatDeals
Mattress Deal Alert! 
Here are some top value deals we've sniffed out for you this Black Friday!
We love these from Emma, but they're not all! Check our Black Friday deal summary for all the best bed and mattress deals to save you money and upgrade your snooze this Black Friday!

#MattressDealAlert #BlackFriday #TopValueDeals #EmmaMattress #BlackFridayDeals #BedDeals #MattressDeals #SaveMoney #UpgradeYourSnooze #BestDeals #SleepBetter #SnoozeBetter #BlackFridayShopping #Bargains #BigSavings #HotDeals #LimitedTimeOffer #Discounts #SaleAlert #SleepComfortably #SaveBig #MustHaveDeals #BlackFridaySales #GreatOffers #DreamBedroom #ComfortableSleep #BudgetFriendlyDeals #QualityMattress #SleepHappy
Best Mattresses With Edge Support UK – Top 5 Picks Reviewed 💤

The best mattress with edge support UK has to offer is… Well, let's not get that ahead of ourselves. First, let's understand what edge support is and why it might be important to you!  Check out the link in BIO🔗

#thesleepadvisors #sleep #sleeping #edgesupport #mattresses #topmattresses
Don't snooze! Well.... not yet! First pick up a bargain in the Black Friday sales! 
We've rounded up all the best deals to save you searching. You can find them all at the links in bio... then snooze your little socks off!

#BlackFridayDeals #BargainHunting #Savings #DealFinder #BlackFridaySales #ShopTillYouDrop #Discounts #BestDeals #LimitedTimeOffers #BigSavings #MoneySavingTips #OnlineShopping #SalesAlert #HolidayShopping #ShopSmart #ShopOnline #EarlyBirdGetsTheDeal #MustHaveItems #HolidayGifts #ShoppingSpree #Don'tMissOut #ClearanceSale #BiggestSaleOfTheYear #GetThemandSave #ScoreABargainGiveaway
Do you sleep on your tummy? On the side? Or on your back?
Can a topper suit your sleeping position & improve your sleep?
With 15% Off for Black Friday, the Panda Mattress Topper is worth a try!

#thesleepadvisors #topper  #mattresstopper #saggymattress #panda #sleepingpositio
Beat the queues and get your black Friday shopping done early!
You won't miss out as we've pulled this year's best deals together in one handy page. You'll find it on the link in bio

#blackfridaydeals #blackfridaysale #mattress
You can make or break your bedroom style with the perfect bed! What can make this easier? A HUGE Black Friday discount on your chosen bed frame of course!
From Ottoman to Sofa Beds, Metal or Wooden. The Sleep Advisors have pulled together the best in beds this Black Friday and here they are.
Link in bio

#bedroomstyle #perfectbed #BlackFridaydiscount #bedframe #Ottomanbeds #SofaBeds #Metalbeds #Woodenbeds #SleepAdvisors #bestinbeds #BlackFridayDeals #FurnitureSale #interiordecor #comfortablebed #sleepwell #homeimprovement #dreambedroom #discountshopping #shoppingtime #homefurnishings #cozybedroom #interiordesignideas #bedroominspo #masterbedroom #comfybedroom #sleepingbeauty #bedroomupgrade #relaxationstation #styleandcomfort #sweetdreams
Black Friday deal alert!
Get 15% discount on the award-winning Panda Hybrid Bamboo Mattress Topper!

#BlackFriday #DealAlert #Discount #PandaHybrid #BambooMattress #MattressTopper #SleepBetter #BedroomUpgrade #LuxurySleep #Sale #LimitedTimeOffer #SleepComfortably #SaveMoney #QualitySleep #ComfortableBedding #NaturalMaterials #SustainableChoice #EcoFriendlyMattressTopper #AffordableLuxury #BestPrice #HolidayShopping #HomeDecor #GreatDeal #BlackFridaySale #LimitedStock #InnovativeDesign #PremiumQuality #SleepWell #CozyBedding #BetterSleepingExperience
Do you sleep on your tummy? On the side? Or on your back? Can a topper suit your sleeping positions, and improve your sleep? Let’s find out! Check out the link in our BIO
#thesleepadvisors #topper #mattresstopper #saggymattress #panda #sleepingposition
Close button

Don't Miss Out!

Get the latest reviews, special offers, new releases and more…

By submitting this form, you are opting into our mailing lists.
See our privacy policy.

This field is for validation purposes and should be left unchanged.