Sleeping in a hammock is a great alternative to a bed. For many, it can even be more comfortable than a bed and offers numerous health benefits. But is it really safe to sleep in a hammock nightly?
There are no known safety issues associated with sleeping in a hammock nightly with the proper posture and appropriate hammock. However, if you already have existing back or posture problems, this may make them worse, so you should seek the advice of your doctor before you decide to.
If sleeping in a hammock every night is something you’d like to do, there are certain things you should know first. Read up below to learn more.
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Is It Healthy to Sleep in a Hammock Every Night?
Sleeping in a hammock nightly can offer many health benefits for people who find it uncomfortable to sleep on beds, or for those who have to out of necessity.
Some of these benefits include deeper sleep, an ability to fall asleep quicker, provide better support for your back, and even better rest that can promote stronger immunity. Having said that, it’s important to keep in mind that nightly hammock sleeping is only recommended if you use the appropriate hammock, observe the right posture for hammock sleeping, and if you don’t already have back or posture issues.
Best Hammock Types for Sleeping Every Night
There are many types of hammocks out there. Not all of them are best suited for nightly use, while some are better for some people than others. Here’s a rundown of the different types of hammocks and how they can benefit you:
- 1Brazilian hammocks: Brazilian hammocks are usually made from 100% cotton, which makes them soft and ultra-comfortable for nightly use. They can be used both indoors and outdoors, and are renowned for being the most comfortable hammocks for most people. Â These are recommended for sleeping during cool weather because its material can keep you insulated.
- 2Double hammocks: Hammocks that fall under this category are aptly named because they are designed to support two people. They can be double Brazilian hammocks, or just about any other hammock type, and they are excellent for individuals who want more room when sleeping in a hammock every night.
- 3Camping/nylon hammocks: Nylon is a comfortable material to sleep on, so it’s no surprise why many choose nylon camping hammocks to sleep on every night. They are also lightweight and can easily be packed or stored away. Depending on the make or manufacturer, camping and nylon hammocks also tend to be more affordable though nylon isn’t as protective from the cold.
Hammock Types to Avoid for Nightly Sleeping
Given these hammock recommendations, you should also know which hammock types to avoid for long-term sleep use:
- 1Hammocks with a spreader bar: Spreader bars are usually made out of wood, and are incorporated into the hammock design. While they are excellent for relaxing, lounging, or napping, they are not suitable for sleeping in every night since the hammocks are too taut because of the spreader bars. As a result, it won’t give you the support your body needs, it won’t cradle you, and they may even flip over.
- 2Rope hammocks: Rope hammocks are made by thick ropes woven together loosely. Their designs leave holes which lack the support and comfort for nightly use. However, they are good choices for lounging by the beach or the pool.
- 3Chair hammocks: Chair hammocks, also known as swing hammocks, are suspended from the ceiling or a frame. Its design is meant to combine a hammock and a chair, and while they are comfortable for relaxing or reading, they are not healthy for use every night.
Sleeping Position
To ensure safety while avoiding injury when sleeping in a hammock each night, it’s important to keep in mind the correct hammock sleeping posture.
Generally speaking, most hammocks were meant for back sleeping. But side sleeping and stomach sleeping are also possible. The correct way to sleep in a hammock is always to lie diagonally, and side sleepers will require more space to do so – in this case, look for a larger or a double hammock so that you have ample space. For side sleepers, a sleeping pad may be a useful tool to add stability to the hammock as you sleep.
Other tips to help you sleep better:
When Is It Bad to Sleep in a Hammock Every Night?
If you already have back problems: Existing back, spine, or posture issues may end up getting worse if you sleep on a hammock nightly. This is especially true for those who have scoliosis or a pinched spinal nerve. In this case, you are better off sleeping on an orthopedic bed or one that your doctor has recommended.
In addition, if you have had a history of back problems or have just recovered from one, it may be best to avoid sleeping in hammocks each night and limit your use to occasional.
Best hammocks for sleeping in every night
There are many great hammocks out there which you can use for sleeping every night. Here are some examples which are available on Amazon:
- Â Â Hammock Sky Brazilian Double Hammock
- Â Â Vivere Brazilian Double Hammock
- Â Â Kootek Camping Hammock
ConclusionÂ
Keep in mind that while these are general guidelines to help you determine the safety of sleeping in a hammock every night for yourself, the experience could be different for everyone.
If you intend to sleep in hammocks for the long-term, the risks for any serious safety or health problems will be small but observe how your body reacts and how you sleep so that you can make the necessary adjustments.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is sleeping in a hammock good for your back?
Sleeping in a hammock can have some great benefits for your back, especially if you are unable to find relief from sleeping on a bed.
If you sleep on a comfortable hammock correctly, then it can reduce back and neck pain. However, it should be kept in mind that sleeping in a hammock correctly matters, in order to get the best benefits. This means laying diagonally across the hammock; you can also use a pillow to make the experience more comfortable.
Hammock sleeping is not for everyone. The same hammock make and sleeping position can be good for one person, and cause discomfort to another. The best way to determine if it’s good for your back is to try it out yourself, and observe how you feel doing so.
