A new survey found Gen Z often choose to spend all day in bed as the ultimate form of self-care, with a third happily booking a day off work to do it.
One in five Gen Zers admit they are worn out by the demands of ‘hustle culture’, with 44% frequently opting to spend entire days in bed as their preferred method of self-care.
A third revealed they would gladly take a day off work purely to ‘bed rot’ – dedicating a full day to staying in bed and prioritising rest – while 26% actually plan these in their diaries. On bed-rot days, their top activities include browsing social media (57%), binge-watching TV (35%) and enjoying film marathons (35%).
The survey of 2,000 adults discovered that 55% of Gen Z value comfort above all else and champion ‘cosy culture’, with 26% now considering taking things slow as a treat in modern life.
Following these findings, Cadbury &More has teamed up with social media personality Nella Rose to introduce a ‘Bed Retreating Service’ modelled on the luxuries of a high-end hotel experience at home, which can be won through the @cadburyuk Instagram account.
Ellie Swales, brand manager, said: “We’re seeing more people embrace staying in and making downtime feel a little more indulgent.
“Whether it’s a duvet day, comfort snacks or a cosy night at home, people are increasingly turning simple moments into something special.
“We are pleased to help people reclaim their time and turn a night under the covers into an indulgent pastime.”
The OnePoll.com research also revealed that staying in bed now competes with social sports, as 26% of young adults confess they would ditch activities, such as running clubs or padel, to lounge beneath the duvet instead.
The study also showed that 11% are transforming their own homes into the ultimate five-star retreat, ensuring their bedroom comes equipped with snacks (53%) and fresh sheets (43%).
This premium quality time is meticulously planned too, with 60% of 18-29-year-olds deliberately scheduling a snug day in bed with their partner and loads of treats – describing this as their preferred method to recharge.
Potential romantic interests should also pay attention, as the perfect bed sanctuary setup could determine relationship prospects, with 19% of Gen Z confessing they assess a potential partner based on their bedroom luxuries.
Ellie Swales added: “Gen Z are redefining what it means to unwind, with staying in bed emerging as a legitimate alternative to more traditional social plans.
“For many, a well-curated ‘bed day’ complete with comfort, snacks and quality time now feels more indulgent than a night out.
“It’s also influencing relationships, with bedroom set-ups and at-home comforts becoming an unexpected new metric for compatibility.”