Uncommon Knowledge: Why Should You Sleep Tight?

Ever since The Great Millennial Bed Bug Resurgence, it’s hard not to feel a rush of panic sweep over you when someone suggests that you “Sleep tight, don’t let the bed bugs bite.” Bed bugs?! Really? How am I supposed to sleep now? However, once you get past the threat of tiny vermin that eat you during your REM cycle, you have to wonder about the whole “sleep tight” business. Have you been sleeping loosely all these years and didn’t know it? Turns out there are two possible explanations for this—one interesting and one kind of boring. The interesting explanation is that before the days of spring mattresses, beds were elevated square frames with weaving ropes tied across. This hammock style contraption, if tied tightly, would hold up the mattress without sagging and you’d be comfortable. The not interesting explanation? It’s just a turn of phrase telling you to sleep soundly. We’ll take the rope bed over the metaphor any day.

Retro Good Night, Sleep Tight Nightlight | $ 36.00