Could you imagine getting paid to take a nap? It almost seems too good to be true, right? But in recent years, unusual jobs like getting paid to sleep—or “nap jobs”—have captured the imaginations of people everywhere. It’s not some far-fetched idea either; certain companies are genuinely offering opportunities for people to test products, study sleep, or promote wellness by simply sleeping on the job. If you’re curious about how you can get involved in the UK, this guide covers everything you need to know.
Why Are Companies Paying People to Sleep?
You might be wondering, Why would anyone pay me to nap? What’s in it for them? Great question! The idea of paying someone to nap isn’t just about lounging around. Companies and organizations see real value in understanding sleep habits, testing products like mattresses, or using the concept as clever marketing.
- Sleep Research
Sleep is a fascinating area of study in science. Companies and institutions often need volunteers or paid participants for sleep research. These opportunities help researchers understand how the human mind and body function during rest and how to improve health and wellbeing. - Product Testing
Mattress companies, pillow manufacturers, and even smart bedding brands want feedback on their products. How comfortable is their mattress? Does their cooling pillow actually help you sleep better? Who better to ask than people who get paid to nap? - Employee Wellbeing
Some forward-thinking companies study the effects of workplace napping or the benefits of rest. They may hire participants to demonstrate how power naps improve productivity and mental clarity. - Marketing Gimmicks
Ever heard of a job posting so strange it makes headlines? This is another reason companies offer pay-to-sleep gigs. It’s a brilliant way to get attention for their brand. Take a mattress company, for example; they can advertise their cushy beds by hiring someone to document their napping experience.
The Rise of Unusual Jobs
Gone are the days when every job followed the 9-5 office structure. With the gig economy and remote work booming, job opportunities have become more flexible—and creative! People are earning money from roles they could have never imagined 10 years ago, from professional cuddlers to pet food critics.
The trend of “get paid to nap” sits right in the middle of this movement. It’s unique and quirky, but it’s also grounded in industries that are surprisingly practical, like wellness, science, and marketing.
Companies and Opportunities Where You Can Get Paid to Nap
If you’re in the UK and thinking, This sounds perfect for me! Where do I sign up?, here are some ways to begin. While opportunities may not pop up every day, keeping an eye on the right sectors will increase your chances.
1. Mattress and Bedding Companies
Brands like Simba Sleep and Eve Sleep are well-known in the UK for their innovative bedding products. These companies compete to offer the most comfortable mattresses, which means they need feedback from real sleepers. From time to time, they look for participants to test their products in return for cash or free gear.
For example, some mattress brands in the past have posted paid roles for someone to nap on their beds for a set number of hours per day and report on their experience. You might be paid hourly or given products worth hundreds of pounds.
2. Sleep Research Institutes
Universities and research centres in the UK often study sleep for its impact on health. Studies might range from observing your natural sleep patterns to tests involving sleeping with certain conditions, such as bright lights or specific sounds. For this, they may compensate participants generously.
Look for opportunities from organizations like:
- The Sleep and Circadian Neuroscience Institute at the University of Oxford
- Research clinics in major cities like London or Edinburgh
- Hospital-related studies on sleep-related conditions like insomnia
3. Tech Firms and Smart Sleep Brands
Technology companies creating products like apps, smart alarms, or wearable sleep trackers are also in the market for people who love their Zs. They hire individuals to test apps or devices that monitor sleep quality.
These gigs might involve wearing a device overnight or napping during the day to see how accurate the data is. Famous brands like Fitbit or lesser-known startups in the UK wellness space are worth keeping an eye on.
4. Creative Marketing Campaigns
Occasionally, companies create short-term roles for promotional purposes. For instance, a mattress company might hire a “dream ambassador” to post fun social media updates about their napping adventures or sleep experience. It’s great exposure for the brand and a super cool job for the lucky candidate.
5. Online Job Boards
Check out job sites and gig platforms, including ones that specialize in flexible opportunities:
- Fiverr or PeoplePerHour for freelance roles that involve reviewing sleep products.
- Gumtree or local classified sites for niche gigs.
- Company-specific career sections for promotional roles they might not post on traditional job boards.
Benefits of Getting Paid to Nap
If napping sounds like a dream job in every sense of the word, here are some reasons why it’s more than just fun—it’s also beneficial.
- Improved Health
Napping, even for work, can help reduce stress, improve focus, and regulate your mood. Think of it as a paid excuse to boost your mental health daily. - Extra Income
While a “nap job” likely won’t replace a full-time paycheck, it can offer a sweet side hustle. Who wouldn’t want a little extra cash for doing something so relaxing? - Flexible Schedules
Many paid sleep opportunities are short-term or one-off jobs, perfect for anyone who needs extra flexibility, like students, part-time workers, or stay-at-home parents. - Freebies
Along with payment, you might receive free bedding, sleep trackers, or other incredible perks. Some companies also cover travel expenses if they require you to attend a study or test out their products.
Tips for Finding Nap Jobs and Getting Chosen
Finding roles that pay you to sleep requires some effort, but it’s far from impossible. Here are actionable tips to get started:
- Follow Social Media Channels
Many brands and research studies first announce unusual roles on Twitter, Instagram, or LinkedIn. Following big names in the bedding, sleep, or tech industries can give you a head start. - Set Google Alerts
Use keywords like “get paid to nap,” “nap jobs in the UK,” or “paid sleep studies.” Google can send you emails whenever new opportunities pop up online. - Create a Strong Application
Believe it or not, some nap jobs require more than just showing up. Highlight qualities like being detail-oriented (for providing feedback) or your passion for wellness and sleep health. - Sign Up for Volunteer Sleep Research
Even if some opportunities are unpaid, joining sleep studies at universities or clinics can introduce you to professional networks. If you’re a good participant, they might invite you back for paid studies later. - Be Patient
Because “get paid to nap” jobs are quirky and limited, the competition can be fierce. Treat this search like a side quest and not your primary income plan. Opportunities are rare but worth the wait!
Is Getting Paid to Sleep a Sustainable Career Option?
While it’s tempting to think of “paid napping” as a career, it’s more realistic to see it as supplemental income. These opportunities tend to be project-based, meaning they don’t offer long-term stability. However, the experience and perks can still be a great addition to your life.
Some people take this further, though, by transitioning to roles in sleep science, wellness coaching, or content creation based on their nap-job experience. For example, you might find yourself blogging about sleep health or becoming an influencer who reviews bedding products.
The Future of Nap Jobs in the UK
If the growing attention to wellness is any indication, the future looks bright for nap jobs. The UK market continues to explore innovative ways to blend research, tech, and self-care, which will likely increase paid opportunities for sleep enthusiasts.
For now, keep looking out for openings, build your knowledge of sleep health, and be ready to grab any chance that lets you convert naps into pounds.
Wouldn’t it be lovely to turn your hobby into a side hustle? Keep dreaming—and keep an eye out for your perfect nap job!