How to Handle a Spouse Who Snores // Without Losing Your Sanity or Your Sleep!

Ah, love. It’s all about cuddles, date nights, and… the delightful sound of your spouse snoring. Yes, you read that right. If you’ve ever had the pleasure of sharing a bed with a snorer, you know it’s a love story with a little twist.

While we all want to be supportive and affectionate partners, sometimes the snoring can feel like a soundtrack to your sleepless nights. But fear not, dear friend! There are plenty of ways to handle your spouse’s nocturnal symphony without resorting to drastic measures (like a pillow over their head—please, no!).

So, here’s your ultimate guide to dealing with a spouse who snores, all while maintaining your peace, your sleep, and your sanity.

1. Understand It’s Not Personal (They’re Not Doing It on Purpose!)

First and foremost, remember that snoring is usually out of your spouse’s control. It’s not some personal vendetta against your beauty sleep (as tempting as it may seem sometimes). Snoring happens when the airways are partially blocked, which causes the vibration that leads to the oh-so-lovely noise. It’s just physics, folks!

Top Tip: Remind yourself that your spouse is probably as frustrated by the snoring as you are. It’s not their fault, and there’s no need to harbor any resentment.

2. Invest in Earplugs (A Quiet Saviour)

If you find yourself laying there wide awake, plotting how to escape the snoring monster next to you, earplugs are your best friend. Seriously. A good pair of earplugs can help block out the noise and restore your ability to sleep peacefully. Just slip them in, snuggle down, and drift off into dreamland.

Top Tip: Try different types of earplugs to find the one that works best for you. Foam, silicone, or wax—there’s a whole world of earplugs out there waiting for you.

3. Encourage Them to Sleep on Their Side (No More Back Snoring!)

Ever notice that your spouse snores the loudest when they’re lying on their back? There’s a reason for that! Sleeping on one’s back can cause the tongue and soft tissues to block the airways more, leading to louder snoring. So, gently encourage your partner to switch to their side. You can even buy them a fancy pillow that promotes side sleeping.

Top Tip: If your spouse isn’t thrilled about changing positions, try a fun tactic—pin a tennis ball to the back of their shirt (inside the shirt, of course). This will make back sleeping uncomfortable and encourage them to stay on their side.

4. Try White Noise (Because Silence Isn’t Always Golden)

Sometimes, trying to block the snoring is too much of a battle. Instead, why not introduce a little white noise to drown it out? A fan, a white noise machine, or even an app on your phone can help create a soothing background noise that helps mask the snoring and lulls you to sleep.

Top Tip: If you’re using your phone, try a sleep sound app that’s designed to mask noises like snoring. You might find that the gentle sound of ocean waves or rain will help you drift off more easily.

5. Consider a Snoring Mouthpiece (They Don’t Always Have to Snore!)

If the snoring is a real issue (like, the kind that’s affecting both your sleep quality and your relationship), it might be time to explore options like a snoring mouthpiece. These are specially designed devices that help adjust the jaw or tongue to open up the airways, reducing snoring. It might sound a little bit like something out of a sci-fi movie, but hey, if it works, it’s worth considering!

Top Tip: Always consult with a dentist or healthcare professional before trying any mouthpiece to make sure it’s a good fit for your spouse’s needs.

6. Keep Their Nasal Passages Clear (Breathe Easy!)

Sometimes snoring is caused by congestion or stuffy nasal passages. If your spouse has a cold or allergies, it could be contributing to the noise. Consider suggesting some simple solutions, like a saline nasal spray, a humidifier, or even a warm shower before bed to clear their airways and encourage better breathing.

Top Tip: A warm cup of tea with honey can also help soothe the throat and open up the nasal passages. It’s a win-win!

7. Be Patient and Communicate (No Need for a Snoring Showdown)

Dealing with snoring can be frustrating, but patience and communication are key. Instead of getting cranky or passive-aggressive about the snoring (we’ve all been there), have an honest conversation with your spouse. Express your feelings in a loving way and work together to find a solution that works for both of you.

Top Tip: Approach the subject with humor and love. Maybe you can even joke about how their snoring makes them sound like a cute little bear! The goal is to keep the mood light and collaborative.

8. Seek Medical Help (If It’s More Than Just Snoring)

If the snoring seems particularly severe, or if it’s accompanied by other signs like choking or gasping for breath, it could be a sign of sleep apnea. In this case, it’s essential for your spouse to see a doctor. Sleep apnea is a medical condition that can have serious health implications, but with the right treatment, it can be managed effectively.

Top Tip: If your spouse is hesitant to seek help, offer to go with them to the doctor. You’re a team, and it’s important to prioritize both their health and your quality of sleep.

Having a spouse who snores isn’t the end of the world—it’s just a little hiccup in the grand adventure of marriage! With a little humour, patience, and some practical strategies, you can both get the rest you need without resorting to drastic measures (like a snoring-free zone on the couch). Just remember, your spouse isn’t doing it on purpose, and together, you’ll find a solution that works for both of you.

Sweet dreams, and may the snoring be minimal! 💤