7 Tips for Better Sleep with a Partner ...

A classic problem with couples is wanting different types of mattresses. One of the easiest ways to get better sleep with a partner like this is to buy an adjustable mattress or pad. Look for mattresses with two separate adjustable sides. Depending on what you buy, you can adjust the angle, temperature and firmness. It's amazing how much of a difference this can make.

I know several couples who sleep separately or struggle to sleep at all because their partner snores. It doesn't have to be this way. Ask the partner that snores to elevate their head more or use a nasal strip to better open the passageways and reduce snoring. If that doesn't work, make a doctor's appointment. There could be an underlying medical condition.

I hate it when my partner steals the covers. I get cold easily, so I need my blanket. The problem was easy to solve. While we have one main comforter, we also each have our own blankets on either side of the bed. Any time the comforter slides away, I simply reach for my blanket, cover up and I'm back to sleep in no time. If you're really cold-natured, opt for a heated blanket.

I'm a major night owl, but my partner is a morning person. While our schedules have adjusted some, we still don't fall asleep or wake up at the same time. To avoid keeping him up, I have a small reading light by my side of the bed. It helps limit the light in the room, but I can still read and relax like I did when I slept alone. When he gets up, he kindly leaves the curtains closed so I sleep better as well.

Having different schedules doesn't mean you have to both get up to the same alarm. It may take a few weeks to adjust to hearing two alarms. My solution is to use two completely different sounding alarms. You'll learn to tune out your partner's and wake up to your own. Believe it or not, it really does help, especially if you're the one who gets to sleep later.

Stress is a major culprit in many sleep related issues. If you or your partner tosses and turns all night, it could be stress. Set aside a time each day to talk about anything stressing you out. While it may not eliminate the stress completely, it will help calm you down. The result, you're not as restless and you both get to sleep better. Plus, communication is great for your relationship.

Trying to sleep with a partner who prefers a different position than you can be difficult. The key is to talk about it. For me, I love spooning to begin with, but after a while, I get uncomfortable and want to stretch out with little to no contact. My guy thought I didn't want to be near him at first, but after we talked, he understood. Talk about how you prefer to sleep and why. Your partner will understand.

Sleeping with a new partner is always an adjustment for both of you. Just remember that you don't have to simply deal with any issues. Instead, talk about them and find a solution that helps you both sleep better. What have you tried to sleep better with your partner?