How to sleep with a new piercing?

How to sleep with a new piercing?

Got a fresh piercing? Then you’re probably wondering how to sleep with a new piercing without waking up sore or swollen. That first night can be rough—but a few smart moves can make all the difference.

1. Sleep on your back

Pressing your new piercing against the pillow is a one-way ticket to irritation or bumps. The Cleveland Clinic recommends avoiding pressure, especially for cartilage piercings, which take longer to heal.

2. Try a piercing pillow

A donut-shaped travel pillow can be a lifesaver. It keeps your ear suspended so there’s no pressure while you sleep. Piercing experts and brands like Blissbury swear by it—especially if you can’t train yourself to sleep on your back.

3. Don’t take your jewelry out

Even if it’s sore, don’t remove the jewelry at night. That can lead to closure or infection. The Association of Professional Piercers recommends keeping it in and cleaning it consistently.

4. Clean sheets, always

Bacteria on dirty pillowcases can mess up your healing. The Mayo Clinic advises keeping your bedding clean and breathable—especially in the first few weeks.

5. For lip or tongue piercings: elevate

If your mouth is swollen, sleep with your head propped up. This helps with circulation and reduces swelling, as explained in the APP’s oral aftercare guide.

Bottom line: clean fabric, no pressure, and good aftercare = peaceful sleep and a happy piercing.