How to Sleep With a New Tattoo: Positions and Bedding Tips

The first few nights after a new tattoo can be surprisingly tricky. The skin is tender, it may still be oozing a little, and waking up with your sheet stuck to your arm is an experience most tattooed people remember. Knowing how to sleep with a new tattoo protects both you and your ink.

Here is how to sleep with a new tattoo, including position tips for arms, legs, backs and ribs, and what to do if the tattoo sticks to your bedding.

Why sleeping matters for a new tattoo

In the first two or three days, a new tattoo weeps plasma and a little excess ink. As that fluid dries, it can glue fabric to the skin. Pressure and friction while you sleep can also irritate the area, and pulling bedding off in the morning can lift early scabs and ink. Clean sheets also reduce the risk of bacteria getting into the healing skin.

Before bed: prepare your tattoo and bed

• Put clean sheets on the bed, ideally on the day of your tattoo. Old, dark sheets are a good choice in case of ink or plasma marks.
• Wash the tattoo gently with clean hands, lukewarm water and a mild, fragrance-free soap, then pat dry with a clean paper towel.
• Apply a very thin layer of aftercare product, or follow your artist's instructions if you have a film dressing on.
• Wear loose, clean, breathable cotton over the tattoo if it is in a spot that will touch the bed, or leave it uncovered if you can keep it off the sheets.
• Keep pets off the bed for the first couple of weeks. Hair and dander do not belong on a fresh wound.

Best sleeping positions by placement

Arm or forearm tattoo

Sleep on your back or on the opposite side, with the tattooed arm resting on top of the covers. A pillow alongside you can stop you rolling onto it.

Leg or thigh tattoo

Sleep on the opposite side, or on your back with a pillow under the knee. Avoid tucking the leg under a heavy duvet that rubs.

Back or shoulder tattoo

Sleeping on your front or side is the answer for the first few nights. If you normally sleep on your back, try placing a pillow behind you to stop you rolling over.

Chest, stomach or rib tattoo

Sleep on your back or the opposite side. Rib tattoos can be sore to lie near, so a pillow to hug can keep you from turning. Our guide to tattoo pain by body part explains why ribs are so sensitive.

Foot or ankle tattoo

Rest the foot on a pillow, above the covers. Elevation can also help reduce swelling in the first day or two.

What about film dressings like Saniderm or second skin?

If your artist applied an adhesive film, it will protect the tattoo from bedding while you sleep, which makes the first nights much easier. Follow your artist's instructions for how long to keep it on, and remove it carefully in the shower when advised.

Should you wrap a tattoo in cling film overnight?

Some artists used to recommend wrapping a new tattoo in cling film for the first night. Many now prefer breathable coverings or specialist film dressings instead, as plastic wrap can trap moisture and heat. If your artist gives you specific instructions for the first night, follow them. Do not rewrap night after night unless advised.

Woke up with your tattoo stuck to the sheet?

Do not pull. Pulling can rip away fresh skin and ink.

1. Wet the fabric with clean, lukewarm water until it softens.
2. Gently ease the sheet or clothing away once it releases on its own.
3. Wash the tattoo, pat it dry and apply a thin layer of aftercare product.
4. Wash the sheet before using it again.

How long do you need to be careful?

The first three or four nights are the most important, while the tattoo is still weeping. After that, you mainly need to avoid friction as the tattoo scabs and peels, usually for about two weeks. Our tattoo scabbing guide and peeling guide explain each stage.

When to get help

A little redness and soreness is normal at first. If the tattoo becomes more painful, hot, swollen or red after the first few days, or you develop pus or a fever, contact a doctor promptly.

For the full healing picture, see our tattoo healing timeline.

This guide provides general aftercare information and is not a substitute for medical advice. Always follow your artist's aftercare instructions.