How to Comfortably Watch TV in Bed

Last Updated on April 19, 2024

by Marc Werner, Founder - GhostBed

There's nothing like hopping into bed and treating yourself to your favorite TV show. For many of us, it's a form of self-care. Whether you're looking to unwind with a light comedy or get lost in an intense drama, watching TV from bed can be a great way to unwind.

However, if you ignore your posture and position, you could end up with an achy neck, shoulders or back. Without the proper support, your neck and shoulders will need to stretch to an unnatural position while watching TV.

Luckily, you can do a few things to make the experience enjoyable and pain-free. Gather some snacks, put on your coziest pajamas and grab that remote—it's time to learn how to watch TV in bed comfortably!

A family watches TV on their GhostBed Adjustable Base.

1. Find Your Perfect Position

It might sound like a no-brainer, but how you situate yourself in bed while watching TV is important for avoiding back, shoulder and neck pain. The most noteworthy thing to remember? Don't watch TV lying down all the way. Lying flat might seem comfortable at first, but you'll end up straining your neck as you stretch to see the TV.

Instead, sit up with your back properly supported. You can accomplish this with the help of a rolled-up towel, a few solid pillows or even an adjustable bed base (more on this later!).

FAQ: Does TV Location Matter?

Yes. If possible, position your TV directly in front of you so that it's at around mid-vision height. If you're mounting your TV on the wall, most interior design experts (like the ones at The Spruce) recommend placing it about 42 inches (106 cm) above the floor.

This will make watching TV easier on your neck and back.

2. Take a Stretching Intermission

Regular movement is another key to avoiding pain. Don't stay stationary for a long period. Use commercial breaks or the time between episodes as an opportunity to get up and walk around. Your bed may seem like a haven of comfort, but you don't want to overdo it!

3. Protect Your Eyes

Supporting your vision is essential when you're trying to watch TV in bed. You need a well-lit space that isn't too bright but provides enough illumination to see what's on the screen without straining your eyes.

Tip: Try a pair of blue light filtering glasses if you want to binge-watch with fewer headaches. Some TVs also come with filtering options that you can turn on at night.

4. Upgrade to an Adjustable Bed Base

An adjustable bed can help you get in the perfect position for watching TV, since you can easily elevate your torso. (Bonus: Stay elevated while you sleep for added health benefits!)

Here at GhostBed, our luxury Adjustable Base includes a preset position that gets you right into place. The "TV position" lifts you up about a 75-degree angle, but you can easily customize it—like Greg, our showroom manager does:

Sleep Experts Weigh In
I love being able to customize the presets on the base. Since my mattress is on the thicker side, I get a little crunched up if the TV position is fully engaged. You can hit the preset, and then press any button to pause it where you feel comfortable.
- Greg V.

Extra features you'll find on the GhostBed Adjustable Base include:

  • Independent head and foot adjustability
  • Zero gravity and other presets
  • Head and foot massage
  • USB ports on both sides of the bed
  • LED lighting under the bed

Hunker Down For a Marathon

These days, our bedrooms are so much more than a place to rest our heads at night. They've become family congregation hubs, offices and even movie theaters. And an adjustable base can help you find the most comfortable positions for all of these scenarios.

Have any questions? Connect with our friendly Sleep Experts via live chat, and we'll be happy to help!

Relax and put your feet up (literally) with the luxury GhostBed Adjustable Base. Enjoy independent head and foot adjustability, massage settings and more.


Marc Werner - Founder, GhostBed

Marc Werner

Founder - GhostBed

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Marc has spent the last two decades designing & manufacturing mattresses and other sleep products, drawing on a lifetime of experience working with the material sciences. With several patents to his name, he works closely with the GhostBed team to create products with the perfect balance of comfort & support. Learn More

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