How to Setup a Blackout Bedroom for Better Deep Sleep

@RealityCheck, of course, there are compromises. 'Non-negotiable' is from an ideal perspective. For night shift workers, it's even more critical to simulate night during the day. A sleep mask can help but doesn't block out all photons affecting your skin's photoreceptors. It's about reducing as much light as possible to allow natural circadian rhythm signals to fire.

For under-the-door gaps, a simple door snake or draft stopper works wonders. You can buy them or DIY one with an old towel or fabric filled with rice.

@DraftDefender, that's a clever idea with the rice-filled draft stopper! Never thought of that. It'd be heavy enough to stay put too.

My cat keeps batting at the blackout curtains at 3 AM. Turns out, he thinks any stray light is a demon he has to fight. My gains might be suffering from lack of sleep, but at least my cat is vigilant.