Hot take: there’s no friend quite as important as the one you can have a sleepover with. Because while some friendships can be built on alcohol, trauma bonds, or general proximity, the strongest friendships may be built on pimple patches, morning breath, and similar circadian rhythms.
The “sleepover friend,” as I like to call it, is a distinct dynamic: it’s a bond that feels effortless, completely free of awkward silences and debilitating small talk. You can be completely yourself — retainer in, Adam Sandler shorts on, and zero worries about how you’ll look when you wake up.
This friendship is more than just sharing a bed, though. With a sleepover friend, you’re effortlessly in sync, always knowing when to fall asleep, when it’s time to DoorDash, and when to leave without needing to be told. “They’re the kind of friend who always feels welcome without ever overstaying,” friendship expert Shari Leid says.
But just like you may not be able (or want) to travel with every friend, you also won’t be able to have a sleepover with every friend in the group chat, which is perhaps what makes your sleepover friend even more special. Ahead, Leid explains why everyone needs this type of friendship in their life.
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Taylor Andrews (she/her) is the balance editor at Popsugar, specializing in topics relating to sex, relationships, dating, sexual health, mental health, travel, and more. With seven years of editorial experience, Taylor has a strong background in content creation and storytelling. Prior to joining PS in 2021, she worked at Cosmopolitan.
