Some believe that aluminum foil helps block certain kinds of energy or electromagnetic waves from devices in the home, which are often blamed for restlessness at night. By placing foil under the pillow, they argue, the body can “disconnect” from invisible disruptions and achieve deeper, more peaceful rest. Others say it’s a psychological effect—creating a bedtime habit that signals to the brain it’s time to slow down, shut off, and drift into sleep.

Skeptics point out that there’s little scientific proof that foil itself has any direct effect on sleep. Doctors usually recommend proven habits such as sticking to a regular bedtime, avoiding screens before sleep, and keeping the bedroom cool and dark. Still, the placebo effect is powerful, and if someone truly believes the foil helps them, their mind may relax enough to make it work. After all, rituals and routines are often at the heart of better sleep.

Whether you see it as science, superstition, or just a fun experiment, placing aluminum foil under your pillow is harmless and easy to try. At worst, nothing changes. At best, you may find yourself sleeping more soundly than you expected. Sometimes, even the simplest tricks can make a surprising difference—so the next time you’re struggling to fall asleep, why not test it out and see what happens for yourself?