What is the viral ‘bed rotting’ TikTok trend?

Ah, TikTok. It seems new trends materialize on the platform every day, with some being safe while others are much more dangerous. One key distinction between TikTok and other platforms is that TikTok’s trends often alternate between using filters or participating in real-world activities.

There is a trend with a rather suspicious name circulating of late: Bed Rotting. It has been around for quite a while and has captured the attention of the younger generation, particularly Gen Z. But what is it exactly, and perhaps most importantly, is it safe?

What is the viral ‘bed rotting’ TikTok trend?

Fortunately for parents, TikTok’s bed rotting trend isn’t harmful. In fact, many participants claim that it promotes good mental health. For those unfamiliar with bed rotting, in short, it’s the act of spending an entire day in bed. However, it differs from being bedridden due to illness or injury.

Participants carry out their daily activities while covered in their sheets; whether it be eating, watching shows on their laptops, or spending time on social media. According to YouTuberNews, the origins of bed rotting can be traced back to a 2021 Chinese trend called “letting it rot,” where young Chinese people protested how hard life has become.

Business Insider reported that Chinese millennials and Gen Z shared photos which expressed sadness, fatigue, or depression, highlighting a more nihilistic outlook on life. The main difference between the original Chinese trend and bed rotting is the message they convey. The Chinese take showed young people giving up, while bed rotting is viewed as a form of self-care.

So, if you want to be somewhat productive but prefer not to leave your bed, you might consider trying bed rotting. All you need is your laptop, some comfy snacks, and a warm bed with a cozy blanket to get amongst it.