Sleeping naked and keeping food out of the bedroom are two of the secrets to a happy relationship, according to a survey.

A poll of 1,000 people across Britain showed that those who sleep together in the nude are most content in their marriage or relationship.

Less than half of people who wear pyjamas or nighties said they were “extremely happy”, compared to 57 per cent of those who went without.

Download the new Independent Premium app Sharing the full story, not just the headlines

The research, by Cotton USA, found that sleeping habits can have an impact on relationships as arguments break out or people avoid staying at their partner’s home overnight.

Dirty washing on the floor, clutter and unmade beds were among the biggest turn-offs.

Pet peeves also included eating in bed, allowing pets in, hogging the duvet and wearing socks.

The poll results suggested that bed clothes could affect a person’s opinion of a date, with satin giving the impression of wealth but also sleaze, cotton being associated with cleanliness and polyester being “cheap”.

Stephanie Thiers-Ratcliffe, from Cotton USA, said: “There are many factors which can affect the success of a relationship, but one factor which is often overlooked is the bedroom environment.“