Purpose <p>This study aimed to explore the postoperative sleep experience of colorectal cancer patients with temporary stomas.</p> Methods <p>This was a descriptive qualitative study. Seventeen eligible patients with temporary stomas were purposively sampled and participated in face-to-face, semi-structured interviews. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis.</p> Results <p>Four main themes and 12 subthemes emerged: (1) Treatment-related physical symptoms disrupting sleep (postoperative pain and discomfort; nighttime stoma care burden; Drug-related adverse reactions). (2) Bidirectional reinforcement between psychosocial distress and sleep disturbances (nocturnal rumination in the context of self-perceived burden; nighttime exacerbation of negative emotions; Mutual aggravation of distress and sleep dysfunction). (3) Adaptive challenges to sleep environments and routines (hospital-environmental barriers to sleep; home sleep-environment reorganization; changes in sleep habits). (4) Patient-initiated sleep optimization strategies (self-management techniques for relaxation; dietary modifications; seeking professional support).</p> Conclusions <p>The postoperative sleep experiences of patients with temporary stomas are complex, influenced by multiple factors including physical, psychological, and care-related aspects, and have relatively inadequate supportive measures.</p>