It is a personal choice and many wear their hair down for special occasions or just around the house. For many updos are not only protective but decorative and the amazing updos possible with very long hair are one of the major reasons I'm growing mine. Remember that hair growth can be a very personal choice, and that although someone personally loves their hair long even if they love the feel of it long and flowing around them they may not like the hassle of going outside in the wind with it or simply they are not growing their hair for others to look at so it doesn't matter to them. But I'm only at waist so I can't really say. I've started to wear my hair down more the closer to my goals I get (not that I'm all that close but I've also become lazy) as it needs less protecting since I will soon be able to trim.
As for night time even at waist my hair can get in the way. Especially when I share the bed with my other half who is convinced my hair is haunted by some kind of tickle monster and can get into his mouth and eyes. Besides, I like the waves and curls I get from having it up at night and it reduces the chance that I lie on part of it and get caught.
I'm sure some of the really long hairs will comment with answers too but I hope this helps with the general idea. Just remember everyone is different and go from there...
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