Too Hot to Sleep? Here's How to Stay Cool at Night
Summerproof your night-time routine.
When temperatures start to rise in summer, it can be difficult to get a good night's sleep. While you're sleeping, the hot, stuffy air and hours spent tossing and turning can really take their tole. Our expert tips on how to stay cool at night are here to ensure that you can sleep easy all summer long.
1. Rethink Your Bedding Situation
To guarantee a great night's sleep, the temperature of your bedroom should be no more than 18°C. Unfortunately on super hot days, your room can retain the day's heat, making it feel more like 26-28°C and therefore much harder to sleep.
Beat the heat by swapping out your winter bedding for sets that are more summer appropriate. Remove and store away any heavy-duty blankets or quilts and opt for bedding that comes in natural materials such as linen or cotton. The lightness and breathable nature of both materials will help absorb moisture, allowing you to sleep comfortably.
Alternatively, you can exchange your everyday pillows for ones that come with cooling technology or by simply leaving your current pillowcase in the fridge to cool for a few hours before bedtime.
Tip: Ever heard of a 'cold water bottle'? Fill up your usual hot water bottle then pop it in the freezer just before you head off to bed for instant cool.
2. Generate Sufficient Airflow
Crack open as many windows and doors as you can in order to create a draught and allow air to circulate. Remember that heat rises, so if you can, leave open the door to your attic and give all that hot air somewhere to go other than your bedroom.
3. Keep the Heat Outside
Whist it's good to keep your windows open and allow air to circulate, the same can't be said for the sun's rays. Block out any intense sunshine by drawing curtains and blinds throughout the day, preferably when you're not at home, or by opting to use blackout blinds and shutters - it's what they were made for.
An electric fan can quickly become your best friend during a heatwave. Invest in a tower model that has adjustable settings that can cater to your needs during night-time. Desk and pedestal fans will also aid in cooling your bedroom.
Tip: If the heat becomes unbearable, why not place a bowl of ice and some water a safe distance in front of your fan. This enables the air blowing from the fan to cool that little bit more.
5. Top Your Mattress
Try covering your mattress with a mattress topper. Everyday mattresses, especially memory foam mattresses, retain body heat, which although is great for winter, can be a nightmare during heat waves. A mattress topper will help keep your body temperature cooler and allow you to sleep better at night.
A cold bottle of water kept on your bedside table will ensure you stay hydrated throughout the night. The cold water helps to regulate your body's temperature, but if the thought of waking up every hour to take a sip is giving you nightmares, a cool shower just before lights out will also do the trick.
Tip: Keep your cool this summer with:
- Here's How to Choose the Right Bedding for Summer
- Things to Look for When Buying a Ceiling Fan
- Beat the Heat With a Portable Fan This Summer
