In the UK, it feels like summer has finally arrived, and as well as finally hanging all of my bedding out on the line, top of my to-do list is to make ensure that my bedroom is as cool and comfortable as possible to guarantee I get a good night’s sleep. For me, there’s nothing worse than feeling hot and sticky at bedtime and finding yourself tossing and turning all night trying to regulate your temperature.
Here are my top tips to help you keep your bedroom cool and inviting during the warmer months (that are hopefully here to stay!)
1. Invest in Breathable Bedding
One of the most effective ways to stay cool at night is to invest in breathable, temperature-regulating bedding. The Hybrid Duvet from Simba is an excellent choice for summer and I’ve really noticed the difference since switching over. I was so impressed to discover that their duvets combine breathable materials with advanced temperature control technology, and I genuinely feel comfortable all night. I’ve also paired the duvet with lightweight, moisture-wicking sheet to give it my best shot at not overheating! I also previously had a cumbersome, thickly upholstered sleigh bed which I’ve just switched for a vintage style bedframe – it’s much more open and it makes me feel cooler not being so contained! There’s so many types of bed for every bedroom style.
2. Optimise Your Room’s Ventilation
Proper ventilation is key to maintaining a cool bedroom environment. During the evening, open your windows to allow a breeze to flow through your room. Using a fan can also help circulate the air, creating a cooling effect. Additionally, consider keeping blinds or curtains closed during the day to block out direct sunlight, which can significantly increase room temperature (did anyone else try the ‘foil trick’ that went viral last year?). For an added touch, try using blackout curtains, which can prevent up to 99% of sunlight from entering your room, keeping it cooler throughout the day. If you have a toddler like me, blackout curtains are essential to stop them thinking it’s time to start the day at 0430!
3. Embrace Cooling Accessories
Incorporating cooling accessories into your bedroom can make a noticeable difference in your comfort level. Cooling gel pillows, for example, help regulate your head and neck temperature, reducing the likelihood of night sweats. Lightweight, breathable sleepwear made from natural fibres like cotton or linen can also contribute to a cooler sleeping experience. For an extra cooling boost, try placing a bowl of ice or a cool damp cloth in front of your fan to create a makeshift air conditioner (I wish air conditioning was more of a thing here in the UK, this way I can pretend I have it!) You can also get cooling mattress toppers to provide an extra layer of temperature regulation.
4. Adjust Your Sleep Routine
Adjusting your sleep routine to align with cooler parts of the day can also help. In the evening, consider taking a lukewarm shower before bed to lower your body temperature (or embrace the ice cold shower trend!). Staying hydrated throughout the day and avoiding heavy meals before bedtime can also contribute to a cooler, more comfortable sleep.
What are your tips for keeping your bedroom cool?