How to sleep in a heatwave: 10 tips to cool down at night
While hot weather is mostly welcomed in the UK, sleeping in the heat can be somewhat of a nightmare. There’s tossing, turning – and a whole lot of sweating.
Your house may not be built to keep you cool but here are some tips that can help you get through the sweltering nights.
10 best tips for sleeping well in the heat
1. Keep rooms cool
If you’re wondering how to cool down a room without air conditioning, try closing your curtains and windows in rooms that face the sun during the day — but open windows at night to let in a breeze.
2. Cool your feet down
When trying to lower your body temperature, try cooling. Cool your feet before bed by running cold water over them, or cool down some socks in the fridge and wear them to bed.
3. Sleep on your side
Sleeping on your side allows more heat to escape from your body. Because heat escapes from your head, hands, and feet, keep these body parts outside the covers
4. Drink enough water
Staying hydrated is especially important in hot weather. Ensure you drink enough water throughout the day, but avoid drinking too much right before you go to sleep to avoid waking up during the night.
5. Don’t take a cold shower
Another way to lower body temperature is by having a lukewarm shower. Although it may seem counterproductive, cold water can increase our body temperature, meaning you’ll feel warm going to bed.
6. Wear cool pyjamas (or nothing at all)
When looking for the best pyjamas for hot weather, choose breathable, lightweight fabrics and materials and T-shirts and shorts. Alternatively, consider wearing nothing at all to let your body heat escape more easily.
7. Use a hot water bottle
Your hot water bottle doesn’t need to be reserved for chilly winter nights only. Fill it with cold water and place it in the freezer, then take it to bed to stay cool all night.
8. Exercise earlier in the day
If you usually exercise in the evening, you may want to consider a morning workout instead. Exercising can raise body temperatures, so a cardio session before bed may make you warmer.
9. Use a cold wet flannel
Place a wet flannel in the fridge a few hours before bed and then place it on your forehead to keep you cool as you drift off.
10. Try not to nap
While the warm weather might make us sleepy, and taking a nap in the hottest part of the day might sound very inviting, this may make it harder for you to fall asleep at night.