Wow, these summer days are a lovely surprise! And, not ones to complain, we’re really making the most of them. However, we do know hot days can lead to restless night’s. Fortunately, there are several effective strategies to help you stay cool and comfortable.
Air the Bedroom:
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Create a Cross-Breeze: Open windows and doors to encourage air circulation.
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Use Fans Strategically: Place a fan low to the ground where cooler air resides. For an added cooling effect, position a tray of ice in front of the fan to mimic an air conditioner.
Manage Sunlight and Heat During the Day
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Block Out Sunlight: Keep curtains or blinds closed during the day to prevent your room from heating up.
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Ventilate Your Attic: If you have an attic, open the hatch to allow rising hot air to escape.
Choose the Right Bedding
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Lightweight Bedding: Opt for a low tog duvet (around 4.5) or just a cotton sheet.
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Natural Materials: Breathable materials like cotton or bamboo for sheets and pillowcases are perfect for keeping you cool.
Dress Appropriately for Bed
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Light Cotton Nightwear: You might not believe it but wearing light cotton pyjamas can be cooler than sleeping naked – the cotton wicks away sweat.
Cool Down Before Bed
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Shower Smart: Take a lukewarm shower about 60–90 minutes before bedtime to help your body cool down naturally.
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Cool Compresses: Apply a cold flannel before bed to pulse points like your wrists and neck – reducing your temperature before bed can make it easier to fall asleep.
Stay Hydrated
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Drink Water: Consume cold water throughout the day and keep a glass by your bedside at night.
Avoid Heat-Inducing Substances
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Limit Caffeine and Alcohol: Both can dehydrate you and raise your body temperature, disturbing your sleep during the night.
Innovative Cooling Techniques
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Cold Water Bottle: Fill a hot water bottle with cold water and place it in your bed.
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Chilled Pillowcase: Put your pillowcase in the fridge before bedtime or consider using a cooling pillow.
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Cool Socks: Wearing socks that have been chilled in the fridge can help lower your body temperature.
Invest in Cooling Products
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Cooling Blankets: Consider using a cooling blanket made from materials like bamboo or specialised cooling fabrics.
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Cooling Mattress Toppers: These can help regulate your bed’s temperature.