Cotton is lightweight and breathable, allowing for better air circulation than satin, silk, or polyester, making it the better choice for bedding and pajamas on hot nights.
Five Tips for Sleeping Comfortably on Hot Summer Nights
A warm bedroom can make it hard to get comfortable at bedtime, especially upstairs where heat tends to collect. A few simple tricks can make a real difference without cranking the AC down until the whole house feels like a refrigerator.
Choose Cotton Nightclothes and Sheets
Use a Hot Water Bottle as a Cold Pack
The same bottle used for warmth in winter can be filled with water and frozen, then used as a cooling pack at the foot of the bed in summer.
Stay Hydrated
Keeping a glass of water on the nightstand is a simple habit that genuinely helps the body regulate temperature through a warm night.
Take a Cool Shower Before Bed
Lowering the body's core temperature with a cool or cold shower before getting into bed makes falling asleep noticeably easier.
Run a Fan on Low
A ceiling fan on its slowest setting doesn't take much airflow to make skin feel cooler and keep air moving through the room all night.
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This edition is part of the Genius House Hacks archive: 20+ years of tips, rebuilt from the original Handy Hints newsletter. Browse more hacks →