Too Hot to Sleep? How to Stop Overheating at Night with Cooling Beds & Bedding

Tossing, turning, and waking up sweaty? You’re not alone. Overheating at night is a common challenge that disrupts sleep quality, leaving you feeling tired and groggy. Your bedroom setup—especially your bed and bedding—plays a crucial role in regulating your body temperature for restful sleep.

At Rest Relax, we believe cool, comfortable sleep isn’t just a luxury—it’s essential. Here’s our expert guide to stopping nighttime overheating with cooling beds and breathable bedding.

Why Do We Overheat at Night?

A few key factors can make us too warm while sleeping:

• Mattress materials like dense traditional memory foam that trap heat.

• Heavy, non-breathable bedding that insulates rather than ventilates.

• Room temperature that’s too warm.

• Personal factors like metabolism, hormones, medications, or health conditions.

While you can’t change everything, you can transform your sleep environment to promote cooler, more restful nights.

Your Bed: The First Line of Defence Against Night Sweats

1. Choose a Breathable Mattress

Traditional memory foam tends to trap heat. Here’s how to upgrade:

• Spring Mattresses: Pocket sprung mattresses promote airflow through the core, reducing heat buildup.

• Hybrid Mattresses: Combine spring support with more breathable foam layers.

• Cooling Technologies: Many mattresses feature gel-infused foams or breathable covers designed for cooler sleep.

2. Pick the Right Bed Frame

A slatted base allows air to circulate under your mattress, dissipating trapped heat. Look for bed frames that feature slatted designs to boost airflow and comfort.

Cooling Bedding: Your Secret Weapon for a Sweat-Free Night

3. Opt for Breathable Duvets

• Low Tog Rating: Choose a lightweight duvet with a 4.5 tog or less to avoid overheating.

• Natural Fillings: Cotton, silk, or light wool fillings breathe better than synthetic materials.

• Cotton Casing: A natural cotton cover promotes airflow.

4. Choose Cooling Pillows and Pillowcases

• Breathable Fill: Opt for pillows with cooling technologies or natural, breathable fillings.

• Natural Fibre Pillowcases: Materials like cotton, linen, or bamboo help wick away moisture and allow airflow.

5. Invest in Breathable Bed Sheets

Natural fibre sheets are key:

• Cotton (Percale or Sateen): Crisp and breathable for hot sleepers.

• Linen: Excellent moisture-wicking and airflow properties.

• Bamboo: Naturally temperature-regulating with a soft, silky feel.

Avoid polyester sheets, which trap heat and moisture.

More Tips for a Cooler Night’s Sleep

• Room Temperature: Keep your bedroom between 16-18°C (60-65°F).

• Ventilation: Open a window or use a fan to promote airflow.

• Hydration: Stay hydrated but avoid drinking large amounts right before bed.

• Cool Shower: A lukewarm rinse before bed can help lower your body temperature.

• Breathable Sleepwear: Choose cotton or linen pyjamas.

• Avoid Spicy Food & Caffeine: These can increase body temperature and disrupt sleep.

Rest Relax: Your Partner in Cool, Comfortable Sleep

Don’t let overheating ruin your rest. With Rest Relax cooling solutions, you can create a sleep environment designed for optimal comfort and breathability.

Say goodbye to sweaty nights and hello to refreshed, energised mornings.

For more cool sleep tips and inspiration, visit the Rest Relax Blog.