Nothing is worse than facing that biting cold first thing in the morning or desperately trying to warm up as you climb into bed the night before. And with the colder months fast approaching, we’ve compiled a handy guide on how to sleep warm and why changing your bedding with the seasons is essential.
From layers to letting in light, there are plenty of ways to get warm and stay snug during the cosy season. Whether on a budget or simply looking for a few pointers, we can hopefully help you feel warm and fuzzy inside and out.
How can I keep my bed warm?
Choose a warm mattress for autumn
Maybe you’ve never really thought about it, but choosing the right mattress can have a big impact on the temperature of your bed. So much so temperature regulating mattresses is essential all year round. They help keep you cool in warmer weather, and many are made with a gel that regulates heat release as the temperature drops.
Memory foam is also great for helping you sleep warm. Despite common misconceptions that it will simply make you hot and sweaty, its material moulds to the contours of your body, helping to keep you warm. However, as it is not made from natural materials, it is less breathable, and therefore, heat is trapped much easier. If you’re a hot sleeper, maybe this isn’t for you.
Although latex foam could be, as it works similarly to memory foam in that it conforms to body shape, it is much better at conducting heat.
Appropriate autumn bedding
You know how the saying goes: happy bed, happy life? Okay, we changed it a little, but a cosy bed simplifies tackling the winter blues. So, never underestimate the power of the right duvet and the importance of changing your bedding with the seasons.
Choosing the right duvet tog is essential, as this will help keep you warm all night. ‘Tog’ stands for ‘thermal overall grade’ and helps us understand how well your duvet will retain heat and warmth during the night. The scale runs from 1, the lightest and least warm, up to 15, the cosiest. We recommend investing in a winter duvet with a tog of at least 10.5 as temperatures drop to keep you feeling toasty warm.
Consider your bedding materials
Not only are warm winter duvets and pillows essential, but the material of your bedsheets can also be crucial during the colder seasons. Whilst we all know cotton is a firm favourite and an all-round bedroom staple, there’s good reason for this. It provides plenty of insulation and breathability, making it vital to help you keep cool in summer and warm in winter.
For those on a tighter budget, microfiber is a great alternative. However, it offers less airflow than cotton, which is worth considering if you are a hot sleeper. Flannel is also perfect for colder weather - its brushed fabric and wool mix make it lightweight, durable, and insulating. Or, if you’re looking for a super warm, super soft, and super insulating option, try fleece - what does it not have to offer?
Add layered bedding for warmth
Like ogres and onions, beds should have layers (if you know, you know). Rather than just sticking to your winter duvet or one additional blanket, try several different additions. Whether this is a comforter, mattress protector, or flat sheet, there are plenty of ways to trap air and add insulation. Why not add a chunky knit throw to the mix? Because can you ever have too many blankets?
Not only can they look stylish, but layers can be easily removed if you feel too warm at night. You can also experiment with thicker and thinner layers to maximise the effect, saving money for those looking to stay warm on a budget.
Lynn Easton, owner of the boutique hotel Zero George in Charleston, also recommends triple sheeting. By layering a warm but thinner quilt between two sheets, you can add an extra layer of insulation while ensuring you don’t have to wash your blanket as often - genius.
Quick ways to sleep warmer
Move your bed away from any windows
If you have any slight drafts or glass windows, the area around here will likely be the coolest in your bedroom. For a quick (and free) solution, try rearranging the room and moving your bed away from any windows - thank us later.
Get the most out of your hot water bottles
Hot water bottles are a firm favourite in most homes. Simply putting them underneath the sheets before you tuck yourselves in can be a much cheaper - and even maybe cosier - alternative to putting the heating on.
Wear the right pyjamas - even if paired with a hat and gloves!
Dressing for the cold is as essential as dressing your bed, so ensure you have suitable nightwear as the temperatures drop. Try warm flannel pyjamas or a fun fluffy set, and if you’re still feeling the cold, why not grab some extra layers to stay snug as a bug?
Treat yourself to a draught excluder
There’s a draught excluder for everyone - even if sausage dogs and snakes don’t fit in with your decor. Old but gold, putting a draught excluder in place will keep any cold chills at bay. You could even try rolling up a towel instead if you need a fast and cheap alternative.
