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 to keep warm when it's cold?
Choose the right duvet tog
Choosing the right duvet tog is essential, as the tog level directly affects how well it retains heat, which in turn determines whether it helps keep you warm. 'Tog' stands for 'thermal overall grade' and the scale runs from 1, which is the lightest and perfect for summer, 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.
Use warmer bedding materials
The material of your bedsheets makes all the difference during the colder seasons. Cotton is a firm favourite and an all-round bedroom staple, offering ample insulation and breathability to help you stay cool in summer and warm in winter. Flannel is also a great choice, as its brushed fabric and wool mix make it lightweight, durable, and insulating. A final option that is warm, soft, and insulating is fleece! You'll find that these bedding materials are usually sold more often in autumn and winter, so they'll be easy to find!
Layer up your bedding
Rather than just sticking to your winter duvet, why not try layering? It's not just for pretty pictures; it can also help you stay warm. 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? A benefit is that layers can be removed if you end up too warm. You can also experiment with thicker and thinner layers to maximise the effect, saving money for those looking to stay warm on a budget.
Move your bed away from any windows
One of the problems that comes with colder months is that they tend to be quite windy, and there's always a chance your windows might be letting in a draught, which means it'll be the coldest part of your room. An easy solution is to rearrange your bedroom so your bed is farther from the window. This will help you stay a little warmer in bed, even on the stormiest nights.
Get the most out of hot water bottles
Hot water bottles are a firm favourite in most homes as they're cheap, easy to use, and long-lasting. Fill a fluffy one up with water and put it underneath your sheets at the end of the bed so when you get in, your feet will be cosy and warm! You could even have more than one and spread them around your bed to create the ultimate warm haven from the cold.
Just make sure to be aware of the risks of hot water bottles, too! If they're old, they'll be more prone to cracking and leaking, so take them out of your bed before you go to sleep. Leaving a water bottle in your bedroom can lead to burns or leaks!
Wear the right pyjamas
You wouldn't go outside in cold weather dressed for summer, and the same applies when you're going to bed. Investing in suitable nightwear means you'll drift off to dreamland instead of shivering, and it's all about the type of pyjamas you choose and their material.
Flannel pyjamas are a classic option, or if you want that ultra-cosy feel, why not go for the full fluffy experience? Of course, the style you wear will affect how cold you feel; long-sleeved trousers are much warmer than shorts and a vest top, but this depends on what you prefer to sleep in.
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. It's an old trick, but it's still around and popular for a reason! Adding a draught excluder to your door will help keep any cold air from creeping in. If you don't already have one and want a quick fix on a particularly cold night, then rolling up a towel will work just as well! We'd still recommend buying a new one, as you never know when you might need it!
