How to sleep: Seven ways to feeler cooler in bed during a heatwave

Sleep is integral to a person’s health, and not getting enough can result in a number of problems. Most of us need around eight hours of good-quality sleep a night. As well as making a person feel grumpy, lack of sleep can increase the risk of obesity, heart disease and diabetes, and shorten life expectancy. Hot temperatures can disrupt a person’s sleep pattern, and this week is set to be a scorcher, with temperatures predicted to reach the 30 mark in some parts of the UK. So what can you do to help?

Sleep is integral to a person’s health, and not getting enough can result in a number of problems

For those dreading the air-conditioning free nights, Mahmud Khatun, medical experts at Instant eCare, has some top tips that will soothe you into a deep slumber and help you get the sleep you need.

1. Have a cool shower just before you go to bed

Mahmuda said: “If you want to exercise, make sure you leave enough time for your body to cool down again before bed.”

2. Avoid exercising just before bedtime

Doing this can increase your temperature. Mahmuda advised: “If you want to exercise, make sure you leave enough time for your body to cool down again before bed.”

3. Remove winter bedding

Instead opt for lightweight, cotton blankets.

Mahmuda said: “Ideally, sleep with just a sheet over you.”

4. Keep your curtains closed during the day

This can prevent sunlight from entering and hearing the room.

Mahmuda said: “The optimum temperature for good sleep in your room should be 16-18C.”

5. Avoid big meals (especially spicy food) before bed

Mahmuda explained: “If you eat a heavy dish late at night, your body is more likely to stay awake longer as it tries to process it.”

6. Sleep in cotton pyjamas – or even cold what socks or a damp T-shirt

Mahmuda advised: “The heat from your body will mean the water evaporates over the course of the night, but you’ll certainly feel more refreshed as you drift off.”

7. Move downstairs

If all else fails, consider moving downstairs for the night

Mahmuda said: “Hot air rises, so it’s likely that a downstairs room will be a much cooler alternative to the bedroom.”

Having one of these three drinks before bed could also help you get a good night’s sleep.

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