Why you should NEVER use fabric softener on your PJs and sheets during the heatwave
THE UK is in the midst of a mini-heatwave with the temperature soaring to the mid-30s.
While it means you can top up your tan without going abroad, it can make sleeping nearly impossible.
Hot nights equals tossing and turning in sticky sheets, but experts have claimed how you do your laundry could be affecting your ability to sleep in the heat.
CEO and laundry expert, Deyan Dimitrov, revealed fabric softener should be avoided in the warmer months, as it can leave you sweatier at night.
He explained that it reduces fabric’s ability to absorb moisture, leaving you in a sweaty heap at night.
Deyan said “It’s wise to skip fabric softener when washing your sheets or pyjamas.
“Although fabric softener can make sheets smell nice, it dramatically reduces the natural fibre’s ability to absorb moisture.
“This will also contribute to a sweaty sleep.”
And he advised on picking the right detergent to help absorbancy as well, adding: “When you go to wash your bedding or pyjamas, use a laundry detergent specially designed for sensitive skin to avoid any irritation.
“The best choice is a non-bio laundry detergent with no added scent.
It’s also wise to skip fabric softener when washing your sheets or pyjamas
Deyan Dimitrov
“Bio detergents clean rigorously, but can also damage natural cotton fibres, which reduces the absorbency of the fabric.”
And if you thought silk bedding and pyjamas were perfect for the warmer months as they’re lightweight, think again.
Deyan revealed that this is the worst fabric to use over summer, and you should in fact save your silky jammies for winter.
Tips to sleep in the heatwave
- Keep bedroom curtains closed during the day
- Use cotton sheets, which will absorb sweat and help you sleep more comfortably
- Open a window an hour before you go to bed
- Use a fan to circulate air around the room
- Put sheets in the freezer for a few minutes before bedtime
He explained: “Silk is a popular choice when it comes to bedding and pyjamas, but really it’s a fabric you should steer clear of.
“Even though it’s hypo-allergenic and somewhat breathable, it repels moisture, making for a sweaty sleep during the summer.
“Save your silk pjs for the winter months when you want to keep warm during the night.”
Plus the 4-7-8 method that will get you to sleep in just 60 seconds – and insomniacs are raving about it.
For more sleeping tips, we revealed the best time to shower to guarantee the best night’s sleep.
While this savvy mum makes ‘magic spray’ to get her daughter to sleep as she’s scared of shadows and it works a treat.