How to sleep in the heatwave – 12 tips for staying cool in bed in the hot weather

Published: 20:15, 20 May 2022

FALLING asleep when it's still sweltering outside can be a real nightmare for many of us.

But help is at hand, as we've got some top tips and tricks on how to avoid being too hot in bed during a heatwave.

There are 12 things you can do to sleep better during a heatwaveCredit: Getty - Contributor

HOW CAN I SLEEP IN A HEATWAVE?

Getting to sleep when it's hot and stuffy can be a nightmare.

You can toss and turn, throw the sheets on the floor, and open the window – but sometimes in extreme weather conditions, nothing can make a difference.

If you're craving a few zzzs, there are a few ways you can help yourself to drift off despite the heat:

DON'T SLEEP NAKED

As tempting as it may be, don't take off your undies just because it's sunny.

Instead, sleep in cotton pajamas to let your skin breathe and ensure that any sweat is soaked up, rather than left on your body.

MIST YOUR SHEETS

Giving your bedsheets a very light misting of water can make all the difference when you're struggling to sleep on a hot day.

Don't soak your bed, but sleeping in some slightly damp sheets could help to cool you down and keep you comfy.

SPRAY YOUR CURTAINS

Another use for your slightly damp sheets involves spraying them with water and then draping them over an open window.

TURN IT OFF

Turn off all the plug sockets you can to help keep things cool – and save some energy while you're at it.

Electrical sockets kick out a surprising amount of heat, and they could be the difference between a good night's sleep and a sweaty nightmare.

ICE SOME RICE

Make a cold water bottle that won't melt all over your bed by filling a sock with rice and then freezing it.

Press this against your sensitive pulse points – found on the wrists, ankles, tops of your feet, and your temples – to instantly turn the heat down a notch.

WATCH WHAT YOU DRINK

Drinking alcohol before bed is never a great idea – but your sleep will be affected even more when it's hot.

Instead, make sure you keep a cool glass of water by your bedside to stop you from overheating at night.

CHILL YOUR BEDSHEETS

If you're really struggling, you can always stuff your bedding in a bag and pop it all in the freezer for a few minutes before you go to bed.

This will guarantee you the perfect head-start when it comes to getting a great night's sleep, letting you drift off effortlessly even as the temperature keeps on rising.

SLEEP ALONE

If you usually share a bed with someone, it's time to get ruthless.

It's obvious, but you'll stand a better chance of keeping cool if you have the bed to yourself, and sleeping apart may be the only way to save your sanity.