How to Keep Your Bedding Cool and Comfortable as Temperatures Rise

There’s nothing worse than tossing and turning on a hot summer night, desperately searching for the cool side of the pillow. The air feels thick, your sheets stick to you, and sleep seems impossible. Sound familiar? You’re not alone.

As temperatures soar, keeping your bed cool becomes an absolute necessity. But don’t worry, there are plenty of simple tricks and bedding swaps that can turn your sleeping space into a breezy oasis. Here’s how to stay cool, comfortable, and sweat-free all summer long.

1. Pick the Right Sheets – The Secret to Breezy Nights

Your sheets can either be your best friend or your worst enemy when it comes to keeping you cool. The key is to choose breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics that promote airflow.

Cotton – The Cool Classic

Cotton is a go-to summer fabric for a reason. It’s lightweight, breathable, and absorbs moisture, helping you stay dry and comfortable. 

Linen – Nature’s Air Conditioner

Linen is the king of summer bedding. It’s ultra-breathable, wicks away moisture, and actually gets softer with every wash. Yes, it’s a bit pricey, but if you want an airy and luxurious sleep experience, it’s worth the investment.

Bamboo – The Sustainable Cooling Choice

Bamboo sheets are incredibly soft, moisture-wicking, and naturally cooling. They also have antibacterial properties, making them great for sensitive skin.

2. Thread Count – Why Less is More

Many people believe that a high thread count means better sheets. While that’s true for softness, it’s not always great for keeping cool. A super high thread count (above 600) can actually trap heat and make you sweat. For summer, stick to a thread count between 200 and 400—this keeps your bedding breathable without sacrificing comfort.

3. The Duvet Dilemma – Go Light 

A heavy duvet in summer? Absolute torture. It’s time to switch things up.

• Opt for a summer duvet with a lower tog rating (4.5 tog or below).

• Ditch the duvet altogether and use a lightweight cotton or linen blanket instead.

• Layer up with a breathable top sheet so you can adjust your warmth as needed.

4. Pillow Talk – Keep Your Head Cool

Ever noticed how flipping your pillow to the “cool side” feels like instant relief? That’s because your head plays a huge role in temperature regulation. 

Cooling Gel Pillows

Pillows infused with cooling gel work wonders for keeping your head fresh all night long. They absorb heat and prevent that dreaded “sticky pillow” feeling.

Buckwheat Pillows – The Natural Cooling Alternative

Buckwheat pillows have tiny, breathable hulls that promote airflow. They don’t retain heat like traditional pillows, making them a great summer option.

Switch to Bamboo or Cotton Pillowcases

Ditch the polyester and silk pillowcases in summer—they trap heat. Instead, use bamboo or cotton pillowcases for better breathability.

Check our Cotton Pillows

5. Invest in a Cooling Mattress Topper

Your mattress could be sabotaging your sleep by trapping heat. If upgrading your mattress isn’t an option, a cooling topper can make all the difference.

• Stay cool all night—gel-infused memory foam wicks away heat and promotes airflow.

• Latex toppers are naturally breathable and don’t retain heat.

• Wool toppers (surprisingly) help regulate temperature and wick away moisture.

6. Flip and Freshen Up Your Mattress

Your mattress absorbs a lot of heat over time. To prevent it from becoming a heat trap:

• Flip or rotate it regularly to promote even wear and prevent hot spots.

• Sprinkle baking soda on your mattress and vacuum it up—this absorbs moisture and keeps it fresh.

• Use a breathable mattress protector to prevent heat build-up.

7. Sleepwear Matters – Dress for the Occasion

What you wear to bed can make a big difference in how cool you feel.

Best Fabrics for Pyjamas:

• Cotton: Soft, lightweight, and breathable.

• Bamboo: Moisture-wicking and ultra-soft.

• Linen: Helps with airflow and keeps you cool.

Ditch the polyester and tight-fitting sleepwear—they trap heat and make you sweat. Instead, go for loose, breathable fabrics.

8. Cool Down Your Bedroom Before Bedtime

Your bedroom’s environment plays a huge role in how well you sleep. Here’s how to keep things cool:

• Close blinds and curtains during the day to block out the sun.

• Open windows in the evening to let cool air in.

• Use a fan and place a bowl of ice in front of it—this creates a homemade air conditioner.

• Invest in blackout curtains to prevent your room from heating up.

9. Take a Cool Shower Before Bed

A lukewarm shower (not ice-cold!) before bed can help lower your body temperature and prepare you for sleep. Ice-cold showers can actually shock your system and make you feel hotter afterwards, so aim for a comfortably cool temperature.

10. Hydrate Like a Pro

Dehydration makes you feel even hotter at night. Keep a glass of cold water by your bed so you can sip if you wake up feeling warm. Avoid caffeine and alcohol before bed, both dehydrate you and can increase body temperature.

11. The Ice Pack Trick

An easy hack? Wrap an ice pack in a soft cloth and place it under your pillow or near your feet. Instant relief! For an even better trick, fill a hot water bottle with cold water and freeze it. Place it in bed with you for a cooling effect that lasts for hours.

12. The Right Sleeping Position Can Help

Some sleeping positions are naturally cooler than others.

• Sleeping on your back allows more airflow around your body.

• Avoid curling up too much, as it traps heat.

• Spread out like a starfish to maximise ventilation.

13. DIY Cooling Spray for Your Sheets

Mix water with a few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus essential oil in a spray bottle and lightly mist your sheets before bed. It’ll give your bedding a refreshing, cooling feel.

14. Consider Smart Cooling Technology

If you’re really struggling, consider investing in some cooling tech:

• Cooling fans that create a breeze without noise.

• Chilled mattress pads that actively regulate temperature.

• Smart thermostats that adjust bedroom temperature automatically.

15. Go Old-School

The “Egyptian Method” is an ancient cooling technique. Here’s how it works:

• Dampen a top sheet or towel with cool water.

• Wring it out until it’s damp but not soaking wet.

• Sleep with it over you like a blanket.

This method keeps you cool without making your bed wet.

Final Thoughts – Stay Cool, Sleep Better

Summer nights don’t have to be a sweaty struggle. By choosing the right bedding, adjusting your nighttime routine, and using a few cooling tricks, you can transform your bed into a refreshing oasis. Try out a combination of these tips and see what works best for you. 

Here’s to cooler, comfier nights and better sleep. Sweet dreams!