Expert says opening our windows is ruining our sleep during a heatwave

05 September 2023 , 10:41

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Many of us will have found it much harder to get to sleep during the heatwave (Image: Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Sleeping when it's too hot in your bedroom is never a pleasant experience. Noisy fans, thick duvets and the inability to get comfy when temperatures are soaring outside are just a few factors that make sleeping in the heat almost unbearable at times. It's no surprise that Google searches at 3am last night spiked for the term 'sleeping in the heat' according to Google Trends, as thousands of exhausted Brits made a last-ditch effort to find out some tips and tricks on how to get some quality shut-eye.

Luckily, sleep expert and operations manager at Winstons Beds, Isaah Reece, has come to the rescue with his expert advice on helping to get a good nights' sleep during the unexpected September heatwave - and opening our windows may just be doing us more harm than good.

He said: "Getting a good night's sleep can mean the difference between a good and bad day. No one was prepared to sleep in a heatwave this September, so with this unexpected hot weather it can be difficult to get comfortable and stay asleep for longer than a few minutes.

People eager for some much-needed rest should keep their windows and curtains closed during the day, particularly on the sunny side of houses, Isaah shared, as not doing so could be ruining our sleep. "This will help keep the hot air out, giving you a more stable and comfortable climate. Reopening your windows just before bed, when some of the air has cooled, can help increase the breeze in your home, letting you rest easier," he explained.

"Disrupted sleep can cause a host of problems," the pro added. "Mood swings are increased when we don't get quality sleep, and a lack of sleep can be linked to cardiovascular problems." Isaah revealed that investing in a mattress made from natural fibres is also essential when it comes to good quality sleep. Natural fibres such as cotton and wool don't just help keep you warm during the winter months, but they can also keep you cool in summer. They work with your body temperature by absorbing and distributing moisture and heat, taking it away from your body and cooling you naturally in your sleep.

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"Choosing the correct bedding and pyjamas can also help during the heatwave. Fabrics such as linen are a great choice to help keep you cool even during the strongest heat. These fabrics are highly breathable and let your skin naturally cool throughout the night," he added.

Lauren Davidson