Solve It: Guide to Sleeping Cooler (or Warmer)
Introduction
If you wake up too hot, too cold, or kicking the covers on and off all night, your bed may be working against you.
The good news is that you probably do not need to replace everything. A few smart changes to the layers closest to your body can make a noticeable difference.
Start with how you actually sleep. Then adjust the layers that have the biggest effect on comfort.
What to Consider
Fiber
Cotton, linen, bamboo-derived fibers and silk can feel and perform differently when it comes to breathability, moisture and texture.
Weave
Percale tends to feel crisp and airy. Sateen tends to feel smoother and a little more substantial.
Moisture
If moisture stays against your skin, you can feel hot and clammy. Breathable fabrics can help manage that.
Layers
Your protector, sheets, pillows, blankets and comforter all contribute to the overall feel. Great sheets cannot overcome a comforter that is simply too warm.
Weight and fill
In general, heavier or denser bedding provides more warmth.
Your partner
Two people sharing a bed do not always share a thermostat.
How to Choose
Start with what is happening at 3 a.m., not what sounds good on the product page.
If you wake up hot or sweaty:
Start with the sheets and mattress protector. Look for breathable fabrics and a lighter top layer.
If you wake up cold:
Choose a smoother, more substantial sheet and add warmth in layers so you can adjust rather than committing to one heavy cover.
If you run hot and your partner runs cold:
Keep the shared foundation simple, then give each sleeper control with separate blankets or different weights.
If your comfort changes with the seasons:
Keep your everyday sheets consistent and change the top layers.
If you are not sure:
Change one layer at a time. Give each change several nights before deciding whether it helped.
Understanding Your Options
| Option | Feel | Best For / Keep in Mind |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton percale | Crisp, light and airy | Sleepers who tend to run warm |
| Cotton sateen | Smooth with a little more substance | Sleepers who prefer a softer, smoother feel |
| Linen | Textured, relaxed and breathable | Warm sleepers and warm climates |
| Bamboo-derived fibers | Smooth and soft | Sleepers who prefer a silky hand feel |
| Silk | Smooth and lightweight | Sleepers who prefer a delicate, refined feel |
| Brushed cotton or flannel | Soft and insulating | Cold sleepers and winter |
Our Expert Tips
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Do not shop by thread count alone. Fiber and weave tell you more about how a sheet is likely to feel.
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Treat the mattress protector as part of the system. A warm protector can undermine otherwise breathable bedding.
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Layer for control. Several lighter layers give you options. One very heavy layer gives you one option.
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Do not forget your pillow. It sits right next to your head all night and can contribute to how warm you feel.
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If you and your partner disagree about the temperature, stop trying to negotiate with the thermostat. Change the bedding.
Good to Know
“Cooling” can describe a cool-to-the-touch sensation. That is not necessarily the same as staying comfortable all night.
Natural-fiber bedding can soften and change character with washing. Follow the care instructions for the specific product.
High-heat drying can shorten the life of some fine fabrics.
Room temperature, humidity and sleepwear matter too. Your sheets are part of the solution, not the entire climate-control system.
Shop Sleep Comfort
Sheets & Pillowcases
Mattress Protectors & Pads
Pillows
Blankets & Throws
Comforters & Duvets
Find Your Comfort
Start with the layer that is most likely causing the problem. Then make one change at a time.
You may not need a whole new bed. You may just need a better way to build it.