As the nights draw in and temperatures drop, the thought of snuggling under the covers, away from the cold, is a comforting one. This doesn’t necessarily mean cranking the thermostat up too high, which can be inefficient. In fact, there are many small, simple adjustments you can make that’ll help you feel toasty from the moment your head hits the pillow.
1. Layering Up
This is the easiest, most effective way to keep warm in bed. Start with the basics: your clothing. You may think that throwing on an old hoodie or a thick pair of pyjamas will do the trick, but the key is in how you layer. When temperatures dip, your body needs insulation that works with its natural heat retention. Instead of opting for one bulky item, consider wearing multiple thin layers. A snug cotton or merino wool base layer acts as a comfortable, moisture-wicking foundation. Follow this with a slightly looser second layer, perhaps a fleece or a cotton shirt, that allows air to circulate while trapping warmth close to your body.
For even more flexibility, keep a few layers handy in a convenient space, like under your bed with Hammond’s clever storage solutions, to make it easy to adjust if the temperature shifts overnight.
2. Consider Your Duvet
The thickness and material of your duvet can have a significant impact on your comfort levels. A duvet with a higher tog rating (usually around 13.5 for winter months) traps more heat, helping you stay snug. But the material is just as important. Natural fillings like feathers offer excellent insulation by creating small air pockets that hold heat effectively. Be sure to match the duvet to the temperature of the room as well, so you aren’t left feeling overheated. Consider layering a blanket on top if you’re still feeling chilly but don’t want to go for a heavier duvet.
3. Consider How You Lay Your Bedding
Make sure your duvet fully covers you and close any gaps that can allow cold air in. A trick to creating a snugger bed is tucking the duvet under the mattress at the sides and foot. This helps create a sort of cocoon, sealing in warmth and preventing drafts. In addition to this, avoid using thin, old sheets that may have worn thin over time. Choose thick, high-quality cotton or flannel sheets, as these fabrics naturally help keep warmth in.
4. Hot Water Bottle
A tried-and-true method for warming up your bed is the classic hot water bottle. Simply filling one with warm or hot water and placing it at the foot of your bed or by your feet can warm the entire area around you. A warm bottle placed on your lower back or under your legs can also relieve muscle tension, making it easier to relax into sleep. Just be sure to cover the bottle with a cloth or towel to avoid burns, and don’t forget to check the temperature before settling in.
5. Master the Three F’s of Bedding
Fit: Firstly, make sure your bedding fits your bed properly. A duvet that’s too small will not provide the coverage you need to stay warm.
Fabric: Secondly, the fabric you choose can make or break your night’s sleep. Soft, breathable and natural materials are ideal for warmth, while still being breathable enough to avoid overheating.
Freshness: Changing your sheets regularly, especially in colder months, helps avoid dampness that can make you feel cooler. Fresh, dry sheets also feel cosier against your skin and can boost your comfort levels as you drift off to sleep.
By layering appropriately, choosing the right duvet, and using simple, effective tools like hot water bottles, you can keep the chill at bay and settle in for a warm, restful night of sleep. Each small change adds up to a bigger difference in how you feel as you rest.
Please Note: I always strive to provide accurate and helpful information, but just a quick heads-up—I’m a blogger, not a doctor, lawyer, CPA, or any other kind of certified professional. I’m here to share my experiences and insights, but please make sure to use your own judgment and consult the right professionals when needed.
Also, I accept monetary compensation through affiliate links, advertising, guest posts, and sponsored partnerships on this site, however I am very particular about the products I endorse and only do so when I am truly a fan of the quality and result of the product.
