When winter's chill arrives, it's important to find ways to stay comfortable and sleep well through the colder nights. Dropping temperatures can make it harder to drift off, but with a few helpful strategies, you can still enjoy deep, high-quality sleep. Check out our top recommendations for sleeping better in winter, so you can wake up feeling energised and refreshed.
Stay warm and cozy
A useful approach to reaching the perfect sleep temperature is to take a warm (not hot!) shower or bath just before hopping into bed. This helps heat your body, making it easier to retain warmth under your blankets, while also soothing your muscles for a more restful night. You might also like to add a hot water bottle to your nightly wind-down. If that's not your style, there are rechargeable electric options or grain-filled packs that can be heated in the microwave. And don't underestimate the warming benefit of wearing socks to bed!
Shield your mattress from damp and spills
Winter calls for extra attention to your bed and bedding, beginning with your mattress. To keep it clean, dry, and insulated, a high-quality mattress protector is a smart buy. Not only does it support good sleep hygiene, but it also provides another layer of warmth. For additional comfort and insulation, a soft mattress topper can work wonders – memory foam, in particular, is known for its heat-retaining properties. For children's beds, make sure to add a waterproof protector for extra reassurance. During winter, sheets, duvets, and pillows can take ages to dry, so always check the care labels to see if they're dryer-safe or require air-drying. Use protectors and covers wherever you can, and deal with spills quickly before they leave marks. Most importantly, ensure all bedding is fully dry before remaking the bed – damp materials won't keep you warm and can encourage mildew growth.
Raise your bed off the floor
Another useful winter sleep tip is to think about where your bed is placed. Keep your mattress elevated from the ground and position it away from external walls. Floors and walls can transfer cold from outside, particularly if they're not well insulated – a common issue in many older homes. This can lead to condensation, dampness, and create conditions for mould and mildew. A bed base that allows for good airflow underneath helps prevent moisture from building up.
Find your ideal sleeping temperature
Getting the temperature right in your bedroom is key, especially in winter. A room that's too warm can make it hard to settle, while a room that's too cold will disrupt your sleep. Using heat pumps, panel heaters, or night-storage heaters with automatic timers can help keep the temperature steady overnight. Full-length thermal or lined curtains are great for keeping out drafts and adding insulation between your windows and the room. It's also worth thinking about the materials of your pyjamas and bedding – choose breathable natural fabrics like cotton or wool, which help regulate body temperature.
Choose winter bedding
Selecting the right sheets and bedding for winter can greatly affect your comfort, warmth, and overall sleep quality. Winter-specific bedding is designed to create a snuggly sleeping environment and help retain body heat. Natural fibres are a great choice for sheets, as they're woven to hold in warmth while drawing moisture away to keep you dry. A good mattress topper with a breathable, moisture-wicking cover can also add a comfortable layer of insulation, especially if your mattress is getting on in years.
Make the most of daylight
With shorter daylight hours in winter, your body's natural circadian rhythm can easily be thrown off, affecting your sleep patterns. Getting outside during daylight hours helps keep this rhythm in check, supporting better sleep through the season. Try to spend time outdoors in the morning, especially early on, to kickstart your 'wake-up' hormones. Avoid staying indoors all day with the curtains shut, regardless of how grim the weather looks! Natural light during the day – even on overcast days – is vital for keeping your internal clock on track, so you feel ready for sleep when evening comes.
Keep up regular exercise
Staying physically active is important all year long, but it becomes even more crucial in winter. Exercise naturally tires your body, making it easier to fall asleep and enjoy deeper, more consistent sleep. We tend to be more active in the warmer months, so winter calls for a bit more intention. Find an exercise plan that fits the colder weather, whether that's indoor workouts – yoga is a great option – trips to the gym, or brisk walks outside. Staying active not only helps your sleep but also lifts your mood and supports general health during the darker winter months.
Enjoy your best sleep this winter!
Follow SleepMaker's tips to boost your sleep quality throughout the colder season. From warming up before bed to choosing the right mattress, bed base, and winter bedding, each suggestion is designed to help you achieve a more peaceful night's sleep. Browse our range of bedding accessories and mattresses to ensure you have everything you need to sleep better this winter.
