Beat The Heat: Cool Bedroom Ideas For Comfort

Keeping your bedroom cool is essential for a good night's sleep. There are many ways to achieve this, from simple adjustments to your bedding and window treatments to investing in new technology and appliances.

One of the easiest ways to cool down your bedroom is to pay attention to your bedding. Opt for natural, breathable materials such as cotton, bamboo, or linen. These fabrics help to regulate your body temperature and moisture levels while you sleep, preventing that clammy feeling you can get with synthetic fibres. It's also worth investing in a good mattress—look for one with natural fillings such as wool, cotton, or bamboo, which tend to be cooler.

Windows are another key factor in keeping your bedroom cool. During the day, keep your curtains or blinds closed to deflect sunlight and lower the temperature in your room. At night, create a cross-breeze by opening two windows so the air can flow in through one and out the other. If you're worried about noise or insects, try keeping the windows closed during the day and opening your loft hatch instead to let the hot air escape.

There are also several other adjustments you can make to your bedroom to keep it cool. Avoid charging your phone or using your laptop in bed, as these devices generate heat. Instead, charge them in the morning when it's cooler. You might also want to update your lightbulbs to LED bulbs, which emit less heat. And if you're feeling ambitious, consider repainting your bedroom in a light, cool colour like blue, green, grey, or white.

If you're willing to invest in some new technology, there are several options that can help cool your bedroom. A fan is the most affordable choice, and if you get a quiet one, it won't disturb your sleep. For something more effective, you could buy a portable air conditioning unit or a dehumidifier, which will remove moisture from the air and make your room feel less stagnant and stuffy.

Choose the right colour scheme

Colour is an important factor in making your bedroom feel cool. Here are some tips to help you choose the right colour scheme:

Opt for Light and Neutral Colours

Light colours such as white, blue, sage, and other neutral shades can make your bedroom feel brighter and more spacious. These colours reflect light and can help create a calming and relaxing atmosphere. They can also make your room feel less hot during the summer months.

Add a Pop of Colour

While light and neutral colours are great for creating a cool and calming space, adding a pop of colour can bring personality and interest to your bedroom. Consider incorporating colourful throw pillows, accent walls, or colourful wall decor to add contrast and make the space feel more vibrant.

Embrace Nature-Inspired Colours

Colours that are inspired by nature, such as shades of blue, green, and earthy hues, can create a soothing and relaxing atmosphere in your bedroom. These colours remind us of the sky, the sea, grass, and earth, bringing a sense of calm and connection to nature.

Play with Dark Colours

Although light colours are often associated with creating a cool vibe, don't be afraid to experiment with darker shades. A bold accent wall in a deep shade of blue, green, grey, or even black can add drama and sophistication to your bedroom. Just remember to balance it out with lighter elements to avoid making the space feel too dark or cramped.

Create a Monochrome Look

For a sleek and stylish look, consider a monochrome colour scheme. Combine different shades of black, white, and grey to create a cohesive and modern aesthetic. You can also add a touch of gold or other metallic accents to bring a bit of warmth and glamour to the space.

Mix and Match Patterns

Don't be afraid to mix different patterns and textures in your bedroom. Combining floral, geometric, or striped patterns can add interest and make your space feel more dynamic. Just make sure to use a consistent colour palette to create a sense of unity and avoid making the space feel too chaotic.

Install the right window treatments

Window treatments are an important consideration when designing a bedroom. They can add style, privacy, and functionality to the space. Here are some tips for installing the right window treatments to create a cool and inviting bedroom:

Choose the Right Fabric

The fabric you select for your window treatments can significantly impact the overall look and feel of your bedroom. Opt for lightweight and breathable fabrics such as cotton, linen, or sheer materials. These fabrics allow natural light to filter through while still providing privacy. Sheer curtains, in particular, can give your bedroom an ethereal and dreamy appearance. If you want more privacy or light control, consider layering sheer curtains with heavier drapes or installing a combination of blinds and curtains.

Consider the Colour

The colour of your window treatments can also play a role in creating a cool and relaxing atmosphere. Light and neutral colours such as white, beige, sage, or other earthy tones can help reflect light and create a bright and airy ambiance. Avoid dark colours that absorb light and make the room feel smaller and hotter. Lighter colours will help to keep the bedroom feeling spacious and inviting.

Ensure Proper Fit

It is essential to ensure that your window treatments are the correct size for your windows. Curtains or drapes that are too short or narrow will not provide adequate coverage, resulting in light leakage and a less polished look. On the other hand, treatments that are too long or wide can overwhelm the window and make the room feel smaller. Made-to-measure curtains or blinds are ideal, as they will ensure a perfect fit.

Install Blackout Options

Blackout blinds or curtains are an excellent choice for bedrooms, especially if you want to block out sunlight and create a darker, more restful space. They are particularly beneficial for rooms with south-facing windows or those that receive direct sunlight for most of the day. Blackout options can help regulate the temperature by keeping the room cooler during the day and preventing unwanted light from entering at night.

Add a Creative Touch

Window treatments can also be an opportunity to express your creativity and add a unique touch to your bedroom. Consider incorporating interesting details such as scalloped edges, embroidered patterns, or colourful trim. You can also experiment with different styles, such as floor-to-ceiling drapes for a dramatic effect or cafe curtains for a more relaxed and casual look. Don't be afraid to mix and match patterns and textures to create a truly personalised space.

Provide Functionality

Finally, window treatments should not only look good but also be functional. Consider the purpose of the window treatment—whether it is to provide privacy, block light, or insulate the room. For example, if you want to create a cosy reading nook, opt for thicker fabrics or layers that can help keep the heat in and provide a sense of intimacy. On the other hand, if you want to maximise natural light and views, consider sheer or lightweight options.

Add houseplants

Houseplants are a great way to add a touch of nature to your bedroom and make it feel like a calming respite. They can help improve your mental health and wellbeing, reduce stress, and increase productivity. Here are some ideas for adding houseplants to your bedroom to make it cool:

Parlor Palm

The parlor palm is an ideal choice for your bedroom as it prefers indirect light and can grow with average home humidity. It can grow up to 8 feet tall, but tends to reach closer to 3 feet indoors. Keep the soil evenly moist but never soggy or soaked, and let it dry out slightly between waterings.

Snake Plant

The snake plant, also known as sansevieria, is a popular houseplant due to its low maintenance and striking appearance. Its sword-like leaves feature silvery striations, making it a perfect addition to your bedroom decor. Snake plants thrive in partial to low light and sandy, well-drained soil. They can grow up to 4 feet tall.

Orchid

A blooming orchid exudes serenity and is a perfect choice for a bedroom. The moth orchid, named for its resemblance to a moth's rounded wings, is the easiest variety to grow. Orchids prefer high humidity and will do best in an east- or west-facing window. They can grow up to 3 feet tall.

Pothos

Pothos is one of the easiest indoor plants to grow and is a great choice for hanging baskets or trailing over furniture. It grows well in bright, indirect light and moist but well-drained soil. Pothos can grow up to 15 feet long, and you can easily clip it to keep it at your desired size.

Dracaena

Dracaena is a beautiful plant with long, slender, strappy leaves that curve attractively from a central stem. The leaves come in a variety of colors, including pink, red, yellow, and cream. Dracaena grows best in bright, indirect light and moist but well-drained soil. It can grow up to 10 feet tall.

ZZ Plant

The ZZ plant, or Zamioculcas zamiifolia, is a low-maintenance option that can store water for long periods, making it perfect if you travel frequently or forget to water. It grows in bright to low light and well-drained soil. The dark green, shiny leaves form an eye-catching funnel of greenery. It can grow up to 3 feet tall.

Use the right bedding

Bedding is one of the most important factors in setting the mood and style of your bedroom. Here are some tips to help you choose the right bedding to create a cool and inviting space:

Choose Natural and Breathable Materials

Select bedding made from natural, breathable materials such as cotton, linen, or bamboo. These fabrics allow for airflow and are moisture-wicking, keeping you cool and comfortable during sleep. They are also soft and breathable, making them perfect for the summer heat. Additionally, natural fillings for pillows and duvets, like cotton and wool, are optimal for a cool night's sleep as they regulate body temperature and humidity.

Opt for Light Colours

Go for light-coloured bed linen, especially during hot weather. Lighter sheets reflect light and help reduce the absorption of sunlight and heat. Bright white bedding and light natural tones can make your bedroom feel brighter and more inviting.

Consider Separate Duvets

If you share a bed and find that your partner disturbs your sleep due to differences in body temperature, consider using separate duvet covers. This way, you can each have your own thin cotton sheet, allowing for more individualised comfort and a better night's sleep.

Layer Your Bedding

Create a cosy and inviting space by layering your bedding. Start with a soft and comfortable bed, and add layers of textured linens, throws, and pillows. Mix and match colours and patterns to add interest and personality to your bedroom.

Invest in a Good Mattress

Choose a mattress that helps regulate your body temperature. Mattresses with natural fillings such as wool, cotton, or bamboo tend to be cooler and hypoallergenic. Additionally, pocket spring mattresses with natural materials like wool respond and react to your body temperature, providing a sustainable and recyclable option.

Create a gallery wall

Creating a gallery wall is a great way to express your personality and add character to your bedroom. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you create a stunning gallery wall:

Planning:

• Decide on a theme: You can choose a specific theme, such as abstract monochrome prints, coastal images, or nature-inspired themes. Alternatively, go eclectic with bold block colour prints, typography images, and your favourite family photos.
• Collect your pieces: Gather a variety of artwork, photographs, prints, and other decorative items that fit your theme. Consider including different sizes and frame styles to add interest.
• Create a colour palette: Try to stick to a cohesive colour palette that complements your bedroom's decor. This will give your gallery wall a more curated look.

Layout:

• Measure and tape off the space: Determine the amount of space you want your gallery wall to fill and tape off a box of that size on your floor or a large piece of paper.
• Lay out your pieces: Arrange all your pieces within the taped-off area. Play around with different placements until you find a composition you like. Try to maintain a consistent space of around 3 inches between pieces.
• Take a photo: Once you're happy with the layout, snap a photo for reference.

Hanging:

• Transfer pieces to the wall: Start transferring your pieces to the wall, measuring as you go if you want to be precise. You can also wing it and adjust as you go.
• Start with the largest piece: Place your biggest piece in one of the four outer corners or slightly off-centre to anchor the whole collection.
• Diagonally place the second-largest piece: Try placing the next biggest piece diagonally from the largest piece. This creates a visual balance.
• Mix horizontals and verticals: Combine horizontal and vertical pieces to keep your gallery wall interesting. Place smaller vertical pieces next to larger horizontal ones and vice versa.
• Add variety: Don't be afraid to mix and match frame styles and include unframed pieces like sculptures, textiles, or round pieces to break up the grid pattern.
• Leave space: When hanging your gallery wall, ensure you leave at least a 6-inch space between the bottom of the frames and any furniture below.

Final touches:

• Float mount: Consider float mounting some items like polaroids, tickets, or stamps to elevate their appearance.
• Add something personal: Include personal items like drawings from friends, old photos, or polaroids to make your gallery wall unique.
• Stand back and enjoy: Once you've finished hanging, take a step back and admire your handiwork! Remember, you can always add or swap out pieces to keep your gallery wall fresh.

Frequently asked questions