
A hot bedroom can make it difficult to fall asleep and have a good night's rest. There are several ways to cool down a bedroom, from investing in a good fan to keeping windows closed during the day. Here are some tips to help you beat the heat and get a good night's sleep.
Characteristics | Values |
---|---|
Curtains and blinds | Opt for light-coloured blinds or shades that provide some insulation, while still allowing the air to circulate. Close blinds and curtains during the day to keep sunlight and hot air from moving into your home. |
Bedding | Switch to breathable, cooling sheets. Sheets made from natural fibres such as cotton, linen, or bamboo are cooler at night. |
Mattress | Choose a mattress that allows proper air circulation so that your body has the ability to breathe throughout the night. Hybrid and innerspring mattresses sleep the coolest at night. |
Electronics | Turn off any electronic devices and lighting when not in use. Unplug smartphones and other devices as charging them radiates heat. |
Wall and furniture colours | Paint your walls with light-reflective shades to help bounce sunlight off them and reduce heat absorption. Choose light-coloured furniture or cover dark furniture with light-coloured slipcovers. |
Ventilation | Use fans to circulate the air. Open your bedroom door and windows during the day to let the hot air escape. |
Appliances | Avoid using heat-emitting appliances such as ovens, stoves, toasters, and microwaves. |
Sleep accessories | Invest in lightweight, breathable sleep accessories such as bedding and clothing. |
Dehumidifiers | Dehumidifiers neutralise moisture content in the air, creating an environment that feels cooler and lighter, promoting restful sleep. |
Household items | Utilise ice packs or cold water bottles to cool down. |
Fans | Use circulating fans to boost ventilation. |
Roofing materials and insulation | A reflective roof helps keep your attic, and by extension the rest of your home, cooler. |
Evaporative coolers | An evaporative cooler boosts ventilation by chilling the air before it is distributed through your home. |
What You'll Learn
Choose the right window treatment
The right window treatment can make a big difference in keeping your bedroom cool. Here are some tips to help you choose the best option:
Blinds and Shutters
Blinds and shutters can be very effective in controlling the temperature in your bedroom. When choosing blinds, consider the direction your window faces. For south-facing rooms, thicker, thermal materials are recommended to keep the room cool. Adjustable blinds such as shutters, Venetians, and day nights are great for privacy, as they allow light in while still blocking the view from outside.
Wooden Venetian blinds or plantation shutters are excellent choices for keeping the temperature down. They allow you to adjust the amount of light coming into the room by altering the gap between the slats. The wood also acts as a natural heat conductor, helping to keep the warm air out during the summer.
Blackout Blinds
Blackout blinds are not just for blocking out light, but they can also be effective in keeping the heat out. They completely block out sunlight, which helps to lower the temperature in your room. Choose light-coloured blackout blinds, especially in whites and light greys, as they will soak up fewer rays from the sun.
Honeycomb Blinds
Honeycomb blinds, also known as insulated cellular shades, have a pleated design that provides insulation. They can block up to 80% of unwanted solar heat during the summer while also maintaining warmth in the winter.
Curtains
When it comes to curtains, opt for light-coloured, breathable fabrics. Heavy curtains and drapes can contribute to retaining heat in the bedroom by preventing efficient air circulation. During the summer, consider changing to lighter curtains that provide some insulation while still allowing airflow. You can also choose curtains lined with metallic polymer fibres, which reflect heat back out through the window instead of into the room.
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Turn off appliances and electronics
Turning off appliances and electronics is an important step in keeping your bedroom cool. Even when on standby, technological devices generate unwanted heat. Turn off items like your TV and computer at the plug socket or unplug them altogether. This will prevent them from warming your bedroom and overheating.
Charging your phone or tablet can also produce heat, so it's best to charge them at a different time of day when it's cooler. Charging in the morning, for example, will prevent the build-up of excess heat in your bedroom.
Other electronics and appliances to consider turning off or unplugging include lamps, toasters, microwaves, and dryers. Even phone chargers and small appliances can generate some heat in your home.
In addition to turning off and unplugging appliances and electronics, you can also switch to more energy-efficient options. Incandescent light bulbs, for example, are not energy efficient. They use only 10% of their power to give off light and 90% to emit heat. By switching to energy-efficient light bulbs, such as light-emitting diode (LED) bulbs, you can help cool your home while also lowering your energy expenses.
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Invest in a cooling mattress pad
If you're looking to cool down your bedroom, investing in a cooling mattress pad is a great idea. These mattress pads are designed to regulate your body temperature while protecting your mattress.
There are two main types of cooling mattress pads: passive and active. Passive cooling mattress pads use materials that promote airflow and the absorption and release of heat to regulate temperature. These pads are great if you want a more natural way to cool down and don't want to deal with any complicated setup. They are typically made with breathable materials like cotton, silk, wool, foam, or gel, which help to dissipate heat and keep you comfortable.
On the other hand, active cooling mattress pads use cool water or air to carry away excess heat. These pads are more advanced and can provide a more targeted cooling effect. For example, the Eight Sleep Pod 3 Cover is a smart mattress pad that allows you to control the temperature settings for each side of the bed independently. It also has an app that lets you track your sleep and health metrics. This option is more expensive, but it's a great choice if you want precise control over your sleeping temperature.
When choosing a cooling mattress pad, it's important to consider the material. Materials like cotton, silk, and wool are highly breathable and can help regulate your body temperature effectively. Some pads also use proprietary fabric blends, such as the Slumber Cloud Core Mattress Pad, which uses Outlast® viscose fibers and cotton to optimize breathability and comfort. This blend is especially helpful if you and your partner have different temperature preferences, as it actively responds to individual body heat.
In addition to the type of cooling mattress pad and the material, you should also consider the ease of care and maintenance. Some cooling mattress pads can be machine-washed and dried, while others require spot cleaning or hand washing. Active cooling options may also require more consistent upkeep, so be sure to factor that into your decision.
Overall, investing in a cooling mattress pad is a great way to keep your bedroom cool and comfortable during hot weather. With the right pad, you can improve your sleep quality and wake up feeling refreshed and well-rested.
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Use a fan
Fans are a great way to cool down a hot bedroom, and there are several ways to use them effectively.
Firstly, it's important to invest in a good-quality fan. Look for a reputable brand with good reviews and useful features such as a quiet setting and a sleep mode. If you're concerned about the cost of running a fan, opt for a low-energy model. When it comes to creating a cool bedroom, you get what you pay for, so it's worth spending a little extra on a fan that will be effective and last for years to come.
Once you have your fan, strategic placement is key. If you have a ceiling fan, adjust the settings so that the blades run counterclockwise, pulling hot air up and out of the room. If you have a box fan, place it across from a window so that the wind from outside combines with the fan to create a cooling cross-breeze. For even more airflow, set up multiple fans around the room, with one blowing in and one blowing out to strengthen cross-ventilation.
Another clever trick is to make a DIY air conditioner by placing a bowl of ice in front of your fan. As the ice melts, the breeze will pick up the moisture and disperse a cooling mist. Alternatively, try freezing some water in plastic bottles and placing them in front of the fan.
Finally, don't forget that fans can also be used to cool you down directly. If you're struggling to sleep because of the heat, try sticking your sheets in the fridge or freezer for a few minutes before bed. Or, for a longer-lasting solution, invest in a cooling mattress pad or some breathable cotton or bamboo pyjamas.
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Install blackout blinds
If you're looking for ways to handle hot bedrooms, installing blackout blinds is a great option. Here are some detailed instructions and considerations to help you get started:
Choose the Right Type of Blackout Blinds
Blackout blinds are available in various styles, including roller, cellular, and roman shades. Consider the following:
- Roller blinds are a popular choice as they are affordable, easy to operate, and can be customized to fit most window sizes.
- Cellular blinds, also known as honeycomb shades, have a unique cellular structure that traps air and creates an insulating barrier. They are highly effective at blocking sunlight and reducing heat exchange, making them ideal for all seasons.
- Roman shades offer a classic and elegant look. They are made of fabric that folds into neat pleats when raised, allowing for better light control and insulation.
Measure Your Windows
For a precise fit, carefully measure the width and height of each window you plan to cover. Most blinds are installed inside the window frame, so measure the width between the left and right sides of the frame and the height from the top of the frame to the windowsill. If you prefer an outside mount, measure the width and height of the area you want to cover, extending beyond the window frame.
Select the Right Colour and Fabric
The colour and fabric of your blackout blinds can impact their effectiveness in blocking sunlight and heat. Here are some tips:
- Opt for light colours such as whites, light greys, or cool tones like rose or lavender. These colours reflect sunlight and absorb less heat, helping to keep the room cooler.
- Choose a fabric that is thick and opaque, ensuring that it effectively blocks out light and provides insulation. Common fabrics for blackout blinds include polyester, cotton, and faux silk.
Install the Blackout Blinds
The installation process may vary slightly depending on the type of blackout blinds you choose and the instructions provided by the manufacturer. Here are some general steps:
- If necessary, assemble the blinds according to the instructions.
- Mark the mounting bracket locations on the window frame or wall, depending on your chosen mounting style.
- Drill holes and insert anchors if needed.
- Attach the mounting brackets securely.
- Place the headrail of the blinds into the mounting brackets and secure them in place.
- Test the blinds to ensure they are functioning properly and make any necessary adjustments.
Maintain and Care for Your Blackout Blinds
To ensure the longevity of your blackout blinds, follow these care and maintenance tips:
- Regularly dust the blinds to prevent the buildup of dirt and debris.
- For deeper cleaning, refer to the manufacturer's instructions for specific fabric care guidelines. Some fabrics may be machine washable, while others may require spot cleaning or professional cleaning.
- Keep the blinds retracted during the day to prevent direct sunlight from fading the fabric.
- Occasionally rotate the slats or adjust the position of the blinds to ensure even exposure to sunlight and prevent warping or discolouration.
By following these steps, you can effectively install and utilize blackout blinds to help handle hot bedrooms. Remember to consider your specific needs, window sizes, and design preferences when making your selections.
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Frequently asked questions
Sheets made from natural fibres such as cotton, linen or bamboo are more breathable and help regulate your temperature.
Dark colours absorb heat, so it's best to opt for lighter colours such as white, grey, beige or light blues and greens.
Thick curtains or drapes can prevent efficient air circulation, so it's best to opt for light-coloured blinds or shades that provide insulation while still allowing air to circulate. Honeycomb blinds can block up to 80% of unwanted solar heat.
Mattresses made from natural fillings such as wool, cotton or bamboo are cooler. Hybrid and innerspring mattresses also sleep cooler as they have a layer of pocketed springs and coils that allow air to flow through them easily.
Try to avoid using electronic devices in your bedroom, especially when charging, as they produce a lot of heat. You can also invest in a fan or a portable air conditioning unit to help circulate the air and keep the room cool.