How to sleep in a heatwave: 10 tips to cool down at night

While the sunny days are usually welcomed by most people, sleeping in the heat can prove more of a challenge. There’s tossing, turning and a whole lot of sweating.Tropical nights not only make it tricky to get some shuteye, but they can prevent proper recovery from the daytime heat, according to the Met Office. 10 best tips for sleeping well in the heat1. Keep rooms cool during the dayIf you’re wondering how to cool down a room without air conditioning, try closing your curtains and windows in rooms that face the sun during the day — but open windows at night to let in a breeze and get air flowing through your home. You can also consider moving to a cooler part of the home for sleeping. 2. Cool your feet downWhen trying to lower your body temperature, try cooling. Cool your feet before bed by running cold water over them, or cool down some socks in the fridge and wear them to bed.3. Sleep on your sideSleeping on your side allows more heat to escape from your body. Because heat escapes from your head, hands, and feet, keep these body parts outside the covers4. Drink plenty of waterPexelsStaying hydrated is especially important in hot weather. Ensure you drink enough water throughout the day, but avoid drinking too much right before you go to sleep to avoid waking up during the night.There’s also plenty of foods you can eat to stay hydrated. Think jelly, soup, salad, melon, cucumber, and lollies. 5. Don’t take a cold showerIt might be tempting to dive into a cold shower, but taking a lukewarm shower is actually more effective. Cold water increases body temperature, meaning you’ll feel warm getting into bed. 6. Wear cool pyjamas (or nothing at all)When looking for the best pyjamas for hot weather, choose breathable, lightweight fabrics and materials and T-shirts and shorts. Alternatively, consider wearing nothing at all to let your body heat escape more easily.You can also look at buying thin, cotton bedding that helps to absorb sweat and cool you down. But remember, your body temperature drops naturally when you sleep so you may still need a cover. 7. Use a hot water bottle to keep coolPexelsYour hot water bottle doesn’t need to be reserved for chilly winter nights only. Fill it with cold water and place it in the freezer, then take it to bed to stay cool all night.8. Exercise earlier in the dayIf you usually exercise in the evening, you may want to consider a morning workout instead. Exercising can raise body temperatures, so a cardio session before bed may make you warmer.9. Use a cold wet flannelPlace a wet flannel in the fridge a few hours before bed and then place it on your forehead to keep you cool as you drift off.10. Try not to napWhile the warm weather might make us sleepy, and taking a nap in the hottest part of the day might sound very inviting, this may make it harder for you to fall asleep at night.