summer bedding guide

• The best summer bedding uses breathable materials like cotton and linen, has a cooling gel system and is less thick than winter appropriate bedding. For instance, you should swap out your winter duvet for a rating of 2-4.5 to ensure you stay cool.

• The best time to change your bedding for summer is at the beginning of April.

• Linen is a great material for your summer bedding as it’s breathable, moisture-wicking and a loose weave.

Sleeping in summer can feel like a struggle, especially if you already consider yourself a hot sleeper. So, if you often toss and turn trying to get comfy as the temperatures rise, don’t worry because you’re not alone. There are many ways you can keep cool in bed, including investing in some quality summer bedding.

Today, we’re here to give you our expert tips on how to adapt your bed to keep cool this summer, eliminating those night sweats and increasing the quality of your sleep.

when should I switch to summer bedding?

Ideally, changing your bedding before the transition into summer will make your life a lot easier when it comes to sleeping in the heat. Once the clocks go forward and the temperature changes, you’ll soon be kicking off your duvet.

Therefore, the best time to change your bedding would be in line with the start of the season when April hits. If you’re also an allergy sufferer, transitioning early gives you time to switch up your bed with anti-allergen bedding before the hay fever season kicks off.

what type of bedding is best for summer?

As the nights get hotter, it's essential to choose materials that are lightweight and breathable to ensure a cool and comfortable sleep. When we talk about lightweight summer bedding materials, opt for natural fibres like cotton and linen. These are excellent for wicking away moisture and optimising airflow.

cotton vs linen summer bedding

We’ve outlined the key benefits of both materials to help you make your decision easier when shopping for summer bedding for hot sleepers.

Cotton: Cotton is a soft, breathable and absorbent material, perfect for those hot nights. However, while it wicks away moisture, this can create a clammy feeling which isn’t always comfortable. If choosing cotton, we recommend a lower thread count (around 300 for added breathability). To top it off, go for a light colour that will reflect sunlight rather than absorb it.

Linen: Similar to cotton, linen is breathable, moisture-wicking and cooling. Air can circulate with ease, ideal if you often overheat during the night. Its only drawback is that it tends to wrinkle easier than cotton, impacting its aesthetic. It also tends to be more expensive due to its luxurious feeling.

how to wash summer bedding

The best way to wash your summer bedding is on a gentle cycle using kind-to-the-skin washing detergent. This minimises any allergy flare-ups and keeps your sleep refreshing. We’d recommend washing your summer bedding weekly so that allergens don’t build up and you keep your sleep space hygienic, especially as you’re more likely to sweat at night.

how to choose summer bedding

Below we’ve listed our most commonly asked questions around summer bedding to give you inspiration on what to cover your bed with.

is linen bedding good for summer?

Yes, linen is a great material for your summer bedding. It’s breathable, moisture-wicking and a loose weave, ideal for improved air circulation.

are satin bed sheets good for summer?

Although smooth and silky, satin isn’t a good material for summer bedding. Why? These types of synthetic materials trap heat, therefore making you feel warmer rather than cooler.

is silk bedding good for summer?

Yes, silk is another natural fibre that’s temperature-regulating, but it can feel less refreshing than other options. Find the pros and cons of silk summer bedding below.

silk summer bedding pros and cons

Pros

• Breathable

• Hypoallergenic

• Smooth and velvety texture to add a luxurious touch to your bed set-up

Cons

• More expensive to purchase

• Can come with more specific care instructions

• It’s delicate, meaning it's not ideal if you often toss and turn

what’s the best tog for a summer duvet?

As a rule of thumb, the lower the tog rating, the less warm the duvet will be. Togs can range from 2 to 13.5, and which you choose will depend on your sleeping preference and how your body reacts to the heat. In Summer, the lower the tog, the better, so we recommend a rating of 2-4.5.

what can I use in summer instead of a duvet?

Opting for lighter alternatives like lightweight comforters or summer-weight blankets are always a great alternative to duvets as these are breathable bedding options that will help keep you cool while still wrapping around you, offering that much-needed comfort.

summer duvet vs blanket comparison

Still considering whether to opt for a summer duvet or a blanket? Which you choose is down to personal preference, but we've given direction below:

summer duvet: While summer duvets can be much more comforting, they often still hold thickness which can cause discomfort during warm nights which is why we’ve recommended a 2-4.5 tog rating.

blanket: Blankets still allow you to cover yourself during the night. However, although they’re likely to be thinner than duvets, they’re commonly made out of warmer materials like wool and fleece. Because of this, be mindful on which you opt for – we’d recommend cotton.

what are the best pillows for summer?

The best pillows for summer are those that promote airflow and provide a cool and comfortable sleep experience. While memory foam pillows are known for their contouring and supportive properties, you can get cooling gel infused variations like our Airmax Super Support collection, specifically designed to reduce heat and improve air circulation.

The gel-infused memory foam not only keeps you cool but also ensures pressure relief and ample support. Another popular cooling pillow choice is down; these pillows are lightweight, breathable, and offer excellent air circulation. They’re also great for individuals who prefer a softer and fluffier pillow.

Our So Cool pillows are another great option, offering a unique fibre construction to keep your head feeling nice and cool throughout the night. Remember, you should always consider your personal preferences and sleeping habits when choosing a pillow to find the perfect fit all year round.

what bed sheets are best for summer?

When it comes to sheets, you should still opt for lightweight and breathable materials like linen and cotton. Cotton is a natural fabric that is highly breathable, moisture-wicking and cool against the skin, making it ideal for summer sheets. Similarly, linen’s natural fibres are breathable, allowing heat to escape and you to stay dry and comfortable during the night.

what’s the best summer bedding for allergy sufferers?

The summer season can be when people with allergies suffer the most, which is why choosing hypoallergenic bedding is key so that your allergy doesn’t flare up while you’re trying to sleep. We recommend allergen-free materials like cotton and linen for your bedding.

is a duvet too hot for summer?

If you can, swap out the duvet for a thin blanket or sheet in the heat, but if you’re a sleeper who finds comfort in a duvet, don’t worry because there are still summer-friendly options available. This includes opting for a lower tog rating to regulate your body’s temperature or a summer duvet which is less insulated.

other ways to cool your bed in summer

Are you looking for other ways to stay cool this summer? Here’s some tips for creating a cool and inviting bedroom that’ll help you catch those z’s peacefully.

Incorporate a fan or AC unit into your space

Add cooling plants into your bedroom, i.e. Aloe Vera

Keep blinds, windows and doors shut so the space stays shaded

We hope that you feel prepared for the upcoming summer season, so you can create your own cooling sanctuary and say goodbye to restless nights. If you found this article helpful, check out our couple's sleep advice.