Sleepless in the sweltering heat? Try this easy pillow swap for a cooler night's rest.
Who needs a peaceful slumber during sweltering summer nights? Certainly not me, after my fluffy memory foam pillow transformed into a sweltering cocoon! I've been praising the benefits of choosing the right mattress for years, but the importance of embracing the perfect pillow has long been neglected.
You may not realize it, but that pillow under your head is critical for your summer sleep comfiness—especially when the mercury rises. Take it from someone who's learned the hard way after spending too many nights tossing and turning due to an overheated slumber pad.
Swapping out my Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Cloud pillow didn't seem necessary, as its soft comfort received rave reviews from me... until the nights grew warmer, and its warmth matched my nicotine-infused rants. Overheating became a nightly living nightmare, but I couldn't resist its cushy embrace any longer. Time to check out alternatives.
There I was, returning to the ever-dependable Levitex Sleep Posture pillow. Similar in build to the Tempur-Cloud, both use their own brand foam but leave the pesky memory foam in the dust. The difference was immediate: swapping from the warmer Tempur-Pedic to the cooler Levitex was like trading in a sauna for a chill winter breeze.
The Tempur-Cloud started heating up within seconds, while the Levitex stayed neutral. And it stayed that way. I no longer needed to switch sides or flip the pillow in desperation for a cool patch. A final farewell to the roasting Tempur-Cloud: youthful days of uninterrupted rest spent in its lavish embrace were now but a memory.
Tempur-Pedic Tempur-Cloud Pillow
Price: from $89 at Tempur-Pedic US | £149 at Tempur-Pedic UKA snug hug for back and stomach sleepers, the Tempur-Cloud's soft build and low loft cradles the head in alignment with the spine. But for those experiencing sleepless nights plagued by sweat, consider upgrading to its cooling technology (approximately $20).
Levitex Sleep Posture Pillow
Price: from $135 at Levitex US | £80 at Levitex UKConstructed with Levitex's brand foam, this medium-firm pillow is available in four heights to cater to your build and preferred sleep position. This breathable foam makes it appealing for those seeking relief from nightly heat struggles. Shopping globally? Levitex ships worldwide, but double-check shipping times and charges before you snooze.
Switching your sweat-inducing pillow for a cooler one this summer:
- Nature's breath: Natural pillow fillings, such as down, latex foam, kapok, or cotton, provide the built-in breathability required to help you maintain a cool temperature during those sultry nights. While their costs might sting, you can opt for affordable synthetic alternatives designed to mimic the natural cooling effect.
- A firm grip: Supple pillows can trap heat, which isn't ideal for sweaty sleepers. Focus on choosing pillows that have enough give, but at the same time allow you to lie on top of the materials—rather than sinking in and being the source of your overheating woes!
- Cool touch covers: On hot nights, the cover is another critical component of your pillow. Avoid those with plush quilting, like the one on my Tempur-Cloud, as they can contribute to the stuffy feeling. Seek out chill pillows with breathable covers, ensuring you'll feel a cooling sensation as soon as your head hits the mattress.
If the summer heats continue to get the best of you, don't stop at your pillow. Assess other elements in your sleep environment that might contribute to extended nights of sweltering discomfort:
- Turn to cooling bedding: Ensure your entire sleep setup is leading you to a comfy climate. Invest in a cooling mattress or a mattress topper—both of which employ materials designed to wick away moisture and maintain a chilled feel.
- Warm up before cooling down: It may sound strange, but warming up with a shower before bed can cause your core temperature to drop, making it easier for you to drift off to dreamland. And in addition to freshening up after a warm day, the shower will help rid your pillow and mattress of accumulated pollen, sweat, and sunscreen—which may otherwise lead to some gnarly gut reactions!
- Close the curtains on a hot day: While it may feel counterintuitive, blocking the sunlight helps to keep your room cooler. Open windows and shutters only once the temperatures start to cool down.
- Cool down with a splash: If your bedroom starts feeling like a furnace, take a break for a few minutes. Step outside for some fresh air, or splash cold water on pulse points—like your temples or wrists—to help cool down that rushing heat.
- Use a fan strategically: Opt for strategic positioning of your fan, placing it near a window to create cross ventilation through the room. If that doesn't cut it, don't hesitate to add ice: place a bowl of ice in front of your fan and enjoy some homemade air conditioning.
- Embracing the right pillow is crucial for maintaining a comfortable sleep environment during hot summer nights. For instance, the Levitex Sleep Posture pillow's breathable foam makes it an appealing choice for individuals seeking relief from nightly heat struggles.
- In addition to switching to a cooler pillow, improving overall health-and-wellness and fitness-and-exercise can contribute to a better sleep quality. Regular exercise and a balanced diet can help regulate your body temperature and promote better sleep patterns. Furthermore, maintaining a cool bedroom can also enhance sleep quality, so consider incorporating practices like using a fan strategically or closing the curtains during the day to keep your room cool.
