Hot Sleeper vs Cold Sleeper: Which One Are You And How To Sleep Better?

Hot Sleeper vs Cold Sleeper: Sleep quality is closely tied to the body's ability to regulate its temperature during sleep. As part of the body's natural circadian rhythm, temperature fluctuations occur throughout the night influenced by the internal clock that governs the sleep cycle. These fluctuations can vary across individuals, leading to distinct sleep patterns. Some people, known as hot sleepers tend to retain heat during sleep often waking up overheated or sweating. In contrast, cold sleepers struggle to maintain warmth, frequently waking up feeling chilly even in moderate temperatures.

Understanding whether you're a hot or cold sleeper is crucial for optimising your sleep environment. Here, we've drawn a clear distinction between hot sleepers and cold sleepers that will help you know your sleep type and also listed tips to improve overall sleep quality.

Hot Sleepers

Hot sleepers consistently feel overheated and sweaty during the night, often waking up with damp sheets or needing to uncover themselves to regulate their temperature. Several factors contribute to this phenomenon including high metabolism, hormonal changes and environmental factors like warm bedrooms and heavy bedding. Certain medical conditions such as hyperthyroidism and infections can also cause excessive heat retention.

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Cold Sleepers

Cold sleepers often wake up feeling chilly, craving a warmer comforter or noticing cold extremities. Factors contributing to this phenomenon include poor blood circulation, low metabolism and environmental conditions like cold rooms or drafts. Underlying health conditions such as anaemia and hypothyroidism can also cause night chills.

How to know your sleep type? (Image Credits: Canva)

Tips For Better Sleep For Hot Sleepers

1. Block out sunlight during the day to prevent room heating. By keeping sunlight out, you'll reduce trapped hot air, making it easier to sleep cool at night.

2. Opt for lightweight, breathable pyjamas. Thick pyjamas can hinder body temperature regulation while sleeping naked allows your body to breathe and cool down naturally.

3. A warm shower or bath before bed makes it easier to fall asleep. As your body works to cool down after the shower, it will reach the ideal temperature for quality sleep.

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Tips For Better Sleep For Cold Sleepers

1. Wear warm socks to retain body heat. Covering your feet in snug socks helps prevent heat loss, making it easier to stay warm at night and promoting a cosy sleep.

2. Enjoy a hot, non-caffeinated beverage before bed to warm up and relax. A soothing cup of herbal tea can calm your mind and body.

3. A right blanket choice is important for a restful sleep. Opt for a fluffy down comforter if you sleep alone or with a fellow cold sleeper or a breathable cotton option if you share a bed with a warm sleeper.