A sleep expert has advised Brits to spray cold water on their hands and feet before bed during the current heatwave, as temperatures hit 36C across the UK. Sam Sadighi, sleep therapist and founder of Easy Sleep Solutions, says this simple hack simulates sweating and helps cool the body core, promoting better sleep.
Why the Hack Works
According to Sadighi, the ideal room temperature for sleep is between 16 and 19 degrees Celsius. When temperatures exceed this, the body struggles to lower its core temperature overnight, leading to restlessness and frequent waking. The spray trick works because water evaporation draws heat away from the body, mimicking the natural cooling process of sweat.
“There is a simple hack I’d encourage people to try,” Sadighi said. “I recommend people spray their hands and feet with water. This trick is effective because it simulates sweating. As the water evaporates, it cools you down and helps to pull the heat from your core.” She added that an alternative is to run hands and feet under cool water and not dry them before getting into bed.
Comparison with Other Trends
Social media has been flooded with “sleepmaxxing” trends, including sleeping under damp sheets, freezing pillowcases, and placing water in front of fans. However, Sadighi’s method is mess-free and directly targets the body’s heat dissipation points. Hands and feet have high concentrations of blood vessels close to the skin, making them effective areas for rapid cooling.
The UK is experiencing its third heatwave of the year, with temperatures soaring to 36C in some areas. The Met Office has issued health warnings, urging people to stay hydrated and avoid the sun during peak hours. Nighttime temperatures have remained high, making sleep difficult for many.
Tips for Better Sleep in Heat
In addition to the spray hack, the sleep expert recommends keeping curtains closed during the day, using light bedding, and avoiding heavy meals before bed. She also suggests taking a lukewarm shower before sleep, as cold showers can cause a rebound effect that raises body temperature.
“Keeping your body temperature down in bed will help you to fall asleep and increase the chances of you having a good night’s rest,” Sadighi emphasised. The advice comes as millions of Brits struggle with sleep disruption during the prolonged hot spell.
