As another heatwave hits Wales, sleep expert Lisa Artis, Deputy CEO of The Sleep Charity, advises placing a pillowcase in the freezer for 20 minutes before bed to cool down 'instantly'. The head and neck are major heat-loss zones, so cooling them helps lower core body temperature, making it easier to fall asleep.
How the Freezer Hack Works
Lisa Artis explains: 'To fall asleep, our core body temperature needs to drop slightly. During hot, humid nights that natural cooling process becomes much harder.' Instead of freezing the entire pillow, place just the pillowcase in a sealed bag in the fridge for around 20 minutes. This provides an instant cooling sensation without a damp pillow later.
Additional Cooling Tips
Similarly, putting a clean pair of socks in the fridge for 30 minutes can help. 'Your feet are packed with blood vessels close to the skin's surface, making them one of the quickest places for your body to release heat,' says Artis. The gentle cooling effect can help your body switch into sleep mode.
What Doesn't Work
An ice-cold shower before bed can prompt your body to retain heat, making you feel warmer. A lukewarm shower is more effective, allowing your body temperature to decrease naturally. Also, opening windows during the hottest parts of the day can make your home intolerably warm; only open them in early morning and late evening.
