The UK is experiencing its third heatwave in weeks, with high temperatures expected to persist into next week and above-average heat forecast for August, according to the Met Office. As homes struggle to stay cool, home experts are urging everyone to check under their beds—a simple task that can significantly improve sleep comfort.
Why Clearing Under Your Bed Matters
Kevin Pennington, a home cooling expert and member of the Institute of Refrigeration, states that clutter under the bed is a major mistake during a heatwave. He explains: "Cold air sinks, so the coolest air in any room is near the floor. If you have lots of stuff stored under the bed, you're blocking cooler air from circulating and trapping warm, stagnant air right where you're trying to sleep. Clearing that space lets air move naturally."
Many UK homes are not designed for extreme heat, making it difficult to stay comfortable at night. Removing under-bed clutter allows cooler air to flow, potentially reducing tossing and turning.
Additional Tips for a Cooler Bedroom
Pennington also recommends moving the bed away from walls that absorb heat from the sun. "UK houses are mostly built from brick and block to retain heat in winter. If the sun is hitting that wall all afternoon, the brick absorbs the heat—it's effectively a large heater. Pulling the bed away from the wall really helps," he says.
For those who work from home, avoiding electronics in the bedroom during hot weather is advised. Any electricity consumed by devices like screens, laptops, and chargers gives off heat. Modern insulation, improved over the past 20 years, traps that heat effectively. Pennington suggests: "Move them out during the warmer months and work from another room, or turn them completely off at the wall when you can."
Simple Steps for Better Sleep
Taking a few minutes to clear under-bed clutter, reposition the bed, and minimise electronics can make a noticeable difference. With the heatwave continuing, these actions help ensure a more comfortable night's sleep.
