If the approaching heatwave has you desperately trying to figure out how to keep your bedroom cool, you’re not alone. Hot weather is every bit as synonymous with bad sleep as it is with garden parties and barbecues (albeit infinitely less fun).
It doesn't help that heat makes you tired, to begin with. Then factor in that summer nights mean the body has fewer natural cues to switch off, and tossing and turning in a pile of tangled bedding each night means it's harder to fall asleep.
Here is what our team of experts recommends to keep rooms cool without AC to ensure you are able to sleep in the heat.
How to keep a bedroom cool in summer: 13 expert tips
Just as there are plenty of ways to keep your house warm in winter, so there are ways to keep your bedroom cool all summer long.
So, what's the solution? Opening the windows doesn't work: it just leaks disruptive noise into our room, not to mention a seemingly never-ending stream of pollen and mosquitoes. Sleeping naked is uncomfortable, dampening the sheets is even worse, and don't even get us started on the arguments that sharing a bed in sweltering climes can cause.
From investing in breathable bedding and the best dehumidifiers, to keeping curtains, blinds and windows closed throughout the day, these are the best expert-approved ways to give your bedroom the cooldown effect it so desperately needs.
1. Invest in a good fan
It happens every year, the inevitable panic runs to the supermarket to pick up whatever fans they still have left during the summer's first heatwave. This time, beat the panic and invest in one of the best fans as soon as you can – our Editor did just that with the best-selling handheld fans on Amazon.
"As soon as warm weather is forecast, fans tend to sell out quickly. Purchase a high-quality fan now to avoid the rush. Look for well-known, reputable brands with good reviews and useful features like ECO mode, so you can save money whilst keeping cool," explains Chris Michael, managing director of air treatment specialists Meaco.
He adds that when looking for a fan for your bedroom, choose one that's quiet, as noisy fans will disrupt your sleep as much as they will aid it. And if you're worried about how much a fan costs to run, then find a low-energy model, as this will lower the cost per use.
Exceptionally quiet Shark TurboBlade Fan
A real all-rounder, this covers all bases. It's powerful, smooth, and incredibly quiet, with an 'organic' feeling, and breeze mode is integrated too. We couldn't give it anything except top marks.
Dual purpose Dyson Hot + Cool Formaldehyde
This isn't just an expert at keeping you cool; this purifies your air and can warm up a room come winter. It's expensive, but an investment that's surprisingly easy to justify.
Budget Levoit Classic Fan
This is incredibly good value, speedy, and silent. It's up there with Dyson and Shark for speed, but it's just a little tricky to store when you don't need it to stay cool.
2. Avoid charging tech at night
It's become an unstoppable force of habit: when we go to bed, we pop our phones on charge beside us. When it comes to figuring out how to keep your bedroom cool, though, one of the easiest steps you can take is to banish tech from the bedroom.
"As hard as it may be for some, it’s time to stop scrolling on TikTok in bed," says Mary Love, head of product & innovation at sustainable sleep-tech firm Simba.
"Using your phone in bed – especially while it is on charge – can generate heat and make you feel hotter. Likewise, with a laptop, if you’re watching a film on a laptop in bed, this can generate heat as well."
We can't just avoid using our tech in the bedroom; we need to unplug our smartphones, too. That's right: charging your gadgets at night causes them to radiate heat, which will in turn heat up your room, and thus affect your sleep.
"Instead, choose to charge them first thing in the morning when it is cooler and you are awake," says Colette Toman, interior stylist at Make My Blinds. "Not only will doing this reduce the room temperature, but it will also save you money as most devices don’t need to be charged for the duration of the time you’re asleep."
3. Keep blinds and curtains closed
Windows open, or windows shut? It's the big debate that rages on every summer for how to keep cool, with many insisting that an open window is a surefire way to keep your bedroom cool.
Highlighting a common cooling mistake, making your room warmer, Colette explains: "Although it is a natural response to open windows to let the airflow through your home, it will do the opposite and let the hot air in instead."
"However, windows and doors can be left open if needed, so long as curtains and blinds are kept closed to deflect the sunlight, which in turn, should lower the temperature within your home."
Sabrina Panizza, one of the co-founders of PL Studio, adds: "During the day, it is always recommended to lower the blinds and close curtains to keep sunlight and hot air from moving into your home. "
"You might also want to consider honeycomb blinds, as their cellular pleated design provides an insulation barrier that reduces the exchange of heat in summer (they can block up to 80% of unwanted solar heat) and maintains warmth in the winter."
4. Create a cross-breeze
A cross-breeze occurs when there is an entry and exit point for air, allowing wind and the natural movement of air to cool your bedroom down. This means, yes, you should open more windows at night. After the sun has gone down.
"Air flow is crucial for a good night’s sleep," says Sabrina, "and this is one of the fastest ways to increase air circulation in your home, not to mention the most effective!
"Open windows in every room, and be sure that you keep the doors open so you don’t block out any air flow. The idea is to essentially create a cross-ventilation system to flow air from one part of the house to the other."
Sabrina adds: "You only need to open the window 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm) to start drawing the hot air out of the room."
However, Mary cautions: "If it seems like it’s hotter outside than it is inside, I’d recommend keeping your windows shut, as you don’t want the hot, stuffy air outside to heat your room. If you’re unsure, take a step outside for a few minutes and decide what’s best for you."
5. Consider buying a dehumidifier
When it's particularly hot and sticky, it's worth mulling over whether it's worth investing in a dehumidifier for its benefits.
A dehumidifier will not lower your room temperature, but it will remove humid air, which can make you feel cooler – one of many reasons to buy a dehumidifier in summer.
"Humidity can make a room feel hot and stagnant, making it difficult to sleep," says Sabrina. "Excess humidity can also increase wakefulness throughout the night and reduce the amount of time spent in deep sleep.
Dehumidifiers work by neutralising moisture content in the air, creating an environment that feels cooler and lighter, promoting restful sleep."
Here is our edit of three of the best dehumidifiers for a bedroom:
Vonhaus Vonhaus 12L Dehumidifier
This Vonhaus dehumidifier is the perfect option for smaller bedrooms and tight storage space. It's lightweight, easy to manoeuvre, and has an automatic turn-off feature that comes in handy when its 2L tank has reached capacity.
ProBreeze ProBreeze 20L Dehumidifier
This dehumidifier can remove an impressive 20 liters of water per day. It’s sleek and stylish, so it will fit effortlessly into your home whilst working hard to leave the air clean and moisture-free. It has plenty of modes to help you find your perfect humidity levels.
Meaco MeacoDry Arete One
Our MeacoDry Arete One review names this as the best all-around great dehumidifier. It has a laundry mode so as well as reducing the humidity in your bedroom it can also dry your clothes. It has a dedicated night mode so you can leave it to work its magic without it disturbing you.
6. Use your fan more efficiently
Remember how we talked about creating a cross breeze? Trying an expert fan hack can also help to maximise the impact of the breeze.
In bedrooms with two windows that are in line with each other, aim a fan out one window while allowing fresh air to flow in through the other. Owning one of the best cooling fans is the only way to achieve this.
"With fans, you get what you pay for," says Mary. "If you don't mind that constant hum sound, then head down to your local shop and pick up a cheap one. But, if you want to invest a bit more money, we'd recommend looking for one with added purifying benefits."
7. Choose a portable AC unit
More affordable than air conditioning, a portable unit is a brilliant addition to the bedroom, as you can turn it on for a few hours before bed (with the windows and doors closed, of course) and cool down your room before it's time to sleep.
This is Amazon's choice for portable air conditioners, with an impressive 5-star rating. With a generous 5-litre water tank, this portable unit is not only used as an air conditioner and fan but also as a humidifier and air purifier to ensure you not only escape the hot air but also keep you out of the dry air.
8. Let your houseplants do the hard work for you
That's right, it seems the humble houseplant isn't just a beautiful addition to your home – there are actually cooling houseplants perfect for your bedroom.
"Some of the best plants for the bedroom can actually help lower the temperature of the space," says Sabrina. "As they consume hot air for their natural processes, plants will often release excess water into the air from their leaves, and by releasing evaporated water, plants cool themselves and the surrounding environment."
She adds: "Some of the best cooling plants to include in your bedroom are Ficus Benjaminas (one of the few trees that grow well indoors), Ficus Elasticas (also known as Rubber Plants), Chinese Evergreens, palms, and Mother-in-Law’s tongues."
All the best places online to buy plants will be able to advise on the most suitable houseplants for your room, depending on light quality and whether or not you have pets or young children (some are poisonous).
9. Invest in a high-quality mattress
If you are willing to spend some money on your quest to keep your bedroom cool, it might be time to invest in a new cooling mattress.
“For sleepers who tend to overheat all year round, look for a mattress that is designed to regulate body temperature," says Hannah Shore, Silentnight Sleep Expert. "Many of these are scientifically proven to keep the sleeper cooler, for a more refreshing night’s sleep.”
Look for a spring or hybrid mattress that wicks away heat and sweat – and avoid heat-trapping memory foam at all costs. Check out the latest mattress deals to get the best value on your investment.
10. Install blackout blinds
Blackout blinds don't just keep late-night and early-morning sunlight out of your bedroom: they can also help to keep the heat out, too. It's no wonder they're one of the best window hacks to keep your home cool.
"Window treatments are an important element when it comes to ensuring a good night’s sleep during the hottest months," says Sabrina. "Installing blackout blinds is one of the top bedroom design tips for better sleep, as total darkness is vital to falling asleep easily."
Colette adds: “One of the top choices of blinds for a heatwave would be a blackout blind, as they effectively block out any sunlight during the day, therefore cooling down your rooms. If you're considering having new blinds fitted, then a recommendation would be to choose a light colour, especially whites and light greys, as they will soak up fewer rays from the sun.”
11. Purchase cooling bedding staples
If you aren't able to afford a new mattress (or if you don't want to change yours because you love it dearly), we have an alternative: cooling mattress pads can help reduce heat retention through their design and materials.
"Most temperature-regulating toppers are infused with gel, graphite, or some sort of cooling technology to help you dissipate heat throughout the night," says Sabrina.
"The most advanced models can even pump cooled water through tiny tubes in the pad to lower your bed’s temperature."
12. Swap out your bedding
When it comes to finding the very best sheets and bedding for the hot and oppressive summer months, look for something breathable.
“If you have difficulty sleeping during the warmer months, you should consider having a different mattress and ensure your bedding is made from breathable fibres," says Heather. "Natural fibres are the best at temperature regulating."
Linen, cotton, and percale are all counted among the best materials for temperature regulating, with linen being particularly ideal if you sleep with a partner who tends to get hotter or colder than you: this clever fabric will adjust to you both.
However, some people may find these materials a little heavy. If this is you, "opt for lightweight polyester sheets, as these will offer you a breathable sleeping environment," says Heather.
13. Invest in Venetian blinds
If you prefer something a little more aesthetically pleasing than a blackout blind, you're in luck: wooden Venetian blinds are every bit as effective when it comes to keeping your bedroom cool.
"Blocking the light while letting in the air, wooden Venetian blinds are excellent when it comes to keeping the temperature down in the home, as they allow you to adjust the amount of light filtering into the room by altering the size of the gap between the slats," says Sabrina.
Even better? "The wood also acts as a natural heat conductor, helping to keep the warm air out during the summer months," finishes Sabrina.
13. Redecorate
If you're in the mood for a little DIY, and your bedroom often feels stuffy and overheated, then look beyond the interior paint colour trends and focus instead on the colours that can help cool a room – for example, the best white paint colours.
As per the people at Ivan's Painting, "any rooms that have large windows or soak up more heat during the day should be painted in lighter colours," such as "greys, pastels, white and off-white, or beige".
Why? Because these are the colours that reflect the majority of UV rays they’re hit with.
Don't worry: if you tend to favour dramatic colours like reds and purples, there is a solution – opt for cooler versions like rose, lavender, and lilac instead.
FAQs
How do I keep my bedroom cool without AC?
"Without AC, I would recommend following the above, as those tips are designed for non-air-conditioned rooms/homes. As well as the above, if you're finding your room to be too hot even after following, I would recommend trying a dehumidifier," explains Nicholas Auckland, home heating and cooling expert at Trade Radiators.
"This reduces your room's humidity levels, which therefore can make it feel cooler. A big issue in the UK is that our humidity levels are quite high, so this can make a big difference," he adds.
When you don't have AC, Nicholas says you'll need to focus on preventing the heat from getting inside in the first place. To do this, he suggests opening the windows and external doors only during the night and early morning.
"This allows for colder air to come in and hot air from the day or night to go out. I would also focus on using a fan when you have your windows open - this means that it will draw in the cooler air from outside, which will help it work slightly more like an AC unit," he continues.
Do cooling blankets work?
Have you ever thought about swapping your duvet for a cooling weighted blanket instead? Well, if you're still on the fence, we asked the experts whether or not they actually work.
"It really depends on the type, but in general, yes, they work. They're usually made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics like bamboo, cotton, or specially engineered cooling fibres that help to regulate body temperature by improving airflow and reducing the amount of trapped heat. The moisture-wicking properties are important as this helps the skin feel dry and combats sweating," says Nicholas.
Although they won't technically cool down your room, they can help you regulate your body temperature if you're a hot sleeper.
"When buying a cooling blanket, make sure it isn't thick - a thick one likely won't work nearly as well as a thin, lightweight one. You can also look out for special technologies the cooling blanket has been made with, for example, gel or phase change materials that work to absorb and dissipate heat," continues Nicholas.
This blanket comprises a cotton layer of fabric surrounding extra-fine glass beads, making it extremely breathable. You can also add the Emma bamboo cover that will provide a moisture-wicking layer of fabric.
This blanket was designed specifically for warmer weather and hot sleepers; it has a cooling micro glass sand bead filling. It's only weighted at 4.7kg, meaning it's perfect for those who don't want that overly heavy sensation either.
With cool-treated fabric, this blanket is perfect for combating overheating and still provides a relaxing, deep touch pressure. Weighing 6.8kg, it's a little heavier than other models but will keep you cool nonetheless.
These are all easy, effective ways to make the bedroom space feel cool, but there are also additional ways to make it easier to sleep in the heat by keeping your bed cool. These methods include swapping seasonal bedding, investing in the best cooling mattresses and exploring how wool bedding keeps you cool.
