Should You Wear Sweaters to Bed in Winter? Experts Reveal Why Most People Get It Wrong

As the temperature goes down, most people begin to layer themselves to protect from the biting cold. While during the day it is imperative, some even sleep with sweaters, socks, and even caps on. According

to experts, while sleeping warm and comfortably is what everyone wants, this habit can be harmful to your sleep. While one of the most obvious benefits of wearing a sweater to bed is heat retention, as it helps conserve body warmth and reduces the chances of shivering and muscle stiffness, it can also disrupt your sleep cycle.

Why should you avoid wearing a sweater to bed?

Experts say sleep is closely tied to your body’s natural cooling process. As night sets in, your core temperature is meant to drop slightly, which signals to the brain that it is time to rest. Wearing a sweater can interfere with this rhythm by trapping excess heat, making it harder for the body to reach its ideal sleep temperature. As a result, some people may experience lighter sleep or difficulty staying asleep. Also, if while sleeping the room temperature rises or the sweater is too thick, your body may struggle to release heat, causing restlessness and sweating, which means waking up and getting disturbed. Night sweats are another potential concern, as they not only interrupt your sleep and wake you up in the middle of the night, but also, once the sweat cools, they create a cycle of discomfort.

Fabric matters

According to experts, if you wear sweaters that are way too tight and are made from synthetic wool, it may irritate the skin or restrict blood circulation when worn for long hours. Breathable, loose-fitting fabrics are generally more suitable for sleep, as they allow airflow and reduce the risk of itching or pressure marks. Sleeping too warm can also contribute to mild dehydration due to increased perspiration. Waking up with a dry mouth or thirst are subtle signs that your body needs more water to work properly.

What are the healthier alternatives you can try?

If you feel too cold at night and need to wear something warm, you must:

• Opt for fabrics that are breathable, like cotton, silk, or light wool.
• Make sure to adequately use blankets or quilts to adjust warmth, rather than a bulky garment.
• You can drink a cup of warm milk or water, or take a bath with hot water for better sleep.
• Keep your bedroom comfortably cool.