Winter can be a magical time of the year—you can be sipping hot cocoa by the fireplace or ice skating gracefully around the rink. Instead, you’re in bed shivering and cursing the cold.
Studies have shown that the winter season affects your sleep cycle, as air that is too cold decreases your melatonin production and leads to an interrupted sleep cycle. However, that’s no excuse to let winter ruin your sleep. It’s time to turn your icy bedroom into a cozy cocoon with a few swaps and additions.
Warning: you might never want to leave your bed again.
1. Install insulated curtains.
The first step in staying toasty is swapping out your current curtains for insulated curtains. Insulated curtains contain multiple layers to block out the cold air and help retain heated air. Backed by the U.S. Department of Energy, these curtains can reduce heat loss by up to 25 percent if installed correctly.
2. Bundle up with a heat retentive comforter and sheets.
You adapt your clothing to the changing seasons, so it only makes sense to update to warmer bedding that retains more body heat during the colder months. Look for materials like flannel, fleece, and wool.
3. Fill a basket with extra throw blankets.
If your comforter isn’t warm enough, amp up that cozy vibe with a basket full of blankets next to your bed. Layer on as many blankets as you need for those extra crisp nights. For those who are extra cold, consider an electric blanket.
4. Snuggle with a body pillow.
If you haven’t tried a body pillow yet, you’re missing out. A body pillow emulates that warm, fuzzy feeling of cuddling with another person, so naturally, it’s perfect for those cold evenings. Filled with memory foam and microfiber, our body pillow will help you achieve more restful sleep, improve your alignment, and conform to your every curve.
5. Try a space heater.
Rather than wasting money by turning on the heater for your entire house, consider a space heater to concentrate the heat in your bedroom. Many of them even double as a white noise machine to help lull you to sleep.
6. Add a squishy rug next to your bed.
When you finally have to force yourself out of bed, make sure you have a rug to sink your feet into, especially if you have cold hardwood floors. A memory foam rug or a shag rug are great options.