So, anyone slightly melting and struggling to sleep in the heatwave at the moment? Yep, same – and while you might think that sticking a cool electric fan on to help you nod off without feeling all sticky is the best way forward, it turns out there's a strong reason why experts actually don't always recommend that approach.
With the soaring temperatures predicted to last until at least the weekend (and hitting as high as 34°C in some parts of the country), it's worth thinking about some sun safety tips. From stocking up on SPF, keeping hydrated with water and being mindful of pets getting overheated, experts also say that assessing your sleep hygiene is important.
After all, we all know how grouchy we can get if we don't get enough kip...
So, back to the matter at hand: sleeping with a fan on: according to advice from Sleep Advisor, this might not always be a great idea for health-related reasons, as although having a fan on will circulate air to make your room cooler and fresher, it can also circulate pollen and dust. Which isn't ideal if you suffer from allergies, asthma or hay fever (which has also ramped up for many at this time of year).
Allergies
"Take a close look at your fan," the Sleep Advisor suggests. "If it’s been collecting dust on the blades, those particles are flying through the air every time you turn it on."
Drying your nose out
Other reasons not to sleep with a fan on include the fact that it can dry out your skin, as well as your nasal passages, and if your nasal passages become too dry, Sleep Advisor warns that the body can produce excess mucous, making you feel all bunged up come morning time. It can also lead to soreness and bleeding too, which again is far from ideal...
Muscle soreness
Oh, and then there's muscle cramping! "People who sleep with a breeze directly on them may wake up with stiff or sore muscles. This is because the concentrated cool air can make muscles tense up and cramp," the experts explain. "This problem is especially common for people who sleep with it near their face and neck. If you’ve been waking up with a stiff neck in the morning, it might be because of the constant breeze."
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On the flip-side, the article does point out that fans in the bedroom can work well for people as provide comforting white noise to help people drift off to sleep when it's stuffy.
Tips for sleeping in the heat
But! if you're prone to allergies, it could be worth trying other options like a cool flannel in a bowl of water near your bed, or sleeping on top of the covers with the window open.
Another option could be investing in pyjamas designed specifically to help keep you cool during the night (both WUKA and ModiBodi, who produce period-proof knickers, have created strong cooling PJ sets in the past).
Whilst you might think being naked is better than wearing something to bed, a loose cotton nightie or shirt is a more sensible choice. Sleeping in your birthday suit means sweat stays on your body, instead of the fabric soaking it up – so you'll feel hot and sticky. Eww.
Elsewhere, keep in mind that polyester (or even silk) sheets are not your friend in this heat. Plump for light-coloured bedding made from lightweight cotton – which will be a lot more breathable. And if you're really sweltering, take the duvet out and just sleep in sheets... or head downstairs for a sofa snooze! Remember: heat rises.
Cat is Cosmopolitan UK's features editor covering women's issues, health and current affairs. news, features and health. The route to her heart is a simple combination of pasta and cheese (somewhat ironic considering the whole health writing thing), and she finds it difficult to commit to TV series so currently has about 14 different ones on the go.
