What we wear to bed plays a major role in how well we sleep at night. It needs to be cool enough, so we can doze off to sleep but also warm enough so we don’t catch a cold. The common knowledge is wearing lightweight, breathable fabric like cotton. But is that the case? Here are some keys to unlock the best sleeping experience:
1. Environment
Season changes, and so does our sleepwear. For you who live in a tropical country, it is suggested to wear something light and breathable to sleep. The humidity level usually caused you to sweat more during sleep. But if you live in the colder part of the globe, you might want to choose thicker sleepwear to keep your body warm at night. So be mindful of the environment when you pick the fabric.
2. Physical Condition
Environment checked. Now move on to your own body. Do you have any special conditions? For example, you sweat more than others or you get easily chilled? Those conditions should be considered when you choose your sleepwear.
3. Sleepwear for you
Let’s now look at some fabric options based on your needs:
a. Cotton
Natural, soft fiber from cotton plants that has been one of the most popular fabrics for sleepwear. It is soft, lightweight, and breathable, which create good air circulation to your skin. This fabric is easy to wash too!
For you who live in a place that has a higher humidity level or during summertime, this fabric will help you to feel breezy at night.
b. Silk
If you are looking for a luxurious fabric for your sleepwear, silk is the best answer. It is incredibly soft, strong, and also a great thermoregulator, which means keeping you cool when it’s warm and giving you warmth when it’s cold. With all of its merits, silk often comes in a higher price tag than other fabrics.
c. Wool
Wool is made of natural hair of sheep or goat. This fabric is an excellent insulator, trapping your body heat to keep you warm in a cold environment. It also comes in different weave and thickness, so you should pick one that suits your need and not causing an overheat.
d. Tencel
Tencel is a branded name of lyocell fiber, made from wood pulp and considered to be a great cotton alternative. This fabric rises to the spotlight for being soft, breathable, wrinkle-resistant, biodegradable, and sustainable for the environment. Another highlight of Tencel is its temperature control, a feature like silk in which it adapts to the weather to keep you comfortable, but without the high price tag. No wonder it becomes so popular in the fashion industry!