A checklist for nightwear you will sleep well in
Short answer: Good nightwear is soft, loose and suited to the season. Go through six points: fabric, fit, socks, pillowcase, temperature and care, so your night's sleep is as comfortable as possible.
Point 1: Choose a soft and breathable fabric
Nightwear lies close to the skin for many hours, so the fabric matters. Choose something soft that does not itch and does not stick when you get warm. Cotton, linen and viscose from bamboo are common choices, because they feel smooth and let air through. Feel the fabric before you buy, and check that seams and labels do not chafe. Avoid fabric that feels stiff or makes you warm in an unpleasant way.
Point 2: Choose a fit that does not pinch
Nightwear should not fit tightly, because you move all night. Choose a loose fit with elastic that does not press at the waist. Check that sleeves and legs do not twist around you when you turn over. Long nightshirts can ride up, so choose the length according to how you sleep. Try sitting, lying and turning while wearing it, so you feel whether anything bothers you.
Point 3: Socks or bare toes
Some people have cold feet and sleep better in socks, while others get too warm. Try both and take the season into account. Choose thin, soft socks without tight elastic if you sleep in them. See bamboo tennis socks for women if you want a short, thin sock that does not press at the ankle. Change into fresh socks in the evening, because the ones you wore all day do not belong in bed.
Point 4: The pillowcase is part of it
The pillowcase is the fabric your face and hair lie against all night. Choose a case that feels smooth and soft, and change it regularly. Read about bamboo pillowcases if you want to try a case in viscose from bamboo. Have at least two sets, so you can change without waiting for the washing machine. Air the pillow in the morning so moisture from the night can evaporate.
Point 5: Adjust to the temperature
The bedroom should be cool but not cold, and the duvet must suit the season. If you are often warm at night, choose light nightwear and a thin duvet. If you are cold, you can add a layer that you can easily take off. Have clothes in several thicknesses so you can choose by the weather. If you have sleep problems over a longer period, talk to your doctor, because nightwear is only one part of the whole.
Point 6: Care and changing
Change nightwear a couple of times a week, or more often if you sweat a lot. Wash according to the care label and avoid fabric softener if you want to keep the fabric breathable. See bamboo socks for women if you want gentle socks for the cold evenings. Clothes that have lost their shape or turned stiff should be replaced. Check seams and elastic too, so the nightwear does not start to chafe. A fixed habit of clean, soft nightwear is a small thing that makes the evening easier.
Frequently asked questions
How often should I change nightwear
Two to three times a week is normal for most people. If you sweat a lot or it is warm, you can change more often.
Should I sleep in socks
It depends on what feels best for you. Some sleep better with warm feet, others get too warm. Choose thin, soft socks without tight elastic.
What do I do if I sweat at night
Try lighter nightwear and a thinner duvet, and air the bedroom. If you sweat heavily and persistently, talk to your doctor.
See our range of bamboo sleepwear.
