Sleeping in a nightgown for the first time
Short answer: A nightgown is airy and leaves your legs free, but fit, length and fabric decide whether you sleep well in it. Here are the points that make the switch easy.
Why try a nightgown
Many people sleep in a T-shirt and shorts out of habit. A nightgown has no waistband, which means less pressure on your stomach when you lie on your side. Air can move freely around your legs, and that can feel pleasant if you tend to get warm at night. On the other hand, a nightgown can ride up when you turn over, so it often takes a few nights to get used to. Browse bamboo nightgowns for women to see different lengths and sleeve styles.
Length and width
A short nightgown that ends mid thigh rides up the least, because there is less fabric to get tangled in. A long style keeps your legs warm but can twist around them if it is narrow. So choose either a short style or a long one with plenty of width at the hem. Sleeves matter too. Straps are airy, while short sleeves add a little warmth at the shoulders in winter, which many people appreciate when the duvet slips.
The fabric makes the difference
Nightgowns in bamboo viscose have a soft, smooth drape, and the fabric feels cool when you get into bed. Viscose can absorb moisture, which can be pleasant if you sweat at night. A light fabric sits close to the body, while a thicker jersey gives more body and warmth. Choose a fabric with a little elastane if you like the nightgown to follow your shape without feeling tight anywhere.
Nightgown or T-shirt dress
Some people wear a long T-shirt or a T-shirt dress as a nightgown. That works well, especially if you want to walk out to the letterbox in the morning without changing. A T-shirt dress usually has a slightly firmer fabric and a more ordinary neckline. Take a look at bamboo T-shirt dresses if you want something that works both at night and during the day.
Bedroom temperature
A nightgown is most comfortable in a bedroom of around 16 to 19 degrees. If it is colder, you can add a thin cardigan or a pair of socks instead of switching to a thicker nightgown. When it is warm in summer, a short style with straps and a light duvet is a good choice. Give it a few weeks before you decide whether a nightgown suits you, since the first nights rarely tell the whole story.
Care that keeps the shape
Wash the nightgown at 30 to 40 degrees with similar colours and dry it on a line or a rack. Viscose can shrink slightly on high heat in a tumble dryer. Turn it inside out before washing to keep the surface looking smooth. Brands such as Copenhagen Bamboo print the care instructions on the label, and they are always worth following.
Frequently asked questions
Does a nightgown ride up at night
Yes, especially long and narrow styles. A short style or one with a wide hem rides up less.
Is a nightgown warm enough in winter
It depends on your duvet and the room. Many people add socks or a thin top rather than choosing a thicker fabric.
Can I tumble dry a bamboo nightgown
Preferably not on high heat. Dry it on a line so it keeps its size.
