Socks in bed and when it makes sense

Short answer: Cold feet can make it harder to fall asleep, because the body releases heat through the hands and feet as it gets ready for sleep. A pair of thin socks can help, as long as they do not squeeze.

Why cold feet keep you awake

When you go to sleep, the body lowers its temperature by releasing heat through the hands and feet. If your feet are ice cold, the blood vessels narrow and the heat escapes more slowly. Many people find it takes longer to fall asleep when their feet are cold.

Thin rather than thick

A thick wool sock quickly gets too warm under the duvet and leads to sweaty feet. A thin sock keeps you warm without making the foot damp. The aim is to get rid of the cold, not to wrap the foot up. Once warm, the feet need to be able to release heat.

No tight cuff

A sock that squeezes the ankle is uncomfortable to lie in all night and leaves marks on the skin. Choose a sock with a soft, wide cuff that stays up without pressing. Read more in socks that do not squeeze.

Clean socks

Use a pair that is only worn in bed. Socks from the day bring foot sweat and dirt under the duvet, and the sheet gets dirty faster. Put a clean pair by the bed in the evening, so you do not have to search for them when you are cold.

For women

Many women get cold feet in the evening, especially in the colder months. A thin sock in a soft material can be worn in bed and on the sofa. See the thin styles in bamboo socks for women.

For men

For men too, a thin sock is the best choice in bed. Avoid sports socks with thick soles and tight cuffs. A smooth, thin style is the least noticeable under the duvet. See the matching styles in bamboo socks for men.

When to take them off

Many people kick their socks off during the night once their feet have warmed up. That is perfectly normal and a sign that the body is releasing heat. You can also wear them while reading in bed and take them off before you turn out the light.

The rest of the bed

Bedding that moves moisture away keeps your feet from getting clammy under the duvet, even with socks on. A soft sheet against your legs also makes a difference. See the sets in bamboo bedding.

Alternatives

A warm foot bath before bed or a hot water bottle at your feet can also warm them up. The bottle should be removed before you fall asleep. If you often have very cold feet without knowing why, talk to your doctor about it.

Washing

Bed socks can be washed with your sleepwear at 40 degrees without fabric softener. Turn them inside out before washing and hang them up to dry. That way the cuff keeps its stretch for longer and the fabric stays soft.