The bedroom under a sloping ceiling
Short answer: A bedroom under a sloping roof warms up quickly in summer and can be chilly in winter. With light layers of sleepwear, breathable bedding and a little control over the air, the room can be a good place to sleep all year round.
Why rooms under the roof swing in temperature
Warm air rises, and a room directly under the roof receives both the heat from the rest of the house and the warmth of the sun through the roof surface. In summer the temperature can therefore climb several degrees above the rest of the home. In winter it depends on the insulation, and older loft rooms can be cool near the floor and warm up under the ridge. The sloping walls also mean a smaller volume of air, so the air turns stuffy and humid more quickly during the night.
Sleepwear in light layers
When the temperature varies from one night to the next, it helps to have sleepwear you can mix and match. A light nightgown is good for warm nights, while pyjamas with long legs cover more when it is cool. Bamboo viscose is light and smooth and feels cool against the skin because the fibre carries moisture away. See bamboo nightgowns for women and pajamas for women if you would like both options ready in the drawer.
Where the bed stands
Under a sloping ceiling the bed often stands with the headboard against the low wall. This can feel a little stuffy because the air sits still in the corner. If possible, leave a small gap between wall and bed. Choose bedding that does not hold too much heat, and avoid thick throws on top of the duvet in summer. If you have an adjustable bed or two mattresses side by side, bamboo split sheets may fit better than a standard sheet.
Airing in the evening and morning
A roof window is effective because warm air collects at the top and can escape there. Open it in the evening when the outside air is cooler, and ideally a window or door at the other end of the home too, so you get a cross draught. In the morning it is worth airing again to let out the moisture from the night. During the day, close the window and pull down a blackout blind if the sun shines directly on it.
The cold winter night
If the loft room is poorly insulated, it can get cold in winter. Then it helps to sleep in several thin layers rather than one thick one. Long sleeved pyjamas under an ordinary duvet are often better than a very warm winter duvet, which gives too much heat once the radiator comes on. The heating in a bedroom can safely be kept low. Around 16 to 18 degrees feels comfortable for many people.
Damp and condensation
Sloping ceilings can collect condensation when the room is cold and the air is humid. Keep an eye out for dark patches in the corners and around the window. Avoid drying laundry in the bedroom and keep the warmth steady so the surfaces do not get too cold. Sheets and sleepwear should be completely dry before they go into a cupboard under the eaves.
Frequently asked questions
What temperature is good for a bedroom
Many people sleep well at 16 to 18 degrees. What matters most is that you do not wake up from feeling cold or sweaty.
Is a nightgown or pyjamas better in warm weather
A nightgown lets the most air through. Short pyjamas are a good alternative if you prefer something that stays in place.
How do I avoid condensation on a sloping ceiling
Air the room daily, keep the warmth steady and do not dry laundry in there. If you see mould, it should be looked into.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
