The myth that pyjamas are old fashioned
Short answer: Pyjamas have a reputation for being old fashioned, but nightwear has a practical job. It keeps your temperature even, takes up sweat and protects your bedding. Whether you sleep in pyjamas, a nightdress or something else is a matter of comfort.
Where the reputation comes from
Many people link pyjamas with striped flannel and buttons right up to the neck. That kind of nightwear still exists, but today nightwear comes in many cuts and fabrics, from short sets to long trousers and loose T-shirts. Sleeping in an old T-shirt is a kind of pyjamas too. The question is not whether it is fashionable, but whether it helps you sleep well through the night.
Temperature at night
Body temperature drops slightly as you fall asleep, and many people wake up if they get either too cold or too warm. A light layer of nightwear can even out the temperature, because it holds a little warmth under the duvet and absorbs moisture when you sweat. Without nightwear the skin lies directly against the duvet, and you cool down faster if the duvet slips off. That matters most in the colder months.
Sweat and bedding
Most people sweat a little at night. Nightwear absorbs some of that sweat so it does not go straight into the duvet and mattress. It is easier to wash a pair of pyjamas than a duvet cover. Choose a fabric that absorbs moisture and lets it evaporate, such as cotton or viscose from bamboo. Dense synthetic nightwear can feel clammy. If you sweat heavily at night for no clear reason, talk to your doctor.
Fit and freedom
Nightwear should give you freedom to turn over. Tight cuffs and stiff buttons can press when you lie on your side. Soft, loose trousers and an elastic waistband are often the most comfortable. Many people prefer to sleep without a bra, but some like a soft bra without underwire at night to feel more supported. See bamboo bra without underwire.
From bed to sofa
A lot of nightwear doubles as loungewear in the morning and evening. A set that is presentable enough to answer the door in can replace joggers and an old T-shirt. On cold days you can wear thick socks or tights underneath to keep your legs warm. See bamboo tights for women. A soft throw over the shoulders does the rest. See Nordic Weaving.
Caring for nightwear
Nightwear should be washed as often as other clothes worn next to the skin, usually after a couple of nights. Wash at the temperature on the care label and hang it to dry. Viscose should not go in the tumble dryer on high heat. It helps to have two or three sets, so there is always a clean one ready. It is a small habit that makes it easier to keep the bed fresh between changes of bed linen.
Frequently asked questions
Is it better to sleep with or without pyjamas
It is a matter of comfort. Nightwear can even out temperature and take up sweat, but some people sleep best without.
Which fabric is best for nightwear
A fabric that absorbs moisture and lets it evaporate, such as cotton or viscose from bamboo.
How often should nightwear be washed
Usually after a couple of nights, more often if you sweat a lot.
See our range of bamboo pyjamas for women.
