What to wear in February when winter drags on

Short answer: February often brings sleet, grey skies and temperatures that shift around freezing. Clothing has to cope with damp and with the change between frost and thaw, and this is where soft basics do the most good.

February is the most unpredictable winter month

In February a week can start with snow and end with five degrees above zero and rain. Thaw brings wet paths and damp air, while clear nights can still bring frost. That makes it hard to dress according to a fixed plan. The best answer is a wardrobe where the individual pieces can be combined freely, so you can add or remove a layer depending on the day. Check the forecast in the morning and look at temperature, wind and rain together, not just one of them.

Damp makes the cold worse

Clothing that becomes damp loses much of its ability to keep you warm, because water conducts heat far better than air. That is why a damp February day often feels colder than a dry day in January. Make sure your outer layer keeps rain and sleet out, and that your inner layer moves sweat away from the skin. If you have walked a long way or cycled, change into dry clothes when you get home instead of letting them dry on your body.

Soft trousers for long days indoors

Many people spend more time indoors in February than in the rest of the winter, because the weather rarely tempts you out. Trousers with an elastic waist and a soft fabric are a good choice here, as they are comfortable to sit in and warm enough for a cool house. See bamboo sweatpants for men. Viscose made from bamboo has a natural drape and feels smooth, so it does not rub, even after many hours on the sofa or at a desk working from home.

The bed in the last part of winter

After a few months of use, your bedding may need some extra attention. Sheets that are washed regularly stay fresh, and it is a good idea to have at least two sets, so one can dry completely while the other is in use. A smooth sheet creates less friction against the skin and is pleasant to lie on through the night. See bamboo sheets. Let the duvet air for a few hours by an open window on a dry day, so the moisture from the night can disappear.

A simple top for the night

Not everyone likes a full pyjama set. A soft T-shirt for the night is a simple alternative that can be paired with whatever trousers or shorts you prefer to sleep in. It should fit loosely enough for you to move freely, and the fabric should be light enough that you do not overheat under the duvet. See night T-shirt for men. If your bedroom is cold, a long sleeved version can be a good choice for the final weeks of winter.

Small habits that make February easier

Hang your coat to dry somewhere with good airflow, so it is ready again the next morning. Stand your boots on newspaper, which soaks up the water. Change your socks if they have become wet during the day. Keep the bedroom cool, but close the window for a while before bedtime. Small habits like these make a real difference when winter feels long, and they also help your clothes last longer through the season.

Frequently asked questions

Why does damp cold feel worse than dry cold

Water conducts heat much better than air. When the air and your clothing are damp, body heat is lost faster, and you feel that as cold.

How often should you change your bedding in winter

A good rule of thumb is roughly every week or every other week. If you sweat a lot at night, changing more often can help.

Can you sleep in an ordinary T-shirt

You can. A T-shirt made for the night is often softer and looser fitting, though, which many people find more comfortable.

You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.