What to wear in January when it is coldest
Short answer: January is often the coldest month in Denmark, with night frost, damp air and short days. It is less about one thick coat and more about layers that hold in warmth while letting moisture escape.
Why January feels colder than the thermometer says
In January the temperature often sits around freezing, but it is the mix of damp air and wind that makes the cold so noticeable. Damp air draws heat away from the body faster than dry air, and wind strips away the thin layer of warm air that sits close to the skin. That is why five degrees of frost on a still day can feel milder than two degrees below zero with a wind off the sea. Your clothing should account for both, not only for the number on the thermometer.
The three layer principle
The inner layer sits against the skin and should move moisture away, so you do not get cold from your own sweat. The middle layer keeps you warm by trapping air, for example a knit or a sweatshirt. The outer layer has to stop wind and rain. Viscose made from bamboo works well as an inner layer, because the fibre takes up moisture and feels soft against the skin. The advantage of layers is that you can take one off when you go indoors, without changing your whole outfit.
At home on the cold days
Many homes are chilly in the morning in January, before the heating has properly got going. Soft clothing that can be worn all day is a practical choice here. A set in sweat fabric keeps the body evenly warm without feeling heavy, and it works just as well for a walk as for the sofa. See for example bamboo jogging suit for men. Warm socks and an extra jumper within reach make it easy to adjust as the day goes on and the house warms up.
Sleeping when the bedroom is cold
Many people sleep best in a cool room of around 16 to 18 degrees. In winter it can drop below that, and then it is the bed that has to do the work. A duvet of the right weight and a sheet that feels pleasant against the skin make a real difference to how quickly you warm up after getting into bed. See bamboo sheets. Avoid airing the room for a long time just before bed, because it then takes a while for it to reach a comfortable temperature again.
Sleepwear that keeps an even warmth
Sleepwear should not be so warm that you wake up sweaty in the middle of the night. A soft set with long sleeves and long legs often gives a more even temperature than thick fleece, because it lets moisture escape. Viscose made from bamboo feels cool at first touch but is quickly warmed by the body. See bamboo sleepwear for men. If your feet get cold, a pair of thin socks can often do more than an extra duvet on top of the bed.
Caring for clothes in the winter months
In winter clothes dry slowly, especially when they hang indoors. Wash at the temperature shown on the label and use a gentle spin, so the garments do not crease too much. Hang them on a hanger or an airer with plenty of space between items, so the air can circulate freely. A tumble dryer can make viscose shrink, so check the care label first. Clothes that are allowed to dry completely smell fresher and keep their shape better over time.
Frequently asked questions
How many layers should you wear in January
Outdoors, three layers is a good rule of thumb: an inner layer against the skin, a warming middle layer and an outer layer against wind and rain. Indoors, one or two layers are usually enough.
Is it better to sleep in warm or cool clothing in winter
Most people sleep best when the body does not overheat. Choose sleepwear that lets moisture escape, and adjust the warmth with your duvet instead.
Can bamboo viscose be washed at a high temperature
Always follow the care label. Many garments tolerate 30 to 40 degrees, and a gentle spin helps the fabric keep its shape.
You can find the full range at Bamboo-Clothing.com.
