When you are always too warm

Short answer: If you always feel too warm, it is often moisture on the skin that causes the discomfort. Thin layers that move sweat away work better than taking clothes off, and loose styles leave air between fabric and skin.

Moisture rather than temperature

Bare skin that sweats quickly feels clammy, and it is often that feeling that makes the heat unpleasant. A thin layer that moves moisture away from the skin feels cooler than nothing. It sounds backwards, but many people feel better with a thin layer than without.

Underwear

Start with the innermost layer, because it lies directly against your skin all day. Underwear in a soft, light material that does not cling makes a difference, especially on warm days and long days on your feet. See bamboo underwear for women.

Loose rather than tight

Air between fabric and skin cools, because the heat can escape. Loose styles therefore work better than close fitting ones when you are warm. A thin fabric with a soft drape moves with the body and lets air circulate without looking baggy.

At night

If you sleep hot, nightwear and bedding matter most. A thick cover holds in heat, and fabric that does not move moisture turns clammy during the night. Choose a light cover and thin nightwear, and keep the bedroom cool. See bamboo bedding.

At the office

A thin inner layer keeps your shirt dry and stops sweat marks coming through. It sounds like one more layer, but it often makes the day more comfortable, because the shirt does not stick to your back. Choose a thin style that sits smoothly underneath. See bamboo undershirt for men.

Socks

Feet give off a lot of moisture in closed shoes, and warm feet can make the whole body feel warm. Socks that move moisture away and dry quickly make a difference on long days. Change pairs at midday if you can. See all bamboo socks for men.

Layers you can remove

If you are warm most of the time but cold now and then, dress in layers you can easily take off. A thin inner layer and a light top over it let you adjust instead of sweating in a thick jumper.

Washing and care

Clothes meant to move moisture should be washed without fabric softener, which can leave a film on the fabric. Wash at a low temperature and hang to dry. That keeps the light feel and the ability to draw moisture away from the skin.

Colours and light

Dark colours absorb more heat in the sun than light ones. If you are often outdoors on warm days, lighter colours can make a small difference. Indoors it matters less, but it is worth keeping in mind for summer clothes.

When in doubt

If hot flushes are new, sudden or strong, your doctor should assess them. Clothing can make daily life more comfortable, but it does not explain why you feel warm. Take it seriously if something changes without reason.

Frequently asked questions

Is it cooler to wear less?

Not necessarily. Without a layer to move moisture, skin turns clammy and feels warmer. A thin inner layer can therefore feel cooler than bare skin.

What helps at night?

Thin nightwear and light bedding that move moisture away from the skin. A cool bedroom and a cover that does not trap heat also make a noticeable difference.