Why bedding feels cool for the first few minutes

Short answer: The feeling comes from the fabric drawing heat away from the skin on contact. Smooth, dense fabrics do it fastest, which is why they feel coolest when you lie down.

Heat conduction on contact

When the skin touches a cooler material, heat is drawn away. The better the contact, the more clearly it is felt.

Smooth fabrics conduct best

A smooth fabric has more contact with the skin than a rough one. That is why bamboo viscose and percale feel cooler than terry-like surfaces.

The effect is short-lived

After a few minutes the fabric is at the same temperature as the skin. After that it is the moisture transport that decides comfort.

In summer

In summer both are an advantage. See sleep cool in summer with bamboo.

In winter

In winter the same property is experienced as cold at first, but the bed warms up quickly from the body.

See the range

See the sets in bamboo bedding.

See also

More on the subject in bamboo and temperature regulation.

Frequently asked questions

Why does the bedding feel cold in winter?

Because the fabric draws heat away on first contact. It warms up within a few minutes.

Does the bed stay cold?

No. After a few minutes the fabric is at the same temperature as the skin.

Which bedding feels coolest?

Smooth and dense qualities such as percale and bamboo viscose.