Can’t sleep in the heat? Four expert tricks everyone should try tonight

Eat Light and Stay Refreshed

Your evening meal can play a big part in how your body handles the heat. Digestion actually makes your internal temperature rise, so if you want to avoid overheating, keep dinner light and cool! Think salads, fruit, white meat—served in small portions. And don’t forget: hydration is key. Pour yourself generous glasses of water, and make it a habit to keep a bottle by your bedside overnight. You’ll thank yourself at 3 am when you wake up parched!

Cool Your Bedroom—and Yourself

This one might sound like a no-brainer, but it works wonders. The trick is to cool down both your sleeping space and your body. Here’s how:

• Open windows early in the morning when the air is still fresh to let in some coolness.
• Keep out the midday heat by closing the curtains or blinds during the day.
• If you have an air conditioner or a fan, now is their time to shine—let them do the heavy lifting at night.

And before you slip under the sheets, try a cool shower. It’ll help lower your body temperature and make it much easier to fall asleep.

Choose the Right Bedding and Sleepwear

When the thermostat climbs, it’s time to say goodbye to that thick winter comforter and anything that traps heat. Lightweight natural fabrics like linen or cotton sheets are your friends here. The same goes for pajamas: loose, airy, and non-clingy fabrics will help keep your sleep undisturbed. And if you’re feeling brave (or just plain hot), feel free to ditch the pajamas altogether and sleep in your birthday suit. No judgment.

Switch Off the Screens Before Bed

This tip isn’t just for sultry nights—it’s good advice all year round. The blue light from screens messes with your sleep cycle by slowing the release of melatonin (the hormone that tells your body it’s time to sleep). Leave your smartphone, tablet, or laptop aside before bed, and you’ll likely find it much easier to drift off—no matter what the weather is doing.