When summer nights hit hard, many Canadians find themselves tossing, turning, and sticking to the sheets. Whether you’re a renter without central air or a homeowner navigating your first heatwave, you’re probably wondering how to keep your bed cool in the summer. In fact, Environment Canada reports that summer temperatures have been climbing steadily, with more frequent and intense heatwaves affecting regions coast to coast. As climate trends shift, knowing how to stay cool at night becomes more of a must.
Here’s how you can beat the heat and reclaim restful sleep.
Choose Breathable Bedding
Your sheets could be working against you. Synthetic fabrics like polyester trap heat and moisture, turning your bed into a sweaty mess. For a cooler sleep surface, swap in natural, breathable materials like cotton, linen, or bamboo. These fabrics wick away sweat and allow airflow to circulate around your body.
Go for lightweight sheets, pillow covers, and a summer-weight duvet. Hypoallergenic and eco-conscious bedding options are also widely available for those with sensitive skin or who have allergies aggravated by heat.
Canadian brand Silk & Snow makes flax linen sheets from Belgian and French flax that are cool to the touch and naturally moisture-wicking.
When viewing homes or choosing a bedroom, consider orientation and window placement. Bedrooms facing north or east generally stay cooler during the day since they avoid intense afternoon sun.
Opt for a Cooling Mattress or Topper
Standard memory foam is notorious for trapping heat. If you’re waking up drenched, your mattress might be the reason why. Look for gel-infused memory foam, natural latex, or specialized cooling toppers designed to regulate body temperature.
Brands like Endy and Benji Sleep offer mattresses and bedding designed with temperature control in mind. Their clean, cooling designs work especially well for minimalist bedrooms or hot-sleepers looking for all-season comfort.
If replacing the mattress isn’t in the budget, try flipping or rotating it. Don’t forget a moisture-wicking mattress protector for added comfort.
Pro Tip: Some newer homes include HVAC-optimized bedroom layouts, energy-efficient insulation, or ceiling fans. If you’re shopping for a condo, ask about the building’s cooling system and bedroom airflow—especially on upper floors where heat rises.
Embrace Strategic Cooling Methods
Not all solutions require big spending. Here are some effective ways to cool down your sleep setup:
- Use a fan to create a cross-breeze or place a bowl of ice in front of it for a DIY air chiller.
- Try a cooling pad or water-cooled mattress topper.
- Keep blackout curtains or blinds closed during the day to block heat buildup.
- Chill your pillow or use a cooling pillow insert.
- Take a cold shower before bed to quickly lower your body temperature.
- For a quick fix, put your sheets in the freezer (in a sealed bag) for 10 minutes before bedtime.
Brands like Dyson and Vornado offer stylish, compact fans and space-saving accessories that suit smaller rooms and help improve airflow without sacrificing aesthetics.
Rethink Sleepwear and Evening Routines
Sometimes it’s not just the bed—it’s what you’re wearing and doing before you get in it.
- Wear breathable or moisture-wicking sleepwear (or go without).
- Eat a light, cool dinner. Heavy meals raise your core temperature.
- Stay hydrated throughout the day, but ease off fluids before bed to avoid late-night wakeups.
- Power down electronics early. Devices emit heat and keep your brain wired longer than you’d think.
Soft bamboo jersey sleepwear from This Is J offers a lightweight, breathable option made right here in Canada—perfect for keeping cool and comfortable without compromising coziness.
When to Consider Bigger Upgrades
If the heat keeps haunting your sleep, it might be time for more permanent solutions:
- Install a ceiling fan or portable AC unit in the bedroom.
- Upgrade your window coverings to thermal or blackout blinds.
- Improve insulation to block hot air from entering and cool air from escaping.
If you’re buying or renting, ask about the home’s cooling capabilities. Older homes may lack ductwork or efficient cooling, which can make a huge difference during the summer months.
Smaller Changes, Cooler Nights
Figuring out how to keep your bed cool in the summer doesn’t have to mean cranking the air conditioner or spending a fortune. From choosing the right sheets to upgrading your bedtime routine, even small tweaks can improve your comfort.
Looking for a home with better airflow? Zoocasa can help you find a place that stays comfortable year-round. Start your search today.
