If you purchase a product through links in this article, we may receive a portion of the sale.
Summer is here, and with it comes outdoor dining, fun beach reads, and of course, sweaty, sleepless nights. Hot sleepers, you know what we’re talking about. But we’ve all had those nights where an open window doesn’t help at all, your fan (even if it’s working overtime) feels like it’s just blowing hot air around the room, and despite your tossing and turning, you’re still not very comfortable.
Summer bedding ideas to stay stylish and cool
To make summer bedding ideas bearable and, dare we say, enjoyable, we tapped Genevieve Rosen Biller, co-founder of Australian linen bedding company Bed Threads. Because the right setup can make all the difference. “Temperature has a huge impact on the quality of your sleep, and it’s difficult to feel comfortable when you’re too hot,” she explains. “Lightweight, breathable natural fiber bedding will help keep you cool and ensure you get a good night’s sleep. There’s nothing worse than tossing and turning in sweaty sheets. (Agreed!)
Ahead, Genevieve takes us through how to create the perfect summer bed, including some of her top picks from Bed Threads.
Genevieve Rosen Buehler
Genevieve is one of the founders of Bed Threads, a company that offers high-quality, 100% French linen bedding that is affordable, easy to purchase, and sold in convenient sets.
What’s the best fabric to make your bed on hot summer nights?
Although cotton is a natural material, high-quality cotton sheets have a higher thread count. This compromises their breathability because the threads are tightly woven together so air can’t easily pass through them, and heat can be trapped during the night.
Linen, on the other hand, is one of the lightest and most breathable fabrics on the market, allowing cool air to circulate through its loosely woven fibers. It’s also more hygroscopic, making it the perfect choice for those who hate sweating at night.
What bedding do you recommend storing for the summer?
In the summer, I recommend putting away unnecessary blankets and throws and opting for lighter bedding that can be layered if warmth is needed and removed if it gets too warm. It’s time to put away that heavy duvet and replace it with a temperature-adjustable duvet, or try a quilted comforter for a cozy feel without the weight.
What are some simple swaps people can make so they don’t have to invest in a whole new set of sheets?
Swapping heavy comforters like blankets and duvets for lighter ones, or even just sleeping in sheets made from natural fibers, is an easy way to stay cool while you sleep.
Purchasing 100% French linen linen sheets is also great for you to use year-round because linen is naturally thermoregulating, meaning it will respond to what’s going on with your body and the air around you, and regulate heat accordingly. Therefore, it keeps you cool in the summer and warm in the winter, so you can sleep on the same sheet regardless of the season.
What are your go-to bedding options for summer?
During fall and winter, I tend to opt for cozy, earthy tones, so I embrace the change of season by switching my color scheme to cooler tones like minerals and sage. I’m also a big fan of the neutral look for summer and our newest colourway, Cream, is luxurious and elegant. If you love bright colors, nothing says summer more than a vibrant wildflower duvet paired with crisp white sheets.
A quilted bedspread is a lighter alternative for nights when I find my duvet too warm, and I also love our muslin throw for those nights when I need an extra layer without adding too much Much bulk or warmth – they are very lightweight and soft.
How do you feel about top sheets? Please tell us your top ideas.
I love the look and feel of the sheet and think it’s ideal for warm summer nights, giving me something to cover myself with when it feels too hot or tight for a duvet. But it’s really a matter of personal preference. Of course, we find that some people choose to forego the sheets in favor of a clean, simple modern aesthetic, and skipping the sheets means making the bed is much quicker in the morning!
Any other tips for staying cool on those hot summer nights?
Keep curtains and blinds closed during the day to prevent sunlight from heating the room and create a cooler, darker environment. If you can, open windows and open doors to help air circulate around the room late at night. If you have air conditioning, close the doors to rooms you’re not using so cool air can flow into the area you’re staying in. Wearing pajamas made from lightweight fabrics like French linen will keep you cool and comfortable.
