When temperatures rise, your bed can quickly go from cozy to stuffy. Sweating at night, trapped heat, and humid air can make it hard to stay cool and sleep soundly. Fortunately, a few simple changes can help keep your bedding fresh, breathable, and comfortable all summer long.
Here are 7 expert-backed tips to help you create a cooler, cleaner sleep environment during the hottest months of the year.
1. Switch to Lightweight, Breathable Bedding
Heavy winter bedding traps heat and moisture. In summer, opt for lighter layers made from breathable materials like:
- Cotton (especially percale weave) – crisp, cool, and lightweight
- Linen – naturally moisture-wicking and breathable
- Bamboo or Tencel – silky-soft and ideal for hot sleepers
Avoid polyester and other synthetic blends, which can trap heat and cause night sweats.
2. Wash Sheets More Frequently
You’re likely sweating more during the summer — even if you don’t notice it. To prevent odors, bacteria buildup, and skin irritation:
🧺 Wash sheets and pillowcases once a week, or more often if you’re a hot sleeper.
Use cold or warm water with a gentle detergent, and dry on a low heat setting to preserve fabric quality.
Pro Tip: Add a cup of white vinegar to the rinse cycle to naturally neutralize odors and soften fabrics.
3. Use a Moisture-Wicking Mattress Protector
Even if you wash your sheets regularly, moisture and bacteria can still seep into your mattress.
Add a waterproof, breathable mattress protector to block sweat, spills, and dust mites without trapping heat. Look for ones labeled “cooling” or “moisture-wicking” for added summer comfort.
4. Air Out Your Bedding Often
Sunlight is a natural disinfectant. Hanging your sheets, pillows, or comforter outside in the fresh air can:
- Kill bacteria
- Reduce musty smells
- Dry out trapped moisture
- Leave a clean, sun-dried scent
Even if you don’t have outdoor space, pulling back the covers each morning and letting your bed “breathe” helps evaporate overnight sweat.
5. Use Cooling Bed Accessories
Small upgrades can make a big difference. Try:
- Cooling mattress toppers (gel-infused memory foam or ventilated latex)
- Chill-tech or ice silk pillowcases
- Cooling blankets made with phase-change materials (PCMs) that regulate body temperature
These products help draw heat away from your body and keep your bed surface cool to the touch.
6. Rotate Your Bedding
Rotate your pillows and flip your mattress topper every few weeks to prevent moisture buildup in one spot. If your bedding has a dual-season design, switch to the summer side (often marked with breathable mesh or a cooler fabric).
7. Consider a Dehumidifier or Fan
If your bedroom is naturally humid, using a fan, air purifier, or dehumidifier can help keep the air dry and circulation flowing — which helps bedding stay fresher longer.
Bonus: Use breathable bed frames or slatted bases to allow airflow under your mattress.
Final Thoughts
Keeping your bed fresh in summer doesn’t require a full overhaul — just a few smart adjustments. By switching to lighter, breathable bedding and maintaining a regular cleaning routine, you can create a sleep oasis that stays cool and clean, no matter how high the temperature climbs.
Looking for breathable bedding for hot nights?
Explore our collection of cooling mattress toppers, ice silk pillowcases, and summer-ready cotton sheet sets – made to keep you cool and comfortable all season long.