If you’ve been tossing and turning in bed because the summer heat just won’t let up, you’re not alone.

When it’s hot and sticky outside (and inside), getting a decent night’s sleep can feel impossible.

But don’t worry—we’ve rounded up some of the best expert-backed tricks and clever buys to help you keep cool and finally get some shut-eye.

Close the Curtains, Open at Dusk

It all starts with prepping your space early.

According to sleep expert Kerry Davies (also known as The Sleep Fixer), your bedroom setup makes a big difference.

Keep your blinds or curtains shut during the day to block out heat, then crack open the windows in the evening to let in some cooler air. A simple move, but super effective.

The Frozen Bottle Fan Trick

Want to turn your fan into a mini air conditioner? Try this clever hack: pop a two-litre bottle of water in the freezer and then place it in front of your fan.

As the ice melts, the breeze cools down too—DIY air con, basically.

You can even grab a bottle from Aldi for under 40p and drink the rest in the morning.

Don’t Ditch the PJs—Just Choose Smarter Fabrics

Sleeping in the buff might feel like the cooler option, but it can actually make you sweat more.

Sealy sleep consultant Alison Jones suggests breathable sleepwear made from cotton, linen, or bamboo.

These materials absorb moisture better, helping you stay dry and comfy.

Bonus tip: sleeping on your side helps heat escape more efficiently.

🛏️ Our pick: Pretty You London’s bamboo cami short set (£43, prettyyoulondon.com).

Go Natural with Your Bed Sheets

Your bedding matters too. Alison recommends light-colored sheets made from natural fibres—they’re more breathable and don’t trap heat the way synthetics or darker colors do.

Think white, blush, or pastel linens for a cooler night’s rest.

Freeze Your Sheets (Yes, Really)

For next-level bedtime bliss, try popping your sheets into a plastic bag and tossing them in the freezer for a few hours.

It might sound a bit wild, but slipping into chilled sheets is pure summer-night heaven.

Ice Out the Hot Water Bottle

Flip your hot water bottle game—literally. Instead of filling it with hot water, fill and freeze it.

Tuck it under your sheets to cool the bed before you get in, or keep it by your feet.

Try a Chillow for Your Pillow

If your pillow’s making you sweat, it’s time for a cool upgrade.

You can slip a gel insert like the Keplin Cooling Gel Pillow (£7.49 for two on Amazon) inside your pillowcase, or invest in a pillow that stays cool all night, like Tempur’s SmartCool version (£99, uk.tempur.com).

Chill Your Face and Chest

For quick relief, try laying a cold, damp flannel over your eyes, forehead, or chest before bed. Sleep consultant Rosey Davidson swears by it.

You can also check out cooling gel masks (£3.99, Amazon) or even bra inserts designed to cool you down (£14.99, issviva.co.uk).

Say No to Cold Showers

Surprisingly, a freezing shower before bed might make you feel hotter.

Sleep expert Maryanne Taylor explains that cold water can trigger your body to warm up again—a rebound effect. Go for a lukewarm rinse instead.

Soothe with Lavender

End your bedtime routine with a spritz of lavender water—either on your pillow, your sheets, or even your skin.

Lavender has natural cooling and calming powers, and for extra chill, store it in the fridge.

You can also try a lavender-infused cooling cream like Neal’s Yard Lavender & Aloe Cooling Cream (£18, nealsyardremedies.com).

Sleep Cool, Wake Refreshed

With just a few tweaks and a couple of smart buys, you can turn even the hottest night into a cozy, restful one. Sweet dreams and stay cool!