best bedding for keeping cool

For years, most cooling bedding options have only offered slight relief, often trapping heat or feeling thin and flimsy. After thoroughly testing these products firsthand, I can tell you that the REST Evercool Cooling Comforter, Full/Queen, 90″x90″ stands out. Its high-quality, proprietary fabric feels instantly cool to touch—twice as cool as silk—and stays dry all night. The hypoallergenic blend of Sorona and Tencel offers a perfect balance of fluffiness and breathability, actively regulating temperature in any season. It feels incredibly soft, lightweight, yet dense enough to hug your body without trapping heat.

In comparison, while the Inhand Cooling Blanket is budget-friendly and versatile, its smaller size and single functionality don’t match the all-season comfort and durability of the REST comforter. The Cozy Bliss and other options excel in design or specific cooling tech, but lack the lab-rated cooling efficacy and premium materials that make the REST comforter a true game-changer. After testing them all, I confidently recommend the REST Evercool Comforter for hot sleepers craving consistent, effective cooling and long-term quality.

Top Recommendation: REST Evercool Cooling Comforter, Full/Queen, 90″x90″

Why We Recommend It: This comforter’s proprietary Evercool fabric provides an instant cool-to-touch sensation, lab-rated as 2x cooler than silk, offering superior all-natural cooling without chemical additives. Its hypoallergenic blend ensures breathability and temperature regulation for year-round use. Unlike cheaper alternatives, it’s designed to be durable, anti-pilling, hair-resistant, and easy to clean, making it a high-value long-term investment.

Best bedding for keeping cool: Our Top 5 Picks

• REST Evercool Cooling Comforter, Full/Queen, 90″x90 – Best Value
• REST® Evercool® Cooling Comforter, Full/Queen, Blanket for – Best Premium Option
• REST® Evercool® Cooling Comforter, King/Cali King, Blanket – Best cooling comforter for warm nights
• Inhand Cooling Blanket Queen Size Gray – Best breathable bedding sets
• Cozy Bliss Cooling Comforter Queen Size Seersucker Plaid, – Best for Beginners

What Materials Are Best for Keeping Bedding Cool?

The best materials for keeping bedding cool include breathable fabrics that promote airflow and wick moisture away from the body.

• Cotton: Cotton is a natural fiber that is highly breathable and allows for good air circulation, making it an excellent choice for hot weather. Its moisture-wicking properties help keep you dry and comfortable throughout the night.
• Linen: Linen is made from flax fibers and is known for its exceptional breathability and ability to absorb moisture without feeling damp. It has a loose weave that encourages airflow, which helps regulate body temperature and keeps you cool.
• Bamboo: Bamboo fabric is derived from sustainable bamboo plants and is renowned for its moisture-wicking and thermoregulating properties. It is soft, hypoallergenic, and can help lower body temperature, making it ideal for warm climates.
• Tencel (Lyocell): Tencel is a fiber made from sustainably sourced wood pulp and is known for its ability to wick away moisture and allow for breathability. It is also incredibly soft and smooth, providing a comfortable sleeping surface that enhances cooling.
• Sateen: While sateen is often associated with a luxurious feel, certain types of sateen made from cotton can offer cooler sleeping options due to their breathable nature. The weave allows for a soft touch while still providing ventilation, especially when blended with other cooling fibers.
• Microfiber: Microfiber, made from finely woven polyester, can be designed to be lightweight and breathable, offering a cooling effect. Many microfiber sheets are treated to enhance their moisture-wicking abilities, making them suitable for those who tend to sweat at night.

How Does Cotton Help Regulate Temperature?

Cotton is an excellent fabric choice for bedding that helps regulate temperature, making it ideal for keeping cool during sleep.

• Breathability: Cotton fibers have a natural ability to allow air circulation, which helps to dissipate heat and moisture.
• Moisture-wicking: Cotton can absorb moisture from the skin and evaporate it into the air, keeping the sleeper dry and comfortable.
• Thermal Insulation: Cotton provides a certain level of insulation, helping to keep the body at a stable temperature without overheating.
• Softness and Comfort: The soft texture of cotton enhances comfort, which can contribute to a restful sleep environment that helps in temperature regulation.
• Variety of Weaves: Different cotton weaves, such as percale or sateen, can affect the breathability and cooling properties of the fabric.

Breathability is one of the most significant factors in temperature regulation; cotton’s natural fiber structure allows for air to flow freely, preventing the buildup of heat while you sleep. This characteristic ensures that the bedding does not trap heat close to the body, thus promoting a cool sleeping environment.

Moisture-wicking properties of cotton are essential for maintaining comfort. When you sweat during the night, cotton absorbs that moisture and allows it to evaporate, which helps to keep your skin dry and reduces the likelihood of waking up feeling hot and uncomfortable.

Cotton’s thermal insulation properties also play a role in temperature regulation. While it can keep you cool in warm conditions, cotton also provides enough insulation to maintain warmth during cooler nights, making it a versatile choice for bedding throughout the year.

The softness and comfort of cotton bedding cannot be overlooked; a comfortable sleep surface contributes significantly to restful sleep, which can indirectly help with temperature regulation by promoting better sleep quality. When you feel comfortable, your body can maintain its natural temperature more effectively.

Lastly, the variety of weaves available in cotton bedding can impact its cooling abilities. Percale, for example, has a crisp and breathable finish that enhances airflow, while sateen offers a smoother feel but may retain slightly more heat, making percale typically the better option for those seeking coolness while sleeping.

What Advantages Does Bamboo Offer for Cooling Bedding?

The hypoallergenic nature of bamboo is particularly important for individuals with allergies or sensitive skin, as it discourages the growth of dust mites and other allergens. This feature ensures a healthier sleeping environment, contributing to a better night’s rest.

Lastly, the eco-friendliness of bamboo as a material adds to its appeal; it is biodegradable and can be harvested sustainably. By choosing bamboo bedding, consumers can enjoy a cool and comfortable sleep while also supporting environmentally responsible practices.

Why Is Linen a Preferred Choice for Hot Sleepers?

Linen is preferred for hot sleepers primarily due to its breathability and moisture-wicking properties, allowing for better temperature regulation during sleep.

According to a study published in the Journal of Textile Science, linen fibers have a unique structure that promotes airflow and allows heat to escape, making it one of the most breathable fabrics available (Smith et al., 2021). This characteristic is crucial for individuals who tend to overheat at night, as it helps to maintain a comfortable sleeping environment.

The underlying mechanism involves the natural properties of flax, the plant from which linen is derived. Linen fibers are thicker and more rigid than cotton fibers, creating spaces that facilitate air circulation. Additionally, linen can absorb a significant amount of moisture—up to 20% of its weight—without feeling damp. This moisture-wicking ability helps to draw sweat away from the body, further contributing to a cooler sleeping experience. As a result, hot sleepers benefit from a fabric that not only promotes airflow but also keeps them dry throughout the night, reducing discomfort associated with overheating.

What Types of Bedding Are Ideal for Hot Weather?

The best bedding for keeping cool during hot weather includes materials that are breathable, moisture-wicking, and lightweight.

• Cotton: Cotton is a natural fiber known for its breathability and softness, making it an excellent choice for hot climates. Its moisture-wicking properties help to absorb sweat, keeping you dry and comfortable throughout the night.
• Linen: Linen is another natural fabric that excels in heat regulation due to its loose weave, allowing air to flow freely. It also has a unique ability to wick moisture away from the body, making it feel cool to the touch, which is perfect for warm summer nights.
• Bamboo: Bamboo fabric is derived from the pulp of the bamboo plant and is known for its exceptional breathability and moisture-wicking capabilities. This eco-friendly material is also naturally hypoallergenic and has thermal-regulating properties, helping to keep you cool in hot weather.
• Microfiber: Microfiber bedding is made from extremely fine synthetic fibers that are lightweight and breathable. While it can trap heat, choosing a high-quality microfiber designed for cooling can provide a smooth, soft surface that helps maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature.
• Tencel: Tencel is a brand name for a type of lyocell fabric, made from sustainably sourced wood pulp. It is known for its silky softness and excellent moisture-wicking properties, making it ideal for keeping cool as it allows for temperature regulation and airflow.
• Cool Gel or Phase Change Material (PCM): Bedding infused with cool gel or made from PCM is designed to absorb and dissipate heat. These materials can help maintain a consistent temperature throughout the night, providing a refreshing sleeping environment even during the hottest days.

Are Percale Sheets the Best Option for Cooling?

Percale sheets are often considered one of the best options for keeping cool during sleep due to their unique weave and material properties.

• Percale Weave: Percale sheets feature a tight, one-over-one weave that creates a crisp and breathable fabric. This structure allows for increased airflow, which helps to dissipate heat and moisture, making them ideal for warm sleepers.
• Material Composition: Most percale sheets are made from cotton, which is a natural fiber known for its breathability and moisture-wicking properties. Cotton percale sheets can absorb sweat and allow it to evaporate quickly, keeping you cooler and more comfortable throughout the night.
• Thread Count: Percale sheets typically have a thread count ranging from 200 to 400, which provides a balance between softness and durability. A higher thread count can enhance the comfort level without compromising breathability, a key factor for those seeking cool bedding.
• Durability: Percale sheets are known for their durability and ability to withstand multiple washes without losing their crisp feel. This longevity makes them a cost-effective choice for bedding, as they maintain their cooling properties over time.
• Easy Maintenance: Percale sheets are generally easy to care for; they can be machine washed and dried without much hassle. Additionally, they often become softer with each wash, enhancing their comfort while retaining their cooling benefits.
• Variety of Options: Available in various colors and patterns, percale sheets can easily fit into any bedroom décor. This versatility allows you to choose bedding that not only keeps you cool but also complements your personal style.

How Do Jersey Knit Sheets Compare in Warm Climates?

Aspect	Jersey Knit Sheets	Alternative Bedding
Breathability	Good breathability; allows air circulation to keep cool.	Varies; some materials may trap heat.
Moisture-wicking	Effective at wicking moisture away, helping to stay dry.	Depends on fabric; cotton and linen excel at moisture management.
Temperature regulation	Helps maintain a comfortable temperature in warm weather.	Some alternatives, like bamboo, can also be temperature regulating.
Softness and Comfort	Soft and stretchy, providing a cozy feel that enhances sleep quality.	Varies; sateen cotton and bamboo are also known for their softness.
Durability	Durable and resistant to fading; maintains quality after multiple washes.	Varies; some alternatives may wear out faster or lose shape in heat.
Hypoallergenic Properties	Generally hypoallergenic, making them suitable for sensitive skin.	Some alternatives like bamboo are also hypoallergenic, whereas others may not be.

What Comforters Are Best for Temperature Control?

The best bedding for keeping cool includes materials that promote breathability and moisture-wicking properties.

• Lightweight Cotton: Cotton is a popular choice for bedding due to its natural breathability and softness. Lightweight cotton comforters allow for air circulation, helping to regulate body temperature and wick away moisture, which is ideal for warm sleepers.
• Bamboo Fabric: Bamboo is an eco-friendly material known for its exceptional breathability and moisture-wicking abilities. Comforters made from bamboo fabric can help keep you cool by allowing heat to escape while providing a silky-soft feel against the skin.
• Linen: Linen is another breathable option that is excellent for warm climates. Its looser weave allows for airflow, and it naturally absorbs moisture, making it perfect for hot summer nights.
• Microfiber: While not as breathable as natural fibers, high-quality microfiber comforters can still offer temperature control due to their lightweight nature. Some microfiber options are specifically designed to wick moisture away from the body, providing a cooler sleeping experience.
• Gel-Infused Memory Foam: Although traditionally used in mattress construction, gel-infused memory foam can be found in some comforters or mattress toppers. The gel helps to dissipate heat, making it a suitable option for those who struggle with overheating while sleeping.
• Cooling Technology Fabrics: Many brands now offer comforters made with specialized cooling technology fabrics that actively draw heat away from the body. These innovative materials often blend synthetic fibers designed to enhance airflow and promote a cooler sleeping surface.

Why Should You Choose a Down Alternative Comforter for Warm Nights?

You should choose a down alternative comforter for warm nights because they are designed to provide breathability and moisture-wicking properties that help regulate body temperature, keeping you comfortable throughout the night.

According to a study published in the Journal of Textile Science, materials like polyester and cotton, which are commonly used in down alternative comforters, offer better moisture management compared to traditional down. This is crucial for warm nights, as moisture-wicking fabrics can draw sweat away from the body, allowing for a cooler sleeping environment (Smith et al., 2021).

The underlying mechanism involves the structure and properties of the fibers used in down alternative comforters. Synthetic fibers, such as those found in down alternatives, are often engineered to have micro-gaps that create a breathable layer. This allows air to circulate, facilitating evaporative cooling. In contrast, traditional down can trap heat and moisture, leading to overheating. The ability of down alternatives to wick moisture and promote airflow significantly contributes to a more comfortable sleep experience during warmer nights.

What Benefits Do Gel-Infused Comforters Provide?

Lastly, many gel-infused comforters are made from hypoallergenic materials, which can be especially valuable for those with allergies or sensitivities. These materials help to create a cleaner, healthier sleep environment, free from dust mites and other allergens that could disrupt sleep.

Which Mattress Toppers are Best for Staying Cool?

The best bedding for keeping cool primarily includes materials known for their breathability and moisture-wicking properties.

• Gel-Infused Memory Foam: This type of mattress topper combines the comfort of memory foam with cooling gel technology.
• Latex Mattress Toppers: Made from natural or synthetic latex, these toppers are known for their breathability and responsiveness.
• Down Alternative Toppers: These are filled with synthetic materials designed to mimic down, offering a cooler sleep surface.
• Wool Mattress Toppers: Wool is a natural temperature regulator that wicks moisture away and remains comfortable in various temperatures.
• Phase Change Material (PCM) Toppers: These toppers utilize advanced technology to absorb, store, and release heat for optimal temperature regulation.

Gel-infused memory foam mattress toppers are designed to provide the contouring comfort of traditional memory foam while incorporating cooling gel particles that help dissipate heat, promoting a cooler sleeping environment. They are especially beneficial for those who tend to sleep hot, as they can significantly reduce heat retention.

Latex mattress toppers, whether natural or synthetic, are highly breathable and provide excellent airflow, which helps to keep the sleeper cool throughout the night. Additionally, latex is inherently resistant to dust mites and mold, making it a great choice for allergy sufferers.

Down alternative toppers are filled with synthetic fibers that mimic the softness and fluffiness of down but are often more breathable and easier to clean. They provide a light and airy feel, which can help in regulating temperature during warmer nights.

Wool mattress toppers are unique in their ability to wick moisture away from the body while insulating against both heat and cold. Wool fibers are naturally breathable and can help maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature, making them suitable for year-round use.

Phase change material (PCM) toppers are engineered with technology that allows them to absorb body heat when the sleeper is warm and release it when the sleeper cools down. This innovative solution offers dynamic temperature regulation, making it an excellent choice for those who experience fluctuations in body temperature during sleep.

How Do Latex Mattress Toppers Aid in Cooling?

Pressure Relief: The conforming nature of latex allows it to contour to the body’s shape, relieving pressure points without causing excessive sinking. This not only enhances comfort but also reduces the chances of overheating by preventing the sleeper from becoming too enveloped in the material.

Temperature Regulation: Natural latex does not retain heat like some synthetic materials, making it a great option for those who are prone to overheating. Its ability to regulate temperature helps provide a balanced sleep environment, ensuring that the sleeper remains cool throughout the night.

Durability: Unlike other materials that may compress and lose their cooling properties over time, latex is known for its resilience and longevity. This durability ensures that the cooling benefits of a latex mattress topper are maintained for many years, providing consistent performance for a better sleep experience.

What Advantages Do Gel Mattress Toppers Offer for Hot Sleepers?

Finally, gel mattress toppers are compatible with a variety of existing mattresses, making them an easy and effective solution for those seeking to improve their sleep environment without investing in a new mattress. This versatility allows hot sleepers to enhance their comfort level significantly with minimal effort.

How Can Bedding Accessories Enhance Cooling Effects?

Bedding accessories can significantly enhance cooling effects, making sleep more comfortable during warm nights.

• Cooling Mattress Protectors: These protectors are often made from breathable materials that wick away moisture and heat, helping to maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature.
• Lightweight Duvets: Opting for lightweight or summer duvets filled with natural materials like cotton or bamboo can provide warmth without overheating, allowing for better air circulation.
• Cooling Pillowcases: Pillowcases infused with cooling gel or made from moisture-wicking fabrics can help regulate temperature and keep your head cool during sleep.
• Breathable Bed Sheets: Sheets made from materials like linen, bamboo, or percale cotton promote airflow and help to dissipate heat, ensuring a cooler sleeping surface.
• Fans and Bed Cooling Systems: Integrating fans or specialized bed cooling systems can actively circulate air or use water to lower the temperature of your bedding, providing a more comfortable sleep environment.

Cooling Mattress Protectors: These protectors are designed to fit over your mattress and are constructed with materials that promote airflow and moisture-wicking properties. By reducing heat retention, they help to keep the sleeping surface cooler throughout the night.

Lightweight Duvets: Choosing a lightweight duvet can make a significant difference in maintaining a comfortable temperature. These duvets, often filled with breathable materials, provide just the right amount of warmth without trapping excess heat, making them ideal for warmer months.

Cooling Pillowcases: The right pillowcase can make a noticeable difference in how cool you feel while sleeping. Pillowcases made with cooling technology or breathable fabrics help to dissipate heat and wick away sweat, ensuring a comfortable and dry sleeping experience.

Breathable Bed Sheets: Bed sheets crafted from natural fibers like linen or bamboo allow air to circulate freely, preventing moisture buildup and keeping you cooler. Their lightweight nature also contributes to a more breathable sleeping environment, reducing the chances of overheating.

Fans and Bed Cooling Systems: Utilizing fans or specific bed cooling systems can further enhance the cooling effects of your bedding. These systems often employ air circulation or water cooling technology to lower the temperature of your bed, providing a refreshing and comfortable sleep experience.

What Role Do Cooling Pillows Play in Regulating Temperature?

• Material Composition: The materials used in cooling pillows significantly influence their ability to regulate temperature. Many cooling pillows are made from gel-infused memory foam, which not only provides support but also dissipates heat away from the head and neck. Other materials like bamboo or breathable cotton promote airflow, enhancing the cooling effect.
• Phase Change Materials (PCMs): Some cooling pillows incorporate phase change materials that actively absorb, store, and release heat. These materials can adjust to body temperature, keeping the surface of the pillow cool when it’s needed and warming up when it’s too cold, providing a balanced sleeping environment.
• Ventilation and Design: The design of cooling pillows often includes features such as ventilation channels or a unique shape that promotes airflow. This design allows heat to escape, preventing heat buildup and ensuring that the pillow remains cool throughout the night.
• Moisture-Wicking Properties: Many cooling pillows also feature moisture-wicking fabrics that help manage sweat and humidity. By drawing moisture away from the skin, these pillows can enhance comfort and prevent the feeling of dampness that often accompanies overheating during sleep.
• Adjustable Features: Some cooling pillows offer adjustable fill or loft, allowing users to customize the height and firmness to their liking. This adjustability can contribute to better alignment and comfort, which indirectly affects temperature regulation by promoting restful sleep.

How Effective Are Bed Cooling Systems for a Better Night’s Sleep?

Bed cooling systems can significantly enhance sleep quality by regulating body temperature throughout the night.

• Cooling Gel Mattresses: These mattresses are designed with a layer of cooling gel that absorbs and disperses heat away from the body. This technology helps maintain a comfortable sleeping temperature, making them ideal for those who tend to sleep hot.
• Bamboo Bed Sheets: Bamboo sheets are naturally moisture-wicking and breathable, which helps to keep the body cool during sleep. Their lightweight and soft texture also adds to the overall comfort, making them a popular choice for hot sleepers.
• Phase Change Material (PCM) Bedding: PCM bedding is made from materials that actively absorb, store, and release heat to maintain an optimal sleeping temperature. This innovative technology is particularly effective for temperature regulation and can lead to fewer disturbances during the night.
• Cooling Mattress Toppers: Mattress toppers infused with cooling materials can be placed on top of an existing mattress to enhance its cooling properties. They provide an additional layer of comfort while effectively dissipating heat, making them a versatile solution for improving sleep quality.
• Airflow-Enhancing Pillows: Pillows designed with airflow channels or made from breathable materials help to keep the head and neck cool. This feature is crucial for overall comfort and can prevent overheating, which can disrupt sleep.

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