Between Ice Cube and Sauna – The Underrated Art of Sleepwear

We’ve all been there – tossing and turning through nights that feel more like a personal sauna session, or shivering under the covers despite being wrapped up like a burrito. And no matter how many times you flip the pillow or adjust the blanket, truly restful sleep seems out of reach. One often-overlooked culprit? Your sleepwear.

While we’re dozing off, our bodies are hard at work lowering our core temperature – a natural process that actually helps us fall asleep. Ideally, our body temperature drops about one degree below our daytime level. But if something interferes with that rhythm – say, the wrong kind of pajamas – it can throw off the whole sleep cycle.

Why Pajamas Are More Than Just Cute Prints

People often invest in a good mattress or the perfect duvet, but what about the very first layer that touches your skin? Your pajamas play a surprisingly big role in keeping your body temperature in check through the night.

In summer, lightweight, breathable sleepwear helps release excess heat. Sleeping in the nude might sound appealing, but it can backfire – especially since our bodies stop actively regulating temperature during deep sleep phases. A slight chill during the night can be enough to wake you up or even bring on a pesky summer cold.

In winter, warmer sleepwear can help prevent heat loss – especially around the shoulders, which often sneak out from under the blanket while we move in our sleep. And once your shoulders freeze, morning stiffness and neck pain aren’t far behind.

What Makes Good Sleepwear?

A good pair of pajamas is breathable, moisture-wicking, and – most importantly – comfortable. They shouldn't pinch, itch, or restrict your movements. Since most of us don’t sleep like statues, it helps if your sleepwear moves with you.

And here’s a fun bonus: color can make a difference, too. Blue has a calming effect, green promotes balance, and brown creates a sense of coziness. So yes – choosing your sleepwear wisely might actually help you relax more and sleep better.

Bottom Line: Better Sleep Starts with the First Layer

Whether you're freezing or overheating, summer or winter – the right pajamas can seriously improve your sleep. And let’s be honest: waking up well-rested puts you in a better mood, which makes mornings more bearable. For everyone.