Kiddipedia
Sleep experts share tips to help your family beat the heat
This summer is proving to be a scorcher, so experts are recommending keeping little ones indoors to make sure they’re cool and safe.
The last thing parents want is a disturbance with precious nap time – or any sleep for that matter. One in five Australians struggles to get enough sleep, let alone taking into account sleep-deprived parents or carers. Add to this the sweltering summer heat and you’ve got the perfect conditions for a restless night of tossing and turning for the whole family.
Recent data from leading sleep experts Sealy reveals that women are more susceptible to external factors at bedtime such as temperature, with 41% waking up during the night due to being too hot or too cold, compared to 35% of men.
The experts at Sealy have compiled their top tricks and tips for keeping the family cool during summer.
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Sun safety
Stay indoors where possible to reduce the risk of heat stroke or dehydration. Keep babies safe from the sun and make sure fluids are kept up. Taking babies down to a nappy can help in reducing body temperature.
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Sleeping solo
Try to avoid co-sleeping to reduce sharing body heat. Sleeping solo will keep bub cooler, and don’t underestimate the power of a spread eagle position. Sleeping in a way where none of your limbs touch will cool you down during the night.
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Choose the right sheets
Contrary to popular belief, high-thread count sheets often retain the most heat and make summer sleeping even more difficult. Dress your bed with light-coloured cotton sheets to create a breathable environment.
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Pulse points
Apply ice packs or cold compresses to pulse points at the wrists, neck, elbows, groin, ankles, and behind the knees to create a quick cooling effect for your entire body. This can also be a great way to entertain the little ones in the hot weather.
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Heat Rises
The higher you are in a house or room, the more heat you will experience. Relocate your bedroom to the lowest floor of your house and check rooms to find the coolest one in your home.
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Cool off
Right before bed, have a cool shower to lower your body temperature, but ensure you don’t turn the taps too cold – this can have the reverse effect and force your body to compensate for being overly cold by working to warm you back up.
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Quality mattress
A good night’s sleep begins with a quality mattress. Invest in a mattress that provides a form of temperature control. For example, Sealy’s mattresses contain a fabric treatment known as Smartex which allows moisture to disperse as the temperature rises, helping to speed up evaporation and cooling process.
For more tips on how to get a perfect night’s sleep all year round, visit www.sealy.com.au.
You might also like to read:
10 Cheap Ways to Keep Children Cool this Summer
