How to Stay Warm at Night: Tips for Sleeping in a Cold Room

Winter nights in the UK can be absolutely freezing. When the temperature drops and the heating bill rises, staying warm at night becomes a top priority. Don’t let the cold keep you tossing and turning. Here are some simple, practical tips to help you stay cosy and snug while you sleep. 

1. Layer up your bedding 

First things first: your bed is your fortress of warmth. Start with a good-quality duvet (look for one with a high tog rating — 10.5 or above is great for winter) and layer it with extra blankets. If you’re feeling fancy, consider adding a weighted blanket for extra snugness. And don’t forget flannel or brushed cotton sheets—they feel like a warm hug compared to chilly cotton. 

2. Use a hot water bottle (or two) 

A hot water bottle is the ultimate winter companion. Fill it up before you get into bed and pop it under your duvet to pre-warm your sheets. Place it by your feet or hug it close—whatever works for you. If you don’t have one, an electric blanket is a great alternative, though it might not have the same nostalgic charm. 

3. Dress the part 

Forget about fancy pyjamas—winter is all about layers. Go for cosy, long-sleeve tops and bottoms made from soft, breathable materials like cotton or fleece. Don’t underestimate the power of bed socks, either. Cold feet can make it impossible to stay warm, so keep them toasty! 

4. Keep the chill out 

Your bedroom itself can make a big difference. Keep doors and windows closed to trap the heat, and check for draughts. If there’s a breeze sneaking in, draught excluders or rolled-up towels can block the gap. Thick curtains are also brilliant for keeping the cold air out and the warm air in. 

5. Stay active before bed 

Okay, we’re not suggesting you run laps around your house before bedtime, but a little movement can help warm you up. Try some light stretches, yoga, or even a quick tidy-up to get the blood flowing. Once you’re warm, jump straight into bed to trap that heat. 

6. Eat and drink smart 

A warm drink before bed can work wonders. Think hot chocolate, a cup of tea (decaf or herbal if you’re sensitive to caffeine), or even a classic mug of warm milk. Steer clear of alcohol — it might make you feel warm at first, but it actually lowers your core temperature. Oh, and don’t go to bed hungry—a small snack can help your body stay warm through the night. 

7. Invest in winter sleepwear and accessories 

If you’re really struggling with the cold, it might be time to invest in some winter-friendly gear. Look out for thermal pyjamas, heated blankets, or even a duvet with dual tog ratings (perfect for couples with different temperature preferences). 

8. Let your pets join in 

This one is a little controversial as there are lots of reasons you shouldn’t let your pet sleep on the bed – not least of which being it can impact your own sleep quality. But, if you’ve got a dog or cat who loves to snuggle? Letting them sleep on the bed can add a surprising amount of warmth. Plus, nothing beats having a furry friend to keep you company on a frosty night.  

The trouble starts when the seasons change again and you come to wean them away from sharing the bed with you…But that’s a problem for another day. 

Staying warm at night: final thoughts 

Winter nights don’t have to mean freezing nights. With a few simple tricks and some cosy additions to your bedtime routine, you can sleep warm and wake up refreshed—even when it’s frosty outside. So, grab your blankets, boil that kettle, and settle in for a cosy night’s sleep.