Getting a good night’s sleep is key to maintaining a healthy, happy life. However, when life gets tough, our sleep quality is often the first thing to falter. Approximately 70 million Americans struggle with sleep deprivation and sleep-related issues, costing them $16 billion in medical expenses yearly.
While underlying issues may be to blame for poor sleep quality – like stress, menopause and night sweats – it may simply be that you’re uncomfortable.
What is the best thing to wear to sleep? What you wear to bed matters a lot more than you might think. Here’s what you should (and shouldn’t) wear to bed to enhance your snooze and your overall well-being.
Pajamas
Comfort is a crucial contributor to a good night’s rest, so finding a high-quality set of pajamas is essential. Here are some sleepwear styles we recommend.
PJ Sets
Two-piece PJ sets come in a wide variety of colors, sizes and styles. They’re an ideal option for anyone who tends to toss and turn or has difficulty controlling their body temperature while they sleep.
PJ sets are certainly the most diverse category of sleepwear. There are sets with shorts, pants, tank tops, short sleeves, long sleeves – you name it! We recommend starting with a PJ set with less fabric (like a short sleeve shirt with shorts) to ensure that you stay cool while sleeping.
Nightgowns and Night Shirts
If you love sleeping in oversized t-shirts, try trading your trusty t-shirt for a nightgown or a night shirt! Although baggy t-shirts are a cozy option, many are made with polyester (or a polyester blend) that can contribute to night sweats and skin irritation.
Nightgowns and night shirts have the same comforting look and feel as a t-shirt. However, unlike many t-shirts, they don’t adversely affect your skin or sleep quality. Instead, they’re breathable, cozy and easy to move around in, and they’ll keep you cool all night long.
Onesies
Onesies are the perfect cross between style, comfort and function. They’re an excellent option for people who feel more comfortable sleeping with clothes that cover most of their bodies. Although many onesies are meant to keep you staying warm, there are plenty of onesies made with breathable fabric that will keep you cool and sweat-free.
Best Fabric Types
What kind of fabric is best to sleep in? Here are some cozy, breathable materials to consider when choosing sleepwear:
- Moisture-wicking fabric. If you tend to sweat heavily in your sleep, moisture-wicking fabric is an ideal choice. It draws moisture away from the skin while promoting airflow, leaving you feeling cool, dry and comfortable.
- Cotton. Like moisture-wicking fabric, cotton is ultra-breathable and won’t trap body heat against your skin. It’s also comfortable, soft and affordable.
- Silk. Although silk is a bit pricier, it’s a worthwhile investment for those with sensitive or acne-prone skin. And, because it’s thin and lightweight, it’s a great option for those who struggle with night sweats.
- Bamboo. Bamboo fabric is naturally cooling, moisture-wicking and often sold at a reasonable price point. It’s eco-friendly, too!
- Linen. Like bamboo fabric, linen is naturally soft, moisture-wicking and breathable. Although it can be expensive, it’s an excellent choice for hot sleepers.
What to Avoid
There are lots of cozy sleepwear options, but there are a few things that you should try to avoid:
- Tight clothing. Clothing that is too tight can cut off your circulation, making it difficult for your body to move into deeper stages of sleep.
- Buttons and tags. Buttons and itchy tags may press into your skin, leading to irritation and discomfort. A few buttons here and there are acceptable, but we’d recommend avoiding tags altogether.
- Lingerie and lace. Although lingerie and lace are big confidence boosters, we recommend changing into something a little cozier before going to sleep.
- Tight elastic. Elastic that’s too tight can cause soreness, chafing and irritation. When purchasing new pajamas, ensure that the elastic is ultra-stretchy (and size up if it’s not).
- Synthetic fabric. Polyester, spandex and nylon trap heat and moisture, which may cause discomfort and excessive sweating.
- Cheap fabrics. Although pajamas at a low price point may be appealing, low-quality materials are generally less comfortable. We recommend investing in high-quality garments as they will last longer and boost your comfort.
What About Undergarments?
There’s a common misconception that sleeping in a bra will prevent sagging and stretch marks. However, wearing a bra to bed can cause numerous health risks, including reduced blood flow, difficulty breathing and skin irritation. So, if possible, ditch your bra when it’s time for bed. And, going braless actually promotes healthy skin elasticity – so it’s a win-win!
Should you wear underwear to bed? As comfy as it may be to put on your favorite pair before you get under the covers, consider going without underwear. Wearing underwear to bed creates the perfect environment for growing bacteria, which may make you susceptible to yeast infections. Although it may feel strange at first, many women appreciate the ease of sleeping without them!
What About Sleeping Nude?
Should we wear clothes while sleeping? Sleeping in the nude is a personal preference that’s not for everyone. However, if you’re willing to do a little experimenting, you might be pleasantly surprised! Sleeping naked is one of the best ways to beat night sweats and avoid skin irritation that may come with snoozing in certain clothing items (like underwear).
If you sleep nude, be sure to have a change of clothes nearby in case of an emergency (we recommend a night shirt or nightgown).
Get a Great Night’s Sleep With Softies
Ready for the best snooze of your life?
What you wear matters when it comes to falling asleep – and staying asleep. Softies’ dreamy selection of luxurious sleepwear is guaranteed to keep you cool, dry and comfortable all night long. In addition, our moisture-wicking Wellness Fabric® keeps sweat at bay, enabling you to fall asleep faster and wake up refreshed.
Experience the Softies difference and try our super-soft, ultra-breathable sleepwear today!
