How to Make a Bed If You Sweat at Night

Introduction

If you sweat at night, making your bed the right way can dramatically improve your comfort and sleep quality.
Many people struggle with night sweats—whether from hot climates, menopause, anxiety, or simply being a hot sleeper. But the good news? You don’t need to sacrifice sleep anymore.

According to the Sleep Foundation, regulating your sleep environment—especially your bedding—can reduce nighttime sweating and help you stay asleep longer.
Your bed setup plays a major role in how your body regulates heat and moisture. Choosing breathable layers, moisture-wicking materials, and proper ventilation can create a cool and dry sleep haven.

Here’s what you’ll learn in this article:

• How to layer your bed for better temperature control
• The best cooling fabrics to use (and what to avoid)
• Accessories like mattress protectors and sheets that keep you cool
• Mistakes that can trap heat and worsen sweating
• Trusted product recommendations to help you sleep sweat-free

Best Bedding for Hot Sleepers

If you sweat at night, choosing the right bedding accessories can make all the difference. The materials you sleep on determine how well your body stays cool and dry during the night. Below are the top 3 bedding products designed specifically for hot sleepers—offering moisture-wicking, breathability, and comfort.

1. Buffy Breeze Eucalyptus Comforter

• Made with breathable eucalyptus fabric that regulates body temperature naturally
• Lightweight fill prevents overheating while still offering cozy coverage
• Eco-friendly and Oeko-TEX certified, ideal for sensitive skin

Why we picked it: The Buffy Breeze is known for its temperature-regulating performance and plant-based materials that promote a cooler, more breathable sleep environment.

2. Sleep Number True Temp Sheet Set

• Features 37.5® technology that adapts to your body temperature in real time
• Soft, high-thread-count cotton blend provides luxurious comfort
• Designed to wick away moisture and dissipate heat quickly

Why we picked it: These sheets actively balance your body heat throughout the night—perfect for those who wake up hot and damp.

3. Slumber Cloud Performance Mattress Pad

• NASA-engineered Outlast® technology absorbs and stores excess heat
• Ultra-thin and breathable—won’t add bulk or trap warmth
• Fits mattresses up to 20″ deep, great for most modern beds

Why we picked it: This mattress pad offers proactive temperature control, creating a cooling barrier between you and your mattress—key for night sweaters.

Choose the Right Base Layers

Selecting the right base layers is crucial to managing nighttime sweating and ensuring a cool, comfortable sleep. The base layers include your fitted sheet and mattress protector, which come in direct contact with your skin.

Why base layers matter:

• They act as the first barrier against moisture and heat
• Poor choices can trap sweat and cause discomfort
• Proper fabrics improve airflow and wick moisture away

Best fabrics for base layers:

• Cotton: Natural, breathable, and soft. Choose long-staple or Egyptian cotton for durability and smoothness.
• Linen: Excellent breathability and moisture-wicking; perfect for hot sleepers.
• Bamboo: Naturally moisture-wicking and antibacterial; feels cool to the touch.
• Tencel: Made from eucalyptus fibers, it’s silky, breathable, and highly absorbent.

What to avoid in base layers:

• Synthetic fabrics like polyester or nylon that trap heat
• Heavy or densely woven fabrics that reduce airflow
• Stiff or scratchy materials that irritate skin

Tips for choosing and using base layers:

• Opt for lightweight, breathable sheets with a thread count between 200-400 to balance softness and airflow
• Use a moisture-wicking mattress protector to guard your mattress and keep sweat away
• Wash bedding regularly to maintain freshness and remove sweat residue

Layer with Breathable Comforters and Blankets

Choosing the right comforters and blankets is essential when making a bed for someone who sweats at night. These layers provide warmth but can also trap heat if not selected wisely.

Why layering matters:

• Allows you to adjust warmth based on temperature
• Proper materials help regulate body heat and moisture
• Avoids overheating by giving you flexible options

Best materials for comforters and blankets:

• Down or Down Alternative: Lightweight, breathable, and insulating without overheating. Down alternatives can be hypoallergenic.
• Cotton Blankets: Natural, breathable, and moisture-absorbent. Ideal for warmer nights or layering under a comforter.
• Wool Throws: Regulate temperature by keeping you warm without trapping heat excessively. Great for cooler months.
• Bamboo or Tencel Blankets: Soft, moisture-wicking, and breathable for added comfort.

Materials to avoid:

• Heavy synthetics like polyester fleece or acrylic that trap heat
• Thick, densely woven blankets that limit airflow

Layering tips for night sweaters:

• Start with a lightweight cotton or bamboo blanket closest to the skin
• Add a breathable down or down alternative comforter on top
• Keep heavier blankets on hand but off the bed unless needed
• Use layers so you can easily adjust to your comfort level during the night

Bonus tips:

• Consider a weighted blanket with breathable fabric if you want extra comfort without overheating

Choose Cooling and Moisture-Wicking Pillows

Pillows play a crucial role in how comfortable your bed feels, especially if you sweat during sleep. Selecting the right pillow can help regulate temperature and wick away moisture, enhancing your overall sleep quality.

Why pillow choice matters for night sweaters:

• Your head and neck release a lot of heat during sleep
• A breathable pillow can prevent overheating and reduce sweat buildup
• Moisture-wicking materials keep your pillow dry and fresh

Best pillow types for sweating sleepers:

• Memory Foam with Cooling Gel: Provides support and often infused with cooling gel beads that dissipate heat efficiently.
• Latex Pillows: Naturally breathable and hypoallergenic, latex resists heat buildup and maintains shape.
• Buckwheat Pillows: Filled with hulls that allow excellent airflow and conform to your head for comfortable support.
• Bamboo or Tencel Pillow Covers: These fabrics wick moisture and promote airflow, keeping the pillow surface cool and dry.

Pillows to avoid:

• Traditional polyester fiberfill that traps heat and moisture
• Feather pillows that can retain sweat and cause discomfort

Tips for pillow care:

• Use breathable, moisture-wicking pillowcases like bamboo or cotton
• Wash pillow covers regularly to prevent bacteria and odor buildup
• Replace pillows every 1-2 years to maintain hygiene and support

Extra considerations:

• Consider adjustable pillows where you can add or remove filling for optimal comfort
• Look for pillows with ventilation channels or holes to enhance airflow

Maintain Your Bedding for Maximum Freshness and Comfort

Proper care and maintenance of your bedding are essential to keep your sleep environment fresh and comfortable, especially when you sweat during the night. Regular cleaning and smart upkeep prevent bacteria buildup and keep moisture from causing discomfort.

Why bedding maintenance is vital for night sweaters:

• Sweat can soak into sheets and mattress protectors, creating unpleasant odors
• Damp bedding promotes bacterial and fungal growth, which can affect skin health
• Clean, dry bedding improves overall sleep hygiene and comfort

Key maintenance tips:

• Wash sheets and pillowcases frequently: Aim for at least once a week, using hot water (above 130°F) to kill bacteria and remove sweat thoroughly.
• Choose the right detergent: Use gentle, hypoallergenic detergents without added fabric softeners, which can clog fibers and reduce breathability.
• Air out your bedding: After waking, fold back sheets and blankets to allow air circulation and moisture evaporation.
• Rotate and flip your mattress regularly: This helps prevent moisture buildup and prolongs mattress life.
• Use washable mattress protectors: Waterproof or moisture-wicking mattress protectors shield your mattress from sweat and are easy to clean.
• Avoid heavy, heat-trapping blankets: Opt for lightweight, breathable options that don’t hold moisture close to the body.

Additional tips:

• Dry bedding thoroughly before making the bed to avoid dampness
• Consider using natural odor absorbers like baking soda on your mattress occasionally
• Replace bedding when it shows signs of wear, such as thinning, pilling, or persistent odors

Benefits of proper bedding care:

• Keeps your sleep environment hygienic and fresh
• Reduces night sweat discomfort and skin irritation
• Extends the lifespan of your bedding and mattress

By maintaining your bedding with these habits, you create a cleaner, cooler, and more comfortable bed that supports restful sleep even if you sweat at night.

Best Sheets for Sweaty Sleepers: Comfort Meets Functionality

Choosing the right sheets can dramatically improve your sleep quality if you sweat at night. The ideal sheets should be breathable, moisture-wicking, and soft to keep you cool and dry throughout the night.

Top Sheet Materials for Night Sweaters:

Cotton (especially Percale and Egyptian cotton):

• Lightweight, breathable, and natural
• Absorbs moisture well and allows airflow
• Percale offers a crisp, cool feel, perfect for hot sleepers

Linen:

• Highly breathable and moisture-wicking
• Naturally textured for airflow and quick drying
• Gets softer with every wash, making it a durable choice

Bamboo:

• Exceptionally soft and smooth on the skin
• Naturally moisture-wicking and antibacterial
• Eco-friendly and ideal for sensitive skin

Tencel (Lyocell):

• Made from sustainably sourced wood pulp
• Silky texture with excellent breathability and moisture management
• Resists wrinkles and is gentle on the skin

Sheets to Avoid for Night Sweaters:

• Polyester or microfiber:
  • Traps heat and moisture
  • Less breathable, increasing sweat and discomfort
• Satin or silk (unless temperature-controlled):
  • Can trap heat, though silk can sometimes work for light sleepers

Recommended Sheet Sets for Night Sweaters:

• Brooklinen Classic Percale Sheets:
  Crisp, breathable cotton with excellent airflow. Great for hot sleepers wanting durability and softness.
• Parachute Linen Sheets:
  Lightweight, moisture-wicking linen that cools naturally and softens over time.
• Cozy Earth Bamboo Lyocell Sheets:
  Soft, moisture-wicking, and hypoallergenic, perfect for those with sensitive skin or allergies.

How to care for your sheets to maximize cooling:

• Wash regularly to remove sweat and oils
• Avoid fabric softeners to maintain breathability
• Use gentle cycles with cold or warm water to preserve fibers

How to Layer Bedding for Night Sweaters

Layering your bedding strategically can make a huge difference in staying comfortable if you sweat at night. The right combination of layers helps regulate temperature, wick moisture, and prevent overheating.

Key Principles of Layering Bedding for Night Sweaters:

• Keep it light and breathable:
  Use thin, natural materials that allow airflow.
• Prioritize moisture-wicking layers:
  These help pull sweat away from your body to keep you dry.
• Use removable layers:
  So you can adjust your bedding as your body temperature changes through the night.

Suggested Bedding Layers (From Bottom to Top):

Fitted Sheet:

1. Choose breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics like cotton percale or bamboo lyocell.
2. This base layer controls moisture and feels cool to the touch.

 Mattress Protector

1. Use a waterproof, breathable protector to guard your mattress from sweat.
2. Look for ones made from breathable materials like cotton or Tencel blends.

Lightweight Blanket or Throw:

1. Use a thin cotton or linen blanket for mild warmth without overheating.
2. Avoid heavy duvets or thick quilts that trap heat.

Breathable Comforter or Duvet:

1. Opt for lightweight, breathable comforters filled with natural materials like down alternative or cotton.
2. Consider cooling duvet covers made from bamboo or linen.

Pillowcases:

1. Use breathable pillowcases matching your sheets to keep your head cool and dry.
2. Consider bamboo or cotton pillowcases for moisture-wicking benefits.

Additional Tips for Bedding Layering:

• Layering allows you to remove or add blankets easily to adjust comfort.
• Avoid synthetic layers as they trap heat and moisture.
• Use a fan or keep windows open to enhance airflow around your bed.

Best Pillows for Sweaty Sleepers: Top 3 Picks for Cooler Nights

Choosing the right pillow can significantly impact your comfort if you sweat at night. Pillows that promote airflow, wick moisture, and regulate temperature help keep you cool and dry.

Top 3 Pillows Recommended for Sweaty Sleepers:

1.Coop Home Goods Eden Pillow

• Adjustable shredded memory foam allows airflow and personalized loft.
  • Made with breathable eucalyptus-derived cooling fabric that wicks moisture.
  • Hypoallergenic and dust mite resistant, great for sensitive sleepers.

2.Tempur-Pedic TEMPUR-breeze Cooling Pillow

• Infused with cooling gel that absorbs heat to maintain a lower temperature.
  • Conforms to head and neck for support without trapping heat.
  • Durable and backed by a trusted sleep brand.

3.Brooklinen Down Alternative Pillow – Luxe Firm

• Filled with gel-infused down alternative fibers that stay cool and breathable.
  • Soft, breathable cotton cover enhances airflow.
  • Ideal for those allergic to real down but want cooling benefits.

Related Products to Consider:

• Purple Harmony Pillow: Combines hyper-elastic polymer with breathable mesh for superior airflow and pressure relief.
• Saatva Latex Pillow: Natural latex provides bounce and breathability, resisting heat buildup.
• Slip Silk Pillowcase: While not a pillow itself, silk pillowcases reduce moisture absorption and help keep your head cool and dry.

Why These Pillows Work Well:

• Airflow: Materials designed to promote ventilation reduce trapped heat.
• Moisture-Wicking: Fabrics and fills that pull sweat away from your skin keep you dry.
• Support: Proper neck and head support prevent tossing and turning, which can worsen sweating.

Best Sheets for Sweaty Sleepers: Stay Cool and Comfortable All Night

Selecting the right sheets is crucial if you sweat at night. The right bedding materials improve airflow, wick away moisture, and regulate temperature, helping you sleep more comfortably.

Key Sheet Materials Ideal for Night Sweaters:

• Cotton (Especially Percale Weave)
  • Lightweight, breathable, and moisture-wicking.
  • Percale weave offers a crisp, cool feel that enhances airflow.
  • Durable and easy to care for.
• Linen
  • Naturally breathable and highly absorbent.
  • Becomes softer with every wash while maintaining cooling properties.
  • Ideal for warmer climates or hot sleepers.
• Bamboo Rayon
  • Exceptionally soft with natural moisture-wicking and antibacterial properties.
  • Breathable and temperature regulating, perfect for sweaty sleepers.
  • Eco-friendly and hypoallergenic.

What to Avoid:

• Polyester and Microfiber:
  • These synthetic fabrics trap heat and moisture, increasing night sweats.
  • Less breathable, which can make discomfort worse.
• Heavy Weaves:
  • Flannel or satin sheets can retain heat and are less suitable for sweaty sleepers.

Top Sheet Picks for Sweaty Sleepers:

Brooklinen Classic Percale Sheets

1. Crisp, breathable cotton percale for excellent airflow.
2. Durable and softens over time.
3. Comes in cooling colors and multiple sizes.

Cultiver Linen Sheets

1. Made from 100% Belgian linen for maximum breathability.
2. Lightweight yet durable, with a relaxed, natural texture.
3. Perfect for hot summer nights.

Cariloha Bamboo Sheets

1. Soft and silky bamboo rayon fabric with moisture-wicking ability.
2. Temperature regulating for year-round comfort.
3. Sustainable and environmentally friendly.

Tips for Using Sheets to Reduce Night Sweats:

• Opt for lighter colors which reflect heat.
• Keep extra sheets on hand for easy changing during the night if needed.
• Regularly wash sheets to maintain freshness and fabric integrity.

How to Layer Bedding If You Sweat at Night

Layering bedding the right way is key to staying comfortable and dry throughout the night. Using breathable, moisture-wicking layers helps regulate temperature and prevents overheating.

Best Practices for Layering Bedding When You Sweat:

Start with a Cooling Sheet

• Use lightweight cotton percale or bamboo sheets as the base layer.
• These materials wick moisture and allow air to circulate.

Add a Thin, Breathable Blanket

• Opt for blankets made of natural fibers like cotton or lightweight wool.
• Avoid heavy or synthetic blankets that trap heat.

Use a Lightweight Comforter or Duvet

• Choose a down alternative with breathable covers (e.g., cotton or linen).
• Look for comforters labeled “cooling” or “breathable.”

Consider a Cooling Mattress Pad or Protector

• Select a moisture-wicking mattress pad to help regulate temperature.
• Look for options with cooling gel or breathable mesh fabrics.

Limit Use of Extra Layers at Night

• Avoid piling on heavy quilts or throws that trap heat.
• Keep extra blankets nearby for easy removal if needed.

Additional Tips for Effective Bedding Layers:

Use Pillowcases Made from Cooling Fabrics

• Silk, cotton, or bamboo pillowcases help reduce heat around your head and neck.
• This can significantly improve overall sleep comfort.

Keep Bedding Clean and Dry

• Change sheets and bedding regularly to avoid moisture buildup.
• Consider laundering with gentle detergents to maintain fabric breathability.

Invest in Moisture-Wicking Sleepwear

• Pair your bedding with breathable, moisture-wicking pajamas to stay cooler.

Conclusion

Managing night sweats starts with how you make your bed and choose your bedding. By layering breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics and selecting lightweight bedding, you create a cool, comfortable sleep environment. Remember to:

• Use natural fibers like cotton, bamboo, or linen for sheets and pillowcases.
• Choose lightweight blankets and comforters designed for breathability.
• Incorporate cooling mattress pads or protectors to regulate temperature.
• Maintain clean, dry bedding and wear moisture-wicking sleepwear.

Frequently Asked Questions About How to Make a Bed If You Sweat at Night

 What bedding materials are best for night sweaters?

• Natural, breathable fabrics like cotton, bamboo, and linen are ideal. They wick moisture away and allow air to circulate, helping to keep you cool.

Can layering bedding really help with night sweats?

• Yes! Layering with lightweight, breathable fabrics lets you adjust warmth and airflow throughout the night, preventing overheating and moisture buildup.

 Should I avoid certain fabrics if I sweat at night?

• Avoid heavy, synthetic fabrics like polyester or fleece, which trap heat and moisture, worsening night sweats.

 How often should I change bedding if I sweat a lot?

• Change sheets and pillowcases at least once a week. More frequent changes may be needed to maintain freshness and prevent moisture buildup.

 Are there special mattress protectors for night sweaters?

• Yes, cooling and moisture-wicking mattress protectors help regulate temperature and keep the bed dry. Look for options with breathable materials and cooling gel layers.

 What sleepwear works best for night sweaters?

• Moisture-wicking, breathable fabrics like cotton or performance fabrics designed for athletes are best. Avoid heavy or synthetic pajamas.