Ditch the electric blanket – stay warm in bed with these tips

Electric blankets are a popular option for keeping you toasty as you get into bed in these cold winter months. However, with the cost of electricity and load shedding, many of us are looking for cheaper and more reliable ways to stay warm and cosy in bed. Here are some tips and tricks to consider.

Warm pyjamas
Investing in a few sets of warm pyjamas will revolutionise your winter nights. Flannel or cotton fleece sets are a great option, as well as thermal pyjamas. Natural fibres are advised as they are better for the skin and tend to be more moisture-wicking than artificial fabrics.

Hot water bottle
As a tried and tested way of warming beds in winter, a hot water bottle is a simple and effective option to add to your nighttime routine. Or, with a short burst of electricity you can warm up a microwaveable beanbag.

Hot bath or shower before bed
A hot bath or shower before bed will warm your body as you prepare to snuggle into your bed.

Cuddle buddy
Body heat is another great way to stay warm at night – cuddling up to your partner will help both of you to stay warm and maintain a good level of body heat. If you don’t have a special someone to cuddle up to, a furry friend can easily fill the void – they’re good at invading your personal space and acting as a hot water bottle! Alternatively, a high-quality body pillow will also work. They create a snug little nest in your bed and will help keep your body temperature from dropping too much.

Wear socks to bed
While this may seem like an old-fashioned tip, it really does work. Wearing a pair of warm, thick socks to bed helps you regulate your body heat. Cold extremities can make the whole body feel cold, which will negatively impact your sleep. 

BEDDING
Warm duvets
Never underestimate the power of a warm, fluffy duvet! If you’re feeling the chill, chances are that you’re not using a duvet that is the right tog for the season. Tog is the unit used for measuring the warmth provided by various blankets and duvets. The higher the number, the warmer the item. For example, 4.5 tog duvets are ideal for summer, while 13. tog and 15 tog duvets are better in winter. Duvet technology has come a long way, and there are a number of options available to consider.

Wool duvets
They might not be top-of-mind when thinking duvet, but wool duvets are fantastic at keeping you warm and comfortable as you sleep. Wool fibres are made up of different layers, creating pockets of trapped air which circulate heat during the night. These incredible natural duvets are breathable and always adjust to your body temperature, keeping you comfy.

Flannel bed linen
Choosing brushed cotton or flannel sheeting for your bed linen increases your warmth and comfort on those chilly nights. Having winter bed linen is a great idea and will ensure that you stay warm in bed.

If you combine these bedding alternatives with the tips listed above, you are guaranteed a super-snuggly night in a warm bed.