The UK has been plunged into a heatwave with record summer temperatures set to hit this week.
While the heat is a welcome surprise for those looking for some Spanish-style weather, others worry how they’re going to get enough sleep in the heat during the night.
A popular quick-fix to cool the bedroom down is a fan. Not only can it act as white noise, it can help control temperature better.
But having a fan on while you sleep can present a number of health problems.
According to Sleep Advisor, as a fan circulates the air around a room it can also move dust particles and other potential allergens which can cause irritation.
Having a constant blast of air on your body can also cause dry skin.
It explains: “Lotions and moisturisers will help prevent this, but if your skin is excessively dry, use caution and monitor your skin to make sure you’re not over drying it.”
Finally it suggests sleeping with a fan on at night can cause sore muscles.
This is because the concentrated cool air can cause muscles to tense up and cramp.
If you’ve been waking up with a stiff neck in the morning this could be the reason why.
So should you ditch the fan at night?
The sleep expert concludes: “Fans are ideal for people who get hot during the night. If you sleep in a room with the doors and windows closed, they can help with air circulation and will keep your bedroom moderately cooler.
“If there’s a lot of background noise where you live, fans are an effective and inexpensive way to dull that noise. They’re also helpful if you sleep with a partner who snores and you want to drown out the sawing logs. Or, if one of you sleeps hotter than the other, you might want to keep one side of the bedroom cooler than the other.”
The only reason you should completely avoid one is if it’s causing a health concern.
It adds: “If it is triggering allergy and asthma attacks or it’s drying out your skin or sinuses, you might need a different model.
“Sometimes the equipment also gets excess buildup of pollen and particles that are impossible to remove. If that’s the case, consider an upgrade.
“Of, if it’s causing issues by drying out your skin and insides, maybe you need something that rotates instead of one that blows directly on you all night.”
So what else can you do to make sure you get a good night’s rest during a heatwave?
Bensons for Beds says adopting a particular sleep position can help you achieve peaceful slumber.
It advises: “Getting frustrated and restless because you’re hot only generates more heat and keeps you up longer.
“Keep a cool head by lying still – only by accepting the heat can you move your mind and and body closer to sleep.”
