Despite Autumn Chill, a Lower Thermostat Will Help You Sleep Better

It’s been an odd start to autumn in some parts of the U.S.  For many, summer temperature stuck around long after they were welcome, and then drought set in for the east.  Meanwhile, in the west, early snows surprised many.  But, the fall is settled in now and temperatures are starting to get cooler and cooler at night.  There may be a temptation on those cooler nights to crank up the heat.  Our advice is to avoid that temptation.  

Research shows that temperatures above 75 degrees or below 54 degrees can disrupt sleep. For most people, the best setting for your thermostat at night is between 60 and 68 degrees.  Anything more than that, and you could be too hot to sleep well.  Anything less than that could leave you cold.

Here are some more SleepBetter tips to make the most of your autumn sleep:

• Make sure your bedding is appropriate to the season; think about whether your sheets, blankets and pillows give you the right support and warmth
• You don’t have to pile on heavy blankets; modern fibers and comforters can keep you warm without a lot of weight
• When appropriate, open the windows and turn down the thermostat (you’ll save money, too)
• If you’re waking up in the morning with aches and stiffness, maybe your mattress is not providing you with the correct lumbar support
• If fall and winter sleeping leaves you with a sore throat and dry nose, consider whether a humidifier might help

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