To get a good night’s sleep, many people should set their thermostat a few degrees lower, experts say.
The role of temperature has gotten increased attention after a study published last year found sleep may be more tightly regulated by temperature than by light. What’s more, core body temperature, which tends to fluctuate by a few degrees over the course of the day, needs to drop to help initiate sleep.
Setting the thermostat to around 65 degrees Fahrenheit is good for sleep, studies have found. Research has also found that room temperatures as low as 60.8 degrees are best when people pile on the blankets.
Sleep is one of the most frustrating activities in many people’s lives. Not getting enough affects mood and has long-term health consequences. Such concerns have spawned big industries of products and techniques to enhance sleep, from specialized mattresses to noise reducers and aromatherapy.
Temperature is a big point of debate for couples. Women tend to raise the thermostat while men want to lower it. While researchers haven’t focused on such differences, many companies have with products from mattress that promise zoned temperatures to apps that let you control heating.
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