This winter will be different for many households. With energy bills creeping up lots of us will be looking towards more affordable options for keeping warm, especially at night. In this blog we share some advice on how to stay warm in bed, from the best types of mattresses to budget friendly ideas that most of us can implement within our bedtime routine. 
 

❄️ Little Ideas for Keeping Warm in Bed

Small changes that make a big difference on cold nights


1. Keep the bedroom warm, but not too hot

A slightly warm room helps your body settle into sleep, but overheating can actually reduce sleep quality. Try to keep the temperature between 16–20°C, and check for draughts around windows and doors. Blocking cold air helps the room stay comfortable without needing to blast the heating all night.


2. Bedsocks and Pyjamas make a bigger difference than you think

Cold feet keep your whole body feeling cold. Wearing cosy socks and warm pyjamas helps your body maintain core temperature, especially during the first few hours of sleep.
Bonus tip: put your pyjamas on for at least 30 minutes before bed — your body starts warming up sooner, and you don’t climb into bed freezing.


3. A warm bath before bed = instant comfort

Even a short warm bath helps your body temperature rise slightly. As you cool down afterward, your body naturally gets sleepy and relaxed — making the bed feel extra cosy. It’s one of the simplest ways to avoid shivering while waiting for the blankets to warm up.


4. Try a hot, caffeine-free drink

Herbal teas, warm milk, or caffeine-free alternatives help you feel warm from the inside out. Avoid tea or coffee right before bed — caffeine stops your brain from fully winding down and can fragment sleep. A soothing drink signals to your body that it’s bedtime.


5. Choose the right duvet TOG for the season

Your duvet matters more than you think.

  • 7.5–10.5 TOG is perfect for cooler autumn nights

  • 13.5–15 TOG keeps you warm in the depths of winter

If you’re always cold, try a dual-layer duvet — lightweight in autumn, extra layer clipped on for winter. It gives you flexibility without buying multiple duvets.


6. Switch to flannel bedding

Flannel is a winter favourite for a reason. The brushed cotton traps heat and creates a layer of insulation, so your body warms the bed faster. It’s much warmer than standard cotton sheets and feels soft immediately — no chilly “first touch” when you get in.


7. Use a hot water bottle (but be safe)

A hot water bottle can warm your bed much faster than your body can alone. Place it near your feet, or move it around the bed before you get in.
Safety tip: always use a soft cover to prevent burns, and check the bottle for cracks if it’s older.


✨ Bonus: If your budget allows, try an electric blanket

Electric blankets are energy-efficient and heat the entire bed evenly, so you don’t curl up in one warm spot. Modern versions have timers and safety switches — let the bed warm up for 15–20 minutes, then switch it off as you fall asleep.


Extra cosy ideas

  • Layer blankets instead of one thick one — layers trap heat better

  • Warm the mattress first with the electric blanket, then sleep on top

  • Use a mattress topper — adds insulation and makes the bed feel softer

  • Keep a blanket at the foot of the bed for extra warmth around your legs

  • Snuggle with a pet (if they’re clean and comfortable to sleep with)

So What is the Best Mattress for Keeping Warm? 
 
The range of mattresses is huge, most with different fillings to help regulate your body temperature throughout the night. But it is really important to remember that the mattresses themselves don't create heat, and that you can become hot or cold on beds of all construction.
 
Memory foam is a good insulator and has great properties for heat retention compared to the gel foam or latex mattresses. For example, the latest Gel Foam mattresses have great climate control systems built into the foam by adding gel beads to foam that have the ability to change from a solid state to a liquid state to deliver a cooling effect. 
 
Most mattresses on the market today will include smart fabrics on the sleeping surface of the mattress to help regulate your body temps throughout the night. Silk, Cashmere, Mohair and other natural fillings inside a mattress can also have great insulation properties which help keep you warm throughout the night without the risk of over heating.
 
If a new mattress isn't something that's affordable right now, electric blankets are a great way to pre-warm your bed up - be sure to get one with a timer as standard otherwise it'll be on all night and this could damage your mattress.