Creating the ideal temperature and humidity levels in the bedroom during winter can be tricky, as indoor humidity drops between 25% and 35%.
The ideal bedroom humidity should be 30% – 40%
When humidity levels are too low, this can lead to dry air. Cranking the heating up too high for too long can exacerbate this, leading to irritated nasal passages, sneezing, coughing, itchy throat, and possibly increased suffering from colds and other viruses.
Like an engine without proper oil lubrication, breathing in dry air can irritate your throat, triggering coughing fits or even gagging, making sleeping difficult.
You can combat dry winter air by ensuring you ventilate your house and, importantly, the bedroom by opening windows even in winter. Good ventilation will enable air to circulate and allow moisture to escape. Humidifiers can increase humidity levels, as can houseplants that add to the humidity level and act as air purifiers. Remember to open your bathroom door after your shower or bath for steam to escape and add moisture to the air.
Alternatively, high humidity can also happen in winter when the heating is on full blast and the doors and windows are closed, reducing the air circulation. Drying clothes and towels indoors without turning the heating on or using a dehumidifier can also increase humidity levels. When humidity is too high, this can lead to visible signs such as dampness, mould and condensation, which can contribute to allergies, causing sleep problems.
Any reading over 60% on a hygrometer needs addressing. A dehumidifier can help you combat this problem by reducing moisture levels in the air to feel more comfortable in your home. When humidity levels are high, and you find sleeping uncomfortable, try using cotton bedding and nightwear, enabling your skin to breathe better.
First published 16.01.23, republished 08.01.24
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