Sleeping better when it’s hot : our tips to survive summer nights (without melting)

Sleeping well when it’s hot is an art form. Sure, we love terrace drinks, long evenings, and sunsets after 9 p.m … but the heat doesn’t play nice under the covers. Sweaty pillows, sticky sheets, endless tossing and turning – summer nights can be slow and restless.

Fortunately, at l’Effet papillon, we’ve got some cool tricks ans bedding that’s perfectly on point to help you get back to nights as smooth as a chilled glass of rosé.

Why do we sleep so poorly when it’s hot ?

The body doesn’t like temperatures above 20°C at night

It’s science : to sleep well, your body temperature needs to drop. And in a bedroom that’s 27°C, it really, REALLY struggles to do that.

The result :

• Trouble falling asleep
• Frequent awakenings
• Lighter sleep
• Waking up tired

In short, a steamy hammam-like atmosphere is hardly ideal for getting restorative rest.

Sweat + heat = nightmare

When you’re hot, you sweat. And if your sheets don’t absorb moisture well, you’re in for that sticky, clammy feeling.

A deeply unpleasant combo that makes us toss, turn, and dread the very idea of going to bed.

Our 6 simple tips for sleeping better when it’s hot

1. Choose light and breathable fabrics

This is the golden rule of summer comfort. Say goodbye to polyester sheets and heavy duvets. It’s time for natural, airy materials.

👉 Washed linen : temperature-regulating, absorbent, effortlessly stylish even when wrinkled. It’s the summer favorite at L’effet papillon.
👉 Cotton gauze : soft, lightweight, textured… and no ironing needed. It lets air circulate and keeps a pleasantly cool feel.

💡 Pro tip : try using a flat sheet in cotton gauze or washed linen instead of a duvet. Less heat, more comfort. The perfect combo.

2. Go for the flat sheet

Long overlooked, the flat sheet is making a big comeback and for good reason :

• It keeps you warm when needed, without overheating
• It’s easy to wash
• It gives your bed a stylish look with zero effort

In summer, it’s your best friend.
And if you haven’t tried one from us yet… maybe it’s time to give in 💁‍♀️

3. A lukewarm shower before bed

Not cold, lukewarm !

A lukewarm shower helps your body gradually lower its temperature without shocking it. The result : you fall asleep faster.

Add a few drops of lavender essential oil (or use a nicely scented soap), and it’s almost like a home spa.

4. Sleep at the right time (yes, it matters)

Between 11 p.m. and 7 a.m., the air is at its coolest. If you’re the type to binge-watch Netflix until 1 a.m., try adjusting your schedule a bit … at least for the summer.

Sleeping earlier = cooler air = better chances of a good night’s sleep.

5. Air out and ventilate (with the right technique)

Open everything early in the morning and late at night. The rest of the time ? Keep shutters and curtains closed to hold in the cool air.

And for the fan ? Place it near a bottle of ice-cold water for a homemade mist effect guaranteed.

6. Sleep light

Avoid thick cotton pajamas or synthetic fabrics.

Choose light, loose, and breathable clothes (or nothing at all – no judgment here)

Material focus : the perfect bedding for better sleep when it’s hot

Washed linen : the king of cool

• It’s temperature-regulating : keeps you cool when it’s hot
• It’s absorbent : say goodbye to moisture
• It looks great without ironing : thanks to that chic crumpled style
• It lasts for years : a worthwhile investment

Our solid-color Soline models are available as duvet covers, flat sheets, pillowcases, fitted sheets… basically, the perfect summer wardrobe for your bed.

Cotton gauze : softness, lightness, and zero hassle

It has everything to love :

• Soft as a caress
• Airy like a gentle breeze
• No ironing needed
• And so pretty with its crinkled effect

Our Gaïa & Co models are designed to harmonize with all bedroom styles.

Practical bonus : How to make your bed to feel less hot ?

Step 1 : Choose the right combo

Ultra-thin duvet or just a flat sheet (depending on your heat tolerance). Add a lightweight throw at the foot of the bed if needed.

Step 2 : Let your bed air out well

Don’t make your bed right away in the morning. Let the air circulate.
Half an hour is enough to avoid trapped moisture.

Step 3 : Use a breathable pillowcase

Big heat spot = your head
Choose pillowcases in washed linen or cotton gauze to limit scalp sweating (glamorous, right ?).

Step 4 : A well-made bed means more restful sleep

Even Charles Duhigg’s study (The Power of Habit) says it : making your bed every day improves sleep quality and overall well-being.

In summary : sleeping better when it’s hot is possible

✔️ The right fabrics
✔️ A well-ventilated room
✔️ A bed that fits your needs
✔️ A little self-care

And if despite all that, you still feel like melting… treat yourself to a visit at our retailers to refresh your summer bedding. There’s linen, gauze, and so many other fabrics waiting to be discovered !

And you, what do you do to sleep better when it’s hot ?

Team fan in bed ? Ice-cold bottle on the pillow ?
Or a pro of the flat sheet plus feet in the air combo ?

We want to know EVERYTHING.
Tell us on @leffetpapillonroanne !