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Keep warm in bed this winter

Staying warm at this time of year can be something of a task, but there are steps you can take to keep cosy when temperatures plummet.

Many of you will no doubt head to bed in the hope of being able to curl up and keep snug, which is a good option when the cold weather takes hold.

Knowing how to make your bed and bedroom as cosy as possible is a good idea, as this can cut down on the need to switch on the heating, while also helping you get that elusive good night's sleep.

One of the first things to think about is what you're wearing in bed; summer nightgowns are unlikely to keep off the chill, so swap them for something that will cover you up a little more. It is always best to choose natural materials over synthetic ones, mainly because they allow air to circulate and prevent over-heating. Cotton is therefore a great option, as are wool and silk.

Another great trick is to increase your body temperature before getting into bed, which is best achieved through having a hot bath. This will make you feel warmer before you head under the duvet cover, as will having a hot milky drink before dozing off to sleep. Both of these will help you feel sleepy, making it more likely that you'll rest easy once your head hits the pillow.

Maintaining a comfortable temperature once in bed can be one of the more difficult task, but there are ways of achieving it. Having a hot water bottle is a great idea; if you have cold feet then the chances are that the rest of you will feel a bit chilly as well.

Alternatively, get hold of a pair of bed socks, which will keep in the heat all night long.

If you've got the wrong bedding this winter, then the chances are you'll wake up feeling a little chillier than you'd hope. Higher tog rating duvets should be enlisted at this time of year, as they are thicker and therefore conserve the heat better than those designed for winter months.

Having several sheets rather than one big duvet is likewise a good idea, as air will be trapped and create a thermal layer. The Sleep Council recommends getting hold of a fleecy underblanket, which is effective at helping to retain heat during the winter.

Electric blankets are a popular choice at this time of year, but it is important to use them safely. Such products are great at taking the chill off a bed, although it is essential that you read the manufacturer's instructions to avoid any unwanted incidents. Failing to use the blankets safely can lead to the risk of fire.

Posted by Elizabeth Mewes