UK Heatwave Spurs 10 Sleep Tips After Record May Day and Night Temperatures

12 articles · Updated · BBC.com · May 26

Ten expert-backed tips were issued as the UK heatwave pushed May day and night temperatures to record highs, with advice focused on sleeping better through unusually hot nights.
Key steps center on keeping bedrooms cool and routines unchanged: shut curtains and sun-facing windows by day, open windows at night, use thin cotton sheets, fans or chilled socks, and avoid daytime naps.
Hydration advice stresses drinking enough water without overdoing it before bed, while limiting caffeine, sugary soft drinks and alcohol that can worsen sleep quality or trigger early waking.
Children need extra attention in the heat: experts recommend sticking to normal bath and bedtime routines, using lukewarm baths, and keeping babies' rooms between 16C and 20C.
The guidance, first published in 2019 and based on advice from Prof Kevin Morgan and Sleep Council's Lisa Artis, also notes most people can cope after 1 or 2 disrupted nights.

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