Research has shown that hitting the hay in a slightly cooler environment leads to better, more restful sleeps. The consensus seems to be that temperatures around 65 degrees Fahrenheit can help you achieve this. However, not all of us have central air conditioning or an air conditioning unit in our bedrooms. When the temperatures outside are warm and so are our homes, how does one stay cool at nighttime?

Ceiling or portable fans can certainly help, but there is one tried and true trick that doesn’t involve either of those things. Many people swear by placing a wet (not soaking, but certainly damp) towel on the windowsill in their bedrooms and cracking the window open. The thought is that the towel helps cool the breeze coming into your bedroom, thus creating a cooler sleeping environment.

Another hack to stay cool during those hot summer nights is by placing your pillowcase in the fridge or freezer prior to bedtime. When you rest your head on your pillow, your body temperature will instantly decrease from the cool pillow. The best part about both of these hacks? They work, and they’re free!

So the next time you’re faced with a potentially warmer than desirable bedroom during the dog days of summer, try out either (or both) of these hacks for a cooler, more restful, and more comfortable sleep.
For another simple hack for a better night’s sleep, discover why you should always sleep with your bedroom door closed.