Health Benefits of Wearing Pajamas to Bed
There are many factors that can impact your ability to get a good night’s sleep. Some – like setting a consistent bedtime – can be hard to achieve. Others, such as choosing the right pajamas, are easier to adopt and can contribute to positive sleep results.
The wearing of pajamas to bed is first attributed to sleepers in India but became popularized as a result of British colonists adopting the fashion and bringing it back to the western world. It’s likely that the British discovered how comfortable pajamas are and recognized the sleep benefits attributable to them.
When choosing your pajamas, the most important thing to focus on is comfort and body temperature regulation. Picking the right fabric is equally based on personal preference and function. Select a fabric that feels good on your skin and will also keep you cool in warmer temperatures and warm in cooler temperatures.
While cotton is a go-to choice for many people, it is not a good insulator and may not keep you warm if you tend to get cold at night. It also lacks moisture-wicking and is not a good option for those with night sweats. Still, this affordable fabric is breathable, lightweight and soft and a perfectly good choice.
On the other end of the spectrum, if you tend to get cold at night, wool or fleece can help keep you warm. However, these fabrics can also cause itchiness that can affect your ability to stay asleep and may not be the best choice if you tend to perspire.
Other fabrics that can be considered include bamboo, silk, flannel and moisture-wicking. In addition to temperature control, you should consider the fit of the pajamas. For stomach sleepers, buttons or flaps can be problematic. Elastic that is too tight or too loose can also affect comfort and sleep-ability.
Ultimately, it’s best to try different pairs of pajamas and see what works for you. And remember to make changes to your attire as the seasons change. What works in summer may not work in winter. So, treat yourself to a new set of pajamas – we give you permission – your health just may depend on it.
If you suspect you are one of the millions of Americans coping with a sleep disorder, don’t try to treat it yourself or try to wait it out. Doing so can cause or worsen long-term health problems. At FusionSleep®, we have dedicated our entire medical practice to helping patients get their lives back through healthy sleep. We offer a variety of sleep solutions, along with in-lab and at-home sleep testing options and virtual appointments on our established telemedicine platform. Contact us today on our website or by calling 678.990.3962.