With the changing season and cooler nights around the corner, sleeping with the window open at night for a cool crisp breeze might be tempting.
However, what are there risks of sleeping with the windows open, and do they potentially outweigh the benefits?
Let’s talk about it!
Risks of Sleeping with the Window Open
- Sinus Infection: We are more likely to contract sinus infections while sleeping with windows open at night, especially in drier climates.
- Trigger Asthma: Pollen particles travel into our homes through insects and open windows. Pollen falls closer to the ground when the air is cooler. While sleeping with the window open, we are more likely to be exposed to these allergens which can worsen allergy symptoms.
- Vulnerable to Break-Ins: A third of all burglaries are caused by thieves entering homes through an open or unlocked window or door. Sleeping with the window open unquestionably leaves us susceptible to attacks and increases the chances of a break-in.
Benefits of Sleeping with the Window Open
- Cooler Air: One of the most common reasons people choose to sleep with their windows open during the cooler months is, you guessed it, for the cooler air. Sleeping in cooler temperatures is known to help you fall asleep faster, stay asleep longer, and naturally increase melatonin levels.
- White Noise: Unless you live in a noisy city, sleeping with the window open can provide a soothing white noise from all the naturally occurring sounds throughout the night.
- Lower Humidity: Sleeping with the window open helps to level out humidity inside your bedroom by redirecting warm or damp air outside and overall improving your bedroom’s air quality. However, it’s important to note this only applies if the humidity level inside your bedroom is less than or equal to the humidity level outside.
What is the Best Way to Simulate Sleeping with the Window Open?
As you can see, there are benefits to sleeping with the window open at night, but the potential risk associated with leaving them open indicates it can do more harm than good.
Thankfully there are steps we can take to reap these same benefits while keeping the windows closed.
White Noise Machine
A white noise machine can simulate the same white noise that results from sleeping with the window open. White noise can increase your quality of sleep by masking noises that disturb sleep. Not only do they help you sleep better, but they can also help you sleep longer and train your brain to feel tired when it’s time for bed.
Dehumidifier
One of the best ways to reduce humidity in your bedroom is to use a dehumidifier. They work by taking moisture out of the air, leaving drier air behind. Dehumidifiers also prevent the buildup of excess moisture and help level-out humidity levels. Additionally, they can alleviate snoring-related symptoms as an added benefit. The bottom line, they work to improve your room’s air quality which leads to a better night’s sleep.
Cooling Sleep System
The absolute best way to simulate a cooler sleep environment without sleeping with the windows open is to incorporate a cooling sleep system into your bedroom. We already know how beneficial a cooler sleep environment is to our sleep quality and longevity. Acooling sleep system is undoubtedly the easiest way to achieve this while maintaining all the same benefits but without all the risks.
PowerCool Medium Sleep System
The PowerCool Medium Sleep System combines our medium-feel PowerCool mattress with MLILY’s innovative, fan-powered adjustable base. With multiple, strategically placed fans quietly pushing fresh air through layers of Ventilated AdaptiFoam™ and Bamboo Charcoal Memory Foam, the full PowerCool sleep system delivers a complete and undisturbed sleeping experience.
PowerCool Firm Sleep System
The PowerCool Firm is our new sleep system that brings all the benefits of the original version coupled with a refreshed look and firmer feel. The firm mattress provides extra support and accompanies the same adjustable base with a built-in fan system as the original PowerCool set.
To recap, it can be beneficial sleeping with the window open at night, but the risks associated with it are heavy. That’s why we suggest simulating an open window environment by using a cooling mattress or entire cooling sleep system. Our sleep blog busts common sleep myths and offers expert sleep advice so make sure to check it out! Also check out our top-of-the-line cooling sleep system if you’re ready to shut your windows for good!
