9 Easy ways to stay warm at night this winter

Wool, cotton or silk nightwear allows your skin to breathe, whereas synthetic fabrics trap moisture, which could end up making you feel chilly.  

Sexy they are not, but wearing socks causes blood vessels in your feet to dilate, keeping your toes toasty. A small South Korean study found people who wore them when it was cold fell asleep more quickly, slept for longer and had better quality kip all round.  

Having a warm—but not too hot—bath before bed will relax you and raise your core temperature. A hot milky drink will do a similar job, but avoid caffeine from the afternoon onwards, as this could keep you awake. 

Have several blankets or throws you can add and take off as necessary. Layers trap the air and keep you snug. Consider flannel sheets for winter as they feel warmer. 

If you sleep with a partner, make sure you have a good, firm mattress so you’re not thrown together in an unsupportive bed. You’ll both end up clammy.

Sleeping on a soft surface keeps you better insulated.

But always put a cover on it so it doesn’t scald you and doesn’t feel cold against your skin after a few hours.

This will get your circulation going, help tire you out and, according to a 2016 review of studies, improve sleep quality. But just do a few minutes of meditative movements such as tai chi or yoga so you don’t end up energised instead.

The ideal sleep temperature for most people is between 16 and 18°C. Install thick curtains if cold air is getting in through windows and use a draught excluder in front of your bedroom door if necessary.