Whether you’re just starting to set up a sleep routine or you’re working to improve the one you already have, there are so many options of what to add to your to-try list. We’ve narrowed down some of our favorite additions for getting ready for bed.
Set Up Your Bed
It’s the biggest part of sleep – your bed! Make sure your bed is working as hard as it can to keep you comfortable while you’re trying to sleep.
Upgrade your Mattress
Getting a new mattress is a big investment, but it’s central to a good night’s rest. Experts say that replacing your mattress every 8-or-so can make a big difference. That’s more often than most folks want to get a new mattress, so here’s some things to watch out for as a sign to replace your mattress.
- It’s negatively impacting your sleep because you can’t get comfortable.
- You sleep better when you’re at a hotel or friend’s house.
- It’s saggy or damaged.
- You regularly wake up feeling stiff.
- It’s making more noise than usual. Noisy springs are common in old innerspring mattresses.
- You notice an increase in allergies or asthma after sleeping.
Flip Your Pillow
Pillows are easier to replace than a mattress and can make a big impact, too. Finding the right pillow to support your head and neck while you sleep can make falling asleep and staying asleep less of a headache.
The world of pillow technology has come a long way from the simple down pillow. If you’re a warm sleeper, it might be worth looking into a pillow with cooling abilities to keep you from overheating every night. If you’re waking up with a crick in your neck every morning, you might need a more supportive memory foam pillow. Or if you want to go all-in on finding your perfect pillow, there are companies that will customize your pillow based on what positions you sleep in the most and how much head support you need.
Get Cozy Under a Weighted Blanket
Weighted blankets used to be heavy and hot. Since they first became popular, though, many companies have jumped at the opportunity to improve them. These blankets come in all shapes, sizes and weights. They even come in cooling options to help you from getting too warm while you sleep.
Weighted blankets are made to help with feelings of anxiety. By having a weight on your chest and core, you can feel more secure and rest easier. Finding a comfortable blanket for you can make a big difference in falling asleep and calming racing thoughts.
Pick the Right Tech
There are so many new inventions that promise to keep you asleep. Our favorites blend new technology with old favorites to give you everything you need for a good night’s rest.
There’s An App for That
When you’re looking for a variety of sleep sounds, like rain sounds, music, soundscapes, or white noise, there are so many app options. Narrowing down which one is the best fit for you can be challenging.
The Rest App is our top pick because it comes with over 700 different sleep sounds that you can choose from. The app also gives you the power to set how long you want your sleep sound to run as well as reminders to start winding down for bedtime.
Keep it Cool and Quiet
Even though fans don’t actually cool the air, they can help to create a breeze that wicks away your sweat. This helps you cool down. If you’re a hot sleeper, now is the time to take a look at getting a silent bedroom fan. Fan technology has come a long away to making fans more powerful and absolutely quiet.
Dyson is a go-to for silent fans, but if you’re looking for a budget option, many companies are jumping on making silent fans.
Don’t Worry About Dryness
If you live in a dry climate, wake up with a dry mouth or eyes, or struggle with sleep apnea, getting a good night’s sleep can mean making it a little more humid. Humidifiers are a go-to staple for creating a comfy sleeping environment.
There are several different types of humidifiers, but ultrasonic humidifiers use very quiet vibrations to release the water molecules. That can help to limit unwanted noise in the bedroom. You could also consider an evaporative humidifier, which releases moisture into the air through a fan. The filer in the humidifier helps to prevent any bacteria from spreading.
Make Your Morning Count
Starting your day with specific steps can help reset your circadian rhythm, especially if you wake up before the sun rises. Keeping your circadian rhythm on track will help you when it’s time to tuck in to bed each night.
Sunrise Alarm Clock
One great way to wake up is with a sunrise alarm clock. These clocks start to shine a gentle light that replicates the sun rising around thirty minutes before it’s time for you to wake up. Using this type of clock helps your body to think that you are waking up with the sun, which helps you wake up faster and be less groggy.
Sun Lamp
Another way to get some sunlight first thing in the morning is to use a sun lamp. These lamps are bright lights that replicate the sun’s rays. By getting a few minutes with this light each morning, you can support your sleep routine. Waking up at the same time each day sets you up to begin to feel tired at the same time in the evening.
