October 8, 2016

Do you ever wake up dripping in sweat without any covers on, only to look over at your partner who is comfortably laying under a comforter, blanket, and sheet? Often, they are also under the layers of comforter, blanket and sheet that you tossed off yourself who knows how long ago. If you’re experiencing this; you’re not alone. It is very common in relationships.

Typically, it’s the husband is hot and the wife is cold, but it sometimes works the other way. This temperature balancing act can get quite heated. Some couples have stress and argue over finances, toothpaste, which way the toilet paper goes, or which restaurant to go to. But losing sleep because you are too hot or too cold brings on a different level of stress. A restful night of sleep is very important for your general health and also the health of any relationship.

Adjusting the thermostat every hour in hopes that your spouse will not notice is not a good solution. Not only will you eventually be caught, but it is also the least efficient on energy. Here are a few ideas to help mediate the temperature:

  • If it’s in your budget, invest in a heated mattress with dual controls. You can set your side to whatever temperature your heart desires and your partner will not feel a thing. If that’s not in the budget, try a heated mattress pad.
  • Use separate bed linens. With your own sheets, duvet or comforter you can cover yourself with as much (or as little) as you’d like. The bed will be a bit messy, but at least you’ll both be comfortable and happy. And that’s all that matters.
  • Try to dress up or down accordingly. If you’re always cold and in three layers of flannels, there is not much you can do with this. However, if you want the house to be super warm so that you can run around in a tank top and shorts, you should not be too surprised that others in the home are hot.
  • Find a compromise with the thermostat. There’s a huge difference between 62 degrees and 78 degrees. Flip a coin and set the thermostat to the winner’s preferred temperature. Each day, increase or decrease the setting by one degree until it’s set at a level where you can both be comfortable.

If you can’t find a happy temperature for both of you and are still too hot, there are things to try that won’t even affect your partners. If you are too hot, try:

  • Taking a cold shower
  • Unplugging unused appliances and electronics and turn off lights if not in use. All these generate heat and also waste money
  • Going barefoot, especially if you have tile
  • Putting your pillowcase in the freezer 30 minutes before you lay down
  • Keeping curtains or blinds drawn during the day
  • Keeping ice in the freezer or drinks in the fridge

If you are cold try:

  • Snuggling up with a hot water bottle. This won’t last all night but will last through a movie
  • Wearing socks or slippers
  • If you dislike socks, try rugs
  • Taking a long hot bath
  • Applying weather stripping to doors and windows to eliminate drafts
  • Stocking up on coffee, tea, or hot chocolate
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