The Science of Sleep and Pendleton Bedding
What is right for you?
In the face of this January 2025 weather, you might be ready for a bedding upgrade. The question has traditionally been, wool or cotton? The answer is, both!
We all understand that wool is great at keeping you warm. Even the thinnest wool blanket keeps you comfortable, due to the amazing properties of wool.
As one of our customers told us, “I purchased a Glacier Park blanket in November, 2015. I have always had trouble staying warm while sleeping. Prior to owning a Pendleton blanket, I literally slept with two down comforters. Now I only sleep with this wool blanket. I have been totally blown away with how warm and comfortable it is. I cannot thank you folks enough, your blanket has resolved my sleeping issues."
But if you have the other problem – overheating at night due to hormonal changes, seasonal shifts, or simply your own biochemistry, wool can help you find relief. Wool is naturally effective at regulating temperature. This can make it the perfect choice for warm sleepers.
Is Wool the answer to your sleep woes?
Scientists have studied the temperature fluctuations of sleepers, and recommend a room temperature of 60 to 67 degrees Fahrenheit for optimum sleep. But that’s the room. What about under the covers, where the temperature can fluctuate by as much as 25 degrees?
Keep it Natural
The human body is engineered to keep itself at the correct temperature while asleep, so it’s important to choose bedding that supports the body’s natural processes. Always choose natural fibers: cotton mattress covers, 100% cotton sheets, duvets with down or wool fill and wool blankets. These natural materials insulate without too much heat buildup, thanks to airflow and humidity control.
Breathability
Balanced airflow is a key part of a sleep strategy. Natural fiber Pendleton bedding allows for movement of air, allowing the body to shed excess heat that builds up after entering a sleep cycle. High thread-count sheets are silky to the touch, but if woven too tightly, can block airflow. A down or down/wool duvet is an excellent source of insulation without weight. And a breathable wool blanket will help maintain the body’s natural temperature without overly increasing it.
Stay Dry
Humidity is another factor in sleep comfort. Newer synthetic fibers can be engineered to wick away moisture, but do not naturally release it the way wool does. If night sweats are a constant problem for a sleeper, a sheet and a Pendleton wool blanket might be the best choice. As the most absorbent fiber in nature, wool gathers and disperses the perspiration from a sleeping body, avoiding that muggy feeling in the warm months and that clammy feeling in winter.
Layer Up
And just as clothing layers are best in the cold months, dressing the bed in layers helps a sleeper customize comfort according to overnight temperature fluctuation. A cool room and natural fiber Pendleton bedding create the best conditions for a good night’s sleep.
So that’s our prescription for the best sleep ever. Sweet Dreams!
