Ask Wirecutter: Sharing a Bed

Annemarie ConteReporting for Wirecutter 🛌

I’m Wirecutter’s deputy editor, and I’m here to answer your questions about how to buy, use or maintain stuff.

A reader asks, on the topic of sharing a bed: “My partner sleeps hot and I sleep cold. We seem to be at an impasse.” →

Ask Wirecutter: Sharing a Bed

Annemarie ConteReporting for Wirecutter 🛌

There are a few ways to divide and conquer so that both of you sleep soundly. Let’s start with the hot sleeper.

Start by having that person sleep on the side of the bed that’s closest to an open window or air conditioner.

Ask Wirecutter: Sharing a Bed

Annemarie ConteReporting for Wirecutter 🛌

A quiet fan or air circulator, such as the Vornado 460 Small Air Circulator, can give just the right amount of cooling breeze. Point it at the hot sleeper at the lowest setting. The fan creates soothing white noise, too.

Ask Wirecutter: Sharing a Bed

Annemarie ConteReporting for Wirecutter 🛌

As for the cold sleeper, try adding a space heater to create a hot zone. A weighted blanket can also help.

They might help some people sleep better by applying pressure — and they’re warm and cozy.

Ask Wirecutter: Sharing a Bed

Annemarie ConteReporting for Wirecutter 🛌

There are currently some pandemic-related supply-chain issues, but if you can, get Wirecutter’s favorite heated mattress pad from Sunbeam. It’s dual-zoned, so you can turn on just one side for the colder partner.

Ask Wirecutter: Sharing a Bed

Annemarie ConteReporting for Wirecutter 🛌

For a simple solution, put on a pair of socks.

Wearing socks to bed will warm you up, and studies have indicated that socks may also help you fall asleep faster and sleep longer.

Interested in learning more about sleep? Read more at Wirecutter.