Another steamy Singapore night, and the thought of sleep feels more like a battle than a break? You’re not alone. With May often bringing those sweltering 30-degree nights, many of us are tossing and turning, wondering how to get decent kip without blasting the aircon (and our wallets!). So, how do we stay cool and actually rest when our HDB flat feels like an oven?
SG Nights: The Heat Is On
It’s official, Singapore’s nights are getting warmer, especially as we head into months like May. We all know that feeling – the air is thick, the fan just circulates warm air, and a good night’s sleep feels impossible. Science tells us the human body rests best at around 24-25 degrees Celsius, a far cry from the recent 30-degree reality many experience. While some Singaporeans have acclimatised or find a simple fan sufficient, many are actively seeking ways to cope without relying solely on air-conditioning, whether for cost, environmental reasons, or simply not having a unit in every room.
“The nights are getting warmer as we head into the month of May. As you may already know the human body can only rest optimally at night at 24 – 25 degrees.”
“I have aircon but i sleep without it at night. I don’t wake up sweating or anything, maybe I’m just used to it. It’s really not that hot at night lol a normal fan would suffice.”
Why So Uncomfy, Lah?
So, what makes these warm nights so unbearable? It’s not just the temperature on the thermometer. In Singapore, the real enemy is often the humidity. That sticky, clammy feeling isn’t just in your head; it’s the moisture in the air making you feel hotter and more uncomfortable than the actual temperature might suggest. This can lead to restless nights, waking up in a pool of sweat, and generally poor sleep quality. For some, like those recovering from illness, this lack of comfortable rest can be even more detrimental, hindering recovery. The expectation of a cool, restful night clashes sharply with the reality of a humid, stuffy bedroom.
“Most of the time, you feel uncomfortable cause you feel sticky. Its not due to the temperature but rather the moisture in the air "melting" on your body.”
“Being unwell and waking up in sweat isn’t helping anyone trying to recover.”
Cool Hacks for Hot Nights
Don’t sweat it! Fellow Singaporeans have shared some brilliant, practical ways to combat the heat without an aircon. The game-changer for many? A dehumidifier. By tackling the moisture, it makes the air feel significantly cooler and less sticky. Another popular tip is strategic fan placement – a ceiling fan directly above you, or even a well-aimed standing fan, can make a huge difference. While a portable aircon is an option, these simpler tricks can provide considerable relief and help you reclaim your sleep.
“get a dehumidifier…Dehumidifier removes the moisture in the air, making it more comfortable as an aircon since they work the same way (removing moisture)”
“Ceiling fans are the answer and you need to place them directly above you. You can also get a dehumidifier to reduce the humidity or a portable aircon.”
- Other quick tips from the community include sleeping topless or taking a cool shower before hitting the sack.
While Singapore’s tropical climate means warm nights are a given, you don’t have to resign yourself to sleeplessness. With a few smart adjustments and by learning from what works for others, you can create a more comfortable sleep environment. Sweet dreams, Singapore!
