Getting a good night’s sleep is crucial for mental and physical health, but many overlook how their sleep environment impacts quality rest. One commonly used aid, the fan, can sometimes interfere with deep, restorative sleep.
Experts suggest ideal bedroom temperatures between 60° to 67°F (15° to 19°C) to help the body naturally cool down for sleep. Fans blow air around the room but do not lower the temperature, which can cause discomfort if the air becomes too cold or dries out skin and mucous membranes.
Sleep quality suffers because the body’s core temperature needs to drop for deep sleep stages, and noisy or drafty rooms can cause restless nights. Additionally, fans circulate dust and allergens that can aggravate allergies and congestion.
For those who enjoy fan noise, alternatives include white noise machines, humidifiers, or air purifiers that provide soothing soundscapes without temperature disruption or dry air.