Cold Feet in Bed? This Is What to Do

Cold feet in bed can be really annoying, especially when they lead to sleepless nights. The cause of cold feet is often related to blood circulation, and for women, hormones can also play a role in cold legs and feet at night. Because we believe everyone deserves a good night’s sleep, we’re happy to explain why you get cold feet — and, more importantly, how to get rid of them.

The Cause of Cold Feet in Bed

Blood Circulation

There isn’t just one cause of cold legs and feet in bed. Let’s start with blood circulation. When the temperature drops – something that often happens at night – your body reacts by directing warmth to the vital organs. To keep these organs warm, the body narrows small blood vessels, such as capillaries. This process is called vasoconstriction. The result? Ice-cold hands and feet instead of warm ones.

Hormonal Cycle

For women, hormones also play a major role in getting cold feet in bed – especially the hormone oestrogen. This hormone causes blood vessels in the hands and feet to narrow more quickly. As a result, the female body can retain more heat around the ovaries and uterus. These are vital organs, for example during pregnancy. It’s therefore not surprising that you may experience more or less cold feet at different moments in your cycle. Around ovulation and in the days leading up to it, oestrogen levels increase, which can make cold feet more noticeable.

Menopause

The menopause can also cause cold feet in bed. During this phase, oestrogen levels fluctuate, which can lead to hot flushes. You may suddenly feel very warm, seemingly out of nowhere. Afterwards, the body tries to cool down, for example by sweating. A cool breeze can then suddenly feel like mid-winter, and you may end up with very cold feet.

Tips Against Cold Feet in Bed

Whatever the cause of cold feet in bed, you’ll want to know as soon as possible what to do about them – so you can drift off to sleep comfortably again. That’s why we’re happy to share our tips against cold feet.

(Light) Exercise

A great solution? Cold feet are strongly influenced by blood circulation. That’s why movement is the best remedy. It helps get your circulation going again. No need to worry – running miles or doing an intense workout before bed isn’t necessary. A short walk or a few simple exercises are more than enough.

Choose the Right Duvet

You can also reduce cold feet in bed by choosing the right duvet. Real cold sleepers often opt for a winter duvet or an all-seasons duvet, so they stay warm all year round. Haven’t found your ideal duvet yet? We’re happy to help!

Look for Extra Warmth

Another great tip for cold feet: add some extra warmth at night. Think warm socks to keep cold feet at bay, and wear a cosy, comfortable pyjama. To take it one step further, warm up your bed with a hot water bottle before you get in. Yumeko’s hot water bottles are especially sustainable – made from durable, Fairtrade-certified natural rubber from Sri Lanka. Warm and eco-friendly.

A Foot Massage or Contrast Bath

A soothing foot massage works wonders for cold feet, as it stimulates blood circulation. A contrast bath – alternating between cold and warm water – also works well. Just a few minutes before bedtime is enough, and it’s wonderfully relaxing too. A double win!

Sources: Sleeplife, Nu.nl & Viata