The Science of Sleep and Choosing the Right Bedding

In 2017, the neuroscience world witnessed a pivotal shift in understanding the intricacies of sleep when Matthew Walker published his groundbreaking book, "Why We Sleep." Through meticulous research, Walker unraveled that sleep is not just a mere necessity but a vital component for our overall well-being, emotional balance, and physical health. The revelations pointed to an alarming truth: falling short of the recommended 8-hour nightly sleep quota could heighten our susceptibility to various ailments and potentially trim years off our life.

But how does one consistently attain this golden 8-hour sleep standard in today's fast-paced, distraction-filled world? The foundation lies not just in bedtime discipline—like adhering to regular sleep timings, minimizing screen exposure, ensuring optimal room temperature, or steering clear of sleep disruptors like alcohol and caffeine. An often overlooked yet crucial element is the very fabric we wrap ourselves in—our bedding.

The Fabric Feud: Polyester vs. Cotton

Think about it. Every night, for hours on end, our skin remains in intimate contact with our bed linen. Thus, the type of fabric our bedding is crafted from can significantly sway the sleep scale either towards a night of rejuvenation or one marked by constant tossing and turning.

Enter the age-old debate: Polyester vs. Cotton.

Polyester, a by-product of petroleum, is a marvel of modern textile technology. It's durable, water-repellent, and wrinkle-resistant. But herein lies its Achilles' heel. The very property that makes polyester repel water means it resists absorbing sweat too. The outcome? A night spent under polyester sheets could leave you waking up feeling clammy and trapped in a moisture cocoon.

Cotton, on the other hand, proudly waves the flag of nature. Its inherent quality of being breathable sets it apart. As a natural fiber, cotton effortlessly wicks moisture away, allowing sweat vapor to pass through, thus lowering the humidity between your body and the sheet. The end result? A refreshing, cool sensation enveloping you, setting the stage for a serene night's slumber.

Sleep is a non-negotiable biological necessity

Sleep, as Walker emphasized, is not a luxury; it's a non-negotiable biological necessity. And when it comes to optimizing this crucial third of our lives, leaving no stone unturned includes making informed choices about our bedding. In the contest between polyester and cotton, the latter clearly emerges as the champion for those in quest of sleep nirvana. Choose cotton bedding, and gift yourself the superior sleep experience you rightfully deserve.

July 16, 2020 — Flaxfield Linen

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