As the temperatures rise and the summer sun makes its mark, many of us start tossing and turning under heavy duvets, waking up in a sweat, or struggling to sleep. Sound familiar? It may be time to rethink your bedding. Switching to a low 2.5 tog duvet during the warmer months can completely transform your sleep experience—and in the best way possible.
But what exactly is a low tog duvet, and why is it such a game-changer for summer nights? Let’s dive into the details, benefits, and how you can make the most out of your seasonal bedding swap.
What Is a Low Tog Duvet?
Before we explore the advantages, let’s get one thing straight: tog is a unit of measurement used to describe the thermal insulation of your duvet. The higher the tog rating, the warmer the duvet. A typical winter duvet is around 13.5 tog, while a summer duvet generally sits between 1.5 and 4.5.
So, a low-tog duvet (usually between 1.5 and 4.5 tog duvet) is perfect for warmer weather because it provides just enough warmth without causing overheating. It’s like sleeping with a soft cloud that doesn’t trap heat—ideal for those sticky summer nights.
Why Is Summer Sleep So Uncomfortable?
You’re not imagining it. Sleep during the summer can be more restless, and it’s all down to body temperature regulation. Our bodies naturally cool down at night to prepare for sleep. But this process is disrupted when the air around us is hot or our bedding is too heavy. That’s when we start waking up hot, dehydrated, and irritable.
Sweaty sheets, constant tossing and turning, and waking up feeling groggy are all signs that your bedding isn’t working with you. A low-tog duvet helps regulate your temperature better, ensuring your sleep environment supports you rather than hinders your rest.
The Benefits of Switching to a Low Tog Duvet
Better Temperature Regulation
Your body’s internal thermostat significantly affects how well you sleep. A low tog duvet allows air to circulate and keeps you cool, which can help you fall asleep faster and stay asleep longer.
Light and Breathable Comfort
There’s something incredibly comforting about feeling barely covered yet totally cosy. A low tog duvet offers a feather light feel without compromising comfort. It’s ideal for people who can’t sleep without some cover but don’t want to overheat.
Improved Sleep Quality
Low tog duvets reduce the risk of overheating, allowing your body to follow its natural sleep rhythm. This results in deeper, more restful sleep, fewer disturbances, and a better mood when you wake up.
Ideal for Allergy Sufferers
Many summer-weight duvets are made with hypoallergenic materials, making them a great choice if you struggle with hay fever or dust mite allergies. You can also pair your duvet with a quality mattress protector from Imperial Room to keep your bed fresh, clean, and allergen-free.
Energy Efficiency
Using a lower tog duvet means you’re less likely to rely on fans or air conditioners at night. This not only helps your sleep but also saves on your energy bills.
Choosing the Right Summer Duvet
When selecting a low tog duvet, there are a few key things to consider:
· Tog Rating: For most, a 4.5 tog duvet is a great place to start. If you're a naturally hot sleeper, go even lower.
· Material: Look for breathable and moisture-wicking fabrics like cotton or microfibre.
· Size and Fit: Make sure your duvet fits your bed perfectly. Too small and you’ll be tugging at it all night; too large and it may feel cumbersome.
Looking to refresh your bedroom for summer? Opt for lighter, breathable bedding like stripe duvet covers from Imperial Room. Not only do they help keep you cool, but they also add a clean, modern touch to your decor.
How Do I Know If I Need a Low-Tog Duvet?
Great question! Ask yourself:
- Do you wake up sweating during the night?
- Is your current duvet making you feel stuffy or suffocated?
- Do you kick off your duvet halfway through the night?
- Is your sleep lighter and more restless in summer?
If you’ve answered yes to any of these, it’s a clear sign that a low tog duvet could solve your summer sleep struggles.
What About Couples? Sharing a bed can complicate duvet preferences. One person might be freezing while the other is roasting. In these cases, having two separate duvets might be the best compromise. You could each choose a tog rating that suits your individual temperature needs. Another option? Try a duvet with a middle-ground tog rating (like 7 tog) if both of you are willing to meet in the middle.
For added softness and layering, a lightweight fleece blanket from Imperial Room can add a touch of comfort without increasing warmth too much.
How Often Should I Change My Duvet?
Duvets should generally be replaced every 5 years. However, if your summer duvet has lost shape, feels lumpy, or doesn’t effectively regulate your temperature, it might be time for a new one. Investing in high-quality bedding ensures you’re getting the sleep you deserve.
Caring for Your Low-Tog Duvet
Low-tog duvets are often easier to care for than their thicker counterparts. Most can be machine-washed at home—just make sure to check the care label. Let the duvet air dry thoroughly before placing it back on your bed to prevent mildew.
Use a printed duvet cover to keep your duvet fresher for longer. These covers protect your duvet and allow you to switch up your bedroom look whenever you like.
Pairing Your Duvet With the Right Sleep Accessories
If you want to embrace the benefits of a summer-ready bed fully, consider upgrading other elements too:
· Try breathable cotton sheets or bamboo bedding
· Invest in a pillow that offers support without trapping heat. Products like bounce pillow pairs can provide soft but springy support
· Choose light-coloured and moisture-wicking materials for your bedding to reduce heat retention
FAQs
What togs are best for summer in the UK?
A duvet with a tog rating between 1.5 and 4.5 is ideal for UK summers. It provides enough coverage without overheating you.
Can I use a low tog duvet all year round?
You can if you’re a naturally hot sleeper or live in a well-heated home. Otherwise, switching between low and high tog duvets seasonally is best.
Are low tog duvets washable?
Yes, most low tog duvets can be washed at home. Always check the care label to be sure.
What’s the difference between natural and synthetic low tog duvets?
Natural duvets (like those filled with feather or down) are usually more breathable, while synthetic ones are hypoallergenic and often more affordable.
How do I store my winter duvet during summer?
Clean it first, then store it in a cool, dry, breathable bag. Avoid vacuum-packing feather or down duvets as this can damage the filling.
Final Thoughts: Is It Really Worth Switching?
Absolutely. Your sleep quality is worth investing in, and a low tog duvet is one of the easiest, most effective ways to ensure cool, comfortable rest during warmer months. You will wake up feeling refreshed, and your nights will be far more relaxing.
So swap out that thick winter quilt, treat yourself to breathable bedding, and enjoy the airy comfort that only a low-tog duvet can bring. Explore the Imperial Room’s breathable bedding accessories for added luxury, including printed duvet covers, bounce pillow pairs, and mattress protectors.
