Let’s be honest—summer in Spain is glorious, but sleeping through it? That’s another story. Sweltering nights, sticky sheets, and a mattress that suddenly feels like a radiator? No, thanks.
So what should you actually be sleeping on (and under) when the temperatures soar? Whether you’re furnishing your own home or prepping a rental for guests, making the right choices in summer bedding and mattresses can mean the difference between tossing and turning or waking up genuinely rested.
This isn’t about luxury. It’s about logic. Breathability. Durability. And making your bedroom work with the climate, not against it.
Let’s Talk Mattresses First
You can have the breeziest linen sheets in the world, but if your mattress traps heat, you’re not going to sleep well.
So what matters most in summer?
- Breathable construction. Memory foam gets a bad rep for trapping heat, but newer designs with gel layers or perforated zones can offer airflow. If you’re especially sensitive, latex mattresses are naturally cooler.
- Hybrid designs. Combining foam with springs means better airflow. Springs keep things circulating. Foam adds comfort. It’s the best of both worlds—without the sweat.
- Natural materials. Organic cotton covers, wool layers, or coconut fibre padding might sound niche, but they help regulate temperature and wick away moisture.
Buying tip: If you’re shopping for a rental, go with medium-firm hybrids. They suit most body types and sleep styles—and they breathe better than cheap foam.
Toppers: Worth It in Summer?
Actually, yes toppers are worth it in the summer. But it depends on the type.
- Gel-infused memory foam can help cool down older mattresses.
- Natural latex toppers offer a bit of bounce and breathability.
- Wool toppers are temperature-regulating—cool in summer, warm in winter.
Avoid anything quilted with heavy padding. You want comfort, not insulation.
Sheets and Covers: Choose Like a Local
If you’ve just moved from a cooler country, this might surprise you: in many Spanish homes, people ditch the duvet altogether in summer.
So what should you be sleeping under?
- A lightweight top sheet. That’s often enough.
- A cotton or linen blanket for when the breeze picks up.
- No duvet, or a summer-weight one (4.5 tog) if you absolutely need something more substantial.
Material matters:
- Linen: Crisp, breathable, ideal for hot climates.
- Cotton percale: Cool to the touch, easy to care for.
- Bamboo: Soft, temperature-regulating, and a little more luxe.
Stick with whites or light tones. They look fresh and don’t show sun fading or washing wear as easily.
Pillows: Cool Heads, Better Sleep
You’d be amazed how much heat is retained just in your pillow. If you’re waking up clammy at the base of your neck or tossing it off the bed in frustration, this is the place to start.
- Memory foam pillows with cooling gel layers can make a real difference.
- Feather or down alternatives tend to trap more heat.
- Latex pillows are naturally cool and hold their shape well.
Always use a pillow protector—preferably cotton—to wick away moisture and extend the pillow’s life.
Protectors and Practical Layers
Even in summer, you don’t want to skip the protector. Just be picky.
- Choose breathable, waterproof materials (yes, both are possible).
- Avoid thick quilted styles that add unnecessary heat.
- Make sure it fits snugly so it doesn’t bunch up under you.
Protectors not only guard against sweat and spills—they help the mattress stay cooler by creating a more hygienic surface.
Guest Rooms and Rentals: Think Layers and Launderability
Furnishing a rental or holiday home? Here’s where things get specific.
- Have spare sets. In summer, you need at least two full changes per bed.
- Skip heavy throws and decorative pillows. They look great in photos but often end up on the floor.
- Go washable. Everything from the mattress protector to pillowcases should be machine-friendly.
- Consider zip-link mattresses for flexibility between singles and doubles.
And remember: comfort doesn’t have to be expensive. It has to be thoughtful.
The Unexpected MVP (Most Valuable Player): The Ceiling Fan
Okay, not technically bedding, but worth mentioning.
If you don’t have air conditioning in every room, a well-placed ceiling fan can make a huge difference. It helps air circulate above the bed and stops that trapped heat feeling that builds up through the night.
Combine that with breathable linens and a cooler mattress, and you’re halfway to a decent night’s sleep.
Final Thought: Sleep With the Season
The goal in summer isn’t just staying cool. It’s staying asleep. That means anticipating how the heat affects your body—and giving it the materials, textures, and support it needs to recover.
If you’re not sure where to start, or your current setup just isn’t working, come chat with us at The Bed Centre. We won’t talk in jargon or push products you don’t need. We’ll just help you find what works for real summer sleep—in Spain, in July, and in a bed you actually look forward to.
