Can't Sleep? Try These Three Window Tricks

Posted on: 29 January 2015

If you're having trouble getting a good night's sleep, chances are your windows are partially to blame. Whether you're trying to sleep during the day or night, windows let in light, noise, and radiant heat. This guide will explain easy ways to reduce these three things just by adding things to your existing windows.

1. Noise-Blocking Film

Do you have noisy neighbors, nearby street traffic or another source of annoying noise near your home that keeps you awake? Until new prototype devices that block environmental noise are ready to go, try using noise-reducing film on your windows.

Noise-proof windows are expensive and require completely replacing your existing windows with new ones. Noise-blocking film, on the other hand, is affordable and can be applied by you or a professional. Sound vibrates more easily through the thin glass in windows than your walls, and this film provides an extra layer that helps to prevent the vibrations that allow sound to pass through.

2. Reflective Shades

Another common problem is exposure to excessive heat while you're trying to sleep. Ceiling fans and lightweight bedding can help, but stopping the heat from entering your home at the source is even better.

Many manufacturers now make attractive and affordable window shades that have a reflective surface on the side facing the window. This surface helps to refract the sun's rays, preventing radiant heat from penetrating the window and heating up your room.

3. Light-Blocking Curtains

Finally, if you'd like to block these sleep-harming elements almost entirely or just want to get it done in one step, consider light-blocking curtains.T

One of the leading causes of poor sleep or not enough sleep is exposure to light. When you're in the dark, your brain produces melatonin, a natural substance that helps to lull you into a deep, restful sleep. However, if you're exposed to light, the brain responds by shutting off the production of melatonin, resulting in you waking up or being unable to sleep in the first place. Even a street lamp near your home can potentially produce enough light to keep you from sleeping deeply at night.

Light-blocking curtains are the best way to keep this light from disturbing you. The curtains go over your window and shades, and the majority of them promise to block 99% of light and UV radiation. With curtains like these, your room will look as dark as night during the middle of the day, so they're great at night or for daytime naps.

In addition, some varieties of light-blocking curtains claim to be able to block up to 40% of environmental noise and 25% of heat coming in from outdoors, which makes them a great final touch to having a perfect night's sleep.

Remember, artificial light and sound can be just as disruptive to your sleep as outdoor sources. Turn off your digital devices before bed so you don't wake up your brain with digital stimulation, and enjoy a good night's sleep with these tips. For more information or help, contact a company like Homeplace Decorating to learn more.

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