Should You Wear Underwear to Bed?

Almost as infamous as the boxers vs. briefs debate, comes the question, “Should you wear underwear to bed?”. Some prefer the comfort and protection of their favourite pair, while others opt to sleep commando.

Which option is best? Well, it all comes down to personal preference. But we’ll shed light on some important health factors and help you weigh up what you should (or shouldn't) be wearing to bed.

Why Does it Really Matter?

Apart from startling the neighbours if you’ve got to dash outside in the middle of the night, does it really matter what you wear to bed? Turns out, yes... more than you might think.

Your sweat glands don’t shut off just because you’re asleep. And when you’re wrapped up in warm sheets with no airflow down there, that damp environment can cause issues over time. Unfortunately, not every pair of underwear is made with bedtime in mind and many non-breathable fabrics can cause irritation.

Whether you’re rocking breathable cotton briefs, loose-fitting boxers, or going full bedtime commando, your night-time gear plays a role in your overall health, comfort, and hygiene.

The Pros and Cons of Sleeping Naked

Thinking about ditching the undies and going full-on commando under the sheets? There are definitely some benefits to sleeping in the buff, but it's not all sunshine and rainbows.

If you’re prone to overheating at night, sleeping naked can help regulate your body temperature. Without layers of clothing, your body can cool down naturally, making it easier to fall asleep and stay asleep. If you’re a hot sleeper, this can be a game-changer.

However, if you live in a colder climate or during those chilly winter months, sleeping without any clothing can leave you feeling cold and uncomfortable. Bedtime comfort depends on your room temperature, so if it’s too cold, you might need to rethink the no-clothes option and go for at least a light layer.

If you’re prone to sweating at night, going to bed commando means more sweat on your sheets. Without the barrier of underwear, your body’s natural oils, sweat, and any bodily fluids will come into direct contact with your sheets. This could lead to more frequent laundry and potentially a build-up of dirt or bacteria in your bedding.

Bedtime Basics for the Blokes

When answering if you should be wearing men’s underwear to bed, it depends on your comfort, your undies, and your sweat levels.

Wearing tight-fitting underwear might seem like a good idea if you’re all about support, but wearing tight or non-breathable underwear to bed can actually cause more harm than good. Why? Because it can trap moisture. This can lead to issues like jock itch, skin irritation, and even bacterial or fungal growth. Not exactly the stuff of sweet dreams.

Breathable cotton boxers or boxer briefs are a great option if you’re not quite ready to go full commando. They give you a bit of support without the squashing and sweaty mess. Just make sure they’re clean and loose-fitting.

And then we have the old birthday suit. Some guys prefer to sleep naked, and hey, more power to you. This allows the skin around your nether regions to breathe and can help reduce the risk of irritation and unwanted odours. Just make sure your bed sheets are fresh (no one wants to roll around in yesterday’s dirt or bodily fluids).

Bedtime Basics for the Ladies

And for the women? When it comes to women’s underwear, first things first: tight or nonbreathable underwear isn’t doing you any favours overnight. Fabrics like nylon, polyester, or lace might look lovely, but they can trap moisture and create a warm, damp environment that bacterial growth and yeast love. This can increase your risk of vaginal infections, skin irritation, and even ingrown hairs around your genital area.

Got sensitive skin? Opt for full-coverage cotton underwear that’s soft, stretchy, and lets the air flow. Avoid synthetic materials that retain moisture. If you don't want to feel restricted, choose boy shorts or loose fitting boxers.

Whether you're into wearing a soft cotton crop top, your favourite matching undies, full coverage underwear or nothing at all, it really comes down to what makes you feel good.

To Wear or Not to Wear Underwear

That is the real question.

At the end of the day, whether you choose to overnight undergarments to bed or sleep sans underwear is entirely up to you. Try to stick to the basic rules and avoid wearing tight underwear that restricts circulation and choose breathable materials, but apart from that, what you wear is your own personal choice.

Everyone has their own preferences, and what works for one person might not work for another. The most important thing is to listen to your body. Wear what you are comfortable with. A good night’s sleep is about feeling relaxed and refreshed in your own skin, so find the option that works best for you! There is no wrong answer here.

Find the best pair of undies that help you sleep the night through and give you that little extra Swag when you get out of bed in the morning.