Although some people might find it odd, it has been proven to work, as evidenced by research and is advocated as an insomnia cure.

The Sleep Foundation asserts that wearing socks to bed facilitates the process of distal vasodilation, which involves an increase in blood flow to the hands and feet and subsequently reduces core body temperature.

As a part of the sleep readiness process, the body generates melatonin hormone that brings down the core body temperature. 

Wearing socks before sleeping helps expedite the cooling of the core body temperature.

The Sleep Foundation has verified that elevating blood circulation and warming the feet, be it via socks or other techniques, can speed up the onset of sleep. 

One study revealed that individuals who utilized socks or other foot-warming approaches not only fell asleep faster but also reported longer sleep durations. 

Researchers from Seoul National University in South Korea supported the idea that wearing socks to bed can benefit those who have difficulty sleeping.

For the study, six men of comparable age, height, and body weight were selected, and they slept with and without socks.

The study was conducted at a consistent environmental air temperature of 23C. Wrist actigraphy was employed to evaluate sleep quality over a seven-hour period.

Additional metrics assessed included the time taken to fall asleep, the percentage of time spent asleep, the total duration of sleep, the frequency of awakenings, and the duration of waking time after sleep onset.

The findings indicated that individuals wearing bed socks fell asleep, on average, 7.5 minutes faster than those who didn’t. Bed sock wearers also slept for an additional 32 minutes and had better sleep efficiency.

The findings of the study “imply that sleep quality could be improved by manipulation of the foot temperature throughout sleeping,” the authors concluded.

Does it work with any kind of sock?

According to the Sleep Foundation, choose socks that are loose enough to allow for healthy blood circulation and stay away from compression socks.

Also, choose socks that wick away moisture to prevent bacterial growth.

Choose socks made of natural materials like cotton, wool, or cashmere if you find that wearing bed socks helps you sleep better.

“Bed Socks” are made to be worn while sleeping, says the group.

“They are loose, thick, and also prevent moisture and bacteria from growing. You can find them easily online.”

It did, however, issue a warning that if you have circulation problems or swollen feet, sleeping in socks may not be the best idea.

Be careful if you have a medical condition that makes it more likely that your feet won’t get the blood flow they require.

If this is you, you should talk to your doctor before putting on bed socks.

Image Credit: Getty