The Truth About Sleeping Near a Fan in the Midwest

Many people like to sleep with a fan on in their bedroom, but does it actually improve sleep, and are there any health risks?

I've been in the habit of sleeping with a running fan in my bedroom for as long as I can remember. In fact, when I'm traveling, I have to play fan noise on my phone in order to fall asleep. I honestly don't remember why I started sleeping near a fan, but it's become a part of my sleeping routine that I doubt I'll ever be able to break. However, according to mattress manufacturer Isense, there are some benefits to doing so.

Why Do People Sleep with a Fan On?

Sleeping near a running fan can help maintain a comfortable sleep environment. Not only does the fan provide a cool breeze on a warm summer night, but it also keeps air moving, resulting in a fresh atmosphere. Additionally, as I mentioned before, fans provide white noise through their soft humming sound. The constant noise from the fan helps block out other sounds and drowns out any sleep disturbances. All of these factors combined can make for a great night's sleep.

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Does Sleeping with a Fan On Pose Risks?

While sleeping with a fan provides several benefits, there are some disadvantages, as highlighted by Isense. For one, sleeping with a fan on can trigger allergies because it circulates dust, pollen, and other allergens into the air. If you already have allergies or asthma, sleeping with a fan may worsen your symptoms. As someone with horrible allergies who often wakes up sneezing, I can confirm that this is true. Luckily, you can combat this by regularly dusting your bedroom or sleeping near an air purifier.

Additionally, the air that circulates from the fan can make your mouth, nose, and throat feel dry, which can cause congestion. Further, sleeping with a fan on can dry out your eyes and skin, as the constant flow of air from the fan can cause moisture loss. To minimize these effects, you can try using a rotating fan, setting a timer, or keeping a larger distance between the fan and the bed. Air humidifiers can also help keep moisture in the air. In essence, you don't have to give up your fan; just take the proper precautions.