Cooling Bedding and Apparel 101: Phase Changing, Evaporative, and Temperature Regulating

Outlast Temperature Regulating Sheet SetWhen you browse for bedding and cooling apparel at the CozyWinters website, you’ll notice that we carry three types of products: phase changing, evaporative, and temperature regulating. While all three perform the same cooling function, the process by which they do this is different. Let’s take a look at how each type works.

Evaporative cooling

Evaporative cooling products are made of highly absorbent, multilayered fabric composed of special cooling crystals or polymers. When soaked in water for a few minutes and then gently wrung out, the cooling crystals are activated. This begins a natural process whereby the liquid water evaporates and produces a cooling effect. Some examples of evaporative cooling apparel include bandanas, vests, and caps.

Temperature regulating bedding

Temperature regulating bedding, such as the Outlast line of mattress pads, blankets and comforters we carry at CozyWinters, uses phase change materials to absorb and redistribute body heat while you sleep. As your body warms, the PCMs soak up and store the heat. When your body begins to cool again, the PCMs release some of the stored heat to return your body temperature to equilibrium. Originally developed for NASA, this technology allows for year round comfort tailored to your individual heating or cooling requirements.

Phase changing

Phase changing garments derive their cooling power from vacuum-sealed inserts containing nontoxic oils and fats. When cooled or frozen for an hour prior to use, these phase change materials (PCMs) help absorb and dissipate body heat, which allows the wearer to keep a more constant temperature and thus feel cooler in summer. Many forms of cooling apparel, including sports vests and neck bands, utilize this phase change function.

Whether you prefer evaporative, temperature regulating or phase changing bedding and apparel for your cooling needs, you can find it at CozyWinters. Visit our site today to check out all of the hats, jackets, vests, neck bands, mattress pads, blankets, comforters, and pillows you can use to stay cool all summer long.