It’s no secret that fresh air makes for a good night’s sleep. According to the National Sleep Foundation, its 2013 annual poll revealed that 78 percent of Americans regarded fresh air as being more conducive to sleeping well.

And getting that fresh air usually means opening a window. The question is, should you?

That depends. Studies show that inside air is more polluted than outside air, and many people crack their windows open, even in winter, to let fresh air in. A cooler bedroom, at around 67 degrees, results in better sleep, but you don’t want to open your window too far in winter or you risk getting sick, as well as running up your heating bill.

If you live in a highly industrialized area, you might be better off leaving the windows closed and using an air conditioner or air filter in your home.

Also, on a really humid day, leaving the window open will probably result in an uncomfortable sleep.

Additionally, if you have seasonal allergies, health experts advise against opening windows at night because pollen and other allergens can leave you with a stuffy nose and watery eyes in the morning. There is one way to sleep with your bedroom windows open, say experts, and that is right after a rain which washes the pollen away temporarily.

Unfortunately, crime is also a consideration. If you live in a high-crime area, you probably won’t want to sleep with your windows open, especially if your bedroom is on the first floor.

So, if you’re not allergic to pollen, if you live in an industry-free and crime-free area, and you love the fresh air of the great outdoors, throw open that window and snooze away.

Visit a Verlo Mattress showroom in McHenry, Crystal Lake & Lake Geneva.

Call 800.224.VERLO or visit Verlo Mattress Factory