Whether you’re a fan of matching PJs, a simple cotton nightie or something a bit more lux, there’s nothing like a new set of pajamas that makes you feel refreshed and put together as you slip under the covers for ZZZ’s. Especially during the hot summer months, it’s even more important to choose sleepwear that will keep you cool and comfortable as you slumber. That’s why we scoured our Good Housekeeping Institute Textiles Lab and worked with consumer testers to find the best cooling pajamas for women.
During our tests, we found that the most effective PJs use either natural fibers like pima cotton and bamboo viscose, which are breathable and help wick moisture away from your body, or semi-synthetic fabrics like modal and rayon, which also have a cool, drapey texture. We also looked for breathable fabrics with plenty of stretch to move with you as you lay down for the night and a soft feel that will make you want to wear your PJs out and about.
Our top picks include a short sleeve modal jersey pajama set from Amazon Essentials and an Eberjey-inspired PJ dupe set made with buttery-soft and cool-to-the-touch modal jersey fabric that can be worn all year round. Other cool PJ options include this flannel pair with a drawstring waist and button-front top and this merino wool blend set with contrasting piping trim, which both testers and consumers raved about for their softness and breathability.
There’s nothing more calming than drifting off to sleep in these luxuriously soft silk PJs from Lilysilk. They’re sustainably and ethically produced and meet OEKO-TEX Standard 100 requirements, which means they’re free of harmful chemicals. If you’re not quite ready to splurge on silk but still want a luxury sleepwear set, this long-staple premium organic pima cotton version has a notch-collar top and pull-on shorts that are the definition of comfy. We also love this vintage-inspired lace trimmed chemise from Barefoot Dreams, which is sustainably and ethically produced and meets OEKO-TEX Standard 100 requirements as well. womens short sleeve pajama set