Sleeping with a fan: what are the health risks?

Duringhot spells, it’s tempting to use a fan to cool the air in the bedroom and make it easier to fall asleep.

However, several studies reveal that sleeping with a fan on can present health risks, albeit generally benign.

In this article, we present the main dangers of using a fan while you sleep, and the precautions you can take to limit these risks.

In short, the Williwaw is the best fan option in the bedroom, carrying with it the promise of a peaceful sleep and a night that’s cool but never too cool!

1. Sinusitis, irritation and headaches

Whena fan circulates the air in the room, dust and pollen enter your sinuses. If you’re prone to allergies, asthma or hay fever, this could cause problems.

What’s more, the constant diffusion of dry air could affect your sinuses and cause extreme dryness.

To try to relieve them, your body may produce more mucus, which can lead to a blocked nose and headaches.

2. Drying of skin, mouth, throat, eyes and nasal cavity

The constant blast of air also tends to dry out the skin, mouth, eyes and nasal cavity, if the fan stays on all night. It’s important to have a fan connected so you can set a timer to avoid this.

This drying-out can lead to irritation, redness and itching. Contact lens wearers are particularly at risk.

3. Contamination and germ dispersal

Airmovement inevitably disperses germs, which can lead to contamination of your partner, especially in the case of couples.

So it’s important to take precautions to prevent the spread of germs and disease.

4. Cramps and torticollis

Thecontinuous diffusion of fresh air tends to contract the muscles.

This can lead to cramps or stiff neck when you wake up, especially if the fan is directed at you.

Once again, it’s important to opt for a fan that switches itself off if the temperature drops sufficiently.

5. Risks for the elderly

A2016 study showed that fans had a particularly harmful effect on the elderly.

Ventilated air raises body temperature, which can lead to dehydration and health problems in the elderly.

Precautions to take when sleeping with a fan

However, an air conditioner is an EXTREMELY expensive and environmentally unfriendly option.

Although sleeping with a fan can pose health risks, there are a number of precautions you can take to limit these dangers:

1. Move the fan away from you and avoid fixing it straight on you. Williwaw’s automatic oscillation lets you do this directly from the app.
2. Always keep the fan on when the rotation function is activated.
3. Sleep with a glass of water nearby, in case of dehydration.
4. Remove contact lenses before going to bed.

In conclusion, sleeping with a ventilator can present health risks, including sinusitis, irritation, headaches, dry skin, eyes and nasal cavity, as well as cramps and torticollis.

However, by taking certain precautions, it is possible to limit these dangers and enjoy restful sleep during hot spells.

Why is the Williwaw THE fan for cool, peaceful nights?

A good night-time fan should be quiet, energy-efficient and effective at cooling the room.

Here are a few features to consider when choosing a fan suitable for night-time use:

1. Noise level: To avoid disrupting sleep, it’s important to choose a quiet fan, i.e. one with a noise level of no more than 40 dB. The Williwaw has a “night” option, which corresponds to the lowest speed and produces a noise level of around 33 dB(A), compared with the 40-45 dB(A) of competitors’ night mode.

2. Energy consumption: A fan designed for all-night use doesn’t have to be an energy guzzler. Quiet fans generally consume between 20 and 45 watts, and once again the Williwaw is the clear winner, as its lowest speed consumes just 5 watts!
3. Features: Some features may be useful for night-time use, such as a timer to program operating times, a remote control to operate the fan without moving, or a full 360° rotation for a complete sweep of the room. To date, only the Williwaw also offers a thermostat mode to trigger or stop air blowing at certain temperature thresholds. In short, you’ll enjoy a welcome feeling of freshness, but never a cold draught.

In short, a good night-time fan should be quiet, energy-efficient, effective and adapted to your needs and budget.