What is the Ideal Room Temperature?
Making sure your room is at the right temperature is key for health, comfort, sleep, and productivity. The right temperature can:
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Regulate your body’s core functions
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Support healthy sleep patterns
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Boost your immune system
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Improve focus and productivity
So, what temperature should your home, workplace, or baby’s room be? Let’s find out.
What is Room Temperature?
Room temperature usually means the typical indoor temperature where people feel comfortable – around 20–22 °C (68–72 °F).
It’s also a handy reference point in cooking, science, and everyday life when no exact temperature is required.
What is the Ideal Room Temperature?
The ideal room temperature depends on the room and who’s using it. Around 20 °C is a good all-round target.
Ideal Room Temperatures by Room
Living rooms: 20–22 °C (comfortable for relaxing)
Bedrooms: 16–18 °C (cooler promotes better sleep)
Kitchens: 18–20 °C (cooking generates heat)
Bathrooms: 22–24 °C (warmer for post-shower comfort)
Offices/Workspaces: 20–22 °C (great for productivity)
Hallways/Entryways: 15–18 °C (less heating needed)
Baby’s room: 16–20 °C (safer, cooler sleep)
Babies and Older Adults
Baby’s room: Keep between 16–20 °C to prevent overheating and promote healthy sleep.
Older adults: Rooms should be 21 °C or warmer, as they are more vulnerable to the cold. Read our care home temperature guide.
Ideal Workplace Temperatures
While there’s no law setting exact workplace temperatures, guidance suggests:
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At least 16 °C (or 13 °C for physical work).
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Around 20 °C is considered comfortable for most healthy adults.
Employers must also provide fresh air and keep conditions comfortable. Read our office temperature guide.
What is the Ideal Room Humidity?
Temperature isn’t the only factor – humidity matters too.
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Ideal indoor humidity: 30–60%.
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Too high (>60%): risk of mould and dust mites.
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Too low (<30%): dry skin, sore throats, and nasal irritation.
Tip: Use a therma-hygrometer to check both temperature and humidity. Learn more about room humidity.
How to Check Room Temperature
Use a room thermometer for the most accurate reading. Options include:
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Analogue thermometers – budget-friendly but less precise.
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Digital thermometers – accurate, easy to read, often with colour-coded scales.
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Therma-hygrometers – measure both temperature and humidity.
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Instant-read food thermometers – quick spot checks in a pinch.
Place your thermometer centrally at eye level, away from windows, doors, or direct sunlight. Read our guide to room thermometers.
Tips for Maintaining the Ideal Room Temperature
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Set a thermostat – aim for 16–22 °C depending on the room.
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Monitor conditions – use a room thermometer or hygrometer.
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Use fans/heaters safely – adjust temperatures without overheating.
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Ventilate – open windows or use extractor fans in kitchens/bathrooms.
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Curtains and blinds – block sun in summer, let warmth in during winter.
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Insulation – keep heat in during winter and out in summer.
Summary: The Best Room Temperature for Comfort and Health
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20 °C is a great all-round room temperature.
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Bedrooms should be cooler (16–18 °C) for better sleep.
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Babies need 16–20 °C, while older adults should stay at 21 °C+.
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Humidity should sit between 30–60% for optimal health.
The easiest way to maintain comfort is with a therma-hygrometer – it tells you when to turn the heating up, crack a window, or pull the curtains.
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Top 5 Room Thermometers for Saving Energy
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