The afternoon when the room gets warm

Short answer: Sun through the windows and people in the room raise the temperature by three to five degrees over the day. That is why a layer you can take off matters more than one that keeps you warm.

The sun warms through the glass

A south facing room can rise five degrees in an afternoon, even in winter. It happens gradually, so you notice only once you are already sweating. Then the outer layer has to come off, and a bamboo tank top for men underneath is enough. It keeps you dry and can stay on as things cool.

People add heat too

Each person gives off around a hundred watts, and in a meeting room you feel it within half an hour. A meeting with many people can turn a cool room warm before the agenda is halfway through. A thin layer such as bamboo sweatpants for men is easier to adjust when you work from home.

Feet get warm too

In a warm room your feet sweat first, and you feel it in your shoes. It is uncomfortable and makes long meetings restless. A pair of bamboo socks for men that move moisture solves it, so your feet stay dry even as the afternoon drags on.

Dress for the whole day in the morning

Mornings are cool and afternoons warm. It is easy to dress for the morning alone. Think about the whole day instead, and choose layers that come off as the room warms up. A thin inner layer and an outer layer that is easy to remove give you room to adjust all day.

Take the layer off in time

It is tempting to wait until you are really warm before removing a layer. By then your skin is already damp, and it takes time to recover. Take the layer off as soon as you sense it is getting too warm. That way you stay dry and feel better for the rest of the afternoon.

A thin layer is easiest to adjust

Thick jumpers are either too warm or necessary. Thin layers give you more options. You can take one off without getting cold and put it back on when the sun moves behind the building. Choose an inner layer comfortable enough to wear on its own.

Get some air during breaks

If you cannot open a window while working, use your breaks. Step outside or stand by an open door for a few minutes. It gives your body a chance to cool and your head some fresh air. When you come back, the room feels less stuffy, and the afternoon passes more easily.

Keep a layer ready for later

When the sun goes and people head home, the temperature drops again. The layer you took off at two may be welcome at five. Hang it over your chair instead of packing it away. Then you are ready for the trip home and the cooler evening.

Frequently asked questions

How much does the temperature rise

Three to five degrees over an afternoon in a sunny room, and it happens so gradually that people often notice late.

What if you cannot take a layer off

Choose thinner layers from the morning, so you are not wearing too much once the room warms up.

Does opening a window help

Yes, but in an office it is rarely an option, so use your breaks to get some fresh air instead.