We're going to spend a night in a soft-sleeper during our trip to China. Can somebody tell me the etiquette for this? I assume you don't put on your PJs. Is this true? Anything else to know?

I take the top half of a shalwar kameez (think extra long T-shirt) and change into it in the loo, then I take my pants off after I get into bed. I travel with a silk sleep sack, but I don't remember needing it in Chinese soft sleeper. I usually put my money belt under the pillow, although sometimes I sleep with it on. Have you visited http://seat61.com/China.htm yet?

If it's only one night I'll simply sleep in my clothes. More than one (as in Russia) I'll use short sweats.

Whatever makes you comfortable is fine.

Thanks to all. And I have looked at the seat61 site.

Additional question: do I need to bring a towel and soap as well as toilet paper?

If you think you'll need a towel, then you definitely need to bring one. They should have soap, but if you prefer your own...

To some extent it will depend on exactly what you mean by 'soft sleeper'.

On our trip we had several overnights on trains and booked all four berths to get the compartments to ourselves. As a result we did change into night attire.

We took a supply of teabags and handwipes and picked up some pot noodles before boarding.