The UK has seen quite a few hot days this year, and even more heatwaves are expected, especially now that summer has officially started. While we love a bit of sunshine, most British homes aren't built for it. High temperatures can quickly make your house feel stuffy, uncomfortable and difficult to sleep in.
The good news? You don't need expensive air conditioning to solve this little big dilemma. Here's a few tips to keep your home cooler during a heatwave.
3 steps to a cooler and calmer home
1. Prevent heat from getting in
The easiest way to cool your home is to stop it heating up in the first place.
- Close blinds or curtains on windows that get direct sunlight, especially south-facing rooms.
- Turn off appliances you're not using, like ovens, tumble dryers and even electronics.
- On the hottest part of the day, keep windows closed if the air outside is warmer than indoors. Opening them too early can actually let more heat inside.
A little planning during the morning can help keep your home noticeably cooler by the afternoon.
2. Maximise airflow and ventilation
Fresh air is your best friend, but timing matters.
- Open windows early in the morning or later in the evening when the outside air is cooler.
- Create a cross-breeze by opening windows on opposite sides of your home. This helps flush out warm air and pull cooler air through the house.
- If you have internal doors, leave them open to help air circulate more freely.
A natural draught can make your home feel much fresher without using any extra energy.
3. Cool your body
Sometimes it's easier to cool yourself than the room around you.
- Place a cold, damp flannel or cooling compress on your wrists, neck or forehead.
- Pop your pillowcase in a sealed bag and place it in the freezer for around 30 minutes before bed.
- Spend time on the ground floor, as heat naturally rises and upstairs rooms are often much warmer.
Pro tip: if you have a Seep sponge, you can freeze it and then use it as an ice pack to cool your body!
Stay comfortable during the heatwave
Heatwaves don't have to mean sleepless nights and overheated homes. By blocking heat during the day, making the most of cooler air when it's available, and finding simple ways to cool your body, you can stay much more comfortable throughout the hottest weather.
Looking after your home doesn't have to come at the planet's expense either. Small changes like closing blinds, using natural ventilation and reducing unnecessary appliance use are all simple ways to stay cool while using less energy.
Stay safe, stay hydrated, and enjoy the sunshine where you can ☀️
