Beat the heat - Tips on staying cool

I started prepping some "keep your home cool" tips last month but it was miserable at the time so I didn't share them. Thought I'd bolt them onto here - hope that's ok @Rachel_Scope. I think I've removed anything you've covered ☺️

Windows

In the morning/evening it’s a good idea to open windows at opposite ends of your home as it encourages airflow. If that’s not possible, you could open internal doors or use a fan to help with air circulation. If you’ve got vents, windows or a skylight in your loft, open these. Heat rises and it can encourage that warm air out.

Reflective window film

Is a cheap and effective way to keep your home cool by deflecting the suns rays. It can reduce heat and glare by up to 99%. Youdon’tneed to have these fitted professionally either – it’s a fairly easy DIY task.

Using a fan?

If you’re using a fan, pop a deep bowl of ice in front of it to increase the chill.

In the evening you could point a little fan towards an open window to help remove the warm air from your room.

Air conditioning/Dehumidifiers

Air conditioning units are more effective than a fan, but also quite a lot more expensive.

Dehumidifiers can help by pulling moisture out of the air, helping your skin to breathe.

The Extractor Fan’s hidden use

During warmer weathers, if you keep internal doors open and leave bathroom/kitchen fans running a little while, it helps remove that warm air. Make sure to open windows and vents though to allow fresh, cooler air to enter your home. And don’t forget to close those internal doors after so the warm air doesn’t creep back into your cooler rooms again.

Lights

When safe to do so, having lights off in the day can help to keep your home temperatures cooler.

Bedding

Use natural fibre bedding like linen or cotton and opt for a lightweight summer duvet.

Keeping your body cool

Showering

Opt for a cooler shower in warmer temperatures (this’ll also save you some pennies on your energy bills). Just don’t make it too cold, otherwise it can trap heat in your body by reducing blood flow to the skin.

Dressing

Choose loose and lightweight clothes made of natural materials like linen. These can help regulate your temperature and loose fitting will help it move in a breeze, giving you an extra cooling experience!

Wrists and Feet

During the day, you can use an icepack, cold cloth or chilled hot water bottle on these areas for an immediate cold hit. Make sure you wrap these items though, to avoid ice burns.

I tried a frozen hot water bottle last night and it definitely helped!