Keeping your cool this summer
Last summer, we had a sudden heatwave. Although we aren’t sure what temperatures will reach this year, we can be prepared.
We all know how it feels to want to turn your bedroom into a freezer, but it’s important to remember that high energy use isn’t good for the environment and can cost a lot of money!
Here are some tips on how you can keep yourself and your home cool this summer while being kind to the environment.
01 Close windows and draw curtains
To keep your home cool, you need to keep the hot air out. Close windows during the day, in particular south-facing windows, and keep the blinds down or curtains drawn. When the temperature drops at night, open your windows again to air out the house and let some cooler air in.
02 Create a breeze through your home
If you need to keep your windows open, do it in a way so that air can flow through the rooms of your home. If you can, keep curtains and blinds closed or partially closed to deflect any direct sunlight and open windows on opposite sides of your home, with doors open so the air can move through.
03 Place some bowls of cold water around your home
Leaving bowls of cold water around might seem strange but doing so can help cool hot air. Simple, but effective!
04 Use socks (or a cold water bottle!)
If you have a hot water bottle, fill it with cold water and place it in your freezer. Take it out of the freezer before bed and keep it close to your body to help cool you down. If you don’t have a hot water bottle, you can always make your own by placing a handful of rice inside a long sock before placing it inside the freezer!
05 Enjoy the outdoors in the evening!
Closing your windows and staying inside may be a great idea during the day, but when it gets cooler in the evening, you may want to open your house up to cool your home naturally – just remember to make sure you lock up overnight! If possible, try cooking outdoors as the oven releases a lot of heat into your home.
06 Chill out
Sip icy-cold drinks, apply a cold, damp cloth to your neck and other pressure points, or have a cold shower to cool your body.
07 Choose cotton
Cotton fabrics are breathable and help to cool your body. Wear light, loose clothing made of breathable fabrics like cotton and fit your bed with cotton sheets.