Tips for staying cool during the summer

Summer has officially introduced itself, as a local heatwave is currently ‘floating’ above Europe. So, to stay cool, most people use their AC. But what happens when your AC gives out and you’re stuck without cold air until it’s repaired? It’s uncomfortable, and I, therefore, have some tips for you to stay cool during the summer! 

1. Use portable and ceiling fans

They’re a great stand-in when your own AC acts up. Portable fans don’t cool the air like an AC does. Instead, they work by creating a breeze and the wind-chill effect hits your skin, creating a cool effect. For an extra blast of coolness, place a bowl of ice in front of it. Another useful tip is to place a box fan across from an open window.

2. Use ice packs and take cold showers

To beat the heat, hop into a cold shower. It won’t only lower your body’s core temperature, but it also invigorates the skin and improves blood circulation. Stock up on ice! Drink lots of ice water to stay hydrated and to prevent heat-related illness. Place ice packs on pulse areas like your wrists, neck, groin and temples to stay cool.

3. Avoid cooking on the stove

Cooking indoors is a great way to warm up a cold house in winter. However, it’s something you’ll want to avoid during the summer. Using the oven and stove to cook adds extra heat and humidity to a house. Swap hearty soup and stews for light meals like salad, fruits, cold meats and sandwiches during the summer. Or, fire up the BBQ instead to grill your meat and veggies. Or, you know, order food.

4. Keep the curtains drawn

A smart way to keep your house cool and save energy is to draw the curtains and blinds during the day. Blackout curtains are best at blocking sun and heat. Why do you do this? Because sunlight streams through windows, which increases the internal temperature of the house. Even furniture and walls absorb the heat.

5. Use light bedding

Getting a good night’s sleep is difficult when you’re hot and sweaty. So, use light cotton sheets that are breathable. Keep a light blanket nearby in case you do feel a little cold in the night and want to cover up. The ideal temperature for a good night’s sleep is between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit.

6. Wet your curtains

One unusual way to cool a room’s air is to spritz your curtains with water or hang a wet sheet in the window. Keep the window open to allow fresh air flowing over the curtain or sheet. However, this works best on a breezy day.

7. Hang out downstairs

Heat rises, so this means that warm air naturally gravitates to a higher area. When you live in a two-story house, you’ve probably noticed that the upstairs area is always warmer than the lower level. If it’s still unbearable, you might want to dive further down into the basement.

8. Eat spicy foods

Eating spicy foods on a hot day sounds counterproductive, but there’s a method to the hotness. Have you ever wondered why people in some of the hottest places on earth eat spicy food? It may send an initial flush of heat through your body, but this heat makes the skin sweat. Once air makes contact with sweat on your skin, it starts to cool down the body’s temperature.

9. Plant trees or add awnings

They provide excellent natural shade. Sure, it takes a long time to grow, but you’ll be happy with it eventually. A big leafy tree near the house can shave a few degrees off your home’s internal temperature. If you don’t have the patience for this, you can install awnings over the doors and window. They don’t only provide shade on sunny days, but also make a great shelter from the rain.

10. Improve your home’s insulation

Most people think of insulation in terms of heating. It doesn’t only maintain warmth but also prevents cold air from escaping a house. It’s important to seal drafty windows and door frames, so the air won’t go out. Or, add shutters on windows to add some extra insulation.

How do you keep yourself and your house cool for the summer?

Love, Deem ❤

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