Living in the UK, when the weather gets hot, we get hot and bothered. I am sure I am not the only one who thinks about air conditioning just for those few weeks. Sadly, we just do not get the weather to justify the expense. Which is why I have been looking at how to stay cool in the heat.
Table of Contents
Master the “Windows + Curtains” Game
If like me you just can not get cool no mater what you do. Then like me you are either not playing this game. Or you are hit and miss like I am. As most heat gets trapped indoors because we don’t play the window game right.
Morning
- Open windows early to let in the cool air
- Close curtains/blinds by 10am (especially on sun-facing sides)
Afternoon
- Keep windows closed during peak heat
- Use blackout curtains if you have them
Evening
- Open everything once the sun sets
- Cross-ventilate (open opposite windows) to create a breeze
DIY Cooling Tricks -That Actually Work
As I said above our climate does not really justify having air conditioning. This week I have been researching and trying some ways to stay feeling cool without costing a fortune
- Cold water bottle – Fill a hot water bottle with cold water + pop it in the freezer
- Frozen flannel – Keep a damp washcloth in the fridge for quick cooldowns
- Fan + ice trick – Place a bowl of ice in front of a fan—it’s basic but brilliant
- Cotton everything – Wear light, breathable clothes and ditch the synthetic stuff
How To Sleep Cool(ish)
Hands up everyone who has struggled with sleep in this heat. My sleep is very hit and miss at the moment anyway. Add the heat and I get so hot to sleep. Last night I tried all of the below and it worked
- Cool shower before bed
- Sleep with a fan blowing across a bowl of ice
- Chill your pillowcase in the freezer
- Put feet in cold water before sleep (cools the whole body)
Keep the Kids Cool (and Calm)
When we are parents, the days we get the hot weather. Where we want to sit and just try to keep cool. The kids are tired and grumpy and usually can start arguing over the stupidest things. Sort the kids out and then you can sit and chill out
- Let them play in a cool bath or paddling pool
- Give them homemade ice lollies (juice + fruit = done)
- Keep a cold wash-cloth on the back of their neck
- Play “spa” with cool flannels and cucumber slices
- Create a shaded indoor fort for quiet time
Eat + Drink Smart
You don’t want to cook—and you shouldn’t have to.
- Stick to cold meals: sandwiches, salads, wraps, smoothies
- Eat water-rich foods: watermelon, cucumber, strawberries
- Avoid heavy, hot meals during peak heat
- Stay hydrated (yes, even if it means 73 bathroom trips)
- Freeze grapes or berries for a cooling snack!
Take It Easy
No matter who we are, the hot weather affects us. It drains our energy (especially if we are not sleeping well). I know I just get so hot and bothered, even the thought of moving and going out just makes me feel hot and bothered.
You don’t need to do everything in a heatwave. Lower the bar.
- Cancel plans
- Screen time is fine
- Naps on the sofa count as parenting
- It’s okay to skip the housework
Remember
Do not stress about dinner. My kids used to love picky dinners which was probably a lot healthier than a cooked dinner at times.
What ways have you found to help you keep cool?
These are such good tips, all practical and doable and really helpful as well! It can get so humid when the heat rises in the UK so staying cool is so important
Laura sidestreet x
I have always struggled with the heat so always looking for ways to stay cool
I’m def doing the curtain dance at the moment my place got to 38c recently so sat near fan most of day
It is too hot, I checked the weather earlier and next week is going to be cooler
The heat has been intense this year! Thank you so much for these tips. We caved and got a pool, and started doing all no-cook meals. It has really helped.
The heat has been very intense, a pool and no cook meals are the way to go. anything to cool down
Oh the bowl of ice is so easy and I bet it’s effective too. I’m going to try that one tonight.
It is such a simple idea
I had not thought of putting my pillow case in the feezer before bed time! Will give it a try
I am trying everything to keep cool, for some reason my bedroom is the warmest bedroom in the house
Thanks for the tips i have my curtains drawn mostly all day,plus close windows from midday afterwards .I also have a Air Con Unit next to my desk at home
I do keep looking at air con units but can never justify having one
Always make sure to have your AC unit serviced before the hot weather hits, too. That’s SO important!
That is a good tip if you do have air con
Amazing tips…I tried the cool shower before going to bed and it was magical, I can’t recommend it enough.
I need to try this but I get so hot and bothered I have my shower earlier in the evening
really struggling today – I leave curtains closed – nd eat and drink ( batch cooking is a life saver from last month -can’t get off settee
I do seem cooler today, batch cooking is a life saver especially in this heat
Exactly what I needed to see today. It’s 33 degrees where I am!
It is 28 here today and that is hot enough