The heat kicks in, and everyone heads for the great outdoors. That’s great, but you don’t want to end up miserable because you’re melting. Staying cool isn’t just about comfort; it’s your health. Whether you’re stuck in a heatwave or just looking to sweat a little less, these practical, affordable tips will help you chill out, cool down, and avoid becoming a human puddle.
Freeze Your Bedding
Sounds crazy. We know. It works, though. Pop your pillowcases or top sheet in a plastic bag and stick them in the freezer for 30 minutes before bed. Instant chill. It won’t last all night, but it’s glorious while it does. You’ll have the most satisfying sleep of your life, and you’ll be smug when everyone’s complaining about not being able to sleep. You’re welcome.
Hydrate Like It’s Your Job
Sounds obvious, but most people still don’t drink enough. Sip water all day, not just when you’re parched. (And don’t just down the odd glass here and there, it tends ot go straight through you that way.) Add cucumber, mint, or citrus to keep it interesting, and avoid caffeine or booze, which dehydrate you fast.
Use a Cold Compress on Pulse Points
Apply an ice pack, cool cloth, a damp towel, or frozen peas to your neck, wrists, or behind your knees. These spots help regulate body temperature fast. It’s basic physiology, and it works. When you start to feel overwhelmed, give it a go and watch as you cool down quite magically.
Shut the Curtains
It might sound miserable, depressing, even, but keeping blinds or curtains closed during peak heat hours stops your home from turning into a greenhouse. Bonus points for blackout or reflective curtains to block that blazing sunlight even more. It’s a nifty trick when there’s a heatwave, and it stops the nights from being so uncomfortable.
Take Cool (Not Ice-Cold) Showers
Everyone’s talking about ice-cold showers right now (thanks, Wim Hof), but this isn’t that. Panic not. Lukewarm showers help lower your core temperature better than freezing ones, which can cause your body to compensate by producing heat. Weird, but true. And you don’t need to freeze your bits off in the process.
Ditch Heavy Meals
Digestion isn’t a fan of the heat. The body focuses on cooling above all else, so other bodily processes take a step back. That’s why heavy meals feel heavy in hot weather. Opt for lighter fare like salads, smoothies, or cold grain bowls. Think crisp, hydrating foods that don’t leave you feeling like you’ve swallowed a furnace.
Make a DIY Cooling Spray
Fill a spray bottle with water, a splash of witch hazel, and a few drops of peppermint or eucalyptus oil. Mist it on your face, neck, or anywhere you’re overheating for an instant cooldown. It’s super refreshing and has an immediate effect. Also, spray the back of your neck and wrists for an ultra-cooling experience.
Go Barefoot Indoors
If you wear slippers or house socks, ditch them straight away. Your feet help regulate temperature. Kick off your shoes and let those toes breathe, especially on tile or hardwood floors. It feels good and works better. Now you know why you just couldn’t seem to cool down. Those woolly socks!
Freeze a Water Bottle for Bedtime
No AC? Not a problem. Hug a frozen water bottle wrapped in a tea towel and pop it into bed with you. Or if you want to cool your bed, pop it on the sheet or mattress a short while before heading to bed. It’s like a cold water bottle, but summer-style. Tip: Make sure you do the lid up tightly! You don’t want a cold water explosion.
Wear Natural Fibres
Cotton, linen, and bamboo—these fabrics breathe and draw moisture away better than synthetics. Keep clothes loose, light-colored, and airy. Basically: wear a breeze. The lighter and looser, the cooler you’re going to feel. No one wants to be wearing skinny jeans in a freak heatwave. (The thought alone is mildly terrifying.)
Turn Off Electronics
Laptops, TVs, and even light bulbs emit heat. If you’re using several devices, there’s every chance you’re sweating more than you need to. Switch off what you’re not using. It saves energy and keeps your space from becoming a secret sauna. If you can’t be without them, at least aim for the minimum.
Chill Your Lotion or Aloe Gel
Keep your moisturizers, after-sun, or aloe vera in the fridge. Slathering on something cool (or cold) feels amazing and helps with sunburn or heat rash, too. There’s nothing nicer than a cooling shower followed by a smothering of chilled moisturizer. It feels cool, clean, and super-fresh. Tip: The colder, the better for sunburn. Even if it does sting.
Sleep Low
Hot air rises. If you can, sleep downstairs or even on the floor. A makeshift mattress in a basement or shaded room can feel like luxury during a heatwave. Worst-case scenario, camp on the sofa until the heat passes. Just make sure your partner knows you don’t have a problem with them.
Avoid Alcohol in the Sun
We get it, rosé in the sunshine is a vibe. But alcohol dehydrates you and makes you feel hotter. It also tends to give you a raging headache and a killer hangover. If you drink, balance with loads of water and stay out of direct sun. And remember, tons of mocktails are equally as delicious as the real thing.
Create a Cross-Breeze
Place a fan in one window, open another across the room, and boom, it’s a natural airflow. Place a bowl of ice in front of the fan for bonus cool air. It’s old-school, but it works. You’re probably thinking it sounds crazy. All we’ll say is try it, you’ll be thanking us for that heavenly cool breeze.
