Six Ways to Stay Cool This Summer and You’ll Need to Grab Your Hot Water Bottle
NOW that the sun finally came out, we kept the fan on all weekend.
The problem with blowing warm air through the air in your home is that it doesn’t really keep us cool. However, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t keep the heat out anymore.
Luckily, a home expert has revealed six ways to keep you cool and comfortable in the heat—and they won’t cost you a dime.
James Longley, Managing Director at Utility provider said: “UK residents may be tempted to open all the windows once temperatures return to summer averages. But the more windows you leave open, the more warm air from outside can enter your home.
“Just like in winter, cross-ventilation is essential. We recommend opening several windows in the house in small amounts to allow a breeze to blow through. In addition, the later in the evening, the more windows you can open, so that you wake up in a cool house.”
Windows
While you may want to keep the windows open in the summer to let in some fresh air and cool down, this actually does the exact opposite.
If you keep all the windows and blinds closed, warm air cannot circulate through your home.
Instead, wait until the temperature drops and it’s almost time to go to sleep, then open the doors to let in some cooler air.
Hydration station
Of course, in summer you should make sure you drink enough water, for example 2 liters of water per day.
This will help you stay cool and prevent you from feeling tired in the heat.
Hot water bottle
Now that winter is over, you may have put your hot water bottle away, but it’s time to get it out again.
The expert says that they can be very useful in both summer and winter.
Whether you’re working from home or having trouble sleeping because of the heat, fill your bottle with cold water and place it in the refrigerator for 1-2 hours.
This then gives you a cooling method that will lower your body temperature for a significant period of time.
Do not boil
We all hate cooking, night after night. And now you have an excuse not to.
James says: “The oven and hob can continue to create warm air in your home for a long time after you have finished cooking.
How to dress during a heat wave
SUMMER is finally here and temperatures are set to rise this weekend. But it’s been a while since we’ve dressed for the warmer weather. So what should we wear? The Sun’s fashion team are here to help with a handy guide to what to wear in the heat.
Clemmie Fieldsend and Abby McHale reveal the ultimate do’s and don’ts so you never suffer from unsightly tan lines, sweat stains or wardrobe malfunctions again.
Cover
While you may be tempted to throw on your most revealing outfit when the mercury rises above 25 degrees Celsius, it’s proven that covering up keeps you cooler.
We’re not saying you have to wear your winter coat and bundle up. You should wear a lightweight, breathable fabric like cotton – look for flowy midi skirts, dresses or wide-leg trousers that will billow out and create a nice cool breeze as you walk.
Prepare for extremes
With our unpredictable weather, it’s not uncommon to see someone in hot pants with goosebumps on their legs after a sudden downpour, or on the other end of the spectrum, someone still wearing their winter tights in 30 degree weather. When in doubt, opt for a loose co-ord that will keep you cool but won’t leave you exposed to the elements if it rains.
Wear shorts
Yes, you can wear shorts – and at any age. The key is to choose the right length, and longer shorts are all the rage this year. Short shorts are allowed, of course, but they don’t make you cooler. Micro shorts can actually make you feel hotter. Plus, they’re wedgie-inducing, often too tight, and often show too much butt.
Wear white
White isn’t the easiest color to keep clean, but it’s the best color for a heatwave and looks effortlessly chic. It doesn’t absorb light like black, but reflects it instead. It’s also a color that never goes out of style. If you do get the odd sunscreen stain on your whites, quickly blot it with hand soap and water, scrub it in with a brush, and then wash as usual.
Don’t show the bra straps
While everyone loves wearing strappy clothes in the summer, there’s really nothing classy about showing off your bra straps — especially when they’re the opposite color of your top. If you’re going to go with a strappy top, wear a strapless bra underneath.
Do not try a chest tube
The boob tube has to be one of the most outdated and unflattering pieces of clothing you can own. Yes, you avoid the tan lines on your straps, but you’ll be pulling your top up all day trying to keep your boobs in place. By nightfall, you’ll have smudged fingerprints everywhere and will undoubtedly have experienced the occasional nip slip.
Don’t choose espadrilles
Espadrille wedges were once Kate Middleton’s go-to summer shoe, but they’ve pretty much fallen off the fashion bandwagon. While ‘00s ballerinas are back, the espadrille has yet to make a comeback. It’s one of those fashion staples that Gen Z won’t be seen dead in, even dubbed “the granny sandal.” For now, opt for a ballerina or a sandal.
Do not wear crochet
The crochet trend is fun enough, and while it looks great on the likes of Love Island presenter Maya Jama, it’s just not practical. If the sun is shining, you’re likely to end up with tragic tan lines like a mosaic. Plus, it’s essentially knitwear – hot and itchy. Knitted polo shirts have also come into fashion for men, masquerading as summer wear, but they’re made from synthetic materials and are swear-inducing. Wear at your own risk.
“Keep this in mind and try to limit the time you use these devices or, if the sun is shining, make the most of them. Nice weather and cook on a BBQ, as this will prevent the indoor temperature from rising even further.”
Curtains
Although we love warm weather, it can often be difficult to get a good night’s sleep.
Instead of tossing and turning all night, spray your curtains with water in the evening and open the windows to let in a cool breeze.
Towels
If all else fails, try placing wet towels on your pulse points for instant relief.
Dampen a towel with cold water and then place it on one of your pulse points (for example your wrists or neck). This will help cool your entire body, as these points have a better cooling effect than other parts of the body.