Beat the heat and keep cool this summer naturally and without air conditioning using these ten simple tips.
When you think of summer, you probably envision shorts, flip-flops, juicy watermelon and barbecue. What you don’t think about is the rising temperatures and humidity until you feel the heat.
You’ve probably endured a few scorching summer days and nights in the past. When the sun’s up, you’re a sweaty mess and at night, the sheets are stuck to you like glue.
While everyone looks forward to the warmer months, being excessively hot all of the time is no fun at all. But, constantly running the air conditioning in your home, can lead to some pretty scary electrical bills.
Here are ten easy ways to stay cool in the summer without a/c.
How To Beat the Heat This Summer
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1. Use the Right Bedding
Trying to get a good night’s rest when you’re hot and sticky is next to impossible. You spend ages tossing and turning, just trying to get comfortable enough to drift off.
Choose sheets made of natural fibers to allow for ventilation. Fabric such as cotton will help you stay cool at night and is affordable.
2. Claim Your Space In Bed
Save the cuddling for cooler nights. Your loved one’s body heat will only make you more uncomfortable while you try to sleep. Stay on opposite sides of the bed and you’ll be much happier.
3. Wear Loose Clothing
Loose, lightweight cotton clothing is the best option to beat the heat. Light colors reflect the sun which ultimately helps you stay cool.
4. Optimize Fans
There’s no argument that running the air conditioning all summer long will increase your electrical bill. Instead use fans to circulate the air in your home. Place a fan across from a window. The wind from outside will create a cooling cross-breeze.
Alternatively, try facing your fan outside rather than in the house. When the fan is facing out the window, it blows hot air out of the room which is replaced by cooler air from outside. As a result, the temperature inside drops. However, this trick only works when the air outside is cooler than the air indoors.
Have a ceiling fan? Run it counter-clockwise at higher speeds to create a breeze. If you don’t feel any wind from the fan, it may be on the wrong setting. Most fans have a button or switch at the base that you can use to change the fan direction. Make sure you turn off the fan before changing the setting!
5. Take Advantage of Windows
During the day, use insulated drapes to keep out the summer heat. At night when it’s cooler, open the drapes and all the windows. Having multiple windows open allows a cross-breeze that can keep your body cool.
6. Avoid Using the Stove/ Oven
When it already feels like a million degrees inside your house, don’t make it worse by using the stove or oven. Grill outdoors or eat cold soups, sandwiches and salads.
If you do want a hot meal, use the following electric appliances:
These appliances generate very little heat and you can still create amazing dishes.
If you will be cooking, make big batches. Eat the leftovers during the week to minimize more time in the kitchen or freeze extras for later.
Cool Down From the Inside Out
It’s even more important to stay hydrated during the summer months. Drink lots of water to replenish what you’ve lost through sweating. Add chunks of fruits, berries or even cucumber slices to your water to add flavor and make it look pretty.
While water is the best option, it’s not your only choice, especially if you don’t love the taste… or lack thereof. Iced tea, lemonade and other cold beverages are great as well.
When the temperatures rise, it’s the perfect excuse to enjoy a cold treat. Ice cream, shaved ice or frozen popsicles are wonderful for lowering your body temperature from the inside out.
Take a Cold Shower
A cold shower during the summer can actually feel heavenly. The refreshing water reduces your core temperature and has the added benefit of washing off sweat so you can go to bed feeling clean.
Use your Body’s Cooling Points
Apply ice packs or cold compresses to your pulse points e.g. wrist, neck, elbows and ankles. This is great for when you want to beat the summer heat naturally and it works fast.
Enjoy Water Sports
Summer is meant to be enjoyed. Unless you live in a tropical climate, those warm months don’t stick around forever. Go outside and have fun. Go to your local pool, enjoy water sports at a nearby lake or even take a beach vacation.
While you’re outdoors, be sure to apply (and re-apply) plenty of sunblock.
Hopefully, these ten tips will help you to keep yourself cool in the summer.
Do you have any other suggestions? Leave them in the comments below!
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