When temperatures climb above 30°C in the UK, even everyday tasks can feel exhausting. Most of us aren’t used to prolonged hot weather, and because air conditioning isn’t common in many British homes, keeping cool can be a real challenge.
During the recent heatwave, our upstairs reached 34.5°C, while downstairs wasn’t much cooler at 31°C. Sleeping became so uncomfortable that at around 2 a.m., I ended up going outside for a while just to cool down before trying to get back to sleep. It really brought home how challenging hot weather can be when your house simply won’t cool down overnight.
Whether you’re working from home, looking after children or pets, or simply trying to get a good night’s sleep, a few simple changes can make a big difference. Here are some of the best ways to stay comfortable during a UK heatwave.
Keep Your Home as Cool as Possible
One of the most effective ways to stay comfortable is to stop your home heating up in the first place.
Close Curtains and Blinds
Keep curtains, blinds or shutters closed on windows that receive direct sunlight. Blocking the sun during the hottest part of the day can help keep indoor temperatures lower.
Open Windows at the Right Time
If the temperature drops overnight or early in the morning, open windows to let cooler air circulate through your home. Once it starts warming up outside, close windows again to keep the cooler air inside.
Create a Breeze
If it’s safe to do so, open windows on opposite sides of your home to encourage airflow. Even a gentle breeze can make rooms feel much more comfortable.
Switch Off Unnecessary Appliances
Televisions, computers, games consoles and other electrical items all produce heat. Turn off anything you’re not using to help prevent your home from getting even warmer.
Avoid Using the Oven
Cooking with the oven can quickly heat up the kitchen. Cold meals, salads, sandwiches or slow cooker meals prepared earlier in the day can help keep your home cooler.
Stay Cool Throughout the Day
Drink Plenty of Fluids
Keep a bottle of water nearby and drink regularly, even if you don’t feel particularly thirsty. Water is usually the best choice, especially during very hot weather.
Wear Light Clothing
Loose-fitting, lightweight clothing made from natural fabrics such as cotton or linen can help your body stay cooler.
Use Fans Wisely
Fans don’t lower the room temperature, but they do help sweat evaporate, making you feel cooler. Placing a bowl of ice or a frozen bottle of water in front of a fan may provide a cooling effect in a small area.
Cool Your Pulse Points
Running cool water over your wrists or placing a cool flannel on your neck can help lower your body temperature and provide quick relief.
Take a Lukewarm Shower
Although an icy shower might sound tempting, a lukewarm shower is often more comfortable and avoids the sudden temperature shock that very cold water can cause.
Sleeping During a Heatwave
Many people find sleeping is the hardest part of hot weather.
Here are a few ideas that may help:
- Keep bedroom curtains closed during the day.
- Use lightweight cotton bedding.
- Keep a glass of water by your bed.
- If your home has more than one floor, consider sleeping downstairs if it’s noticeably cooler.
- Use a fan to improve air circulation, but don’t point it directly at you all night if it leaves you feeling dry or uncomfortable.
Don’t Forget Your Pets
Pets can struggle in hot weather just as much as we do.
To help keep them safe:
- Make sure fresh drinking water is always available.
- Walk dogs early in the morning or later in the evening when temperatures are lower.
- Check pavements with the back of your hand before walking your dog. If they’re too hot for your hand, they’re too hot for paws.
- Provide shaded areas both indoors and outdoors.
- Never leave a pet in a parked car, even for a few minutes.
If your pet seems unusually tired, is panting excessively or appears distressed, contact your vet straight away.
Look After Yourself
Heat can affect people differently. Older adults, young children and people with certain health conditions may be more vulnerable during very hot weather.
If you’re spending time outdoors:
- Wear a wide-brimmed hat or cap.
- Apply sunscreen regularly.
- Try to stay in the shade during the hottest part of the day, usually between late morning and mid-afternoon.
- Take regular breaks if you’re walking or gardening.
Before You Buy an Air Conditioner
With demand for portable air conditioners increasing during the recent UK heatwaves, scammers have been setting up fake websites offering heavily discounted units. These sites often copy well-known retailers and use phrases such as “Only a few left” or countdown timers to pressure people into buying quickly.
Before purchasing, make sure you:
- Buy from a trusted retailer or the manufacturer’s official website.
- Be cautious of prices that seem too good to be true.
- Check the website address carefully.
- Avoid paying by bank transfer or PayPal Friends & Family.
- Read recent customer reviews before placing an order.
Helpful Cooling Products for a UK Heatwave
If you’re looking for a few products that may help you stay more comfortable during very hot weather, here are some popular options. They’re not essential, but many people find them useful when temperatures climb above 30°C.
Fans
- Schallen 16″ Electric Oscillating Floor Fan
- Zanussi 9″ Inch, Portable Desk Fan
- Levoit 25dB Smart Silent Tower Fan 42″ – A bestseller on Amazon at the time of posting this article
Portable Air Conditioners
Cooling Mats for Pets
Cooling Towels
Small Changes Can Make a Big Difference
You don’t need expensive gadgets or air conditioning to stay comfortable during a UK heatwave. Simple steps such as keeping your home shaded, staying hydrated, wearing lightweight clothing and avoiding unnecessary heat indoors can all help make hot weather much easier to manage.
Heatwaves can be uncomfortable, but with a little planning you can stay cooler, sleep better and protect both yourself and your pets until temperatures begin to fall.
Wrapping Up
Every home is different, and what works well for one person may not work for another. Over time, you’ll probably discover a few tricks that suit your own home and lifestyle.
If you’re experiencing temperatures above 30°C, remember to take things a little more slowly, drink plenty of water and look after those around you. Sometimes the simplest changes are the ones that make the biggest difference.
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