When a heatwave in the UK hits, getting a good night’s sleep can feel impossible. Most of us have experienced one of those nights where we just can’t settle as we swelter in an unbearably warm and stuffy bedroom. What might seem like an inconvenience can pose a risk to your health as well. If your body overheats and struggles to cool down, it could lead to heat exhaustion, hives, or even heatstroke, which is far more serious.
When we’re outside, it’s easier to stay cool: we can hydrate, seek shade, or dip into a pool if we’re lucky. But what about indoors? Surprisingly, sometimes coming home to a top-floor flat can feel even hotter than being out in the sun. Our Block of Flats Insurance team has rounded up some of the best tips for staying cool at home.
Why Do Flats Get So Hot?
Flats, especially those on higher floors, can act like heat traps in the summer. Warm air rises, so naturally, the higher your flat, the hotter it can get. If your flat has large windows, you might enjoy amazing views, but you’re also inviting more sunlight (and heat) inside. And if your windows don’t open fully, or you keep them closed to avoid noise or air pollution, things can heat up quickly.
How do I cool down my flat in the summer?
1. Close Blinds and Curtains
Keep out of the sun during peak heat hours (around 12 – 7pm). Once the sun dips, open them again to let trapped heat escape.
2. Shut Doors to Unused Rooms
Keep cooler air in the spaces you’re using by closing doors to spare rooms or less-used areas.
3. Strategically Use Fans
A classic fan can still do wonders, just be smart about placement. Try facing a fan toward a window to push hot air out, or set up a few to create a breeze around you. Also, switch on your kitchen or bathroom extractor fans when you get home to help remove lingering heat.
4. Try the Ice Bowl Hack
Place a bowl of ice or frozen packs in front of a fan. As the air passes over the ice, it’ll cool down and even create a light mist.
5. Skip the Oven
Cooking hot meals = adding heat to an already hot space. Opt for fresh salads, cold meals, or the occasional takeaway to give your kitchen (and yourself) a break.
6. Be Clever with Your Windows
It may seem odd, but keeping windows closed during the hottest part of the day can help. Open them once it cools down in the evening to let in fresher air.
7. Unplug Heat-Producers
Electronics like laptops, tablets, and even your phone can generate more heat than you realise. Try switching them off when you can. Swapping to energy-efficient light bulbs will also help reduce excess heat and cut your bills.
8. Switch to Cotton or Linen Sheets
Ditch the satin or synthetic blends. Lightweight, breathable materials like cotton or linen are better at keeping you cool overnight.
9. Reflect the Heat
If you’re struggling with sun pouring in, use temporary reflective window film or even DIY it with tinfoil on the inside of sun-facing windows. It can block a surprising amount of heat.
10. Invest in a Chill Pillow
This cooling gel insert can be popped into your pillowcase to keep your head cool while you sleep. Alternatively, you can fill a hot water bottle and pop it in the freezer for a couple of hours. Then place it under your sheets or at your feet for an easy DIY cooling pack.
11. Add a Few Indoor Plants
Some houseplants (like ferns, aloe vera, and snake plants) help cool the air through transpiration and add moisture back into dry, hot spaces. Bonus: they look great too.
Looking for more ways to beat the heat? Head to the GOV.UK website for extra tips.
And while we’re talking about seasonal change… winter will be back before you know it. Be sure to check out our interactive guide on preparing your property for the colder months to get ahead of the chill.
About Lansdown Insurance Brokers
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