How to stay cool in your home as the weather heats up

Ice lollies and buckets at the ready.

We might be allowed out and about a bit more now, but there’s still no disappearing into cool dark cinemas, icy outdoor pools and air conditioned restaurants for a break from the heat. And this week is set to be hot, hot, hot.

Over the next few days, the UK and Ireland are set to experience lots of blue sky, sunshine, and temperatures over 20 degrees C.

At Platinum Skies, we have bright and airy apartments to keep you cool. Many have balconies and access to beautiful communal gardens to enjoy light and shade.

https://giphy.com/gifs/stanaustralia-friends-26xBNnrR0VknSQo9i

But when you’re still spending most of your time at home, with a hot and bothered household, how do you keep everyone cool and calm? Here are a few ideas…

Keep the ice cube tray filled

Be it for soothing gin and tonics or to wrap in a tea towel and use as a cold compress. Just do not be the person who abandoned the ice cube tray in the sink, rather than popping it back in the freezer ready for the next round.

Dig out the buckets

Simple, but effective. Buckets of water to dunk hot feet in will do the trick.

https://www.instagram.com/p/CATC7iWFw91/?igshid=p3m0q5z0ijo

Buy ice-pops

Or make them. A fruity ice lolly will take the edge off teenage disputes, working from home nightmares, and toddlers that have become hot and grouchy.

Run a cool bath

Leaving a few inches of cold water in the bath all day will mean the bathroom stays cool, and anyone suffering with the heat can just splash their face, trail their wrists in it, have a paddle or soak a flannel for their forehead in it.

Turn the hose on and play with water pistols

Water fights are a total joy – whatever your age. And bound to get everyone thoroughly soaked.

https://giphy.com/gifs/a24-the-spectacular-now-l0HlLRpkzLO9D7hYs

Keep the curtains closed during the day

If your rooms are prone to getting hot and stuffy, rather than opening your curtains first thing, keep them closed. It’ll ward off the sun, meaning the temperature should stay down inside.

Open the windows at night

To help you sleep, and to cool down the house, open your windows wide during the night. It’ll allow a breeze to circulate through your home – and if you keep your curtains shut the next day, you’ll hopefully be able to retain some of that cool air too.

Get the fans out from the cupboard

Not so worried about your electricity bill? Dig out your summer fans and maximise their arctic properties by placing a bowl of iced water in front of them.

Treat home like the beach – wear sunblock and sun hats

You might not be relaxing on the sand and dipping your toes in the sea, but the same principles to staying cool and safe apply. Don sun hats and sunglasses, and keep everyone topped up with SPF.

Create shade

If you have a balcony, why not put up a parasol to give you some cover and escape the sun. And try and keep everyone inside during the hottest part of the day (bribe them with ice pops if necessary).

https://twitter.com/agustddamn_/status/1262302934345252864?s=21

Freeze bottles of water and cloths for compresses

Pop water bottles in the freezer over night, for a supply of ice cold drinks throughout the next day. Same goes for cold compresses and ice blocks.

Enforce a siesta

You’re at home, it’s too hot outside, go on, take a nap!