Let’s be honest: the UK isn’t built for heatwaves. Our homes are designed to trap heat, not escape it. We rarely have air conditioning, and when the mercury climbs past 30°C, it’s more survival mode than summer holiday. But that doesn’t mean you’re helpless. Here’s how to keep yourself and your home cool during a UK heatwave, no gimmicks, just practical advice that works.
Photo by George Chandrinos on Unsplash
1. Shut the Sun Out Early
What to do:
As soon as the sun rises, close all windows, curtains, and blinds, especially on the sunny side of your home. You’re blocking out heat before it can turn your rooms into ovens.
Pro tip: Use blackout blinds or thick curtains if you have them. If not, hang up a dark sheet or even a foil-lined emergency blanket with Blu-Tack. Yes, it looks ridiculous. But it works.
2. Open Up at Night
What to do:
Once the outside temperature drops below your indoor temperature (usually after 8 pm), open windows and doors to let cooler air flow through your home.
Pro tip: Create a cross breeze by opening windows on opposite sides of the house and propping doors open inside. If there’s no wind, place a fan by a window to pull the cool air in or push the hot air out.
3. Switch Off the Heat Sources
What to do:
Turn off anything that generates unnecessary heat:
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Lights (especially halogen bulbs)
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Electronics you’re not using
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Ovens and hobs cook outside, or prep cold meals like salads or wraps
Pro tip: Charge devices overnight when it’s cooler and unplug them during the day to stop the trickle of heat they give off.
4. Rethink Fans (and Use Ice)
What to do:
Fans don’t cool the air, they move it. But you can upgrade your fan game with a simple trick:
Place a bowl of ice or frozen water bottles in front of the fan. The air passing over it gets cooler, fast.
Pro tip: Freeze a hot water bottle, wrap it in a towel, and place it behind your neck or on your feet. It cools your blood and helps you feel better quickly.
5. Hydrate Like It’s Your Job
What to do:
Drink more than you think you need, and don’t wait until you feel thirsty. Plain water is best, but you can mix it up with electrolyte tablets, squash, or herbal teas (iced, ideally).
Pro tip: Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and sugary drinks, as they can dehydrate you faster. If water gets boring, try infusing it with cucumber, mint, or lemon.
Photo by engin akyurt on Unsplash
6. Dress for the Heat
What to do:
Wear light-coloured, loose-fitting clothes made from natural fabrics like cotton or linen. Avoid polyester; it traps heat and sweat.
Pro tip: Keep a damp flannel or cooling towel in the fridge. When you’re overheating, place it on your wrists, neck, or ankles, key cooling points.
7. Chill Your Bedroom Before Bed
What to do:
Sleep is rough during a heatwave. To make it easier:
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Close blinds during the day
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Open windows at night
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Use a light sheet or ditch the duvet
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Sleep with your feet uncovered (helps regulate body temp)
Pro tip: Put your pillowcase or sheets in the freezer for 15 minutes before bed. It won’t last all night, but it’ll help you fall asleep faster.
8. Cool Your Pets, Too
What to do:
If it’s hot for you, it’s worse for your pets. Make sure they have:
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Constant access to fresh water
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Shady spots to rest
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Cool tiles or wet towels to lie on
Pro tip: Freeze treats or toys in water for dogs. For cats, dampen their fur gently with a wet cloth if they’ll tolerate it.
9. Escape If You Can
What to do:
Some places in the UK, such as shopping centres, cinemas, supermarkets, and libraries, have air conditioning. Use them strategically. If your home is sweltering by midday, consider running errands or working remotely from a cooler location if possible.
Pro tip: Plan any physical activity (walking, workouts, gardening) before 9 am or after 7 pm. Don’t mess around with midday heat.
10. Know the Warning Signs of Heat Exhaustion
What to watch for:
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Headache
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Dizziness
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Fatigue
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Nausea
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Cramps
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Excessive sweating
If you or someone else shows these signs, move to a cool place, rehydrate, and cool down fast. If symptoms persist, call 111.
Heatwaves in the UK are no joke, and they’re becoming more common. Until our homes are better built for it (hello, insulation and shading), we’ve got to outsmart the heat with whatever tools we’ve got. Be proactive, stay hydrated, and treat staying cool like a mission. Because it is.
