How To Stay Cool In A Heatwave

On the JJ Barnes Blog, if like me you’re sizzling as the temperatures outside rocket, check out these easy and budget friendly ways to stay cool in a heatwave.

With the UK sizzling under yet another heatwave, keeping cool is a top priority. With the help of Corey Sims at CSDB, I’m sharing the best practical and budget-friendly ways to stay comfortable, protect yourself and and stay cool in a heatwave. Here’s how to beat the heat without breaking the bank.

Stay Safe in the Sun: Avoid Painful Sunburn

Heading to the beach or park this bank holiday weekend? Sunburn can quickly ruin the fun. Experts highlight commonly missed spots and share essential tips to protect your skin:

Apply Sun Cream Generously

Use SPF 30 or higher and reapply every two hours, especially after swimming or sweating. Adults need about eight teaspoons of sunscreen for full-body coverage. For your face and neck, use enough cream to cover from your palm to the tips of your middle and index fingers.

Cover Up Smartly

Opt for wide-brimmed hats, sunglasses, and loose, lightweight clothing to shield your skin without overheating.

Seek Shade

Avoid direct sun between 11 AM and 3 PM when UV rays are strongest.

Don’t Miss Hidden Spots

Apply sunscreen to often-forgotten areas like the backs of your legs, behind your ears, neck, back of the neck, and scalp (especially if exposed).

Stay Hydrated: Avoid Heat Exhaustion

Dehydration is a real risk during a heatwave, and alcohol can make it worse. Experts warn that drinking at the pub could speed up heat exhaustion, so prioritise hydration:

• Drink Plenty of Water: Women should aim for 2 litres daily, while men need about 2.6 litres. Sip water before and after each alcoholic drink to counteract dehydration.
• Eat Water-Rich Foods: Snack on watermelon, cucumber, or strawberries, which are hydrating and refreshing. Fruit juices like orange juice (85% water) also provide hydration and vitamin C.
• Spot Dehydration Early: Watch for signs like thirst, dark urine (brown or orange), headaches, or dizziness. In children, irritability can signal dehydration.

The £1 Hack to Stay Cool at Home

Corey Sims from CSDB shares a brilliant, budget-friendly trick: a £1 spray bottle from a bargain or DIY shop. Here’s how to use it:

• Cool Your Curtains: Lightly spray curtains with water. As air passes through, the evaporating water absorbs heat, lowering the room’s temperature. The heatwave ensures quick drying, preventing damp smells.
• Mist Yourself: A quick spritz of water mimics sweat, instantly cooling your skin.
• Chill It: Store multiple spray bottles in the fridge for an extra-refreshing blast when you need it.

Keep Your Home Cool All Day

Beyond the spray bottle hack, try these expert tips to maintain a comfortable home:

Close Windows and Blinds

Keep hot air out by shutting windows and blinds during the day. Open them early in the morning or at night to let cooler air in.

Freeze Your Bedding

Pop pyjamas and bedsheets in the freezer for at least 20 minutes before bedtime for a cool, refreshing sleep.

Skip the Oven

Avoid heating up your kitchen by choosing no-cook meals like salads or sandwiches. A BBQ keeps the heat outside, and “picky bits” make for an easy, heatwave-friendly dinner. Using the oven can raise your home’s temperature by up to five degrees, increasing the risk of heat exhaustion.

DIY Mini-AC

Place a bowl of ice in front of a fan to create a budget-friendly air conditioning effect, perfect for cooling small areas like your favourite chair or bedside.

Stay Cool, Stay Safe

With these simple, affordable tips, you can enjoy the heatwave without discomfort or health risks. From freezing your sheets to staying vigilant about hydration and sunburn, these expert hacks make it easy to keep cool on a budget. So, grab a spray bottle, slather on the sunscreen, and sip plenty of water to make the most of the sunny days ahead!