As record-breaking June temperatures give way to another blistering spell, Britons are turning to innovative ways to beat the heat. From tweaks to home decor to ancient breathing techniques, individuals are sharing their top tips to stay cool – both indoors and out.
Many focus on making the most of their homes. Blocking out sunlight is a common theme, with readers praising vertical or blackout blinds for keeping temperatures in check. Karen, for instance, credits cost-effective thermal blinds from Ikea with reducing heat ingress from her south/south-east facing home, while Andy's external green sun shade screening saw room temperatures drop significantly compared to simply closing internal curtains.
Technology and personal methods also feature prominently. Fans remain a reliable staple, with experts noting that air movement boosts the body's evaporative cooling capacity. While dedicated coolers are in high demand, portable versions offer a modest temperature reduction – perfect for those on-the-go. For personal cooling, tips range from sitali pranayama (cooling breath) to placing underwear in the fridge for a refreshing morning boost.
When venturing outdoors, protecting yourself is crucial. Readers recommend wearing wide-brimmed canvas hats with UV-protective fabric and using light-coloured umbrellas or parasols to reflect sunlight rather than absorb heat. Applying high-factor SPF sunscreen before heading out is also essential to prevent sun damage and overheating.
As temperatures remain high, these shared tips highlight a growing public awareness of the need to proactively manage the challenges posed by increasingly frequent heatwaves across the UK.