As someone who much prefers crisp autumn walks to scorching summer afternoons, I’ll admit that heatwaves aren’t my favourite time of year. I really struggle to be honest.
Don’t get me wrong – I love sunshine, spending time outdoors and making the most of beautiful Pembrokeshire. But when temperatures climb into the high twenties or beyond (it was hitting forty degrees in the car recently), even simple jobs around the house can suddenly feel exhausting.
Over the years, I’ve picked up a few simple habits that genuinely make hot weather much easier to cope with. None of them are expensive, and most only take a few minutes. Read on for more information:
1. Keep Your Home as Cool as Possible
It sounds obvious, but it really works.
Keeping curtains or blinds closed on the sunniest side of your home during the hottest part of the day can make a surprising difference indoors. I like to open the windows early in the morning while the air is still cool, then close them once the temperature outside starts to climb. If there’s a breeze later in the evening, opening the windows again can help cool the house before bedtime. As a perimenopausal woman living in a two-storey house, I have to use a fan to help keep the house cool too. We have freestanding fans (affiliate link) in the living room and bedrooms. I was so tempted to buy a portable air-conditioning unit this year when I spotted them in the Lidl middle aisle too, but haven’t succumbed yet!
2. Drink Plenty of Water
By the time you feel thirsty, you’re already starting to become dehydrated.
Keeping a reusable water bottle nearby makes it much easier to remember to drink throughout the day. Adding slices of lemon, cucumber, or fresh mint can make plain water feel even more refreshing. Ice cubes are a must in the warm weather too.
If you’re spending lots of time outdoors or exercising, remember to drink a little more than usual.
3. Keep Dogs Safe During Hot Weather
As a dog owner, this is something I always think about before heading out with Ozzy.
During warm weather, we stick to early morning or late evening walks when temperatures are much cooler. If it’s an exceptionally hot day, it’s often kinder and safer to skip a walk altogether and keep dogs entertained at home with enrichment games, training sessions or puzzle toys instead. I find that dogs are clever and naturally want to rest more in hot weather, so Ozzy slept more.
Before walking, always check the pavement with the back of your hand. If it’s too hot for you to comfortably hold your hand there for several seconds, it’s too hot for your dog’s paws and can cause painful burns. We’re lucky we live close to the beach so can let Ozzy just walk by the water’s edge. Otherwise, look for walks with lots of shade, such as Withybush Woods.
Whenever you do head out, take plenty of water, choose shaded routes where possible and let your dog rest whenever they need to.
4. Wear Light, Comfortable Clothing
Loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing made from breathable fabrics can make a huge difference on hot days.
A wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses can also help keep you comfortable if you’re spending time outdoors.
5. Cool Down Quickly
You don’t need an ice bath to feel better.
Running cool water over your wrists, feet or popping a cold flannel on the back of your neck can help lower your body temperature and provide quick relief after being outside.
A cool shower or even a damp flannel on your forehead can also work wonders.
6. Choose Refreshing Foods and Cut Back on Sugary Drinks
When it’s hot, I naturally reach for lighter meals such as salads, fresh fruit and plenty of vegetables.
Foods with a high water content, including watermelon (these were on offer in Home Bargains!), cucumber, strawberries and tomatoes, can help you stay hydrated while providing important vitamins and minerals.
I also try to limit sugary drinks and snacks. While the occasional treat is absolutely fine, too much added sugar can contribute to inflammation and energy crashes for some people. Instead, I find that plenty of water, herbal teas and nourishing meals help me feel much more comfortable during a heatwave.
7. Try to Sleep in a Cooler Bedroom
A cool bedroom can make all the difference when trying to get a good night’s sleep. In a heatwave, if you usually sleep upstairs, consider moving downstairs temporarily if you can.
As I said above, keeping curtains closed during the day, opening windows once temperatures drop and swapping to lightweight bedding can all help you sleep more comfortably during a heatwave.
8. Slow Down When You Need To
One thing I’ve learnt is that it’s perfectly fine to slow down during very hot weather.
The washing, gardening or housework can often wait until temperatures begin to fall later in the day. Listening to your body is far more important than trying to tick everything off your to-do list. I had to take it one job at a time and rest sitting next to the fan in between. It was actually a relief to sit working in front of the fan rather than relax in the garden!
9. Protect Yourself from the Sun
Even when it doesn’t feel extremely hot, UV levels can still be high.
Wear sunscreen, seek shade during the hottest part of the day, wear sunglasses and cover up if you’re going to be outside for long periods.
10. Check In on Others
Heat affects everyone differently.
Older relatives, neighbours, young children and people with certain health conditions may struggle more during prolonged hot weather, so a quick phone call, message or visit can make a real difference. If you’re expecting deliveries, pop some water bottles outside in an ice bucket for the drivers to take on their travels.
Enjoy Summer Safely
Summer doesn’t last forever in the UK, so I usually try to make the most of the lovely days while they’re here. This meant I felt guilty during the recent heatwave as I had to stay in and keep cool, I definitely didn’t make the most of it.
However, when it’s a really warm day (but not quite a weather warning, you can make the most of it. Whether that’s enjoying an early morning coastal walk, relaxing in the garden with a good book, or simply sitting in the shade with a cold drink or tiptop (ice lolly), a few small changes can make hot weather much more enjoyable.
If you’re heading outdoors, remember to look after yourself, your family and your pets, and don’t be afraid to slow the pace a little until temperatures become more comfortable again.
What are your favourite ways to stay cool during a UK heatwave? I’d love to hear your tips in the comments below!
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