Summer can be a difficult time for those without air conditioning. Whether you’re looking to save money on your energy bill or live in a home without AC, there are plenty of ways to stay cool during the hot months.

Below are ten tips on how to stay cool without air conditioning this summer.

1. Keep Your Blinds Closed

Keeping your blinds closed during the day can make a significant difference in the amount of heat that enters your space. According to the Department of Energy, about 30% of unwanted heat comes from your windows.

By keeping your blinds closed, especially those facing the sun, you can reduce heat gain by up to 77%.

2. Use Cold Curtains or Sheets

You can also implement curtains or sheets that have been dipped in cold water to make your home feel cooler. The water on the fabric will help evaporate hot air and create a cooling effect. Be sure to wring out the sheets before hanging them up, however.

This trick can help to cool a room down quickly and is a great tool to use in the evenings when the temperature has cooled off.

3. Take Advantage of Fans

Fans have been used for centuries to create a cooling effect in homes. Whether you’re using a ceiling fan or a standing fan, they can be used to circulate air in your space and create a natural breeze.

Be sure to adjust your fan’s direction to make sure it’s rotating counterclockwise, as this will push cool air down. Placing a bowl of ice in front of the fan can also help to cool the air around you.

4. Create Cross-Breezes

If you have windows on opposite sides of your home, you may be able to create a cross-breeze to ventilate your space. Simply open the windows on one side of the house and place a fan in front of the other side to push the hot air out.

This technique can create a pleasant breeze that will help to keep you cool.

5. Stay Hydrated

Drinking water throughout the day can help regulate your body temperature and keep you cool. It’s essential to stay hydrated, especially during the hot summer months when dehydration can lead to heat exhaustion or heatstroke.

Be sure to drink plenty of water and avoid sugary or alcoholic beverages, which can dehydrate you faster.

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6. Change Your Clothing

Wearing loose-fitting clothing made of cotton, linen, or other lightweight materials can help to keep you cool. Fabrics such as polyester or rayon can trap heat and make you feel hotter.

Choosing clothing in lighter colors, such as white or pastels, can also help to reflect sunlight and keep you cool.

7. Create Shade

If you have an outdoor space, you may want to consider creating shade to keep it cooler. By hanging a sunshade or installing an umbrella, you can reduce the amount of sunlight that enters your seating area.

This can make your outdoor space much more comfortable, even during the hottest parts of the day.

8. Eat Cool Foods

Eating hot or spicy foods can raise your body temperature, making you feel hotter. During the summer months, try to eat cool foods such as salads, fruits, and chilled soups to help regulate your body temperature.

Drinking cold beverages, such as iced tea, lemonade, or water with lemon or cucumber slices, can also help you feel cooler.

9. Invest in Thermal Curtains

Thermal curtains are curtains that are designed to block out heat and cold. They work by trapping air between the fabric and the window, which creates a barrier against the outside temperatures.

These curtains can be especially helpful for those who live in areas with extreme heat or cold and can be a great way to keep your home cool in the summer months.

10. Take Advantage of the Night

Finally, taking advantage of the nighttime temperatures can be a great way to keep your home cool. By opening your windows and allowing cool air to circulate throughout the house, you can create a comfortable sleeping environment.

Be sure to close your windows and blinds early in the morning, however, to keep the hot sun out.

Conclusion

Staying cool without air conditioning is possible, even during the hottest months of the year. By implementing the tips above, you can keep your home and yourself cool and comfortable without wasting money on energy bills.

Whether you’re looking to save money or live in a space without AC, these tips can help you stay cool during the summer months.