It’s fascinating, the way different parts of the world handle their heat.

In the Middle East, where you can find hot, arid conditions year-round, wind towers - an ancient form of air conditioning - were designed to catch the breeze and funnel it through homes. Greece employs these thick, whitewashed stone walls and small, narrow windows – typical architecture for its islands. These small engineering decisions are designed to keep the sweltering sun out and cool air in. In India, methods are varied and regional given its wide range of climates; people are prone to wearing lightweight cotton clothing, some use carved wooden panels that allow air to circulate indoors, others employ vetiver grass mats hung over windows and sprayed with water. 

In the UK, however, we lack such stringent, time-tested methods. We are usually saying a silent prayer that whatever heat we do find might stick around, or manufacturing our own with thick winter throws and heated blankets and fluffy socks. This season, however, has been warming up fast. The sun is out and here to stay – at least on and off for the next few months. After a few too many nights of tossing and turning in bed and dodging my sun-lit leather sofa (too big to move, I’ve tried), I will be looking at some techniques and products that’ll help us stay cool at home this summer. With no air conditioning and homes hardly built to withstand a heatwave, it’s the least I can do.

When it comes to staying cool at home, the best way to go about it is to stop the space heating up in the first place. Simply enough, you might start by cooking smart. Think cold pasta and potato salads, wraps stuffed with that good green stuff and picnic-style dinners of cold cut chicken and bell peppers. If you do require use of the oven - as I most definitely will - try to use it earlier in the day and switch to an air fryer or slow cooker as the evening creeps up. 

Secondly, it’s important to manage light and airflow carefully. Blackout curtains should stay firmly shut in sun-facing rooms and windows open whenever you get the chance, especially to let cooler evening air in before bedtime. We can you both ultra blackout curtains and extendable curtain poles that make shielding your home from excessive sun-heat easy as pie, and with many styles across both there’ll be something perfect for you and home. I think you’ll find the difference immediate.

Now, let’s talk practical game-changers. Get in the know with the OHS Gel Cooling Pad. I keep one on my desk chair during the day and move it to the sofa in the evening and my pillow at night. It gives an instant chill — especially after been running around. We also have a Cooling Pet Mat, which our dog loves — but I’ll be honest, I sometimes pop it under my feet while I’m reading. No regrets.

I also tend to make a habit of switching off unnecessary lights and electronics when not in use, double points if you remember to unplug them. These efforts should keep your home cooler and reduce any energy waste, maybe even save you some money. Tepid showers are also my go to when its hot - the ideal solution for avoiding that sticky, clammy feeling that tends to assist the summer season. Cotton towels and dressing robes are a lush choice for drying off while keeping cool. 

Now, let’s talk bedding. Many can relate to having a love/hate relationship with sleep during the summer. Even with a fan, I tend to wake up tossed, turned, and sweating. However, I found that switching up your bedding can be a game-changing in finding cool, undisturbed sleep.

We’re pleased to have a few cooling bedtime solutions in the arsenal, namely the OHS Cooling Pillow Protectors and the Cooling Mattress Protector. These are designed with cooling fibres that provide a refreshing surface to lie die down, built to regulate temperate for a more comfortable night’s sleep.

Also, you might consider switching your heavier duvet for something more manageable this time of year. The OHS Essential 4.5 Tog Cool Duvet is filled enough for comprehensive coverage without any risk of overheating. Pair it with a 100% cotton sheet & duvet for that cool and soft touch on your skin, plus they wash super well.

Clothing-wise, aim for loose pieces of cotton and linen. Finally, and admittedly a little obviously, hydration is your best friend when beating the heat. Keep a jug of chilled water in the fridge, and toss in some sliced cucumber or lemon if want a little something extra.

 

No Renovation Needed, Just a Refresh

These swaps don’t break the bank, and they certainly don’t require a total home overhaul. But the difference they’ll made to your summer comfort is huge. Sleep better, feel calmer, and have a home with way less moaning.

So, if you’re bracing for another stuffy summer, don’t panic. With a few clever changes and a little bit of know-how, you can stay cool and comfortable — no air con needed.

Shop Summer Cooling for the full range.