Summer is here.
It is one of the best times of year (and can also be uncomfortable with the temperatures rising fast). So how can you stay cool?
We cannot keep the air conditioner set at a nice frosty low all the time because no one is made of money. There are some hacks to help you stay comfortable, no matter how hot it gets outside! Check out these 7 suggestions on how to stay cool during summer below!
Acclimate
It may sound like a contradiction, but when the temperatures start to rise, one of the best (and most frugal) ways to stay cool is to allow yourself to acclimate. Donβt set your thermostat for more than 20 degrees below the outside temperature, so if itβs 90 degrees outside, make sure your indoor temp is no less than 70 degrees. Even better, aim for 15 degrees cooler than it is outside. Youβll find your body will soon adjust, and youβll feel quite comfortable at a warmer room temp.
Hydrate
This may seem obvious, but staying hydrated is another really important step in staying cool when itβs hot outside. But skip the designer waters and convenience store drinks. Keep a pitcher of filtered water in the refrigerator, and find aΒ refillable insulated bottleΒ to carry with you so that youβll always have a cool drink on hand. Staying hydrated will help your body temperature regulate, and youβll also feel much better when youβre out in the heat.
Wear Light(er) Clothing
Another super simple way to help your body stay cool is to choose lightweight, natural fabrics. Even layered, thin cotton or bamboo fabric in roomy cuts will keep you cool and comfortable. Also, lean toward lighter colors, so if you do sweat it wonβt be as obvious, and the thin fabric will dry quickly. A bonus: lightweight fabrics launder quickly, and wonβt use as much energy to dry.
Curtains that are Energy Efficient
One way to save money while keeping your house cool is to useΒ energy efficient curtains or drapesΒ to keep out most of the sunβs scorching heat!
Donβt worry β you wonβt need to live in a cave all day, in fact, itβs a great idea to throw open the windows and let the cool breezes in once the sunsets. In the morning, make sure to close the windows and cover those that get the most sun with heavy drapes or even a blanket. Your air conditioner wonβt have to work as hard to keep the house cool, and youβll be able to pocket the difference in your electric bill.
Choose a “Cook Day”
Batch cooking and meal prep is another great way to avoid unnecessarily heating up the house. Choose one day to cook up meat for tacos, bake a chicken, and prep a casserole or two. For the rest of the week, you can quickly heat your meal in a microwave or stovetop, saving time and money. Also, you might find that lighter fare like salads and smoothies more appealing in the heat.
Also, look into appliances that donβt heat up the house like your oven. AnΒ Air FryerΒ is a great way to cook without the heat!
Get Out of the House
On the really hot days, it may seem that no matter what you do you canβt keep your house cool enough. Instead of breaking the bank by cranking up the AC, use this as an opportunity to get out of the house and take advantage of the free (or cheap) public places with air conditioning.
Chill out in the library and read a book or aΒ free magazine. Find a dollar theater in your area and catch some flicks (and the cool air) for only a few bucks. Leave your money at home and window shop at Target or the mall. Remember to bring yourΒ refillable water bottleΒ along, and plan your outing between snacks and meals so you wonβt be tempted to spend a lot eating out.
Shower
Finally, if you find yourself warm, sweaty, and a little cranky from the heat at the end of the day, donβt worry. This is the perfect time to cool down your core body temperature before getting into bed. Thereβs nothing better than a cool bath or shower to soothe and refresh yourself so you can relax into a nice deep sleep.
Start with warmer water so that you donβt shock your body, and then slowly turn the temperature down as you adjust to the cooler temps. Youβll be amazed at how much better you feel after just a few minutes!
So there you have it. While itβs never fun to endure the dog days of summer, with these frugal tips you too will be able to keep cool and comfortable despite the heat.