When the warmer months roll around it can be challenging to stay cool. When you have kids, it can be particularly challenging. They may struggle with naptime and you may find yourself calming down a considerable amount of tantrums. Being overheated isn’t fun for anyone.
Therefore, it’s in your interest to keep everyone in the household cool. No air conditioning? No problem. Take a look at some of the best ideas for staying cool without having to spend a fortune on energy bills.
Air Flow
One of the best ways to keep your house cool is to keep the airflow going throughout the house. By putting fans in each room, the airflow will circulate and avoid the air becoming stale.
However, leaving doors and windows wide open can invite the potential for bugs getting in. Install screens on your windows and doors to keep the air flowing while still keeping critters out.
Want to make your airflow even more effective? Place a bowl of ice in front of each fan for a cool breeze DIY air conditioner!
Spray Bottles
A gentle spritz from a cool spray bottle is a very effective way to keep your body temperature down in the high heat. Keep a spray bottle full of water in the fridge and spritz the whole family every now and then.
If getting soggy is a concern, try using an aerosol water spray bottle, so it’s more of a mist than a spray.
Limit Outdoor Time
The more time that you spend outside, the more overheated you’ll become. Try to limit your kids time outside and keep them coming in every thirty minutes or so. They’ll avoid sunburn as well as getting too hot.
Ideally, you should keep them inside between the hours of midday and 4 pm when the sun’s power is at its peak.
Go For a Dunk
A dunk in cool water is just what the doctor ordered on a hot day. No swimming pool? Don’t let that hold you back! Fill the tub full of fresh water and have the kids get in their bathing suits.
Another idea is to buy an inflatable pool from the store and fill it in the backyard. Be sure to place the pool in the shade, so you don’t have to worry about the water heating up too quickly.
Wear Light Fabrics
The best way to stay cool is to wear light and breathable materials. When your clothing is too thick, you can’t stay cool.
Cotton is ideal during the hot months. In addition to the material being thin, it’s best if it’s light colored, so it absorbs the least amount of heat from the sun. Don’t forget to protect everyone’s heads with hats as well!
*This article was contributed.
