Good weather is here- and along with it BBQs, trips to the beach, and feeling hot & sticky where ever you go. It’s important to keep your home cool not only for your comfort but also to conserve energy and save money. Follow our tips and tricks below to help keep your home cool this summer – without spending money on air conditioning.
What type of home decor makes your home feel cool
Your decor plays a significant role in making your home look and feel cooler. Light and airy home decor can make a significant difference in making your home feel cooler during the summer. Decorate your home with light-coloured pillows, lightweight throws in cotton or linen fabrics, and natural materials such as bamboo, jute, and rattan. These materials are not only lightweight, but they also have excellent cooling properties that can make your space feel more relaxing.
Be smart with your window treatments
The windows are a key area for losing or gaining heat in the home. Up to 30% of the unwanted heat in your home comes from the windows, so by keeping your blinds shut you can cool your home substantially. If you want to keep your blinds closed but still enjoy the natural light, consider blinds that allow more light control – like our Mirage and Visage range.
Blackout blinds will block out the sun, while lighter colours reflect it’s rays the best. Some blinds, like the Luxaflex Plisse range can offer sun protection through innovative Topar coatings.
Motorised shades can also help regulate the temperature in your home. Programme your blinds to stay closed during the day to keep your home cool, then open as you arrive home from work to enjoy the natural light
For curtains, lighter fabrics such as linen, cotton voile, or sheer fabrics are perfect options for summer curtains. These materials allow natural light to filter through while blocking out the sun’s heat. Additionally, light-colored curtains can make a significant difference in keeping the rooms cool during the summer.
Conserve your energy by turning off the lights!
Leaving lights on in the home when it’s beautifully bright outside is a waste of electricity but it can also contribute to warming your home. Incandescent bulbs waste about 90 percent of their energy in the heat they emit, making the switch to fluorescent will make a difference in cooling your home while lowering your electric bill.
Let the night air in
During the summer months, creating outdoor living spaces can be an excellent way to keep your home cool. Consider creating an outdoor living space that is covered by an awning to provide a refreshing retreat and shade. Additionally, consider leaving your windows open at night to let in the cool night air.
Summer temperatures often drop at night, so open your windows and let a refreshing evening breeze into your home – just make sure you shut them again before it gets too hot the next morning!
Strategically placing a fan near the open window can help make the most of breezes by blowing the cool air into your home.
Swap your sheets
Seasonally switching up your bedding can help freshen up a room for the new season – but it can also help keep your bed cool. Switch to a thinner duvet for the summer months, and stay away from bed sheets made of heavy flannel or fleece. Cotton sheets are the most breathable, helping you keep cool at night.
Our Final Thoughts
Keeping your home cool during the summer months can be a challenge, but there are ways to make it more comfortable and energy-efficient. Window treatments, light-coloured decor, and lighting adjustments can all help regulate the temperature in your home. By taking these steps, you can stay cool all summer long while still maintaining a comfortable and stylish living space.