With record-breaking temperatures and heatwaves becoming the seasonal norm, the challenge of keeping your home cool is no longer reserved for far-flung climates. In the UK – where traditional homes are built to trap heat, not release it – rising temperatures can quickly turn living spaces into stifling ovens. And with air conditioning still a rarity (and a costly one at that), finding effective, affordable alternatives has never been more important.
We spoke to the experts to uncover smart, sustainable ways to keep your home cool without driving up energy costs. From clever airflow tricks and thermal-savvy window treatments to breathable natural materials and strategic greenery, their advice offers practical solutions for staying comfortable through the hottest days.
Beat the heat with smarter window coverings
According to British Blind and Shutter Association guidance, choosing the right blinds could keep a home up to 15°C cooler. From heat-shielding fabrics to insulating honeycomb structures, Blinds2Go’s energy-saving blinds are designed to look good while helping households rely less on fans and air conditioning. The range helps regulate indoor temperatures throughout the warmest days of summer.
Chloe Dacosta, Design Manager at Blinds2Go, explains that opening windows during a heatwave can do more harm than good. “When you open your windows during a heatwave, you’re actually letting warm air into homes that are naturally designed to retain heat. Once that heat gets inside, it’s much harder to remove, meaning your home can quickly become warmer than the temperature outside,” she said.
“To keep your home cool, it’s best to keep windows, blinds, and curtains closed during the hottest part of the day – typically between 11am and 3pm – particularly in south or west-facing rooms that get the most direct sunlight.” You can then open the windows after sunset to let in the evening breeze.
Wool? For summer? Groundbreaking.
Wool might traditionally be associated with warmth, but it’s also a surprisingly smart choice for staying cool in summer. Lisa Conway from carpet specialists Brintons explains: “Wool is always an excellent choice due to its natural insulating properties, and one lesser-known advantage is its cooling ability. Helping to regulate both temperature and humidity, wool carpets and rugs can prevent too much heat from coming through the floor – ultimately contributing to a more comfortable, energy-efficient home.”
Shade and serenity in every leaf
Outdoors, consider planting fast-growing climbers such as honeysuckle, clematis, or grapevine on trellises positioned near south-facing walls or windows. These living shade screens not only block harsh sunlight but also create a cooling microclimate around your home.
Indoors, introduce heat-fighting houseplants that double as décor. Areca palms and peace lilies act as natural humidifiers, while aloe vera and snake plants absorb heat and release oxygen at night, making them ideal for bedrooms and living spaces.
Tackle hidden sources of heat
Lastly, remember, it’s not just the sun making your home warmer – many everyday appliances quietly add to the heat. “Lights, ovens, computers, TVs, and electronics all give off heat,” says property developer and interior designer Marta de Sousa. “Better to cook outdoors or have a barbecue if you can and avoid using the tumble dryer during the day.”
Even lighting choices matter: incandescent bulbs give off heat alongside a cosy glow. Swapping them for energy-efficient LEDs, or simply keeping lights off during the day, can make a noticeable difference.
Your boiler can also add unexpected warmth. “If you shower in the morning, try turning off your boiler during the day,” de Sousa suggests. “There’s no need to keep hot water stored when you’re not using it – it just adds unnecessary heat.” Heating water overnight and switching the boiler off during the day can help keep your home cooler while reducing energy bills.
Electronics left on standby also emit residual heat, so unplug anything you’re not using. Small changes like these can go a long way towards keeping your home comfortable throughout the summer.
