SIX TOP TIPS TO KEEP COOL AS TEMPERATURES RISE
Can you believe it! Winter is finally over; spring has sprung and summer is almost here. Although the sunshine is great, the higher temperatures at this time of year may sometimes lead to lethargy or even exhaustion. Here are some handy ways to keep cool and stay energised during the warmer months of the year.
- Stay hydrated
To avoid dehydration and heatstroke, you should drink roughly 2.5 litres of water a day in summer. If you’re exercising or spending a lot of time outdoors, you should be drinking even more! And remember, drinking sugary or caffeinated drinks contributes to dehydration, so try and drink these in moderation.
- Clothing is key
Give synthetic fabrics a skip when it’s hot and opt for cotton or other natural fibres instead. Cotton is breathable so it helps keep your body cool. Wearing light-coloured, lightweight, loose-fitting clothes allows you to feel comfortable – even when it’s a scorcher of a day.
Fabric also makes a huge difference at night. Consider fitting your bed with cotton sheets; they really are much cooler than sheets made of synthetic materials and we think there’s nothing worse than being so hot you can’t sleep!
- Keep inside during mid-day hours
During periods of extreme heat, it’s smart to stay indoors at the hottest time of the day. The best time to head to the shops or do other outdoors activities is before 10am or after 4pm, when the temperature tends to be cooler. So, plan your excursions accordingly.
- Stock up on pot plants
Having lots of leafy green houseplants will not only improve your mood and purify the air, but they can also make a room feel cooler. Plants release moisture into the air, which helps regulate the relative humidity of a room and can make it feel more comfortable.
- Invest in a good air conditioner
No matter what you do to try and keep cool, nothing compares to the sheer relief of turning the air con on a sweltering day. If you’re thinking about buying an air conditioner, make sure you pick one with a high energy-star rating and do your research, so you choose the right one for your home. LG has a smart range of eco-friendly air conditioners to keep your home cool and comfortable. These appliances have advanced features and thoughtful designs that will help you breathe easier, too. Built-in HEPA filters capture and contain dust and dirt particles, and you can look forward to 70% savings in energy and 40% faster cooling.
- Get busy braaing in the evening
Closing your windows and staying inside may be a great way to keep cool during the heat of the day, but when it gets cooler in the evening, it’s time to open your house up to cool your home naturally. Enjoying a braai in the garden is definitely a cooler and more relaxing option than cooking in a steamy kitchen, too. And if someone else is doing the braaing? Even better!