It’s been a solid week and a half since summer officially kicked off and much of the country is already experiencing record-breaking temperatures. In South Florida, every day we’re seeing 90+ degrees. Whether you’re inside or out, these extreme temperatures take a toll on your body. However, there are a few things here and there we can do to make it through the summer without getting a heat stroke.
Don’t use all your appliances at once – Having the oven turned to 400 degrees, the washer and dryer running and the dishwasher on will not only spike your electric bill but also warm up your house more than you’d like. Avoid turning everything on at the same time and try to do it in the early or later part of the day.
Choose cooling sheets – For a better night’s sleep, opt for breathable and moisture-wicking sheets. When you start to feel like you’re overheating at night, it can disrupt your sleep cycle and in these given times, we need all the rest we can get! Bamboo sheets are one way to not only stay cool throughout the night, but also indulge in soft and comfortable sheets. Research also shows that your room should be between 60-67 degrees Fahrenheit for the best night’s sleep you could ask for.
Pick out blackout curtains – Given the sun doesn’t set until the later part of the day, rooms in your home will stay warm throughout much of the day if you don’t choose the right curtains to keep the sun out. Blackout curtains are the best option to block light from entering the room and keep it cool. They also tend to give you more privacy than sheer curtains so I highly recommend investing in a pair – especially if you’re in hot parts of the country like Florida.
Cooling towel – Bed Bath & Beyond, Target and Amazon all have cooling towels you can purchase for an affordable prize that you can expect to last you a long time. These towels are great to have if you’re going for a run or taking the boat out. Simply run the towel under cold water and wring it out. Putting a cold towel around your neck or laying it on your face will provide an instant cool down.
Weather.com expects summer 2020 to be warmer than average, so it’s important to take this heat serious and do everything you can to stay cool. If you have kids, also consider keeping them away from direct sunlight, staying hydrated and wearing appropriate clothing to prevent overheating.
