It’s not just a figment of your imagination. It’s undeniably hotter than ever before. According to scientists, several recent days have likely secured their place as the hottest in modern history, as scorching heatwaves persistently shatter temperature records across the globe.
With temperatures teetering somewhere between “hot” and “inferno” in many parts of the United States, you might catch yourself yearning for that apartment with central air conditioning or at the very least, one of those trusty window units.
Even if you’re fortunate enough to have AC, these tips can still come in handy to help you beat the heat and stay cool.
How to Stay Cool Without Air Conditioning: 9 Clever Tricks
If you find yourself in a hot location without air conditioning, try using some unconventional methods to stay cool.
1. Take an Icy Foot Bath
One of the fastest ways to cool off is by immersing your toes in icy cold water. By cooling the numerous “pulse points” on your feet, you can effectively lower your body temperature. Get a bowl or a shallow bucket, fill it with cold water, and immerse your feet. Visualize a comical sizzling effect as you do so…
Exercise caution when attempting this technique. Begin by using cool tap water, gradually adding ice if desired for an extra boost. It’s important to avoid rapidly exposing yourself to extremely cold temperatures, as it may cause discomfort despite its initial refreshing appeal.
As you target your pulse points, consider running cold water over them or applying a cold, damp towel to your wrists, the back of your neck, or your forehead.
2. Wear a Cooling Vest
This is indeed a viable option and it offers a more cost-effective alternative to using an air conditioning unit. You can find cooling sport vests in various styles, starting as low as $27. These vests are designed with either gel inserts or the ability to be soaked in water before wearing.
If a vest doesn’t suit your taste, there are also cooling caps, sleeves, and bandannas available. Regardless of your choice, you can wear the vest discreetly under your shirt during a sweaty morning commute or simply put it on indoors on those particularly scorching days.
3. Freeze Your Sheets
Sleeping on hot nights can be especially challenging when you don’t have air conditioning. However, here’s a simple trick to help you stay comfortable and get a good night’s rest: cool your sheets before slipping into bed. While this old trick may not completely alleviate the heat throughout the night, it can certainly help you fall asleep faster, as suggested by Lifehacker.
Place your bed sheets in a plastic bag and allow them to rest in the refrigerator or freezer for a few hours before bedtime. This way, you can slip into a pleasantly chilled bed and skip the need for air conditioning or the noise of a fan throughout the night.
4. Make a DIY Ice Pack
For a portable way to cool your pulse points, try making a makeshift ice pack by partially freezing a water bottle. Another option is filling a sock, small pouch, or pillowcase with rice, freezing it for a couple of hours. When you’re in need of relief, simply place the pack on your wrists, back of your neck, forehead, or toes!
Here’s a bonus tip from a Wisconsinite: I understand that thinking about it might not be your preference, but you can actually utilize the same tools to stay warm during the winter season. Consider filling your water bottle with boiled water or warming up your rice pillow in the microwave for a few minutes. It’s a simple yet effective way to keep yourself cozy when the temperatures drop.
5. Cool Down Like an Egyptian
The origin of its name may be uncertain, but the “Egyptian Method” offers a simple solution for staying cool during hot days and nights. Before retiring for the night, dampen your top sheet or a large towel with cool water, ensuring it is not overly saturated. Utilize this moistened fabric as a blanket, allowing you to sleep comfortably while remaining cool.
To prevent your bed from becoming wet, you can place a dry towel between yourself and the mattress. This ingenious technique ensures a restful slumber while keeping you refreshed in warm temperatures.
I have witnessed friends using this clever technique during the daytime, involving the use of wet T-shirts. While it may not be the most suitable attire for public outings, it is a perfect way to stay cool and comfortable at home, especially when positioned in front of a refreshing fan!
6. Make Your Own Air Conditioner for Free
When you only require air conditioning for a few days each year, there are cost-saving alternatives to consider. Try these DIY methods:
- Fill a roasting pan or shallow bowl with ice and position it in front of a fan.
- Hang a damp sheet in front of an open window.
- Roll up a wet towel and attach it to the front of a box fan.
These techniques provide effective cooling while being mindful of your budget.
Regardless, the gentle breeze will carry cool droplets of water, enveloping your stifling room in a revitalizing mist.
7. Unplug
Even the most energy-efficient light bulbs and appliances emit heat when in use. By unplugging them and keeping the lights off, you can prevent unnecessary heat from accumulating in a room. Not only does this help reduce the need for air conditioning, but it also leads to cost savings by minimizing electricity consumption.
Maximize your summer days by unplugging and switching off the lights. Not only will you save energy and reduce heat in your home or cozy apartment, but you’ll also bask in the warmth of natural sunlight.
8. Eat Spicy Food
Have you ever pondered the correlation between the origin of the spiciest cuisines and the hottest regions on our planet? It’s fascinating how dishes infused with spices like curries and chillies can ignite the heat receptors in your mouth, subsequently elevating your internal temperature, enhancing blood circulation, and even prompting perspiration, which aids in cooling your body down.
So, make sure to have some hot sauce within reach wherever your summer adventures take you.
9. Drink Chrysanthemum Tea
Chrysanthemum, known for its cooling properties, is often hailed as a natural remedy to clear the mind. Instead of opting for dehydrating beverages like black tea or lemonade, which contain caffeine and sugar, try brewing a refreshing batch of chrysanthemum iced tea.
This delightful beverage can help you beat the heat on a sweltering summer afternoon or enjoy a soothing cup before bed, providing a calming effect for both your mind and body.