UK heatwave prompts simple home cooling methods

As a heatwave sweeps across the United Kingdom with temperatures forecast to reach 34 °C, experts are offering practical ways to keep homes comfortable. British Gas recommends running kitchen and bathroom extractor fans while keeping internal doors open to create airflow, and opening windows and vents at night or early morning to draw in cooler air. Homeowners are advised to keep unused rooms closed during the day and to shut internal doors again after the fans are turned off to prevent warm air from returning.

Sleep specialists suggest a quick bedside trick for hotter nights: placing a pillowcase or a pair of socks in the freezer for 20‑30 minutes before bedtime. Cooling the head, neck, and feet can help lower core body temperature, making it easier to fall asleep. They caution against cold showers, which may cause the body to retain heat, and recommend lukewarm showers instead.