How to stay cool in hot weather without air conditioning and sleep better on hot nights

Summer has well and truly arrived, but for us Brits the accompanying heatwave can be quite tough to navigate. With high temperatures in the 30C mark, it can be difficult not to feel like you're overheating all day, not to mention there isn't much relief at night either.

However, the good news is that you don't need to break the bank if you want to stay cool, and there's no reason to join a mad dash to order an expensive air conditioning unit that'll take ages to get fitted, just for a few weeks.

There are plenty of easy ways to keep cool during a heatwave both day and night, that are well within budget (and sometimes even free). For example, Yimbly has a range of portable air con units and budget-friendly fans with plenty of options under £50.

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Check out our top tips for how to stay cool during a heatwave below...

Consider a portable fan: As you’re only cooling down the rooms you’re actively using, these fans can be an effective way to stay cool. There are plenty of fans to suit every budget out there, with different modes and even timers if you want to help cool the room while you’re sleeping. Some of our current picks include:

• Lifemax Foldaway Fan for £30.41
• Livivo Chrome Floor Fan for £49.99

• Arctic Air Outdoor Mister & Fan from £59.99

• Living and Home 2 In 1 Air Cooler And Heater for £86

• Midea SmartAir Cool + Purify Bladeless Fan for £149.99

Try thermal curtains or blackout blinds: These can block out the sunlight and therefore help to reduce temperatures indoors.

Keep windows closed: It may sound counterproductive, but keeping windows closed when it’s hot outside actually keeps that heat out. However, make sure to open them in the evening when it’s cooler, as you’ll benefit from the air flow.

Open windows at opposite ends of the house: This creates a natural breeze that flows through your home thanks to the cross-ventilation.

Don’t forget the garden: A simple parasol placed strategically can shade windows and outdoor seating areas, stopping your home from becoming a greenhouse in disguise. Currently, Yimbly has a Living and Home 3M Large Banana Cantilever Patio Parasol for £52.50 which is UV-resistant.

Avoid certain appliances: During the hotter parts of the day, consider turning off lights and electrical equipment that you’re not using. If you need to use the oven, consider cooking at a later point in the day when the weather is a little cooler.

Rethink your sleep routine: Opt for light cotton or linen pyjamas for the best chance of comfort. If you love to be snuggled into your duvet but can't cope with the heat that it brings, try one with a lower tog, such as the HOMESCAPES Goose Feather And Down 4.5 Tog Summer Duvet. If you really struggle to cool down your bedroom, you may want to consider sleeping in a different part of the house.