How do I sleep when it is too hot at night?

Use light cotton or linen sheets, run a cool shower before bed, and place a bowl of ice in front of a fan to push cooler air around the room. Keep a damp flannel by the bed for your wrists and the back of your neck if you wake up warm.

What is the quickest way to cool down in hot weather?

Run cold water over your wrists, ankles and the back of your neck. These are pulse points where blood runs close to the skin, so cooling them brings your whole body temperature down quickly.

How much water should I drink in a heatwave?

Sip water steadily through the day rather than gulping a lot at once. Add a pinch of salt or a slice of fruit if you have been sweating a lot, and watch for headaches, dizziness or dark urine as signs you need more.

Who is most at risk in a heatwave?

Older people, very young children, pregnant women, people with heart or breathing conditions, and anyone working or exercising outdoors. Check on elderly neighbours and family during the hottest part of the day, usually between 11am and 3pm.

Friends laughing and cooling off with water pistols in a sunny green park, a joyful summer scene

Back to Wellbeing

Wellbeing 6 min read

How to Stay Cool in a Heatwave, Gentle Practical Tips for Hot Days and Hotter Nights

Published 24th June 2026Updated on 24th June 2026

Written byColleen Brownlee , Colleen Content and Website

How did this story feel

Quick answers

Frequently asked questions

Close curtains and blinds on sun facing windows during the day, then open windows wide once the air outside is cooler than inside, usually late evening. Turn off lamps, ovens and other heat sources, and create a cross breeze with two open windows on opposite sides of the home.

How to Stay Cool in a Heatwave, Gentle Practical Tips for Hot Days and Hotter Nights

Frequently asked questions

Read next

Dear Future Me: How to Write a Letter to Your Future Self

Do People Still Journal? Yes, and It's Having a Real Moment

How to Stop Doomscrolling and Reclaim Your Evenings

Physical 100: Italy Review, One Hundred Bodies. One Winner.

The Best Podcasts to Listen to Right Now, Autumn 2026

Best of the Best: The Netflix Dance Film That Understands Sisterhood

One inspiring story to your inbox each week.

How to Stay Cool in a Heatwave, Gentle Practical Tips for Hot Days and Hotter Nights

Frequently asked questions

Read next

Dear Future Me: How to Write a Letter to Your Future Self

Do People Still Journal? Yes, and It's Having a Real Moment

How to Stop Doomscrolling and Reclaim Your Evenings

Most read

Physical 100: Italy Review, One Hundred Bodies. One Winner.

The Best Podcasts to Listen to Right Now, Autumn 2026

Best of the Best: The Netflix Dance Film That Understands Sisterhood

One inspiring story to your inbox each week.