Keeping your home cool naturally in hot weather can make a huge difference in comfort without spiking your electricity bill. Here are some tried-and-tested natural remedies to beat the heat:
🌿 Natural Ways to Keep Your Home Cool
1. Block the Heat
- Close Curtains/Blinds: Use light-colored, thick cotton or bamboo curtains during the day, especially on south and west-facing windows.
- Reflective Window Films: Apply reflective or sun-blocking window films to reduce heat gain.
- Use Jute or Khus Mats: Hang wet khus (vetiver) mats on windows. When air passes through, it cools down.
2. Improve Ventilation
- Cross Ventilation: Open windows on opposite sides to allow cool air to enter and hot air to exit.
- Evening Air: Open windows and doors after sunset to let the cooler evening breeze in.
3. Cool the Floors
- Mop with Cold Water: Regular mopping with cold water helps cool down the floor.
- Use Cotton Rugs: Replace heavy carpets with light cotton or bamboo mats.
4. Indoor Plants = Natural AC
Plants like:
- Areca Palm
- Aloe Vera
- Snake Plant
- Money Plant
They not only purify the air but also cool it slightly through transpiration.
5. DIY Air Cooling
- Hang Wet Sheets: Place a wet cotton sheet or towel over a window or doorway—breeze passing through it feels cooler.
- Clay Pots with Water: Place water-filled earthen pots around the house; they release cool moisture as the water evaporates.
6. Turn Off Heat Sources
- Switch to LED Bulbs: Incandescent bulbs produce heat.
- Unplug Appliances: Many devices give off heat even when off—keep them unplugged.
7. Cook Smart
- Avoid using the stove or oven during the day—opt for salads, fruits, or cook early in the morning or late evening.
8. Roof Cooling
- Whitewash the Roof: A layer of white lime reflects sunlight.
- Grow a Green Roof: Plant grass or creepers in containers on the terrace to reduce direct heat.