Ah, British summer. That magical time of year when the sun graces us for longer than 17 minutes, ice cream vans play their haunting tunes, and we all collectively remember that our houses were designed to trap heat, not get rid of it.
The UK isn’t exactly famous for its scorching summers, but when they arrive, we panic-buy fans, strip off layers we’ve been wearing since October, and start Googling “how to sleep in heat without losing your sanity.”
This guide is for everyone — from the tiniest new human in a sunhat to the wise grandparent sipping tea in the shade — packed with practical advice, funny truths, and enough tips to get you through a heatwave without melting into the sofa.
Understanding Why the UK Gets So Unbearable in Summer
If you’ve ever wondered why 28°C in the UK feels like 40°C in Spain, here’s the science:
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Humidity: Our air likes to hold on to water like it’s in a clingy relationship.
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Buildings: UK homes are insulated to keep us warm in winter… and in summer… and in September.
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Our attitude: We spend most of the year moaning about the rain and then, when the sun arrives, we “make the most of it” until we’re sunburnt and dizzy.
So yes, we are slightly to blame. But don’t worry — we’ll fix that with some sensible (and some slightly silly) tips.
Keeping Babies Cool
Babies are basically tiny hot water bottles that can’t regulate their temperature well. Here’s how to help them:
1. Light Clothing
Stick to loose, breathable fabrics like cotton. If it’s really warm indoors, a nappy and a thin vest will do.
2. Shade is Non-Negotiable
Pram covers might look shady, but they can trap heat. Use a parasol or a specially designed breathable sunshade.
3. Cool Baths
A lukewarm (not cold) bath before bedtime can help them settle. Plus, splashing is fun.
4. Hydration
For babies under six months, extra breastfeeds or bottle feeds are enough. Older babies can sip cooled boiled water.
Tips for Toddlers and Young Children
Children have the magical ability to run around in 30°C heat like it’s nothing, but their little bodies can overheat fast.
1. Frozen Fruit Snacks
Frozen grapes (cut up to avoid choking), melon cubes, or banana slices make great cooling treats.
2. Paddling Pool Time
Best deployed in a shaded spot, unless you enjoy turning your kids into tiny lobsters.
3. DIY Water Play
Buckets, jugs, and plastic cups can keep them busy for ages. Bonus points for “car washes” with toy cars.
4. Cool Down Naps
Darken their room during the day with blackout blinds and keep a fan running — but not blowing directly at them.
Cooling Tips for Teenagers
Teenagers are complex creatures — prone to ignoring advice, rolling eyes, and wearing black hoodies even in a heatwave.
1. The Hoodie Ban
Explain that wearing thick layers in the heat is a one-way ticket to feeling faint.
2. Cold Showers
Perfect for freshening up and cooling down after sports.
3. Cool Hangouts
Encourage them to spend time in shaded parks or air-conditioned libraries instead of roasting in their bedrooms.
4. Hydration by Stealth
Teenagers love iced coffee. You can sneak in hydration by making iced herbal teas or diluted juice and calling it a “mocktail.”
Adults — Staying Cool Without Losing Your Dignity
We adults think we can tough it out, but the sweaty reality says otherwise.
1. Master the Cross-Breeze
Open windows on opposite sides of your home to let air flow through.
2. Cool Your Pulse Points
Dab cold water or press an ice pack against your wrists, neck, or behind your knees.
3. Light Meals
Heavy roasts and pies are lovely… in December. Summer calls for salads, cold pasta dishes, and fruit platters.
4. Dress for the Weather
Light fabrics, wide-brimmed hats, and sunglasses are not just fashion choices — they’re survival gear.
Keeping Grandparents Comfortable
Older adults can struggle more in the heat because their bodies don’t regulate temperature as efficiently.
1. Check In Often
Make sure they’re drinking enough water and staying in the shade.
2. Keep Rooms Cool
Close curtains during the hottest part of the day and use a fan to circulate air.
3. Simple Cooling Aids
Cooling scarves or gel pads can make a big difference.
4. Watch for Signs of Heat Exhaustion
Dizziness, headaches, or nausea mean it’s time to cool down fast.
Pets Are Family Too
Dogs, cats, and other furry friends can suffer in the heat.
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Walk dogs early morning or late evening.
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Keep fresh water available at all times.
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Avoid leaving pets in cars, ever.
Home Cooling Hacks
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DIY Aircon: Put a bowl of ice in front of a fan. Instant arctic breeze.
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Sheet Swap: Switch to cotton or linen bedding in summer.
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Window Wisdom: Keep windows closed during the hottest hours, then open them in the evening.
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Reflective Foil: A temporary foil covering on south-facing windows can block heat.
Fun Ways to Stay Cool Outdoors
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Go to the beach (bonus: the sea is like a giant ice bath in the UK).
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Visit shaded gardens or woodland trails.
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Take a picnic with cold foods and frozen drinks.
Sleep Like a Polar Bear
1. Cool Bedding
Choose breathable fabrics and skip the heavy duvet. I love the Bedsure Cooling Blanket. I have been using this every night over the summer and it is honestly like a cheat code for a great nights sleep!
2. Bedside Ice Pack
Wrap one in a tea towel and pop it near your feet.
3. Pre-Cool the Room
Fan + open window = better bedtime.
Recognising Heat-Related Illnesses
If someone shows signs of:
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Headache
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Confusion
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Heavy sweating or no sweating
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Rapid heartbeat
… it’s time to get them somewhere cool, give fluids, and seek medical help if symptoms worsen.
The UK might only get a few weeks of real heat each year, but when it happens, it’s intense. With the right mix of humour, planning, and maybe a few sacrificial bags of frozen peas, you can keep everyone — from baby to great-grandparent — comfortable and safe.
And remember: sunburn fades, but the embarrassing photo of you lying face-down on a paddling pool will last forever.
