UK households are being advised to use a hot water bottle to ensure a good night's sleep as temperatures are set to soar from Tuesday, July 8. The Met Office forecasts predominantly dry conditions with warm weather, especially in southern parts of the UK, with London expecting highs of 26C on Tuesday, rising to 28C by Thursday.
While hot water bottles are traditionally used for warmth in winter, experts suggest they can be repurposed as cooling devices during a heatwave. By filling the bottle with ice-cold water or refrigerating it, the bottle can chill sheets and pillows, providing relief from the heat.
For an even colder effect, the bottle can be filled with cold water and placed in the freezer, but it should not be left for more than 20 minutes to avoid damaging the rubber. It is recommended to use separate bottles for hot and cold use, and to wrap the bottle in a cover or tea towel to prevent direct skin contact with the cold surface.
Heat-Treats explains: "It's simple; just fill your bottle with iced water, ice cubes or crushed ice. The bottle acts in the same way in reverse; instead of releasing warm heat it emits refreshing cold." This method offers an alternative to running fans for hours, helping Brits stay cool without high energy costs.
