British Gas has urged UK households to hang a damp sheet in front of open windows this week as temperatures soar to 30°C and above. The trick, recommended by British Gas engineer Peter Knowles, helps cool incoming air naturally and can make homes feel significantly cooler without relying on fans or air conditioning.
How the Damp Sheet Trick Works
Knowles explained: "Hanging a damp sheet in front of an open window during evening hours will help to cool incoming air naturally." The moisture from the sheet evaporates, lowering the temperature of the air as it enters the room. This method is particularly effective during the cooler evening hours when outdoor temperatures drop.
For south and west-facing windows that catch the afternoon sun, Knowles also recommends reflective window film to reduce heat and glare. The Met Office has forecast that some areas could see temperatures rise to up to 40°C, making such tips increasingly valuable.
Additional Cooling Tips from British Gas
British Gas shared several other practical steps to help households stay cool. Switching to LED lighting can reduce heat output significantly: a 60-watt incandescent bulb releases around 50 watts of heat, while an LED with the same brightness emits just 1-2 watts. Unplugging heat-generating devices like chargers and laptops when not in use also helps, as they release ambient heat even when idle.
Using ovens, hobs, tumble dryers, and washing machines during the coolest parts of the day—early morning or late evening—prevents adding extra heat when temperatures peak. Batch cooking and air-drying laundry outdoors are recommended. Keeping windows closed during the day is counterintuitive but effective, as it prevents warm air from entering. Light-coloured curtains or blinds in heavier fabrics can also block heat when kept closed.
Positioning fans thoughtfully is another key tip: place them at floor level to circulate cooler air, and in the evening, point a fan out of the window to push hot air out. Opening windows at night provides natural ventilation without running fans constantly.
Knowles added: "We all know how frustrating it is when our homes are hot and stuffy. The good news is that there are some practical steps that households can take to help keep indoor temperatures down during the summer months. Things like doing your washing in the evening, keeping windows closed during the middle of the day or putting your fans on the floor are all small changes that can make a real difference."
