As the UK braces for another heatwave, households are seeking effective ways to stay cool. Surprisingly, a hot water bottle—typically associated with winter warmth—can be repurposed to provide relief from the heat.
How to Use a Hot Water Bottle to Cool Down
Dean Commodore, a household expert who shares DIY advice on Instagram as @casadelacommodore, recommends filling a hot water bottle three-quarters full and placing it in the freezer. After several hours, you can retrieve the frozen bottle and put it in your bed to enjoy a cool night's sleep.
Commodore's followers quickly responded with tips and questions. One user cautioned: "Make sure you use a different hot water bottle for the winter—the freezer can erode the rubber, making it more likely to burst when holding hot water. Dedicate a summer and winter one to avoid accidents." Another asked if the fridge would suffice, to which Commodore replied: "You could, but you'd probably get only 30 minutes of cooling effect in this hot weather." A third commented: "Great tip; we use freezer blocks, but this might stay cold all night."
Additional Cooling Tips from the Met Office
The Met Office also advises keeping blinds and curtains drawn during hot weather to prevent heat from building up indoors. Window coverings act as barriers against the sun's rays, helping to reduce humidity and stuffiness. If you lack suitable window dressings, hanging a bed sheet or towel can serve as an effective alternative.
