Simple ways to beat the London heat while at uni

London is great in the sunshine, but halls can heat up fast when temperatures rise. Whether you’re studying, sleeping or just trying not to melt in your room, here are a few simple ways to stay cooler during the warmer weather.

Try the ice fan trick

A fan is already handy in summer, but you can make it work even harder with a bottle of frozen water.

Fill a plastic bottle with water, freeze it, then place it in front of your fan. As the fan blows air past the frozen bottle, it helps circulate cooler air around your room. Simple, cheap and surprisingly effective.

Just remember to place the bottle on a towel or tray so you don’t end up with a puddle as it melts.

Drink plenty of water

It sounds obvious, but staying hydrated makes a big difference when it’s hot. Keep a water bottle with you and sip regularly throughout the day, especially if you’re heading outside, travelling on the Tube or spending time in the sun.

If you’re out and about, wear sun cream with at least SPF 30 and reapply it during the day. The sun can still catch you out, even if it feels cloudy or breezy.

Keep the heat out

If your room starts feeling like a greenhouse, your windows might be letting in more heat than fresh air.

During the hottest part of the day, keep your curtains or blinds closed to block direct sunlight. This is especially useful in the afternoon when the sun is strongest. Once it cools down later, you can open your window to let fresher air in.

Cool down before bed

Warm rooms can make it harder to sleep, so try cooling yourself down before you get into bed. A cool shower, a damp flannel on your neck or wrists, or a chilled bottle of water nearby can all help.

You can also put your pillowcase or a pair of socks in the freezer for a short while before bed. It might sound strange, but it can give you a quick burst of relief when your room feels too warm.

Be sensible in the heat

Hot weather can be fun, but it can also make you feel tired, dizzy or unwell if you overdo it. Take breaks in the shade, avoid sitting in direct sun for too long and check in on your flatmates if your halls are feeling particularly warm.

A few small changes can make a big difference, so keep cool, stay hydrated and look after yourself during the hotter days.