As Britain braces for a heatwave, with temperatures expected to hit 29°C in parts of the East including London, staying cool and hydrated becomes more important than ever. But some expert advice might surprise you: opting for a hot drink or lukewarm shower could actually cool you down more effectively than cold options.
According to researchers from the University of Reading, on a hot day, the average person can sweat up to 10 litres—equivalent to 40 cups of tea. And while reaching for an icy drink might seem like the obvious choice, hot drinks may offer better relief.
“For a short amount of time, hot drinks raise your core body temperature,” the researchers explain. “But it induces sweating, which then lowers your temperature more efficiently.”
Similarly, the idea that a freezing cold shower is the fastest way to cool off has also been debunked. A lukewarm shower or bath is actually safer and more effective. Sudden cold exposure can trigger cold shock, which can be harmful, while lukewarm water promotes gradual cooling without risk.
To beat the heat indoors, fan placement also plays a critical role. Experts suggest placing fans lower to the ground, where the air is naturally cooler, rather than up high. For optimal cooling, aim the fan at a wall opposite from where you’re sitting—this circulates the air more effectively, lowering the room’s temperature overall.
In homes built to retain heat, such as those in the UK, small tweaks like these can make a big difference in managing summer heat safely and comfortably.
