The Philippines is a tropical country that has an average annual temperature of about 27°C. During the summer, temperatures can soar up to 40°C or more. To beat the heat, Filipinos find a variety of ways to stay cool. From wearing clothes made of lightweight and breathable fabrics to eating frozen treats like halo-halo. However, if you’re looking for an effective way to stave off the heat, you have to shift your focus towards your bedroom.
People consider their bedrooms to be their personal sanctuaries that provide them with a cozy retreat after a hard day of work. Unfortunately, your bedroom can also be a source of discomfort, especially during summer. This is because radiant heat from the sun, as well as warm and humid air can remain in your bedroom, making it nearly impossible for you to get a good night’s sleep.
To lower the room’s temperature, here are several things you can do.Install Radiant Barriers Inside Ceilings and Roofing
One effective way to keep your bedroom cool is by installing radiant barriers inside your ceilings and roofing. Radiant barriers are designed to reduce heat transfer, which happens when thermal radiation from the sun permeates through your roof and ceiling, heating your living spaces in the process. Radiant barriers reflect thermal radiation away from your home’s interior, reducing heat inside your bedroom and the need for excessive air conditioning. With these barriers in place, you can maintain a cooler indoor environment, as well as lower your power consumption.
Install an Air Conditioner
Many Filipinos consider the aircon to be an essential household appliance that helps them get a good night’s sleep during hot and humid nights. Air conditioners don’t only cool air; they also remove excess humidity, making the room more comfortable. As such, installing an air conditioner in your bedroom can provide you with instant relief from the heat. When selecting an AC unit, it’s in your best interest to get one that has energy-saving settings and possesses a high energy efficiency rating based on the Philippine Energy Label Program. Air conditioners that have these features can reduce your energy consumption, leading to lower utility costs.
Install Window Films
Window films can be a game-changer in maintaining a cooler bedroom. These films reduce the amount of heat that enters through your windows by minimizing glare, rejecting solar heat, and blocking up to 99% of harmful UV rays. By shielding you from the sun’s intense rays, window films can help keep the room cooler and more comfortable while still allowing natural light to filter in.
Use Blackout Curtains or Blinds
Blackout curtains or blinds serve multiple purposes; not only do they provide you with privacy, but they also block out sunlight, which can help prevent your room from heating up like an oven during the day. If you have a home-based job and work night shifts, these curtains and blinds will be even more useful in allowing you to sleep comfortably in the morning.
Invest in a Slatted Bed Frame
A slatted bed frame provides better cooling than divan beds or those with a solid base. It allows air to circulate beneath your mattress, dissipating heat and moisture. This type of bed frame creates a cooler sleeping surface, which promotes better sleep quality even on warm nights. When you’re looking for a slatted bed frame for sale, make sure to choose a frame that has a sturdy slat system to support your weight and the weight of your mattress. Slatted bed frames made from hardwood like beech, pine, and birch make excellent options.
Use Fans
Fans are a staple in Filipino households for a good reason. Ceiling fans, pedestal fans, or even table fans help circulate air, creating a cooling breeze in your bedroom. They work well in conjunction with air conditioning, allowing you to set your air conditioner at a higher, more energy-efficient temperature while still allowing you to feel cool.
Use a Dehumidifier
In addition to high temperatures, tropical climates often come with high humidity levels. Excessive humidity can make your room feel even warmer and more uncomfortable. Using a dehumidifier can help reduce humidity levels, making the air feel cooler. It also prevents issues like mold and mildew growth, which thrive in humid environments.
Consider Getting a Cooling Mattress, Cooling Mattress Topper, and Cooling Pillows
Investing in cooling bedding materials can make a significant difference in your sleep quality. Cooling pillows, cooling mattresses, and cooling mattress toppers are designed to regulate your body temperature while you sleep. Their ability to keep you cool lies in special materials like gel-infused memory foam and fabric with cooling-infused properties. With these bedding options, you can say goodbye to night sweats and hello to comfortable sleep.
Use Sheets Made From Cooling Fabrics
Opt for sheets made from fabrics like cotton, bamboo, or linen. These materials are breathable and moisture-wicking, which means they help keep you cool by allowing heat and sweat to dissipate. Make sure to invest in high-quality, cooling sheets. Not only do they have a higher thread count (which can contribute to a more comfortable night’s sleep), but they’re also durable and longer-lasting.
Staying cool in a tropical country like the Philippines has its challenges. However, if you try some or all of the abovementioned strategies, it will be much easier to survive the hot and humid climate day and night.