Experts say the caveman method is key to keeping your home cool during a heatwave – here’s how to do it, without compromising your style

The UK has been hit with yet another heatwave and, if you’re anything like me, you’ll be searching for easy ways to keep your home cool. But, with temperatures set to soar to the mid-30s, this can be a difficult task.

If you don’t have the luxury of a portable air conditioner, it’s natural to neglect your home slightly during periods of intense heat in favour of the great outdoors. However, experts say that making a simple change to your home is one of the easiest ways to beat the heat.

As temperatures continue to rise, experts are urging us to live like the cavemen do, and treat our homes like a cave. I know what you’re thinking. But trust me, the caveman method isn’t as crazy as it sounds. I asked the experts all you need to know about this cooling hack.

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What is the caveman method?

Picture a cave. If you’re thinking of a place that’s dark, insulated and tucked away from the sun, you are on the right lines. The caveman method just asks us to apply these same principles to our homes as a way to cool our space from the inside out.

‘The caveman method is a simple way to naturally keep your home cooler during warmer weather. The idea gets you to treat your home a bit like a cave by blocking out sunlight during the hottest parts of the day and only letting cool air in once temperatures have dropped,’ explains Heath Showman, founder of Lifestyle Blinds.

‘You’re essentially stopping excess heat from building up in the first place, as opposed to trying to cool an already overheated room,’ he adds. This makes the caveman method highly effective as a preventative measure, before it’s too late to escape the heat.

Closing your blinds to keep your home cool is a tried and tested hack that plays a big role in the caveman method. But timing is key if you really want to feel the benefits. ‘During the hottest part of the day, keep your windows and external doors closed, even if there's a breeze, to stop hot air from getting inside,’ says Kara Gammell, Home Insurance Expert at MoneySuperMarket.

But, when temperatures drop in the early morning or late evening, different rules can apply. ‘Once the sun sets and the outdoor air becomes cooler than the temperature inside, open your windows for a couple of hours to allow the warm air to escape,’ advises Melissa Denham, interior design expert at Hammonds Furniture. ‘To let in the refreshing cool air, create a cross-breeze by opening windows on opposite sides of your living space.’

Many caves have a cross breeze, so opening opposite windows when temperatures are at their lowest will create a similar effect. This, coupled with limited sunlight, should help your home feel cool and breezy in the midst of a heatwave.

How to make it work for you

‘Blocking out natural light completely can put many people off this method, especially if you’re working from home during the day; it’s not always practical or comfortable to work in a dark space,’ says Kara.

However, there are measures you can take to feel the effects of the caveman method without sacrificing your style and practicality. Here’s where to start.

1. Be strategic

While this method does encourage us to keep blinds and windows closed for most of the day, there are ways to still enjoy the sunshine. ‘Focusing on closing blinds, curtains and windows closed on the sun-facing side of your property during the hottest part of the day can help keep temperatures down, while still allowing some natural light in other rooms,’ says Kara.

In fact, the sunny side of your home should be top priority regardless. ‘Identify which rooms receive the strongest afternoon sun and start from there. These rooms are likely to be the biggest contributors to indoor heat. Ensure all windows and blinds are closed before the sun reaches them rather than waiting until the room is already hot,’ says Heath.

2. Consider window dressings

‘The caveman method doesn’t necessarily mean you have to live in complete darkness. Adjustable window dressings such as venetian or vertical blinds allow you to angle the slats so direct sunlight can’t get in, but you can still benefit from natural light filtering through,’ explains Heath.

‘Blackout or thermal blinds are another good option, particularly for south-facing windows. They help to reduce heat entering through the glass but you can also opt for stylish designs that complement your home’s decor,’ he adds.

3. Adapt your routine

When the sun is shining, it’s instinct to throw open your windows and let the light in. But this mistake will cost you in the heat of the day. So, make sure you get into good habits. ‘During a heatwave, consistency is key,’ says Kara. ‘Try setting a reminder on your phone before you leave for work to close your windows and curtains before the day heats up.’

‘It only takes a minute, but making it part of your routine can help keep your home more comfortable during prolonged hot weather,’ she says. Or, if you have smart blinds, try programming them to close at specific times of the day.

4. Prioritise natural materials

Despite the name, this cooling method doesn’t mean your house should look like a cave. In fact, making use of natural materials is a great way to aid the coolness of your home. ‘Switching to natural materials like cotton or linen for bedding and soft furnishings can make a noticeable difference in warmer weather,’ suggests Melissa.

‘These fabrics allow air to flow more freely and help prevent heat and moisture from becoming trapped,’ she says. Layering light materials like these, and taking measures to keep hot air out, should keep your home truly cool throughout this next hot weather spell.

Will you try the caveman method during this heatwave?