For those who do not have or do not want to use air conditioning, in the summer it is possible to ventilate the room in other ways.
This summer’s heat is no joke and promises record temperatures in the country. As a result, many Brazilians are looking for alternatives to keep their homes cooler during the season, the main one being the air conditioning.
However, this option has its own disadvantages. The air conditioner uses a large amount of electricity and its artificial cooling may cause some discomfort or even symptoms such as runny nose, nasal congestion and cough if used for a long time.
The first piece of advice, in this sense, is that the fan is a more interesting choice, since it requires less energy and its air is less artificial. Even so, for example, it is not recommended to sleep with it, as prolonged use can dry out the air.
The best thing is to use some other very simple tricks that can do this keep your home fresher and more airy without the need for these devices in the summer. Below, Lorena Santos, architect of Grupo A.Yoshii, suggests some suggestions in this regard:
Use light colors and natural fabrics in decoration
The light tones convey a feeling of lightness and freshness, making them ideal for summer decoration. Colors like white, off-white, beige and pastel tones are some options. “Light walls and curtains reflect more light than they absorb. By themselves they do not cool the room, but they prevent it from heating up and transmitting that feeling of suffocation”, explains the architect.
Natural fabrics, such as cotton, twill and linen, are also recommended, as they are more pleasant to the touch and much cooler and more welcoming than synthetic fabrics. “One idea is to replace or remove carpets from the room. I suggest favoring the use of smaller carpets and fabrics such as sisal and other natural textures”, comments Lorena.
Keep plants indoors
In addition to being beautiful, plants also bring more freshness to the home. “Even in small spaces it is possible to guarantee greater freshness. They help to increase humidity and, consequently, purify the air, being good alternatives to fans and electronic humidifiers”, underlines Lorena.
According to the professional, these plants can be scattered around the rooms or even concentrated in a “green zone” – the effect will be achieved in any case.
In the case of a dedicated space near the window, Lorena recommends favoring light-loving plants, such as orchids, ficus, raffia, St. George’s swords, philodendrons, peace lilies, ferns and dracaenas.
Create air passages
This advice may seem obvious, but opening the windows in summer is essential. “This action is very welcome to bring freshness, especially during the day, avoiding the stuffiness. Opening the main windows helps to let the hot air out”, explains the architect.
Opening the right doors to ensure cross ventilation is another easy and practical tip from Lorena. “I suggest closing the doors of the rooms with less traffic during the day. This will prevent the air from circulating in areas that no one frequents. At night the proposal is the opposite: open all the rooms so that the wind can circulate and let your airy home,” he explains.
Moisten the house
You can humidify the air with fresh water containers placed throughout your home. Just don’t forget to put them in places where there is no danger of residents tripping, okay?
Furthermore, for those who live in drier regions, humidifiers and purifiers themselves become necessary.
Use charcoal
When you think of coal, words like “coolness” and “moisture” usually don’t come to mind. However, it can help you with this, you know?
Placing a charcoal stone in some rooms can make them cooler. Additionally, charcoal extends the lifespan of plants.
“The advice is to place a crushed piece in a vase with water. Your flowers and plants will last longer!”, says the architect.
Harmonize your home: perfect plants for well-being at home
Source: Terra

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.