Summer is quickly approaching, which means sunshine, long days, and heat are all headed are all way! However, the transition from winter to the balmy summer months can make it difficult to maintain a comfortable and cool living space. Keep reading to learn some strategies for keeping your apartment at its best.
Add Some Plants to Your Space
Houseplants can be a great way to brighten up your space, and they bring nature to you. Though many people believe houseplants are difficult to keep alive, it’s all about doing a little research to know how to care for it! And if you don’t want the responsibility of a live plant, fake ones are always an option.
If you have pets, remember to make sure your plants are non-toxic. Many popular houseplants, such as monsteras, peace lilies, and philodendrons can be poisonous if ingested. However, there are plenty of non-toxic options out there.
Change Your Sheets
It’s recommended to change your sheets once or twice every two weeks in the summertime. There’s no better feeling than falling asleep on freshly laundered sheets, and washing regularly keeps them looking and smelling their best.
If you’re a warm sleeper, look into sheets that will allow the best ventilation. Fabrics like cotton and linen can provide a cooler sleep.
Be Smart about Cooling
Roers’ maintenance technician manager, Ben Dickson, advises maintaining a consistent cool temperature instead of waiting until it gets hot to turn on the air conditioning.
“It’s most cost effective to run your AC at night as it does not have to work as hard, thus costing less on electricity. East and west facing windows will get the most sun, so keeping curtains drawn during the day, especially at the peak of the afternoon between 12-3pm when it gets hottest, will keep your unit at consistent temperatures more easily.
The more heavily you fluctuate temperatures, the more money it will cost you. Waiting until it’s too hot in your unit to turn on the air/open windows will result in the AC not being able to keep up, and not cool as effectively.”
Declutter!
If your house is starting to feel a little messy or dusty, it might be time to declutter.
If you get overwhelmed at the prospect of getting rid of things, take it one room at a time. If there are items you are unsure about, put a sticky note on them with a date a few months away. If you don’t use the items by that time, donate them to a thrift store or charity.
When you declutter, you’re not only getting rid of things you don’t use, but also cleaning and dusting as you go. This can go a long way in keeping your house fresh in the hot summer months.
Take the Trash Out
If you’re reading this while eyeing the overflowing trashcan in your kitchen, it’s time to take it out. Invest in a trashcan with a lid to keep smells contained. Additionally, don’t let full bags sit out for long – take it out right away. As a rule of thumb, the kitchen trash should be emptied every few days to keep out bad smells and any bugs that might come with them.
Replace Heavy Curtains
Heavy blackout curtains may be a popular choice for bedrooms, especially when the daylight lasts longer during the summer months. However, they can also make a space feel drab and dusty. Try replacing blackout curtains with something more lightweight for warmer months. Sunlight may help you wake up naturally and can make the room feel larger.
Clean or Change Air Filters
Over time, buildup can gather in your vents and air filters, which might make your AC unit less effective. Summer can also be one of the worst times of year for those with seasonal allergies, but keeping a clean air filter can reduce some sneezing.
We hope you find these tips helpful! With a little bit of planning, you can keep your apartment comfortable all summer long.
Don’t forget! If you’re looking for an apartment, check out our available properties HERE!