There’s hot, and then there’s Maltese heatwave hot. When the temperature rises and the fan becomes your best friend, it’s time to level up your at-home survival game. Whether you’re living in a cosy maisonette or a sun-soaked penthouse, here’s how to stay cool, calm, and collected, even when the mercury hits 40°C.
1. Block the Heat, Not the Light
Swap out heavy curtains for light-coloured, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton. Sheer curtains can soften sunlight without trapping heat, letting in that Maltese golden glow without the burn.
2. Make Your Fan Work Smarter
Place a bowl of ice in front of your fan to create a DIY cool breeze (yes, really). Don’t forget to set ceiling fans to spin counterclockwise, this pushes air downward and cools the room more effectively.
3. Keep It Shady
External blinds, reflective window film or even a strategic sun umbrella on your balcony can make a huge difference. Less direct sun = cooler interiors = happier you.
4. Unplug the Heatmakers
Electronics give off heat even when idle. Unplug appliances, turn off unused lights, and give the oven a break. Hello, summer salads and no-bake desserts!
5. Breathe Easy with Plants
Not only do indoor plants clean the air, but some (like aloe vera and snake plants) can help regulate humidity too. Bonus: they make your space feel calm, cool and lush.
6. Cool Down Your Sheets
Place your pillowcase or bedsheet in the freezer for a few minutes before bed. It may sound extreme, but in August in Malta, we’ll try anything for a good night’s sleep.
7. Hydrate Your Home (and Yourself)
Keep a jug of chilled water in every room, or even add a spritz bottle with rose water or cucumber-infused mist for instant refreshment. Your skin and soul will thank you.
Malta’s heat might be fierce but your home doesn’t have to feel like a furnace. A few simple tweaks can turn your space into a breezy retreat, even in the hottest stretch of summer.
