8 swaps that make a house feel cooler in summer

Summer heat can creep into your house even if your AC is running full blast. Small changes in materials, fabrics, and colors can make a noticeable difference in how your home feels. These swaps work alongside your cooling system, so you’re not relying on it as much—and you might even notice a lower bill.

You don’t have to rip apart your whole setup to make an impact. A few strategic changes in the right spots can help you keep things cooler without making your home feel dark or closed-in.

Switch to lighter bedding

Heavy blankets and thick comforters hold in heat, even if they look nice. Swap them for breathable cotton or linen in light colors. These materials let heat escape and feel cooler against your skin.

If you want to keep a layered look, fold heavier blankets at the foot of the bed for appearance only, not for actual use. That way, you’re not trapping unnecessary warmth while you sleep.

Replace blackout curtains with light-filtering ones

Blackout curtains block sunlight but can also trap heat near the window. Light-filtering curtains made from linen or other breathable fabrics let in daylight without adding to the heat load.

They still soften harsh sunlight, but they allow for more air movement when you open your windows at night to let cooler air in.

Swap rugs for bare floors

Large area rugs act like insulation, keeping heat in. Rolling them up for the summer lets your floors release more heat, especially if you have tile, wood, or concrete.

This also makes cleaning easier during the months when dust and pollen are more common inside.

Switch to LED lightbulbs

Incandescent bulbs put off more heat than you’d think. Swapping them for LEDs cuts down on extra warmth while saving energy.

The light quality has come a long way, so you can still get a warm look without adding actual heat to the room.

Change throw pillow covers

Velvet, wool, and other thick fabrics trap heat. Switch to breathable fabrics like linen or cotton for the summer months.

You’ll still have the decorative touch without the added warmth from heavy materials.

Replace thick towels with quick-dry versions

In bathrooms, thick plush towels hold heat and take longer to dry in humid air. Quick-dry microfiber or lightweight cotton towels feel cooler and reduce moisture buildup.

They also help prevent that damp smell from setting in during summer.

Swap dark lampshades for lighter ones

Dark shades absorb heat from lightbulbs and the sun. Lighter shades reflect it and make the room feel more open.

This swap also increases light spread, so you might not need as many lights on at once.

Use breathable slipcovers

If your furniture is upholstered in heavy or synthetic fabrics, slipcovers in cotton or linen can help it feel cooler to sit on.

They’re easy to wash, which is a bonus during sweaty summer months.

*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.