There’s no doubt about it, it’s been an arduously long, cold winter in Melbourne this year. But better days are upon us: with the onset of the spring and summer months, Melburnians can, thankfully, soon expect some warmer weather to grace our city and surrounds.
Yes, finally, the joy of blissfully lazy Sunday afternoons spent sunning and barbecuing in the backyard, drinks with friends on the patio, and balmy, salty-aired beachside evenings (pistachio gelato in hand) – all of these precious summer moments are just on the horizon, so close we can taste them.
But with the warmer months fast approaching, we also need to be prepared. Summer in Melbourne can invariably go too far the other way, and with expected temperatures in Melbourne often reaching up to 40 degrees, if you don’t take measures to get yourself and your home prepared for the heat, you could be in for an uncomfortable few months ahead.
Here’s how to get your home ready for summer.
Step 1: Staying Cool and Comfortable
Air-conditioning. A modern-day luxury, but in the Australian summer, it’s essential.
If, like me, you’ve ever been unlucky enough to live in an outdated, run-down flat devoid of an air-conditioning unit, you’ll know just how sweaty things can get. Personally, I started resorting to desperate measures: cold showers as many as three or four times a day, resting my feet in ice buckets, and consuming my weight in lemon icy poles.
But if you’re after a more comfortable experience this summer, there’s no denying the convenience – and the coolth – of an air-conditioner. Pair it with a powerful fan to blow the cool air around, and you’ll be laughing.
Step 2: Keeping the Bugs Out
Next, beware of bugs. Yes, just like us, insects also like to come out in summer: bug activity significantly increases in the warmer months.
If you’re like me, when summer hits, you tend to want to open up your house to let in all the sunlight and fresh air. This is especially true when I’m spring cleaning: there’s nothing like airing out your home after a gloomy winter with all the shutters closed. But of course, if you’re opening up your windows and doors, you won’t just be letting the sunlight in. You’re likely to also get some pesky visitors in the form of bugs and insects, which is absolutely not a vibe.
If you want to be able to open up your house but still protect it from pests entering, consider purchasing a custom fly screen online for each of the doors and windows around your home. Once installed, you can enjoy bug-free days and nights, even with your doors and windows open to enjoy the fresh air.
Step 3: Optimising for Fun Summer Days
The obvious choice to optimise your home for summer? Build yourself a swimming pool.
But if you can’t afford an actual pool (which is understandable, they’re quite an investment), maybe consider an inflatable option. Before you laugh, a blow-up pool can be a totally fun and affordable way to cool down on a hot day, and enjoy some family-friendly splash time in your own backyard.
If you prefer not to go the inflatable pool route, there are other garden accessories you could consider: perhaps a banana lounge for sun-lovers keen to work on their tans, or even a hanging daybed if you’re feeling a little extra.
~
When it comes to preparing for summer, there are certain steps you should take.
For one, getting yourself some air-con is a must. Also, don’t forget to protect your home from pests – installing a fly screen can give you reprieve from summer bug infestations.
With the boring bits out of the way, summer is also a great time to optimise your home for sunny days outside. If you can’t afford a swimming pool, consider other fun accessories. An inflatable pool can be just as fun as a real one, especially when paired with a banana lounge or a daybed.
Most of all, remember to enjoy it. The warmer months will be gone in the blink of an eye, so be sure to make the most of every precious, summery moment while you can.
