4 days ago
Experts warns over common issue making homes unbearably hot
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has placed much of England under a yellow heat-health alert.
These include regions like Yorkshire, the West Midlands, London, and the South East of England.
This comes amid the UK's fourth heatwave of the summer this year.
To help combat this hot weather, waste expert Miroslav Radov at Rainbow Rubbish Removals has shared that clutter in your household is trapping in heat and making your home unbearable.
Expert shares how clutter is trapping heat in your home and making it unbearable during the summer
The expert began by explaining what household "heat traps" are and how they work during heatwaves and warm weather.
They said: 'Accumulating clutter is a bit like putting on a thick jumper indoors during a heatwave.
'Paper piles, fabric stacks, and blocked airflow around furniture all keep rooms hotter for longer, and that's before you factor in fire risk.'
The expert added that this 'heat trap effect' can be especially dangerous if you live in an older property or one without air conditioning.
Clearing pathways to doors and windows is a great way to ensure ventilation, allowing cooler evening air to enter the property.
Poor airflow can also increase the strain on fans and appliances, which in turn can overheat and spark.
However, letting go of clutter can be a difficult task for many, as some choose to hold onto random items "just in case".
Radov suggests keeping in mind the Lemon Theory, something that is a massive mentality shift for those who hold onto items.
They said: "Studies have shown that people physically react just to the thought of biting a lemon. This shows that just because you don't physically have the item, it doesn't mean the memory perishes.
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"Just like we cherish moments with photos, I encourage people to take photos of items to keep the memory, rather than letting them take up physical space.'
The expert said that households can also break clearing into chunks, stating: "Start with an area that feels easier to help build your organising muscles, and continue to work through each area of your home."
They said that having collection points for items to donate, throw away, and/or recycle makes the process more methodical and helps to motivate you to undertake clear-outs.
