What I Learned About Summer Comfort (Just by Changing My Lights)
I used to think staying cool in summer was all about fans, cold drinks, and wearing the lightest clothes I could find. And sure, all of that helps, but one thing I completely ignored for years was lighting.
It sounds funny now, but I never really thought about how light affects how a room feels. Not just how it looks, but the overall mood, the comfort level — even how warm it seems. Then one day I turned off my bright ceiling lig... moreWhat I Learned About Summer Comfort (Just by Changing My Lights)
I used to think staying cool in summer was all about fans, cold drinks, and wearing the lightest clothes I could find. And sure, all of that helps, but one thing I completely ignored for years was lighting.
It sounds funny now, but I never really thought about how light affects how a room feels. Not just how it looks, but the overall mood, the comfort level — even how warm it seems. Then one day I turned off my bright ceiling light because it was giving me a headache. I turned on a small lamp instead.
And the room instantly felt easier to be in. That tiny change was enough to make me rethink how I light my home during hot months.
Start small: turn off the bright stuff
I used to light my living room like a classroom every single bulb on, even when I didn’t need them all. When it’s already warm, all that extra brightness can make it feel even hotter. So I started using fewer lights at once.
Now, in the evenings, I’ll turn on just one or two smaller lamps instead of the overhead light. I don’t miss the brightness — in fact, it feels way more peaceful. Like the house is winding down too.
Softer lighting = cooler feeling
Not all light feels the same. Bright white light can be great in the kitchen or when you need to get things done — but during summer evenings, it’s just too much. It makes the room feel sharp and cold in a weird way, but not in a good cold way. More like harsh.
So I switched to softer lights in the spaces where I relax. The kind of light that feels gentle — more like candlelight than a spotlight. I didn’t know that lighting could feel calming until I tried it.
Let the sun help, but don’t overdo it
Natural light is amazing, right? But in the middle of summer, a little goes a long way. I used to open my curtains all the way in the morning to let in as much light as possible. But by noon, it felt like the sun was camping in my living room.
Now I let in just enough. I keep curtains partly closed or use thin ones that soften the sunlight. I still get that nice daytime glow, but without baking the place.
Light where you need it, not everywhere
I’ve learned to be more thoughtful about where I actually need light. If I’m reading in the corner, I don’t need the whole room lit up. Same with the kitchen — sometimes one small light near the stove is enough.
This little habit makes a big difference. It saves energy, sure, but it also makes the house feel less “on.” Less busy. It’s like giving the space — and yourself — a break.
For outside, think cozy, not bright
If you sit outside at night, skip the super-bright porch lights. I used to use one, and all it did was attract moths and kill the vibe. Now I string up a few soft lights or use small lamps that glow gently. The space feels more inviting, and I’m not constantly swatting at bugs.
Honestly, I didn’t expect any of this to matter. But changing how I use light — just light — has made my home feel cooler, calmer, and more pleasant on hot summer days. It’s not about turning your house into a cave. It’s about finding the right kind of glow for the season.
Sometimes, the simplest changes really are the best.
