When summer hits full blast and your backyard feels more like a frying pan than an oasis, it’s only natural to wish you had a pool. But the truth is, you don’t need a pool to cool off. With a bit of creativity (and maybe a rocket sprinkler), you can turn any patch of grass, deck, or driveway into a mini summer sanctuary.
Whether you’re wrangling kids, cooling down the dog, or just trying not to melt into your chair, these fun and easy ideas will show you how to stay cool in summer.
1. Cooling towels
For those who’d rather stay dry, try a cooling towel. It works by evaporation, so once you wet it, wring it out and snap it, it cools your skin right away. Cooling towels are affordable, machine-washable and reusable.
2. Enjoy icy treats
For mealtimes in summer, skip the oven and opt for salads, or a barbecue spread outside to avoid creating heat in the house. Icy desserts are a must.
Anko Cooling Towel, $6
Avanti Silicone Push Up Ice Block Moulds 6-Piece Set, $11.97
Sheridan Cooling Towel, from $23.99
Lekue Popsicle Mould Stackable 4 Pieces, $30.08
3. Put indoor plants to work
For the green thumbs, houseplants are a great way to keep your home cool, too. Think peace lilies, ferns and palms. They don’t just look lush, they help lower indoor temps and freshen the air. It’s nature’s version of air-conditioning.
4. Visit public pools
Sometimes, the smart way to cool off is to outsource it. Lots of councils run free splash pads or community pool days in summer.
If you can’t get to a public pool, check out the Swimply app to rent a private pool by the hour (excellent for groups!). If you’re bringing your dog, look at the Sniffspace app to rent some time in a shady backyard or a private dog park. Also check out dog-friendly council parks, rivers and lakes where everyone can chill.
5. Make your own shade
If you can’t get away from the sun, make your own shade. Shade sails, pop-up gazebos and clip-on umbrellas can turn even the tiniest courtyard into a cool spot. If you’re renting, try suction-cup hooks or fence clips so you don’t have to drill any holes.
Pick umbrellas and sunshades in pale or reflective fabrics that bounce back the heat rather than retain it. For a budget-friendly fix, get creative with old sheets, bamboo blinds or shade cloths.
For a long-term shade solution, try planting fast-growing climbers, such as jasmine or wisteria, near a pergola to create your own natural cover. Just keep an eye on the roots so they don’t take over your garden.
White Mara Outdoor Gazebo, $49.99
Chair Umbrella with Universal Clamp, $74.16
Instahut Shade Sail ShadeCloth Heavy Duty Sun Canopy Triangle Square Rectangle, $55.95
Luxe Beach Umbrella, $139.99
6. Transform your backyard
The best cooling spot may be one you make yourself – a slip and slide, sprinkler or just a well-placed misting fan. If you thought sprinklers were just for kids, think again. A rocket sprinkler (available at Kmart and Amazon) shoots water almost 2 metres high, and it’s just as much fun for adults as it is for kids. Sprinkler pads are also a great way to cool down the whole family, including your dog.
No rocket sprinkler? A regular garden sprinkler works just as well. Or, if you’re feeling adventurous, make your own slip-and-slide. All you need is a long tarp, a garden hose, and a little bit of biodegradable dish soap to help you glide. Just remember to move it every few hours so your grass doesn’t turn yellow and be aware of any water use restrictions in your area.
For something a little calmer, try a misting fan. It sprays a fine mist while the fan keeps the air moving, which is perfect for patios or backyard picnics. A misting fan works best in dry weather, so if you live somewhere humid, try using a portable fan as well for extra breeze.
Wet & Wild Light Show Sprinkler – Sun Squad™: Outdoor Water Toy, $15
Giant Inflatable Snake Sprinkler, $69.99
Bestway Fantastic Aquarium Play Center, $79.95
Sloosh Triple Water Slide, $95.99
7. Set up an inflatable pool
No pool? No worries. Inflatable and frame pools are the next best thing. They’re affordable, quick to set up, and you can find them just about anywhere. From small paddling pools to sturdy metal-frame ones, there’s something for every space and budget.
Frame pools take a bit more time to put together, but they’re sturdier and hold a lot more water. Depending on the size, they’ll fit more people and should last you all summer. Check with your local council about pool fencing rules. In many instances, if your pool (inflatable included) can be filled more than 30cm deep, you will likely need a fence.
If you want your pool to last, try setting it up on a flat surface in partial shade. It keeps the water cooler and helps stop algae from growing. When you’re packing the pool away, make sure it’s completely dry before folding so it doesn’t go mouldy.
Swim Center Family Lounge Pool, $109.48
Bestway Swimming Pool Rectangle, $118.94
Bestway Splash-in-Shade Play Pool, $127.45
Bestway Blue Rectangular Family Pool, $29
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