Cotton is the best fabric to stay cool in the hot summer days, says Swati R Kiran. Summer temperatures are soaring. It is the season for cool fabrics. Whether its clothes, upholstery, curtains, or bed linen, natural fibres are the way to go. Cotton, which is a natural plant fibre, is the best choice since its natural qualities allow it to ‘breathe.’ Linen, also a plant fibre is 2 to 3 times stronger than cotton, ranges from white to tan and can be dyed. Being a good conductor of heat it is a cool fabric too. Choosing the right fabric will help you stay cool this summer.

Window coverings
During summer it is necessary to keep out the heat and glare that enters an interior space through glazed openings. This helps in maintaining an ambient temperature conducive to comfortable living. Curtains and blinds are efficient in thermal control of an interior environment. It is also important that circulation of air is maintained to cool heated interiors. Drapes made of cotton fabric, lace or sheer material provide relief from heat and glare while allowing air movement. Weaves that have wider spacing are thus cooler. Some examples of the weaves that can be used are plain, jacquard and honeycomb.

Upholstery fabric
Most sofas and chairs have a base of foam for seating comfort. This being a synthetic material generates heat. Thus cotton seat covers can minimise the discomfort that fabrics like polyester can cause during the hot seasons. Cotton upholstery materials are available in a variety of colours and patterns, can be washed, dry-cleaned and ironed and can be coated with a protective spray that prevents stains caused by spills.

Bed linen
Just as cotton clothes are more comfortable to wear during summer, mattresses and futons draped with cotton sheets feel cooler too. Bed linen, pillow covers and sheets in cotton are cooling, lightweight, easy to maintain and look fresh. Regular washing and ironing does not ruin the fabric in any way.

Floor coverings
Barefoot on a cool marble floor is a great way to cool off. If floors have to be covered for aesthetic reasons, pack up all the woolen carpets and roll out cotton dhurries, jute or coir mats for the summer. Cotton carpets are cool underfoot and are available in a variety of patterns.

Colour
During summer months it is ideal to use white cotton fabrics. The pastel range of colours reflect light unlike black and dark shades that absorb and trap heat. While white upholstery and carpets needs a little effort to maintain, it is a good option for bed linen and drapes. White sheer and lace curtains are also cool and summery.

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