How to Prepare Your Apartment for the Hot Summer Ahead

While the start of summer is technically still a calendar page away, Memorial Day is already behind us, leaving most people in the mood to start their summertime fun a little early. Depending on where you live, temperatures are already heating up — a harbinger of the sweltering days ahead, and a wake-up call that there’s no time like the present to start prepping your apartment for hot tenant summer (trust us, it’s a thing).

Does staying inside and missing out on all the perfect temperatures that seem to exist in that sweet spot between spring and summer seem like an absolute bummer? Yes. However, a little prep work goes a long way toward making sure your space is ready for the dog days ahead.

Use this guide to get your pad in tip-top shape well ahead of June 21st:

A Lean, Mean Cleaning Machine

Skipped your spring cleaning this year? No biggie — you still have time to do some thorough airing out. Though you’ll probably be spending less time inside when summer rolls around, it never hurts to turn a new page before these balmy pre-heatwave days usher in the inevitable humidity and lazy vibe of summer.

Tip: Don’t forget to give those commonly overlooked spots like the fridge and closet some love, too!

Dress for Success

It’s time to bring your summer wardrobe front and center in anticipation of the sweltering days ahead. That means retiring unnecessary items like that chunky cable knit sweater to storage (for the time being, at least). Whether it’s moving cold weather items to the back of your closet or packing them away in storage bins so they’re ready come winter, it’s always a good idea to start early. After all, who wants to be rummaging around for those jean shorts once the temperature cracks 90?

Tip: This is also a great time to clear out items that don’t fit or are a little worse for wear. Don’t forget to donate gently used items to charity or your local thrift shop.

Cool Runnings

Time to get that summer all-star air conditioner ready to go. Depending on where you store it, this may involve some additional cleaning, too. Be sure the filters are clean and all of the cords, fans, etc. are in good working order. If your AC is past its prime, it may be time for a newer, more energy efficient unit to stave off the upcoming heat.

Tip: Once clean, give your AC a test to make sure it’s working properly — and don’t forget about those other summer stars like fans, as they tend to create a cross draft and provide a much-needed breath of fresh air in spaces where AC isn’t an option.

Replenish Your Summer Stock

Spring is in the air — and so is the pollen. If you’re a seasonal allergy sufferer, that means stuffy noses and sneezing well into the summer, since open windows allow pesky allergens to make themselves right at home. This is why it’s so important to stock up things like air purifiers with allergen filters to reduce pollutants, a humidifier to counteract that dry AC air, and a good nasal spray/OTC allergy medication, all of which are great ways to beat those sneezy summer blues.

Tip: Other important summer supplies include unscreen, bug spray, and first-aid items like band-aids, calamine lotion (for that pesky poison ivy), anti-itch cream for bug bites, and aloe vera for sunburn.

Summer Time, Fun Time

All this prep work may seem like a drag, but here comes the fun part: getting yourself (and your space) ready to be the host with the most. Whether it’s a porch party, a backyard barbecue, or an afternoon hang with some friends, baseball, and brews, it’s good to be prepared when it comes time to open your doors to friends and family. And while a clean apartment is a great first step, you may want to spruce up your space with some fun summer decor — and remember, good vibes only!

Tip: Have an outdoor space? Now’s the time to take advantage. Add seating, decor, and items like lights and outdoor speakers to turn your yard, porch, or balcony into the ultimate summer chill zone.

Summer is just around the corner, and that means turning down the heat in your apartment and turning up the good time vibes. While a lot of these tasks might seem like hard work, you’ll be happy you did them before the temps start to skyrocket so you can sit back, chill, and soak up the sun come summertime.