UK expert suggests yogurt on windows to cool homes, sparking online debate

A lecturer at Loughborough University in the United Kingdom has proposed an unconventional method for cooling homes during hot weather: spreading yogurt on the outside of windows. Dr. Ben Roberts, who teaches in the field of healthy buildings, said the coating reflects part of the incoming sunlight and reduces the heat entering the home. Roberts said experiments showed indoor temperatures dropped by as much as 3.5 degrees Celsius on sunny days, with an average reduction of around 0.6 degrees. The suggestion quickly drew attention on social media, where users raised concerns about potential odors and attracting insects. Addressing those worries, Roberts said the yogurt dries quickly and does not produce a noticeable smell. He added that aluminum foil is a more effective alternative, noting that foil can lower indoor temperatures by up to 6 degrees Celsius.