As the temperature outside rises, the annual quest for a cooler home begins — but without spending a fortune on our utility bills. Try incorporating these home-cooling design moves.

By swapping out heavy textiles for airy fabrics and setting up effective cross-ventilation, you can create a cooler house without touching the thermostat.

Ditch the fuzzy rugs: If your home is full of cozy wool rugs or fluffy shag rugs, give them the summer off. Roll them up and store them safely, making sure they are protected from bugs and out of direct sunlight so they won’t fade. Then, embrace a bare hardwood or stone floor, which is cooler underfoot. For those spots that need a rug, such as beside the bed or under the kitchen sink, swap in a flat-woven rug in a natural fiber.

Invest in cooling window treatments: Gauzy, lightweight curtains might create a summery vibe in a room, but they let lots of sunlight filter through and won’t help cool the space. To lower your energy bill, invest in shades that have a white plastic lining on the outside of the window, as this reflects back as much light as possible.

Create cross ventilation: Open two windows (or a window and a door) that are located across the room. Set up a fan next to one window, so it will help propel the fresh incoming air throughout your home. The more powerful the fan, the better the airflow.

Less is more: If you typically have your bed and living room sofa piled with an abundance of snuggly blankets and throw pillows, it’s time to streamline. Store blankets nearby in a handwoven floor basket, just in case the A/C gets a little chilly at night.

Cool down your bed: Start by investing in ultra-breathable bed sheets. A top sheet may be the perfect replacement for a duvet or comforter this summer. And don’t forget a cooling pillow.