Remove aerosols, candles/wax, pressurized containers, plants/pets, and anything you’re unsure about (some plastics, cosmetics, batteries, medications). Heat jobs run hot—if you don’t know, don’t risk it.

Clutter traps cool air and slows heat penetration. Bag loose items. If bags remain in the room, keep them open so hot air can enter. Tight piles create “cold cores.”

Move beds, dressers, couches, and nightstands 6–12 inches away from walls. Furniture against walls creates shadow zones where hot air can’t circulate—prime survival areas.

Pull drawers out and “ladder stack” them like steps with air gaps between each. Flat stacks trap cold air. Stair-stacking forces hot air over every surface so heat can soak into the furniture.

Don’t leave mattresses flat. Stand or angle them so air washes across seams. Box springs are hardest to heat (voids + wood). Angle it for airflow; if accessible, open the underside so heat can enter.

Closed spaces stay cooler. Open drawers, closets, suitcases, backpacks—anything with dead air. Your goal is to eliminate sealed pockets.

Fans on first, then heat gradually. The “kill clock” starts when cold spots (baseboards, behind headboards, inside drawers, under furniture) hit lethal temperature long enough. Fix airflow or you’ll get hot ceiling + cool floor survivors.