As summer arrives, so does the inevitable heatwave. The National Weather Service forecasts scorching temperatures from Thursday to Saturday this week, with record highs and heat indexes exceeding 100 degrees around the Fourth of July. The key to surviving such intense heat is staying hydrated and finding solace in air-conditioned environments. Many turn to personal fans, cooling towels, and facial sprays in their efforts to stay cool.
Our Top Picks for Staying Cool
Selected Personal Items
In the quest to beat the heat, NBC Select editors have curated a collection of summer essentials they rely on. Here’s a breakdown of some top-rated products:
Best Hydration Products
Hydration is crucial during active days in the sun. Electrolytes are beneficial for maintaining hydration levels. DripDrop’s hydration powder, favored during workouts or outdoor activities, strikes a balance by offering subtle taste without excessive sugar.
Stanley Quencher Tumbler
This versatile and functional tumbler remains popular for its design, featuring a comfortable handle, a leak-resistant straw lid, and a base suitable for cupholders. Its double-wall insulation keeps beverages cold for up to 11 hours. Available in sizes up to 40 ounces and a variety of colors.
Hands-Free Bottle Holder
Designed to hold water bottles from 17 to 40 ounces, this adjustable insulated compartment includes pockets for essentials like AirPods, sunscreen, and keys. With an adjustable strap, it can be worn as a crossbody bag or over the wrist. The water-resistant interior ensures no sweating or leaking issues.
Fans to Keep You Cool
Compact and portable, the Shark mini personal fan launched earlier this year, offering a cooling plate, mister, and adjustable intensity levels. It’s practical whether stationed on a flat surface or held manually.
The rechargeable neck fan offers a convenient way to stay cool, with three airflow speeds and a maximum nine-hour battery life. It operates blade-free, reducing the risk of hair or jewelry getting caught.
The reliable box fan remains a staple for NBC Select senior editor Nikki Brown. It serves well on moderately warm days when air conditioning isn’t necessary. Regular cleaning prolongs its functionality.
Beauty and Wellness Essentials
Lume Deodorant
Suitable for multiple sweat zones, Lume deodorant addresses odor prevention with three formulas available: smooth solid, cream tube, and cream stick, in eight different scents. It’s gentle on sensitive skin.
Facial Mists
A quick spritz of face mist can be refreshing. Avene’s gentle thermal water mist is effective, avoiding skin irritation caused by unwanted ingredients.
Body Wipes
Packed in groups of 30, these wipes provide a convenient solution for a quick refresh. Soft and gentle, they offer immediate relief and carry an appealing fragrance.
Megababe Thigh Rescue Gel
In humid conditions, Megababe’s Thigh Rescue Gel prevents skin irritation and reduces chafing. Its sweat-resistant properties and lightweight feel make it an ideal choice.
Effective Sunscreens
Stick sunscreen features prominently due to its effectiveness, with a matte finish suitable under makeup and easy portability.
Tinted sunscreen provides excellent coverage and layers well with other makeup, reducing facial sweat issues.
Vacation’s SPF 50 body lotion is a staff favorite, notable for its tropical fragrance and effectiveness against UVA/UVB rays.
Blue Lizard’s mineral sunscreen is recommended for children, offering gentle application, water resistance, and instructional features regarding UV light.
Cooling Apparel and Accessories
Cooling pajamas, tested for NBC Select’s Wellness Awards, provide comfort without compromising style. The loose-fitting design and soft fabric suit hot sleepers well.
Additional Cooling Solutions
This window air conditioner has been favored by NBC Select reporter Harry Rabinowitz. Its u-shaped design allows window functionality post-installation, and as an inverter model, it combines power and energy efficiency. You can operate it using the control buttons, the remote, or the Midea smart home app.