Preparing for the Summer Heat: Essential Products to Stay Cool

As summer approaches, many anticipate intense heatwaves. The National Weather Service predicts rising temperatures from Thursday through Saturday this week, with record highs expected by the Fourth of July, reaching over 100 degrees. It’s crucial to stay hydrated and seek air-conditioned spaces during such conditions. Alongside these measures, using personal fans, cooling towels, and facial sprays can help manage the heat effectively.

Our Recommended Products

The following are some of the most favored products selected by NBC Select editors to combat the summer heat:

Best Products for Staying Hydrated

During summer, electrolytes are essential for hydration. DripDrop’s hydration powder packets are recommended for workouts or extended outdoor activities. They offer subtle taste and are not overly sugary.

The Stanley Quencher tumbler is highly popular for its practicality. It has a handle, leak-resistant straw lid, and fits into cup holders. Its double-wall insulation keeps drinks cold for 11 hours. Available in a 40-ounce size and four others, with over 30 color options.

A hands-free bottle holder is an accessory that fits water bottles from 17 to 40 ounces, featuring adjustable insulated compartments with pockets for essentials like AirPods, sunscreen, and keys. It can be worn as a crossbody bag or wrist slung. Its water-resistant interior helps prevent sweating or leakage, offering convenience akin to a purse.

Top Personal Fans

Shark’s mini personal fan, launched this year, includes a cooling plate, mister, and can be hand-held or set on a flat surface. Zoe Malin, an NBC Select reporter who tested it, highlights its adjustable intensity and two-day battery life per charge. The fan provides three modes for varied cooling needs.

An editor-favored neck fan offers a quick cooling solution with three airflow speeds and a battery life of up to nine hours. Its bladeless design eliminates concerns about tangling hair or jewelry.

Nikki Brown, NBC Select’s senior editor, praises a box fan used for almost 15 years. It’s effective in reducing room temperature when air conditioning is unnecessary. Brown recommends regular cleaning for longevity.

Beauty and Wellness Essentials

Lume’s whole body deodorant comes in a smooth solid, cream tube, or cream stick, preventing odor efficiently. Available in eight scents, it’s gentle on sensitive skin. Ashley Morris of NBC Select notes its long-lasting effects even during stressful conditions.

Avene’s face mist provides instant relief from the heat. As a gentle thermal water mist, it avoids irritation while delivering a refreshing experience.

Body wipes, packaged in sets of 30, are handy for quick cleaning. Malin describes them as soft and invigorating, with a pleasant scent.

Megababe’s Thigh Rescue Gel prevents chafing in humid weather. It is sweat-resistant and lightweight, suitable for outdoor use.

Preferred Sunscreens

A stick sunscreen that ranks in the top 10 for face coverage blurs pores with a matte finish, ideal under makeup and portable in size.

For full face coverage sensitive to summer heat, a tinted sunscreen provides lightweight, effective coverage beneath makeup.

Vacation’s SPF 50 body lotion, popular among NBC Select editors, protects against UVA and UVB rays and contains coconut, banana, and pool water scents. Caitlin Cusack notes its suitability for acne-prone skin.

Blue Lizard’s mineral sunscreen is recommended for children, easily applied, water-resistant up to 80 minutes, and has a UV-activated cap to educate about harmful rays.

Convenient Cooling Apparel

Cooling pajamas reviewed during Wellness Awards by Brown highlight comfortable fit and soft fabric. Ideal for hot sleepers, available in sizes XXS to XXL. Their flexibility and fabric make them a favorite choice.

More Cooling Products

A window air conditioner favored by Harry Rabinowitz features a u-shape for easy window operation, delivering power and energy efficiency. Control options include physical buttons, remote, or the Midea smart home app.

Why Choose NBC Select

As an editorial intern, I have experience covering sales events such as Prime Day. This article reflects input from our staff’s essential summer product picks. Keep up with NBC Select’s comprehensive coverage of technology and wellness, and follow us on social media for updates.