Keep in mind that the handkerchief might drip down your back and get your shirt a bit wet with this method.
If you’re outdoors and there’s no tap nearby, try dipping your wrists into a cool running stream, brook, or pour water on them.
If you’re outside and happen to be near a clean body of water, try dunking your head in the water to wet your hair.
You can also use a water misting fan. These handy portable devices are battery-operated so you can take them with you wherever you go. As you mist and fan yourself, the water evaporates on your skin, giving you an instant cooling sensation.
You can also use a glass bowl to do this for similar results. Plastic bowls are less effective. For a little less mess, fill a large plastic bottle 3/4 full with water and freeze it. Set the frozen bottle in front of the fan instead of using the bowl of ice. Then, just pop the bottle back in the freezer to harden. Keep in mind that this might be less effective than using a glass or metal bowl.
Can’t take a shower or bath? No problem! Dip clean cloths in cold water. Then, lay these on your face, arms, and the back of your neck for an instant cool down.
For even more protection, buy window tint film and stick it to your windows. The film helps to reflect more of the sun’s rays so you stay cooler.
If you don’t want to sleep with your windows open, shut them before you go to bed and open them up in the morning before it starts heating up.
You may have heard recommendations to soak your sheets in cold water before you go to bed. However, this isn’t a good idea since the sheets will warm up quickly and the moisture can make them mildew.
If you have a way to hang a hammock in your home, give it a try! You’ll get better air circulation, so it might be easier for you to fall asleep.
If you have a chimney in your home, open the flue at night so the hot air can rise out of your home and more cool night air can get in. [13] X Expert Source Victor BelavusAir Conditioning Specialist Expert Interview. 6 May 2020. If you have an attic fan, open the windows and turn it on so it pulls the hot air up and out of your home.
If you’re going outside, wear a wide-brimmed hat and don’t forget the sunscreen! Avoid wearing dark clothes, too. Dark-colored clothing absorbs sunlight which can make you feel hotter than if you wear white clothes. Skip socks and shoes which also trap heat. Instead, throw on a pair of sandals or go barefoot.
If you’re doing physical work or exercise while it’s hot out, reach for sports drinks that replace sodium, chloride, and potassium that you lose when you sweat. As refreshing as a cold cocktail might sound, skip the alcohol. It can actually cause you to lose more fluids. Sip on iced tea, flavored water, or a mocktail!
For a fun snack, rinse fresh grapes and stick them in the freezer. Then, pop a frozen grape in your mouth whenever you need a quick, cold treat. You can also enjoy frozen berries, but they may stain your fingers. If you want to make your own popsicles, freeze your favorite fruit juice or smoothie in small paper cups with popsicle sticks stuck into them.
