Stay cool in hot weather
A guide to products that keep you comfortable in the heat, on the go, at home, and for special needs, including your pets.
In this article
- Portable handheld fans
- Wearable neck fans and coolers
- Evaporative cooling towels
- Portable air conditioners
- Cooling bedding
- Smart and oscillating tower fans
- Cooling vests
- Instant cold packs
- Pet cooling mats
- Tips if you use a screen reader or have low vision
Portable handheld fans
Small rechargeable fans give instant relief on commutes and short breaks. Newer models are quieter and run longer on a charge.
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Wearable neck fans and coolers
Rest on your neck for hands-free cooling. Some use fans; others use cooling plates for continuous cooling outdoors.
Evaporative cooling towels
Wet, wring, and snap for an instant cool feeling. Light and quick-drying for sports, gardening, or any hot day.
Portable air conditioners
If you do not have central air, a portable unit cools a single room. Check the room size it is rated for and how the window kit installs.
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Cooling bedding
Sheets, mattress pads, and pillows made from breathable, moisture-wicking fabrics help you sleep cooler.
Smart and oscillating tower fans
Tower fans spread air across a room. Smart models add app and voice control, which is handy if the fan's own buttons are hard to use.
Cooling vests
For intense heat or physical work, cooling vests use ice packs or water to keep your core temperature down.
Instant cold packs
Squeeze to activate for quick cold relief. Good to keep in a bag or first aid kit.
Pet cooling mats
Self-cooling mats give dogs and cats, including guide dogs, a comfortable place to rest on hot days.
Tips if you use a screen reader or have low vision
- Fans with physical buttons or a dial are easier to control by touch than touch panels. Smart fans that work with a voice assistant avoid buttons entirely; see our smart home guide.
- Portable air conditioners often have small displays. Look for models with a remote control that has distinct buttons, or voice assistant support.
- Mark your preferred fan or air conditioner settings with tactile bump dots.
- In a heat wave, check on guide dogs often; pavement can burn paws. A cooling mat and water bowl at home help them recover.
More guides
See all shopping guides, written for blind and low-vision shoppers.