The 2026 heatwave is breaking records — and not everyone is lucky enough to have air conditioning. Here are 12 practical and immediately applicable tips to stay cool even at 40°C.
1. Close shutters in the morning, open at night
The golden rule: close shutters and thick curtains in the morning (before 9 am) to block solar heat. At night, open everything wide to create a draft. This simple habit can lower the indoor temperature by 5 to 8°C.
2. The neck fan: the anti-heat revolution
The bladeless neck fan is the anti-heat accessory of summer 2026. Worn like a necklace, it diffuses a continuous airflow directly onto the most sensitive areas (nape, neck) — where the heat is most difficult to bear. 8-hour battery life, silent, USB-C rechargeable.
3. Wet your wrists and neck
Cold on pulse points (wrists, temples, neck, inner elbow) immediately lowers the sensation of heat. A damp towel or a portable mister works wonders.
4. The mini evaporative air conditioner
Without installation, without air conditioning costs, the portable mini air conditioner cools the air by water evaporation. Place it on your desk with an ice cube in the tank: the perceived temperature drops by 3 to 5°C within a 2-meter radius.
5. The gel cushion for cool nights
Heatwave nights are often the most difficult. A cooling gel cushion absorbs your body heat and keeps your head cool for 3-4 hours — no electricity, no noise, no plugging in.
6. Eat light and hydrate properly
Digestion produces heat. During a heatwave, opt for cold or lukewarm foods (gazpacho, salads, fruits), reduce animal protein and very fatty foods. Drink water at room temperature (not iced).
7. The mister: instant freshness everywhere
A portable nano mister slips into your pocket and diffuses an ultra-fine mist onto your face. 5 seconds of misting = feeling of freshness for 10-15 minutes.
8. Cotton, linen, light colors only
Synthetic fabrics trap heat and perspiration. Wear only light cotton or linen in light colors that reflect sunlight.
9. Protect yourself when going out
Do not go out between 12 pm and 4 pm unless absolutely necessary. If you must go out: wide-brimmed SPF50+ hat, polarized UV400 glasses, light covering clothing.
10. The misting fan
Combine ventilation and humidification with a USB misting fan. The humidified air diffused by the fan creates a greater feeling of freshness than a classic fan.
11. Wet your sheets before sleeping
Run your sheets under cold water, wring them out lightly, and place them cool on your bed. They will gradually warm up, giving you the precious first hours of cool sleep.
12. The sports cooling towel
Designed for athletes, the ice-effect cooling towel lowers body temperature by 3-5°C in 30 seconds. Wet, wring, shake 3 times — place on your neck or shoulders for immediate relief.
Conclusion
Surviving a heatwave without air conditioning is possible with the right accessories and habits.
👉 Discover all our 2026 anti-heat accessories — with code ETE2026 for -15%.