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With temperatures set to rise during the hot and dry season in Singapore, keeping cool is a prime concern.
Set your fans to rotate counter-clockwise
“A counter-clockwise movement circulates cool air down to the floor, where it wicks perspiration away from your body. This creates a wind-chill effect,” says Eric Tay, founder of fan manufacturer Acorn. The Fantastique AC-326 (pictured), is just one of many Acorn designs that include a counter-clockwise function.
Put on an eye mask
… but pop it in the fridge before use. A cold eye mask – whether it’s a sheet or gel one – not only reduces puffiness in the morning, but it is also a respite for tired eyes.
Go organic with aloe vera
Sunburns are common, and aloe vera gel – kept in the fridge for an extra cooling effect – makes for a soothing antidote for sore burns. You can also freeze the gel in an ice-cube tray and rub the cubes over affected areas. If your aloe vera gel is edible, add a squeeze or two into a glass of water.
Sleep on a cool mattress
Much like athletic wear, the new Tempur Hybrid Luxe mattress features a moisturewicking, heat-absorbing fabric to keep you dry and cool as you sleep. This Cool Touch technology, along with a material that relieves pressure points and a removable and washable cover, will give you the quality shut-eye you need.
Prevent cool air from escaping
While air-conditioning is the easiest way to lower a room’s temperature, it’s not the cheapest. Having it work harder, due to cool air escaping the room, means ending up with an expensive bill. Ensure that windows are properly sealed, and doors are closed, to maximise the use of air-cons. Hire a professional HVAC technician to determine if your home is leaking air.
Use essential oils
Remedy the heat with minty essential oils, such as peppermint or eucalyptus. Apply a dab of these all-natural essences (available from essential oil cultivator Young Living) on your neck for an icy sensation, or add a few drops into an aroma diffuser. Muji’s diffuser (pictured) produces a cool mist, which enhances the aromatheraphy effect
Keep hydrated with pure drinking water
Sweaty days call for a countermeasure – lots of water! Purify the water you drink with the Hyflux Alkaline-3 Drinking Water System, which removes bacteria, viruses and chlorine. The antioxidant-alkaline feature helps neutralise acidity in your body as well. This device can be connected to a drinking tap or dispenser.
Keep your blinds close
Reduce the amount of heat and sunlight from entering your home by installing blinds and keeping them closed during sunny afternoons. You can draw the blinds (curtains too) when the sun goes down – this allows extra heat to escape, and cooler night air to ventilate your home.
Eat a cold dish – no cooking required!
Some things are best served cold: revenge, and a chickpea and feta salad. Pour one can of chickpeas into a bowl, and add chopped cucumber, red onions, and parsley for crunch. Top it up with 1/3 cup of feta cheese (or more – who’s counting?) and a diced avocado for a creamy texture. Drizzle the juice of half a lemon, sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, and toss. Chill in refrigerator.