First of all, I did the math and 28-30 degrees Celsius (honestly, when did we stop saying “centigrade”?) is only 82-86 degrees Fahrenheit. Get over it. Back in New York we would go weeks without ever dipping under 90. Canadian wimps.

Still, it’s been hotter than usual for this neck of the woods lately. Speaking of neck, that’s where this week’s product is most appreciated.

I’ve been using these water-cooled bandanas for many years now, ever since I found some Australian ones at a flea market (one hot summer). They used to have a much simpler appearance, but the latest models have many colors and patterns. This packaging has 1 Cowboy Red, 1 Blue Paisley, 1 Lt Blue Print, and 1 Green Tree pattern. Frankly, I don’t care what they look like. These things work!

Just set one in water – cool water is preferred, but room temp water works as well – and in just a short time the cloth as well as the polymer beads within will soak up and retain the water. Then just hang or tie the bandana around your neck.

On a hot day, the cool water feels fantastic. Every so often you can rotate the outer surface inward and you’ll be amazed at how cool it still is. Refresh by dipping it back in water or even putting it the fridge for a few minutes. Let it dry out when you’re not using it, then start all over again as these things are completely reusable.