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OK, but it actually feels like you’re 7 inches from the midday sun right now.

As a Deputy Editorial Director for BuzzFeed’s shopping team, I love to get into the weeds of why a product’s worth the money by deep diving into customer reviews, and product-testing as much as possible.

As I'm writing this in my NYC apartment, sitting beside my AC unit on June 30, there are public warnings about a heat wave, and I know people in the rest of the country are very much feeling the scorching heat, too. Of course, stay inside and in cool temps when you can during heat warnings (that goes for kids and pets, too!). But if you do plan to clock some serious time outside this summer when it feels quite hot out but isn't 100 degrees, we rounded up some products to alleviate some of the annoying parts of hot hot heat, like a neck fan that'll become your new go-to accessory and a water table that'll be all the rage with your toddler. Read on and try to stay cool!

Promising review: "This neck fan is awesome!!! It fits comfortably around the neck and is very lightweight. Love that the vents are all the way around so you feel the cold air around your whole neck. Cools you down quickly. Would buy again!!! If you are reading this... Do not hesitate to buy this, get one now before they run out." —Kathy Jones

Get it from Amazon for $26.99+ (available in eight colors).

Promising review: "Best fan ever. Ordered one for my Barbados trip, and it never failed me. I took it to the beach. And not thinking, went toward the water and the wave took me in fan and all. Long story short, the fan was dead to the world. Glad I didn't throw it away. Started working as if nothing once it was dry. Not sure if I got lucky or it wasn't in the water long enough, but it's working just fine." —Jeanne Polanco

Get it from Amazon for $9.48+ (available in nine colors). 

Here's what BuzzFeed Shopping writer Amber Usher says about it: 

"This was, hands down, my saving grace while traveling in Singapore. I had mine on BLAST (level 6–8), and the battery lasted long enough while I was out and about. Whenever I would return to my hotel room, I would plug it in for a bit and have enough juice to last me once I was outside again. When I first unboxed the fan, my boyfriend said, 'How is that little thing going to keep you cool?' As you can see from the gif, he was able to answer his own question."

Promising review: "Very strong. At first, I was like, yeah, the chill plate only feels super cold for a few seconds, then just cold, but…when I took it off my neck, my neck felt cold for a good amount of time after. It was strange, like it pulled the heat out of me. Very strong fan. I get hot flashes and panic attacks, and this is going to help a lot...also, it’s cute. ☺️" —Rebekah Bluhm

Get it from Amazon for $129.99 (available in three colors) 

Promising review: "Easy installation and works well. Elevated our family's trampoline enjoyment to another level. Now we can enjoy the trampoline on a hot summer day! A must-have addition to any trampoline." —MagnumMan

Promising review: "This was an impulse buy and so glad I did it. Took them on vacation and they worked so well on the beach and sand. Must have." —paul molacek

FYI, depending on your situation, water may be enough to rehydrate you! Read more about electrolyte-enhanced drinks and hydration at Cleveland Clinic. 

Promising review: "Love them. Tastes exactly like melted Firecracker Popsicle. My boyfriend and I have tried my Liquid IV flavors and this is one of our favorites. It is definitely sweet, so if that's not your thing you might not like it." —Samantha McClain

Get a 16-pack from Amazon for $23.62 (available 19 flavors). If you'd love another nostalgic flavor, the cotton candy flavor also hits that sweet spot.

Promising review: "Purchased for my grandson who loves to play in the water. Perfect height for a 2-year-old. Easy to put together, sturdy and lots of different things to do. The top part is like a waterfall, it has lots of little holes for the water to come through." —dd

Promising review: "Guys. If you’re going on a trip and need a cute hat but don’t want to worry about it getting smashed…look no further. I bought this hat last summer. It’s been as far as The Maldives, all over Europe, and I wear it on the reg in southern California. It’s totally kept its shape, and I’m not shy of shoving it in bags. 10/10 recommend! I’m sitting on a bus in Croatia right now thinking how awesome this hat has been and decided to write a review, as I rely on reviews for my purchases on Amazon. Hope this helps someone!" —Lyra S.

Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in 12 color combos). 

Ponyflo is a small biz specializing in ponytail-friendly hats. 

Promising review: "I purchased this hat for the beach to cover my face and ears. It did the job and was way cuter than I thought! If you’re looking for a hat for the pool, beach, or a sports mom, this will be great!" —Matthew & Brittney Odom

Get it from Amazon for $32.99 (available in 11 colors). 

Promising review: "I got this for a week-long beach trip, and it did not disappoint. This thing is super easy to put up and has plenty of space for the littles to play in the shade. I didn’t worry even once about the wind snatching this thing up. It was super sturdy with the sandbags filled. 10/10." —Madison H.

Get it from Amazon for $129.95+ (available in three sizes and four colors).

Promising review: "We are so happy with our purchase so far. This pool is plenty big for our purposes and was well within our budget. It took more than 60 minutes to set it up but it wasn't terrible. There were four of us working. We are fortunate to have a flat concrete slab in the back yard that was just large enough for this pool so I can't comment on leveling dirt, etc. The concrete is pitted though so we bought an extra pad to put under it to make it a bit softer against any potential sharp edges. The sand filter is nice. We've used traditional filters in the past on a much smaller pool and this seems like it will be easier to maintain in the long run." —Mad Cassandra

Get it from Amazon for $949+ (available in four sizes and with or without a sand filter pump).

Promising review: "I have had this pool for about two weeks now and I LOVE IT!!! Was simple to set up, I got a little electric pump and it took about 10 minutes to inflate, then about half an hour to fill with water. Pay attention to making sure you set it up on level ground or it will be lopsided. It is probably good for two adults, maybe one adult and a couple of kids. The built-in seat and headrest are really quite comfy and relaxing. I will definitely buy this same pool again if it springs a leak and can't be fixed, if I could give it a 10 stars I would. LOVE, LOVE, LOVE it!!!" —kathryn j.

HDE is a small biz specializing in fashion and accessories. 

Promising review: "Loved this swim top. Shorter than most but not too short. Awesome colors, dries quickly, size is accurate. Always excited to wear it." —Julia

Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in sizes 1X–3X and nine patterns/styles).

Promising review: "So I decided to put these to the ultimate test for 4th of July underneath my white, semi-sheer swimsuit. I wore them out in the Florida heat in the ocean all day, and they did not budge or peel off. I thought for sure these would take skin off by the time I got home because I just couldn't believe they stayed on the entire day (humidity is real). I was able to remove them with ease. I washed them with warm water and soap and let them dry, and the next day, they were super sticky, like they were brand-new out of the package again. Buying these forever." —Marisa

Get it from Amazon for $28.50 (available in three sizes, four colors, and two styles).

BuzzFeed editor Natalie Brown swears by these pasties! Check out her Nippies review to learn more.

Klassy Network is a woman-owned small biz that specializes in clothing with built-in bras. We're HUGE fans of them at BuzzFeed Shopping and I adore a now-sold-out halter top. 

Promising review: "I cannot say enough good things about this shirt and brand!! I’ve already purchased six different tops and plan to buy lots more!" —Haley B.

Get it from Klassy Network for $37.80 (available in sizes XXS–3XL and four other colors).

Promising review: "These are perfect for under dresses, even in the hot, humid summer. The pocket is perfect to slip my phone in so I can be hands-free. Great quality! I have two pairs, one black and one beige." —Amanda Martinez

Get it from Thigh Society for $39+ (available in women's sizes XS–2XL, three lengths, and in 12 colors). 

It isn't inflatable like other little pools, so you don't have to worry about your dog puncturing it. Plus it's foldable so can be more easily stored. And while we're on the subject, check out hot weather pet tips from the ASPCA.

Promising review: "The perfect size for our golden retriever (80 lbs). Easy to open, unfold, fill up, and put away! Very happy I selected this model and size when searching for a pool for him." —Katy Ryan

Promising review: "I have a pug and a toy fox terrier/Chihuahua mix and they absolutely love this thing. I just leave it sitting on the living room floor and they gravitate towards it whenever they need to cool down (they sometimes even fight over it). Both fit simultaneously if they are in the mood for sharing the space. The mat is tough, too! I don't think their nails can penetrate it." —E Marsh

Get it from Amazon for $34.99+ (available in two colors).

Promising review: "Purchased three pairs for our cruise. We all loved them. Best water shoes I’ve ever worn. Feels like you are barefoot but keeps your feet safe from anything you step on. Very comfortable! Highly recommended!" —Donna M

Get it from Amazon for $8.68+ (available in seven sizes and 49 colors).

My colleague Sally Elshorafa loves these: "My family just got back from a spring break trip to an indoor waterpark, and my kids did not take these off the entire time. I could tell right away that both of them, ages 2.5 and 4, had a much better grip on the ground in the wave pool, and they were able to run around playing water basketball in the shallow end of the big-kid pool without constantly slipping all over the place. That alone sold me, but I also loved the peace of mind of not having their bare feet touching approximately 4,000 damp public waterpark surfaces.

They were easy to get on and off, but stayed put once they were on, which is exactly what you want with little kids who are somehow always one wrong move away from losing a shoe. They were also so comfortable that neither of my kids messed with them, complained about them, or tried to take them off, which honestly says a lot. In the summer, my kids usually wear Crocs to the pool and then immediately ditch them when they get in, which means I'm eventually wandering around looking for a rogue little shoe. I already know these are going to be our go-to instead. They seem durable enough to last all summer, and when my kids size up, I'll buy the exact same pair again."

Promising review: "I bought these shoes for my toddler to wear to play outside and at the pool. She loves them and doesn’t want to take them off. They are easy to put on as the fabric stretches. The Velcro holds its grip without coming undone too easily. I love that they are breathable so her feet do not get hot. " —Rachel

Get it from Amazon for $15.95+ (available in six sizes and 44 colors and patterns).

Promising review: "I have super frizzy, curly hair and live in New England, where we have super humid summers. I have been struggling to find a product that de-frizzes my hair without making it look oiled down, and this is it. I put it in my wet hair after washing, towel dried, and put my hair in a ponytail to go to work. My hair was frizz-free all night — even working outside in high humidity. People even asked if I did something to my hair! This is an amazing product for the price. Absolutely buying again and would recommend to anyone with a frizz issue." —Marissa 

"Awesome product, repeat buyer." —Amanda

Dae is a small business that specializes in haircare and styling products. 

(It goes without saying that you don't need to lay your edges if you don't want to, but this is a handy option if you do.) 

Promising review: "I’ve tried numerous products for taming baby hairs, especially post-partum, and this is hands down the best thing I’ve tried. It also smells incredible! Love the size of the styling wand!" —Completely happy customer! 

Sayso is a woman-owned small business that specializes in the first-ever cocktail tea bag, perfect for cocktails *and* mocktails. 

Promising review: "I’m seriously blown away by the Skinny Spicy Margarita tea bags! As someone who loves a good margarita but doesn’t want all the sugar, this is a total game changer. It’s super easy — just steep in cold water (or with a splash of tequila if you’re making a cocktail), and you’ve got a refreshing, slightly spicy drink in under a minute. The flavor is chef’s kiss — tangy, zesty, with the perfect little kick. I love that it’s non-GMO, gluten-free, kosher, and vegan too." —Chioma

Get a pack of eight from Amazon for $16.99 (available in four other cocktail styles and larger packs). 

Promising review: "We've had this swing hanging in our tree out back for two years now. Our kids, and their friends, LOVE it. I love that it's large enough to accommodate a number of kids/people, and that it's held up so well over time. Would totally recommend." —Krystal

Promising review: "I love spending time outside, and we entertain on our patio, too. But when it's over 100 degrees outside, nobody feels like visiting. Until now!! I bought one and liked it so much I ordered another to cover both patios. They lower the temps to a more moderate level in just moments and don't use a 100 gallons of water doing it! I put mine along the top of our privacy fence and then put a fan in behind it and made it almost like having an AC unit outside. They're easy to put up and take down and come with convenient hanging hooks! I read the reviews people wrote about the heads getting stopped up, and they WILL, but as a plumber I'll tell you a trick to keeping them working like new: vinegar. Just remove the heads and soak then in a little straight vinegar then use a small bristle brush like a toothbrush or nail brush rinse them off and replace them in the mister tubing, and they should be like brand-new." —Sonya Combs

Get it from Amazon for $21.20+ (available in several pack sizes).

This weatherproof fan has a fully sealed and permanently lubricated industrial motor to protect it against wetness.

Promising review: "Great fan at a good price! I bought this fan for my backyard to help circulate the air on hot days and to help deter mosquitoes at night around the fire pit. This fan worked perfectly. It has three speeds, the highest of which is super strong. The fan at high speed is a bit noisy, but nothing unexpected of a powerful fan. It is also 100% waterproof, which is a must. My only minor issues would be 1) it would be nice if the fan came with a cover for when it’s not used (I bought 20-inch tire storage covers to do the job), and 2) the fan is only adjustable up and down not side to side — if they could make it oscillate that would be great. Having said that, I would recommend this fan for sure and would not hesitate to buy it again." —Bigdad

Get it from Amazon for $99.95+ (available in three sizes).

Beach State is a small business specializing in premium, high-quality beach umbrellas. 

Check out a TikTok of the umbrella in action. 

Promising review: "This umbrella is exactly what my family was looking for as our everyday beach umbrella — large diameter, high quality, and cute retro design. It is a higher end umbrella but still slightly less expensive than the other big name designer beach gear company that we were considering. It is easy to pop up and stays standing, and we’ve had many compliments from other people at the beach asking where we got it. The customer service from the company was excellent. Would definitely recommend these umbrellas!" —Taryn

Get it from Amazon for $99.99+ (available in six colors). 

Note that this includes just the umbrella, not the table!

Promising review: "I normally don’t like buying products like this sight unseen, but I’m very pleased with the look and especially with the solar lighting. We enjoyed a pleasant evening on the deck with just the right amount of ambient light tonight, and we are hopeful that it will prove to be durable." —Dee Williams

Get it from Amazon for $71.99 (available in 11 color combos).

It has three different brightness options so you can set *~the mood~* perfectly. It also requires AA batteries, so be sure to pick those up as well.

Promising review: "This light is great!!! It has three settings, to adjust the amount of brightness you need. Lowest level is great for just sitting around your patio table and having a couple of drinks with friends. Brightest setting is PERFECT for playing cards! We play cards a few times a month. We decided to try and play outside. There are two 70+-year-olds who did not complain that they couldn’t see. So, works great in my book! 😁" —Mandie Jordan

Promising review: "This product is sturdy, easy to assemble, and very nice decor. It has many uses as a table or cooler. Well made, looks nice. Highly recommend for outdoor cooler and table combination." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $74.99+ (available in graphite or brown).

Promising review: "My dog never understood the concept of fetch. It didn't matter what I tried. This FINALLY has her fetching and using up all (OK, most) of the energy that a cattle dog has. We can play over and over and over without my measly arm wearing out, and she's able to sprint to her heart's content. I'm already planning to gift one to my brother's dog who also is fetch dumb." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $5.79+ (available in five lengths).

Several reviewers shared that this little pool kept their kids engaged for hours.

Promising review: "My kids love this. It is soo easy to plug the hose into and turn the water on and the kids can have hours of fun. Once the kids are done playing, I disconnect the hose let the water drain, and hang it over the porch." —Austin

Promising review: "The only problem I have with this chair is: I only have one of them and the whole family now fights over it! Seriously, it is THAT comfortable and relaxing. Pretty easy to put together, my husband got it all assembled in less than an hour and then proceeded to open up a beer and fall asleep in it next to the pool, HA! I like to take my laptop out with me and work in it as the moveable umbrella shades my screen. Love love LOVE it!!" —Erin S

Get it from Amazon for $199.99+ (available in 16 colors).

Promising review: "I came across these flat socks at CVS and was curious. I placed them in a pair of old Adidas that I was about to toss from the stink. I removed the liners of the old socks and replaced them with flat socks. I did not wear socks with them after I installed them. The shoes no longer smell! It’s amazing! I ordered three more pairs on Amazon. Goodbye, socks! When I fear they may start to smell — I just remove them and toss them in the wash. If you can’t afford them for every pair of sockless shoes, they are easily moveable from shoe to another. I highly recommend these washable insoles!" —Kindle Customer

Get them from Amazon for $10 (available in two sizes). 

Promising review: "Walking on cushiony clouds!!! I LOVE Crocs but I don’t love the look of them when I wear summer outfits. These were the jackpot!!! I only wear sandals and flip-flops all summer and these are definitely my new favorite!! Soooo cushiony and comfy!!! I will be buying in more colors!!" —Maven

Get them from Amazon for $29.95+ (available in sizes 4–11 and 14 colors). 

The kit comes with the giant bubble wand, two pouches of bubble concentrate, and a booklet to help you become a skilled bubble artiste. 

Promising review: "Love this!! Easy for kids to use — my six-year-old son figured it out pretty quick — and fun for adults as well (my husband and I might have played with it as much as our son did...) Makes amazing bubbles. The bubble mix it comes with is fantastic." —Thomas Durant

Get it from Amazon for $15.95 (available in seven styles).

Promising review: "Used it for a party that a neighbor has catered so no food needed, but I never go to someone's house without bringing something. This was a hit, and a few people at the party were adding it to their Amazon cart at the party," —signs

Get it from Amazon for $104.99 (available in six colors and in 3- or 6-gallon sizes). 

Promising review: "These are so much fun! My brother has a sand volleyball court in his backyard and these are in the grass around the court. People love having their drink close by and the colors are so bright and cheerful." —Maggie

Get a set of six from Amazon for $43.95. 

Promising review: "It cost $7 to replace an old one we lost. LOVE the large ring — my husband and I throw it in parks, get exercise, and can toss it really far. He’s left-handed and I'm right, so the new disc is flat and simple to keep aim (mine could use work, though). GREAT FOR KIDS! So much easier to throw/especially catch than regular Frisbee. Only wish they had a version w LED lights to toss at night. Great toy, great gift." —CDevlette

Get it from Amazon for $6.89+ (available in several variations). 

Promising review: "I bought this so my puppies could traverse to/from their backyard pen area...and keep flying insects out. It is AWESOME! The puppies figured out quickly that they could go through the screen — the screen snapped back into a closed state immediately after they got through the opening. If only all things in life could be solved this easily!" —Lynette S Quigley

Pick up a sturdy rust-resistant curtain rod while you're at it! 

Promising review: "These curtains are AMAZING! Beautiful and elegant. Hangs beautiful, very light blocking, keeps rain out of our Tiki bar, we can sit out there in the rain, and keeps the heat in on a cool fall evening when we have the fireplace on!" —Sara Bushendorf

Get it from Amazon for $11.95+ (available in 10 sizes and 16 colors). 

Promising review: "My family has had a blast with these this summer. Easy to fill up to get the fun started! Just make sure to make all players agree to the yard pickup afterwards, but it’s worth it!" —Momof3

Get 350 balloons from Amazon for $20.85 (available in three color combos).

Promising review: "My pool is awesome when it gets into the hundreds of degrees here in California. We decided to grab a 20x20x20 triangle and holy cow does it do a number on the backyard! Not only does it keep my pool better-shaded, but it also keeps the sun off of my back patio during the hottest part of the day." —Amazon Customer

Get it from Amazon for $26.98+ (available in 14 colors).

Promising review: "Used these on a sunburn on my back, and they were very soothing. Also provided padding when leaning back in my seat. I stuck one on my shoulder also to keep my seatbelt from rubbing the sunburn there. I bought them to use on the back of my kids' necks to help prevent heat exhaustion on a very hot day outside but ended up just using them for burn relief." —Joanna

"These saved us on our vacation with our little that is sensitive to sun!" —felicia faith

Get a pack of 20 from Amazon for $14.99. 

Promising review: "Perfect, affordable, useful. Comes in attractive, carrying case. Has a protective sleeve. Opens to a good size." —Holly West

Get it from Amazon for $10.77+ (available in 19 colors). 

Promising review: "I was hesitant to buy this but I absolutely love it! It keeps my drinks cold for hours, the ice stays solid without watering the drinks down, and it prevents condensation. Perfect for iced coffee, soda, or any glass cup. The patterns are adorable as well. I loved it so much I had to order another for my other car!" —Marta

Get it from Amazon for $13.99+ (available in five sizes and several styles).

Read more about lidocaine and pain relief at Cleveland Clinic. 

Promising review: "I brought this with me on a cruise, and I’m so glad I did! After a little too much sun on the deck, this spray was a total lifesaver. It provided instant cooling relief and took the sting out of my sunburn right away. The spray made it easy to apply without having to rub it in — perfect for those sensitive areas. The aloe was super soothing, and the lidocaine helped calm the burn fast. It absorbed quickly and didn’t leave any sticky feeling behind. Definitely a must-have for any sunny vacation or cruise — I'll never travel without it again!" —Barbara

Promising review: "Bought as a surprise to grandkids. They love it and a half way healthy snack for them on hot summer days. Helps keep them hydrated! Very simple to use, like that you can use regular ice and don’t need to use a special ice mold worth the extra cost for that. Safe even for the kids to use. Simple to assemble." —Amazon Customer

BuzzFeed Shopping is service journalism first: our writers and editors spend all day shopping so you don’t have to, vetting products, fact-checking brand claims, and surfacing what actually helps in real life. We center readers over revenue, recommend products with authenticity (using real experiences, not ad-speak), and reflect our diverse audience, inclusive of a variety of price points, people, and needs. We cut through fake deals, favor useful info over glossy fluff, and recommend both budget and splurge options with context so you can decide what’s right for you — and still have a little fun along the way.

Reviews have been edited for length and/or clarity.