The UK heatwave brought an unexpected household item into the spotlight: the humble tea towel. While most people use it in the kitchen, it turns out this simple cloth can offer real relief from the summer heat.
(source: Daily Mirror)
A damp tea towel placed in the freezer for a few minutes can quickly become a natural cooling tool. Lightweight, breathable, and reusable, it’s a simple and effective way to stay cool—no electricity needed.
So, how exactly does it work—and how can you use it safely?
1. How do you turn a tea towel into an “ice towel”?
The method is easy: wet your tea towel with cold water, wring it out, fold it neatly, and place it in the freezer for 15–30 minutes. Once chilled, drape it over your neck, forehead, or shoulders. The cooling effect is instant and refreshing.
Compared to bulky towels, a cotton tea towel freezes faster and stays soft. It’s also less likely to drip or feel heavy on the skin, making it ideal for indoor or outdoor use.
Related Tip：
If you’re interested in other creative ways to stay cool—like DIY outdoor air conditioning—check out our full guide here.
2. Is it safe to use cold tea towels on children or the elderly?
Absolutely. Parenting bloggers in the UK recommend cold tea towels as a gentle way to cool children after playing outdoors. It’s softer than an ice pack and easier to manage—no sharp cold or plastic edges.
Older family members can also benefit from this method, especially those sensitive to temperature changes. The tea towel acts as a mild cooling layer without the shock of ice.
Pro Tip：
Use thinner cotton fabrics and avoid soaking the towel too wet. This makes the cooling gentle, not shocking—perfect for all ages.
3. Does using a tea towel you love make a difference?
Cooling off can feel like a chore, but with a tea towel featuring your favorite artwork or color, it becomes something enjoyable. A cheerful lemon print or a design you created yourself turns it into a small summer ritual.
Cooling down isn’t just physical—it’s emotional, too. A little joy in the details can lift your mood on hot days.
Design Idea：
Consider creating your summer-themed collection. Whether it’s watermelon, beach scenes, or floral patterns, at BLANC Tea Towel, you can customize the design to fit your brand or personal style.
4. How do you choose the right tea towel for cooling?
Not all tea towels are equal. For cooling, choose 100% cotton fabrics—they absorb and release moisture more effectively. Avoid thick woven materials or towels with stiff finishes.
At BLANC, our tea towels are made with premium reactive digital printing, so your design won’t fade even after multiple washes and freezes. You can also customize labels, fabrics, and packaging.
Minimums? No problem.
We accept small custom orders starting from just 20 pieces—perfect for artists, small brands, or summer promotions.
A tea towel can be more than just practical—when chosen and used well, it can be your cool little escape from the summer heat.
