Three years ago, Brad and I ended up in Key West unexpectedly for a week. Long story short – make sure your passport isn’t expired before you check in for an international flight. We got into the Key West airport and I sat on my phone trying to figure out where we would be staying for the next week. We ended up at The Reach which was a GORGEOUS hotel. Every afternoon, the workers at the pool and beach would bring around frozen eucalyptus towels which felt amazing in the sweltering sun (did I mention this was middle of July?).
Seattle is in an unusual heat-wave currently and it made me think back to those towels and how nice they would feel. They are really easy to make, just take a bit of patience.
Frozen Eucalyptus Towels
First, start with some washcloths. I raided my linen closet and grabbed both washcloths and a couple bar mop towels. It doesn’t really matter what type of towels you use, they just need to be able to soak up liquid (so don’t use microfiber).
Next, put a couple cups of water in a container (I used a rectangular Rubbermaid). Add about 10 drops of eucalyptus essential oil to the water and stir.
One at a time, submerge the towel in the water-oil mixture, and squeeze out the excess liquid. Fold in half then roll it in the opposite direction so they look like little burritos.
Place on a cookie sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer.
Freeze until solid (it took mine a couple hours).
To enjoy, place the frozen towel on your face, head, or wherever you need a bit of cooling. I found that it is better to use it rolled up and slowly unroll it as it thaws as opposed to trying to open it up right away because the coolness lasted longer that way.
These towels area also best used by enjoying alongside a frozen strawberry daiquiri, or other fruity beverage.
Brad and I would LOVE to return to Key West sometime (maybe when we’re not planning the trip from the airport). Some friends and I are dreaming of going to Tortuga National Park for some amazing snorkeling,
How do you stay cool during heat waves?
Crystal says
I could have used these today. My daughter and I did the lawn which included pulling weeds and cutting down my two dead rose bushes :( It was so hot!! We took many breaks in which we drank gatorade (I don’t like it, but it really did help)> My way of staying cool is by staying in the air condition or at the pool.
Kendra says
Sounds like a productive day!
Jenni says
What a wonderful idea. Yes..It’s been very hot in Washington. Leavenworth is 101 at least. I was thinking this might be great as well for a feverish forehead in the flu season. I make a eucalyptus rub for chest and noses and this will be a nice addition.
Kathleen Martin says
I love this idea and better than just a wet one… I am going to try some with Peppermint Essential oil.
Brandy Lynn says
Is there a reason for specifically using eucalyptus EO? I have it, but generally only use it for breathing issues.
Kendra says
I was simply recreating these awesome towels that we had in Key West. I’m not sure what their reasoning was for choosing Eucalyptus other than the fact that it smells amazing.
Tmd says
For headache and migraine relief
Chris says
To enjoy, place the frozen towel on your face, head, or wherever you need a bit of cooling. It is recommended to use it rolled up and slowly unroll it as it thaws, rather than trying to open it up right away,
Kristi says
I am going to use these on the golf course this summer. We just played at a course in Arizona and they provided cold Mango towels. They were wonderful.
Laura Heydenburg says
Sounds ike an awesome idea. But whats a couple of cups of water 2, 3 ,5 just wondering. Is it important ?