12 Heatwave Hacks to Help You Survive Summer

1. Find Some Shade

Or make some. When the glaring sun is keeping you from enjoying the outdoors, DIY a simple fabric shade by stringing cable through grommets. (via In Decora)

2. Watermelon Popsicles

These healthy layered ice pops made with watermelon, kiwi and coconut water are just the thing to cool you down. There's a sweet surprise in every bite: The “seeds" are chocolate chips. (via Cooking Classy)

3. Messy Summer Updo

Get that hair off your neck and you'll feel ten times cooler. The best thing about a summer updo is the messier it is, the better it looks. (Brit + Co)

4. DIY Calming Cold Towels

Make like a chic resort and DIY yourself some frosty towels. Freeze a few towels with eucalyptus oil to keep on hand, then run the cloth over your forehead, face and along the back of your neck. Breath in deeply and let the scent of eucalyptus oil refresh your senses. (via Shape)

5. Aloe Vera and Lavender Skin-Soothing DIY

Even though you wear sunscreen, sun exposure can still irritate your skin. These ice balms are made of aloe vera, lavender essential oil and glycerin, so they'll soothe your skin while they cool you down. (via Soap Queen)

6. Homemade Ice Packs

To DIY this super-simple ice pack, it takes just two things you already have in your kitchen — a sponge and a freezer. Bonus: It's the only ice pack that doesn't leak. (via Live Simply)

7. DIY Fruity Ice Cubes

Where's the fun in plain old cubes and water? These gorgeous cubes are refreshing to the eye as well as in the glass. Go savory, sweet or a little mix of both. (Brit + Co)

8. Intex Swim Center Family Lounge Inflatable Pool ($100)

Have you ever looked at a kiddie pool and wished they came in big-people sizes? Good news — they do! It's no surprise that Amazon has 'em, and they're sized *just* right for a patio. This one comes with four built-in seats, so you can invite some friends. Can you say pool par-tay?

9. DIY Sprinkler Car Wash

This tricycle “car wash" is made from sprinkler fittings. The bright-colored sponges, pool noodles and elastic bands make it thrilling and chilling. (via Apartment Therapy)

10. DIY Personal Water Blob

These ginormous water blobs are DIYed using plastic sheeting, an iron and some duct tape. Be sure to make a full set, because when the those temps start to rise, everyone deserves their own. (via Hello, Wonderful)

11. DIY Capri Sun

Back in the day, summer wasn't summer without a Capri Sun sipper to cool you off and quench your thirst. Fast forward to today, and age it up a bit by putting some *adult* drinks in those classic pouches. Just what you need when you're kicking back in your adult-size kiddie pool. Just don't forget to hydrate with plenty of H2O. (Brit + Co)

12. La Croix Mocktails

If you're jonesing for a low-calorie cocktail, add some slices of fresh fruit and ice to a La Croix infused water. You can keep it virgin or add your favorite alcohol — either way, it's a refreshing fix. (Brit + Co)

Are you using these summer hacks to cool down? We've got more — follow us on Pinterest.

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This post has been updated.