The past couple of summers, my family and I have gone on vacation to Hilton Head, SC. I could write a whole post about how much I love it down there, but one of the best parts is the resort we stay at, Hilton Head Marriott Resort & Spa (10/10 recommend). Beyond just being a great hotel in general, they have a small detail that I’ve become lowkey (but also very highkey) obsessed with: chilled peppermint towels.

It’s so simple, but when you come in after a hot run on the beach or afternoon at the pool, the most refreshing thing is a chilled peppermint towel on the back of your neck/face. Because I’m overly so enthusiastic about them, I decided to make them myself & everyone who’s experienced them have agreed that they’re the bomb.

I recently Insta-storied how to make them, but wanted to do a full DIY post about it in case you missed it. I promise your summer won’t be the same.

Step 1: Gather Your Materials

I’m not a big DIY girl (I’m usually way too impatient to see a multiple step project all the way through), but I’m more apt to try something that 1. needs limited materials and 2. has minimal steps. Good thing this project fits both of those requirements. The only things you need for chilled peppermint towels are:

• Washcloths (I got a pack of eight at Target for $5)
• Peppermint essential oil (you can get it here on Amazon)
• A bucket/medium sized container
• Gallon-sized plastic bag and/or mini sandwich bags (to store them)
• Access to a fridge

That’s it. Depending on what essential oil you get (some can get pretty pricey), you can actually make them for less than $10.

Step 2: Set it up

Fill the bucket up with water (I did it outside with a hose, but you can do it inside too, whatever). Add your peppermint oil. I’d say a good rule of thumb is 10-12 drops per washcloth (it’s pretty strong!), but feel free to add as much or as little as you want.

Step 3: Soak it Up & Let it Sit

Add the washcloths to the bucket & swish them around a little bit. You should definitely smell the peppermint by this point (and if you can’t, add more oil). Then let the towels sit for 4-5 hours. The longer they sit, the more fragrant they get.

Step 4: Let them chill

Remove the towels from the water and wring them out a little bit. You want them to still be damp but not soaking wet. Then place them in your plastic bag and stick them in the fridge for a few hours. If you’re short on time, put each towel in an individual sandwich bag and put them in the freezer (you can’t put them all in the same bag otherwise they’ll freeze together!) Store them in the fridge until you want to use them. Then you can just throw them in the washing machine when you’re done!

That’s it. Again, such a simple project but they’re hella refreshing in the summer. If you’re not a fan of peppermint, you can make them with any scent you want: lavender (for relaxation), rose (for glowing skin) or eucalyptus (for a boost of energy). 

Thanks for reading! Enjoy your chilled peppermint towels. &.