Britain is in the grip of yet another sweltering heatwave, with 'amber' weather warnings issued across parts of the country. While we've all been dreaming of brighter, sunnier days, the reality of working, commuting and trying to sleep through the sticky, stifling heat isn't quite so idyllic. It's easier to handle soaring temperatures when we're away on holiday – mainly because everywhere, from hotel rooms to restaurants, is blissfully air-conditioned. Back home in the UK, where heatwaves tend to be intense but short-lived, investing in air con can feel like overkill. So, we often find ourselves battling through the heat – but it doesn't have to be that way.
As temperatures climb, shoppers are scrambling to find the best fans for their homes, and retailers are feeling the surge. Argos, for instance, has reported a dramatic spike in fan searches over the past week. One product in particular – the Bush White Tower Fan – has seen sales skyrocket by more than 500% in just seven days. It even became the number one search term for two days straight, proving it's cooling more than just rooms – it's red hot right now.
Whether you're after a powerful tower fan, a compact desk option, or a portable handheld version to keep cool on the move, we've rounded up the very best picks to help you breeze through this heatwave.
Top Fan Picks for the Heatwave
Bush White Tower Fan
Considering it had the highest search volume by customers shopping at Argos, and its purse-friendly price tag, it's safe to say this fan is one to add to the basket – and quickly. With three speed settings, the option to have the tower fan static or oscillate to keep the breeze flowing throughout the room or directly on you is up to you. It measures almost 75cm in height and 24.4cm in width and diameter, so it takes up little floor space for those tight on room. Price: £35
SHARK TurboBlade High-Speed Multi-Directional Tower Fan
This sleek tower fan is another popular purchase for those keen to keep cool. It boasts 10 speed settings, a 12-hour timer to run throughout your 9-5 or eight-hour slumber, all of which can be programmed using the remote control so you don't have to move a muscle and break a sweat. Price: £179.99 (was £249.99)
Dyson Purifier Cool PC1 Purifying Fan
Arguably the most sought after tower fan. This chic design may be on the higher end of the scale, but it has the specifications to back it up. It promises to be 60% quieter than other fans so not to disturb you in the night thanks to the night mode function. It can oscillate up to 350 degrees, and uses Patented Air Multiplier Technology, which draws in surrounding air that is then projected in a high velocity airflow to keep you cool. Price: £349.99 (was £449.99)
John Lewis 2-in-1 Fan (16 inch)
This genius design is multifunctional. The propeller fan can be adjusted across three height settings (70cm, 101cm and 132cm), which means it can go from standing to a desk fan. It offers eight speed settings whether it is in a fixed position or oscillating. Price: £55
MeacoFan Sefte 10" Pedestal Air Circulator
A classic pedestal fan that uses propellers to circulate air through the room. The stand can be adjusted from a standing design to mid-height and lower option that could be propped on a desk. It can oscillate across three angles, which range from 30 to 120 degrees. Price: £199.99
Shark FlexBreeze HydroGo Misting Fan
While a fan can give us a much-needed breeze on a balmy summer's day when a room is stifling hot, a fan that emits a cooling mist is a level up. This portable fan can be operated as a corded or cordless design so you can use indoors and outdoors. It has an integrated water tank that is released while the fan is spinning for a refreshing feel. It operates for 12-hours, is lightweight, and well worth the price tag. It also comes in a larger version to use as a standing device too. Price: £99.99 (was £129.99)
Honeywell Turbo Black Desk Fan
The Honeywell Turbo Desk Fan has been a popular purchase for a number of summers, and it shows no signs of slowing down. It is not only affordable, but is compact, lightweight, and has three speed settings, which can project air across 90 degrees. Price: £30
We're adding to basket PRONTO, and saving ourselves from another restless night's sleep.
