The entire nation is boiling over. Record-breaking heatwaves have brought extreme sweltering weather day after day. With daytime temperatures soaring above 40 degrees and nighttime readings hovering around 35 degrees, triggering frequent issuance of heatwave disaster warning levels, various 'cooling' products launched by household goods companies are gaining popularity. From towels that lower perceived temperature to feminine hygiene pads and diapers with maximized cooling functions, these items have become summer's best-selling products for companies.
According to industry sources on the 28th, Yuhan Kimberly is boosting its performance by leading with a 'cooling' product lineup designed to reduce skin irritation and maximize comfort during hot summers. Bestsellers include 'Huggies Summer Diapers,' along with 'Good Feel Summer Edition·White Stay Cool Pads' and 'Kleenex Cooling Wet Wipes.'
Regarding diapers, there was only one type in 2015, but this year the lineup has expanded to four types (NATURE MADE Summer, Skin Essential Summer, Magic Comfort Summer, MaxDry Air). Due to climate change, launch months have been continuously advanced from May 2015 to April 2022 and March 2024. The domestic summer diaper market has grown at an average annual rate of over 20% in the past three years. The most significant feature of 'Huggies Summer Diapers' is the 'triple air hole ventilation structure' applied uniformly across all products. Thanks to the air holes, internal airflow improves, lowering internal temperatures by up to 3 degrees.
Summer feminine hygiene pads are also popular. As of last month, 'Good Feel Summer Edition' saw a 46% year-on-year growth, while the newly launched 'White Stay Cool' line increased by 38% during the same period. 'Good Feel Summer Edition' features air tunnels and a breathable waterproof layer that reduces relative humidity inside underwear by 30%, while 'White Stay Cool' applies cooling sheets to provide a cool sensation for up to four hours.
Kleenex Cooling Wet Wipes, which temporarily lower skin temperature by 6 degrees, saw sales increase by 400% compared to last summer. This product is useful for wiping away hot and sweaty skin and comes in a generous size suitable for wiping the whole body, making it convenient for sports, work, and travel. Sales are expected to rise significantly again this summer.
Clean & Clear has also strengthened its 'cooling·breathable' products based on technological expertise. The 'Cooling Towel,' launched last year, is a representative example. As of June this year, sales increased by 227% compared to the previous month and rose by 323% compared to June last year. The 'Cooling Towel' has an effect of lowering temperature by up to approximately 9 degrees immediately upon skin contact. Individually packaged for hygiene and portability, it is convenient for outdoor activities such as sports.
Feminine hygiene pads for women, including 'Dear Skin Air Cooling' and 'Pure Cotton Cooling Breeze,' are also popular. As of June this year, sales increased by 18% compared to the previous month. 'Pure Cotton Cooling Breeze' reduces skin contact area and enhances breathability. It applies a rapid cooling function to lower absorption temperature by up to 3.8 degrees and offers an ammonia odor removal effect of 99.4%. 'Dear Skin Air Cooling' achieves a refreshing feel by reducing residual surface area by three times after absorption, providing comfort during long-term wear in summer.
Additionally, 'Bosomi Modal Summer Diapers' are selling well. Designed for infants and toddlers whose risk of heat rash and rashes increases during summer, these diapers feature enhanced breathability, earning positive responses from parents.
An industry official stated, "As climate change extends summers and makes them hotter, cooling and breathability technologies have become a core competitiveness for the household goods industry, not just seasonal marketing." The official added, "Cooling products have established themselves as popular items during heatwaves, going beyond being simple consumables."
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