Human Fridge: The Personal Cooling Booth That Cools You in 10... 2026

The human fridge, also known as the Do Hiemon personal cooling booth, promises to chill your body completely in just 10 minutes. This innovative device has launched in Japan as a response to record-breaking heatwaves and offers a novel way to combat heat exhaustion.

What Is the Human Fridge?

The human fridge is a 2.1-metre-high (7ft) stainless-steel booth that you step into. It cools your body using a 5°C jet of air directed at your head, neck, shoulders, and back, while the interior is maintained at 15°C. Unlike a refrigerated mortuary cabinet, you don't need to be declared dead to use it.

How Does It Compare to Traditional Cooling?

Key Takeaways

• Rapid cooling: Cools the body in just 10 minutes.
• Energy efficient: Costs about 7p per hour to run – three times less than a toaster.
• High upfront cost: Priced at £6,900 (1.5 million yen).
• Potential lifesaver: Useful in factories, warehouses, or public spaces to prevent heatstroke.
• Heatwave solution: Japan recently recorded its first 'cruelly hot' day above 40°C.

Is It Worth the Investment?

While the initial price tag is steep, the human fridge could be a cost-effective solution for businesses exposing workers to extreme heat. For personal use, it may seem excessive, but for public installations it could save lives. The makers claim it is more effective than air conditioning or fans at relieving heat exhaustion symptoms.

Environmental Considerations

Using a fridge to cool yourself might sound wasteful, but the low running cost suggests it is relatively energy-efficient. However, the broader issue remains: addressing climate change through net-zero emissions is the only long-term solution.

FAQ

The human fridge is a bold answer to a 'cruelly hot' climate. Whether you see it as a smart investment or a luxury gadget, it highlights the urgent need for creative cooling solutions. For now, you can always hide between the milk – but the human fridge might be a more reliable option.