As summer temperatures soar, many people in China have turned to an unusual cooling hack — hugging a winter melon while sleeping instead of using air conditioning. However, social media is now filled with horror stories from users whose “natural cooling pillow” suddenly burst open in the middle of the night, spraying foul-smelling juice and rotten flesh across their beds.
The viral trick has long been promoted as an inexpensive, eco-friendly way to stay cool, with supporters claiming the high water content of winter melons creates a refreshing cooling effect without using electricity.
But many users are now sharing their “exploding melon” experiences, saying the fruit unexpectedly split open while they were asleep, leaving behind a strong rotten smell and a huge mess.
According to Yang Zufu, Director of the Traditional Chinese Medicine Rehabilitation Department at the China Rehabilitation Research Center, winter melons contain more than 95% water, allowing them to absorb body heat efficiently.
However, he explained that hugging the melon throughout the night effectively turns it into a warm incubator. Body heat, sweat and repeated friction can damage the fruit’s protective outer layer, allowing bacteria and mould to enter.
As microorganisms multiply inside the melon, they break down the sugars and organic matter, producing gases such as carbon dioxide. The pressure continues to build until the melon eventually bursts open.
To reduce the risk, Yang advised choosing a black-skinned winter melon with an undamaged surface and washing it thoroughly before use.
He also recommended hugging the melon for only around 30 minutes before bedtime to cool the body, then removing it before falling asleep.
The melon should be inspected after three to five days of use and discarded immediately if it becomes soft, starts leaking liquid or develops an unpleasant smell.
Yang added that people should hug the melon against their arms or legs instead of placing it directly on the abdomen. Elderly people, young children and individuals with sensitive skin or allergies are also advised to avoid direct contact, as mould growing inside a spoiled melon could irritate the skin and respiratory system.
