All steamed up

For those coping with the colds and coughs still lingering across Southern California, here’s one source of comfort: Hammacher Schlemmer’s new Swiss Hot Steam Humidifier. Whether in bright red or in silver, the design is a hip alternative to what you might find at the drugstore. Plus, it works. The device is quiet and efficient, producing steam in less than three minutes in our tests. Steam can be set on low and high, and best of all -- especially for those who have bought more humidifiers than cold remedies -- it comes with a lifetime guarantee. It’s $99.95. (800) 321-1484, www.hammacher.com.

-- Lisa Boone