I am one of those people who is always cold. Mid-August air conditioning will find me wearing a sweater or at the very least a cardigan. So actual winter has me reaching for all of the cold weather accessories. I dress in layers year-round, but up the layer count in the winter. Some days I’ll have a minimum of 4 layers on…inside.
Heading out
A great coat is a must for winter months, mine is probably over-kill (it’s a double layer coat from a Norwegian brand. I really don’t like to be cold) and, sure, everyone is into scarves and hats; I’m talking more about the other things that I think are must-haves, about the little things that can help me stay warm in the winter months.
Electric Hand Warmer– this is my all-time favorite cold weather/cold office accessory. I was gifted one by a coworker and it is amazing. This portable device has 3 heat settings and does an amazing job of quickly warming cold hands. It is reusable, USB charged, and, bonus, can be used as a backup battery to get a quick charge to your phone. I have one that stays in my car and another that stays in my office.
Mittens– Not just for toddlers! It may seem silly to wear mittens as an adult; however, these were actually doctor recommended. The idea is that in mittens you’re keeping your fingers together for warmth. (I’ve also dropped the hand warmer in the mitten to “pre-warm it.”
Wool Socks/Shoes– I will forever sing the praises of SmartWool socks. They were recommended to me at a local sporting goods store and I am a convert. I know people who scoff at the idea of wool socks. Get rid of those old notions of scratchy wool and being “too hot.” Wool is a natural fiber and will keep your feet warm or cool and not smelly. They come in different styles (low rise for those dress shoes, ankle, hiking) and thicknesses. I wear these daily, literally no matter the season, I’m sporting my wool socks but they are a necessity in the winter.
Staying In
Electric Blanket– I don’t know how I survived as long as I did without one. I keep mine as a throw on the sofa but have friends that warm their bed with an electric blanket.
Portable Electric Heater– spending time in one place, like a home office, and don’t want to heat the whole house? Keep it cooler at night, and dread getting out of bed in the morning? A small portable electric heater has been the answer for us. Ours has a remote, so I can turn it on when I wake up, before I get out of bed, and just get the chill out of the air. As with any electric heating device always practice safe use. I never leave it unattended or while we’re sleeping and keep any it away from walls/kids/curtains/blankets.
Mug Warmer– again fire safety is a must, but man, I so love my coffee/hot chocolate/tea to actually stay hot. I’ve been known to “prewarm” my mug (filling it first with hot water and once the mug is hot, dumping the water and adding my beverage). The portable, electric mug warmer helps to keep my drink nice and warm until the end.
