I do enjoy winter. There’s something strangely fulfilling about the constant struggle against the elements. Each time I avoid slipping on ice while carrying several bags of groceries, it feels like a significant triumph. Yet, sometimes I wish winter would be slightly less of a relentless hassle. Previously, we’ve mentioned some small, affordable items that make daily life more manageable. Given how much February is being February, we thought we’d highlight the small things that make our winter lives smoother. Hang in there, folks. There’s less than a month (?!?!) left to go…
Kelly Dawson, contributing writer
Lifesaver: Palmer’s Cocoa Butter
I don’t want to sound like Lieutenant Dan, but I’m about to: it’s crucial to care for your feet, especially in winter! Dry feet can be uncomfortable; I apply this cocoa butter on mine throughout the year — but particularly during the colder periods. Each night, I sit on my bedside and slather it on, much like a mom in a movie scene, then cover everything with socks and slippers. Don’t overlook the back of your feet!
Brooke Williams, photographer
Lifesavers: HeatTech base layers and Quince ultralight sweaters
I’m a huge advocate of everything in the Uniqlo HeatTech lineup (see: my 2017 Week of Outfits), especially the leggings, which serve as long underwear. I wear them from October to April (I have them on right now). They’re so thin, they fit under almost anything without bulkiness, and they truly work. Having spent extensive time at outdoor protests this winter, I can absolutely testify to this!
My other preferred under-layer options are these ultralight cashmere sweaters. They’re thin and fitted, so I layer one beneath a thicker sweater for added warmth on those bitterly cold days when I need to shovel snow off my car.
Casey Elsass, food writer
Lifesavers: Onsen Saru bath soak & Acorn Original Slipper Socks
I appreciate the emotional cycle of all four seasons — but my feelings towards winter are largely contempt and gloom. A remedy that helps is a long bath. I recently discovered this Onsen-inspired bath soak and I’m hooked. I’m not entirely sure what the Himalayan salt and magnesium flakes do, but I can tell you, I feel like a noodle after. Plus, the cedar and pine aroma is simply delightful.
I’ve always had cold feet, hence my go-to winter choice are Acorn Slipper Socks, which I’ve worn since childhood. The wool is breathable, preventing sweaty feet. And the suede soles offer extra support and padding, making them comfy on my apartment’s hardwood floors.
Alex Ronan, contributing writer
Lifesaver: Better spices
During a fiercely competitive white elephant gift exchange over the holidays, I won a set of spices from a niche spice shop in San Francisco. I’ve since discovered that a) quality seasonings truly do make a difference (especially in winter when good produce is scarce), and b) I really need to sort through my spice drawer to discard stale, expired ones. Even boosting one or two spices can make daily cooking feel like an exciting project. We’ve been adding a touch of this herbes de provence to salad dressings, and it definitely makes grocery store greens taste better.
Kaitlyn Teer, newsletter editor
Lifesaver: Dr. Bronner’s hand spray
To avert sniffles and germs, I stash bottles of Dr. Bronner’s lavender hand-sanitizing spray everywhere — the car, my belt bag, you name it. Kids touch everything, so I’m constantly passing it back to them when we’ve finished up at the library or grocery store. I appreciate that the lavender fragrance smells fresh and herbal, not harsh or sterile (same applies to the Trader Joe’s version I also use). We go through so many in this season!
Abigail Rasminsky, contributing writer
Lifesavers: A really good mug
Growing up in Montreal, I know winter. It’s much easier with a mug you eagerly anticipate using each morning, especially when it’s still dark outside. I requested this East Fork mug as a birthday present a few months ago, and knowing it’s waiting for me makes getting out of bed less daunting.
Kelsey Miller, senior editor
Lifesavers: Pocket thermos & wrist warmers
My aunt visited from London recently, and while we were out on a cold, damp day, she suddenly produced a small, screw-top bottle from her coat pocket. It wasn’t a flask of alcohol (as I initially thought), but a stainless steel thermos. She uses it for tea in cold weather, or simply as a water bottle. When I asked where she found it, she only said “Japan.” With some intense Googling, I located it here. (My husband was less patient and found a similar one on Amazon.) It doesn’t hold a lot of liquid, but the convenience of slipping it into a pocket is SUCH a stress reliever.
My other winter essentials are wrist warmers — a.k.a., fingerless mittens. No matter how high I set the heat, some days, you just can’t escape a cold draft. I used to get distracted while working on my laptop, as my wrists would become uncomfortably cold after hours of typing (does anyone else’s desk surface get cold too?). Fingerless mittens make all the difference. Yes, I feel like a character from a Dickens novel, working away in my small wrist woolens, but the difference it adds to my day is remarkable.
Now it’s your turn! What minor items do you depend on to endure winter?
P.S. More budget-friendly things that enrich life, and an ultra-simple winter checklist.
(Photo from The Shining.)
**Affordable Items That Simplify Winter Living**
Winter can be a demanding season, with its chilly temperatures, shorter days, and unpredictable weather. However, with the right tools and items, you can streamline your winter living and find the season more enjoyable. Here are some cost-effective items that can help you stay warm, comfortable, and organized during the winter months.
1. **Insulated Thermal Curtains**
Insulated thermal curtains are an economical way to keep the cold out and retain the warmth inside. They assist in reducing heat loss through windows, which can significantly cut down on your heating expenses. Available in different sizes and designs, these curtains are easy to find at home goods stores or online.
2. **Draft Stoppers**
Draft stoppers are a straightforward yet effective method for keeping cold air from creeping in under doors. These affordable items can be placed at the base of exterior doors to block drafts and keep your space warmer. You can find them in various designs, or even craft your own using fabric and stuffing.
3. **Electric Blanket**
An electric blanket is a worthwhile purchase for those cold winter nights. It offers warmth and comfort without the need to increase the thermostat. Many models include adjustable heat settings and automatic shut-off features for safety and convenience.
4. **Space Heater**
A portable space heater is invaluable during the winter, especially in rooms that are hard to heat. Opt for energy-efficient models with safety features like tip-over and overheat protection. They’re ideal for providing extra warmth without significantly increasing your energy bills.
5. **Heated Mattress Pad**
Similar to an electric blanket, a heated mattress pad warms your bed from below, creating a cozy sleeping setup. It’s an affordable way to ensure a warm and comfortable night’s rest, with many models allowing dual controls for personalized comfort.
6. **Moisture-Wicking Base Layers**
Staying warm in winter begins with appropriate clothing. Moisture-wicking base layers help regulate body temperature by drawing sweat away from the skin. These affordable garments are essential for outdoor activities and can be found at most sporting goods stores.
7. **Reusable Hand Warmers**
Reusable hand warmers are a convenient and eco-friendly choice for keeping your hands toasty during outdoor activities. They come in various styles, including gel packs and battery-operated models, and can be easily recharged or reheated for ongoing use.
8. **Snow Shovel with Ergonomic Handle**
Clearing snow can be a daunting task, but an ergonomic snow shovel makes it more manageable and less taxing. Look for models with adjustable handles and lightweight materials to minimize injury risk and enhance snow removal efficiency.
9. **Ice Melt or Sand**
Ice melt or sand is vital for ensuring safe walkways and driveways during icy conditions. Both options are affordable and easily available at hardware stores. Ice melt effectively dissolves ice quickly, while sand offers traction on slippery surfaces.
10. **Programmable Thermostat**
A programmable thermostat is a smart investment that can help reduce heating costs. By programming specific temperatures for different times throughout the day, you can maintain a warm home when necessary and conserve energy when it’s not.
Integrating these affordable items into your winter routine can simplify winter living and offer a more comfortable, efficient season. Whether it’s staying warm indoors or handling outdoor tasks, these tools can help you navigate winter with ease.
