What Inexpensive Things Make Your Life Easier in Winter?
I do like winter. There’s something oddly satisfying about the ongoing battle against the elements. Each time I don’t fall on a patch of ice while carrying four bags of groceries, it feels like a hard-won victory. And yet, sometimes I wish winter would be a LITTLE bit less of an unmitigated ass ache. In the past, we’ve shared small, inexpensive things that make our everyday lives easier. And since this February has really been February-ing, we thought we’d share the little things that make our winter lives easier. Hang in there, gang. We’ve got less than a month (?!?!) to go…
Kelly Dawson, contributing writer
Lifesaver: Palmer’s Cocoa Butter
I don’t mean to sound like Lieutenant Dan, but I’m about to sound like Lieutenant Dan: it’s important to take care of your feet, especially in the winter! Dry feet can be painful; I use this cocoa butter on mine throughout the year — but especially during the colder months. I sit on the side of my bed each night and slather it on, like a mom in a movie scene, then seal everything with socks and slippers. Don’t forget the backs of your feet!
Brooke Williams, photographer
Lifesavers: HeatTech base layers and Quince ultralight sweaters
I swear by pretty much everything in the Uniqlo HeatTech family (see: my 2017 Week of Outfits), but especially the leggings, which double as long underwear. I put them on in October and keep them on until April (I’m wearing them right now). They’re so thin that they fit under almost anything without feeling bulky, and they really work. I’ve spent a lot of time at outdoor protests this winter, so I can definitely confirm this!
My other go-to under-layer pieces are these ultralight cashmere sweaters. They’re thin and fitted, so I’ll wear one under a thicker sweater to add warmth on extra cold days when I have to shovel my car out of the snow.
Casey Elsass, food writer
Lifesavers: Onsen Saru bath soak & Acorn Original Slipper Socks
I love the emotional process of all four seasons — but the emotions I feel about winter are mostly loathing and despair. One thing that helps is spending time in the bath. I recently found this Onsen-inspired bath soak and I’m obsessed. I don’t totally understand what the Himalayan salt and magnesium flakes do, but I’ll tell you, I feel like a spaghetti noodle after. And the cedar and pine scent is absolutely divine.
I’ve always had cold feet, so my other winter go-to are Acorn Slipper Socks, which I’ve been wearing since I was a kid. The wool part is breathable, so my feet don’t get sweaty. And the suede sole has extra structure and padding, so wearing them on my apartment’s hardwood floors is actually very comfortable.
Alex Ronan, contributing writer
Lifesaver: Better spices
During a very competitive white elephant gift exchange over the holidays, I won a set of spices from a small-batch spice store in Oakland, California. I’ve since learned that a) high-quality seasonings actually do make a difference (especially in the winter when good produce can be hard to come by), and b) I really need to go through my spice drawer and toss all the stale, expired ones. Even upgrading one or two can make everyday cooking feel like a fun project. We’ve been adding a pinch of this herbes de provence to salad dressing, and it absolutely makes grocery store greens taste better.
Kaitlyn Teer, newsletter editor
Lifesaver: Dr. Bronner’s hand spray
To ward off sniffles and bugs, I keep bottles of Dr. Bronner’s lavender hand-sanitizing spray stashed everywhere — the car, my belt bag, you name it. Kids touch everything, so I’m constantly passing into the back seat after we’ve wrapped up at the library or grocery store. I love that the lavender fragrance smells fresh and herby, not harsh or sterile (same goes for this Trader Joe’s version, which I also use). We go through so many this time of year!
Abigail Rasminsky, contributing writer
Lifesavers: A really good mug
I grew up in Montreal, so I know winter. It really helps to have a mug that you look forward to drinking out of in the morning, especially when it’s still dark out. I asked for this East Fork mug as a birthday gift a few months ago, and I find getting out of bed less dreadful, knowing that it’s waiting for me.
Kelsey Miller, senior editor
Lifesavers: Pocket thermos & wrist warmers
My aunt was recently visiting from London, and while we were out on a cold, wet day, she suddenly pulled a tiny, screw-top bottle out of her coat pocket. It turned out not to be a flask of liquor (as I’d briefly imagined), but a stainless steel thermos. She uses it for tea when it’s cold, or just as a water bottle. When I asked where she got it, all she said was “Japan.” With some deep-Googling, I was able to track it down here. (My husband was less patient and found a similar one on Amazon.) It doesn’t hold a huge volume of liquid, but the convenience of something you can just stick in your pocket is SUCH a relief.
My other winter must are wrist warmers — aka, fingerless mittens. It doesn’t matter how high I crank the heat; some days, you can’t avoid a cold draft. I used to get distracted while working at my laptop, because my wrists would get uncomfortably cold after typing for hours (does anyone else’s desk surface get cold too?). The only thing that helps is fingerless mittens. Yes, I feel like a Dickensian character, working away in my little wrist woolens, but it’s amazing what a difference it makes in my day.
Now you go! What little things do you rely on to get through winter?
P.S. More inexpensive things that make life better, and a very low-key winter checklist.
(Photo from The Shining.)
Tags: pro tip
Comments
186 commentsGetting out of bed is hardest for me on cold winter mornings. I’ve started putting my housecoat on the side of my bed so that I can pull it on before exiting the warmth of the cocoon. I wholeheartedly cosign on the magic of snow pants for outdoor walks. I’ve been wearing them non-stop this winter. So much so that my friend asked if I’d be wearing them when we went to a hip hop concert recently. They saved my butt in the -30C temperatures. I’m also cosigning the thermos of hot water with fresh lemon and ginger that I can refill throughout the day. The most helpful thing has been spending joyful time outdoors: taking cross country ski lessons, buying hockey skates, tromping about in the fresh snow. Especially on week nights after work. These activities have helped the short days feel a little less confining. Thanks for all of the suggestions!
I knew IMMEDIATELY that the life-changing thermos from Japan was a Zojirushi. They are truly the best! I’ve had mine for years and years, and I use it almost every day. It’s sitting on my desk right now!
Here here for the Zojirushi!!! My partner got it for me last Christmas (along with a heated mug). It means that my coffee is still hot when I leave it to chase my toddler. A game changer!
Yes to the heat tech leggings, it’s 8 outside and I’m warm and toasty wearing them. We try and get outside for at least a little bit even in the coldest weather. It can be a great mood booster.
I live in London now, where winters are not so intense but they are WET – as in, the polite British rain that could fall more efficiently in ten minutes, but just falls in drizzles throughout the day, almost apologizing as it gets you wet. So having a proper winter coat with a proper hood that will keep you relatively dry, and an umbrella that will not turn inside out for heavier rain, are necessary, especially when it rains unexpectedly. As I ride a bike, I am considering whether it is worth it to invest in a lightweight raincoat that will actually keep my legs dry.
Flannel-lined jeans! I thrifted mine for $6 in the men’s section, spent $30 getting them hemmed, and they are the softest pants I own!!
Boiron Homeoplasmine Ointment. My lips crack all the time and that’s only thing that helps. Also taking toddler to a pool every Sunday brightens up the weekend for both of us. Timed battery candles to make it cozy at night. Snuggle dog at the bottom of the bed. Office full of plants with views of the city.
Two lovely warmers: 1) A heated vest. I live in mine all winter, inside and out, and don’t understand how people live without one. The key is to have two batteries (basically a portable phone charger) so that you can have a full battery at the ready when the first runs out. 2) Rice bags! Easy to make. Just stitch fabric together in about a 10x5ish sack, fill with uncooked rice, and stitch closed. I’m still using the same bags I made several years ago. Heat in the microwave before bed. I put one at my feet and the other near my torso and drift off to warm sleep.
Last night getting into bed I was cracking up laughing thinking of all of you trying to stay warm. The heated bed pads, hair dryer to sheets, all this hot hot hot. I opened my window above my bed ( it’s in the 30s at night ) and threw off all blankets. That’s how I sleep. Aww age, ya gotta love it ! My husband wears long johns and a sweatshirt 24/7 and never says a word. You will all be warm soon enough. ( All are great ideas though ! I’ve enjoyed all comments. ) Especially about leaving the twinkle lights up after Christmas. My husband and I have a little tree still lit in our window neither of us wants to take down. We like seeing it as we approach the house and I like it on all the time. Love hearing all your cozy ideas. Now TEA, that I’m on board with. It’s the highlight of my day. Looking forward to the gorgeous PNW Summer. My 4th here. Absolutely LOVE !!!!
I keep my Christmas tree with lights up until well into spring – it helps keep the evenings cozy with ambient lighting :)
I live in Milan so winters here aren’t nearly as cold as some of yours in North American or North Europe, but temperatures do go below zero and the fog does the rest! Here’s what works for me: 1) Laroche Posay chica plast balm – I snobbed it for years, because of the hype around it, but I recently purchased a 30 ml tube, to test it out, and now I get it, it’s fantastic! It Leaves this moist layer of hydration to the skin but it also absorbs quickly and fundation looks incredible on top of it too 2) Fleece-lined ski socks to wear at home – this was a gift from a close friend and now I can’t go back to regular socks 3) My electic heater, to boost the weak centralized one I have. My electric bill does resent it but I work from home most of the time and I can’t bear less than 20 degrees Celsius Stay warm eveyone, Spring is almost here, time to defrost soon!
Oh how I love this post as someone who has lived in the frigid upper Midwest all her life and only learned to enjoy winter around age 30…here are my little helpers! 1. Drugstore heating pad, plugged in at bedside. Every night, I turn it on and lay it on my pillow while I get ready for bed. Then when I get into bed my pillow is toasty and I move it to my feet. 2. Working Hands lotion. I wash my hands constantly at work and have terribly dry skin in winter. I tried many other products and this has worked wonders. 3. Fleece lined leggings. Never be cold again. 4. Speaking of never being cold, layers EVERYWHERE on the body. I wear a thermal headband over my ears and a beanie over that on really cold days. My head is never cold! 5. Candles in every room. Lights on dimmer switches. Lamps. 6. Cooking all the warm and cozy comfort foods. Soups, curries, shepherds pie, bolognese pasta…all the warmth! 7. Leaning into nature things that are better in winter. It’s a great time to look for animal tracks, notice birds’ nests, observe tree bark…winter is very much alive!
I love 7!
A few years ago during a brutal winter, I bought an electric kettle and 3 hot water bottles with cute “sweaters” on them. When the kids and I are home together on a chilly night and looking to cozy up, I ask if they want a hot water bottle, and the answer is always a resounding YES! It takes almost no time at all to heat up the water and somehow the hot water bottle at our feet or on our laps make all of us feel more loved. Best purchase ever.
Each morning I boil water for my insulated carafe, then I add sliced ginger and honey. I drink it throughout the day. It’s cheap, warm, cozy, and healthy. Also, swear by Palmers coco butter lotion – especially the Tahitian vanilla.
Watching Heated Rivalry. It has hockey (so winter sport can be checked off the list), a sweet story, hot bods and steamy scenes that warm you up and provide great dream material. Only 6 episodes, which is satisfying too. It’s going to be a long ‘winter’ waiting for Season 2.
Yes!!
started on January 11, finished January 13, haven’t stopped thinking about Heated Rivalry since!
I sobbed through episode 6 and have felt so empty since!!! Might re-watch this week…
Swoon. post- Heated Rivalry depression is real! Watching the Olympics helped. And now I have post-Olympics depression HA. Send help :)
okay, here’s a weird one. My hands and nails are so dry in the winter. And I love using nails strips or polish, which contributes to the splits at the edges and top. I was getting a lot of ads for the EDJY nail clipper and I decided to go for it. It’s kind of a life changer. It’s like the difference between a tweezerman tweezer and the 89 cent CVS brand one. 100% recommend.
the tweezerman analogy got me. buying now!
Abby, same here! Once I read the tweezerman analogy, I knew I had to buy this nail clipper.
My kids and I created the ritual of going for a walk on the beach every single Wednesday during winter. I live in California, but the days are still short and the weather often crappy, and this cheers us all up so much. My kids are such ocean babies, that they often skimboard next to me as I walk, even when the ocean temp hovers around 50. We also eat pasta and watch Brooklyn 99 reruns at the table, but only on Wednesdays! What is it about a ritual that feels so good?
Little Otter lip balm. They’re so adorable and perfect for your pocket and plastic free. You get a 4-pk for $23 https://littleotterskincare.com/products/plastic-free-lip-balm
Yeah for good spices! Has anyone shouted out Penzeys yet? If not, allow me to vouch… quality products, and don’t miss signing up for the newsletters. Bill Penzey is delightfully and unabashedly politically charged, and I’m here for it.
Living in the PNW we don’t get a ton of snow, but it’s WET, and I got a literal ass ache when I slipped on our frosty wooden front stairs last winter. Thankfully I didn’t break anything, but the bruise lasted well over a month. Enter Grip Strips, which are now on every tread and have kept us upright all season.
The header pic makes me feel seen. We live on the NY-Canada border, and Jack-Nicholson-in-the-Shining is definitely the vibe when the 10,000th snowstorm of the season blows around April 27th. Going for a walk in snowpants (just do it, you’ll be so warm!) with the Uniqlo fleece-lined tights underneath. Bombas fleece-lined slipper socks for home!
Yak Trax!! I recently slipped on ice while visiting my family in Vermont and broke my arm (BOO!). It was the one day I wasn’t wearing these lifesavers! They strap on to your shoes to keep you upright on ice. Living in Boston, especially this winter, is an ice obstacle course, and these are a real game changer for walks.
Yes! I’m in Maine and I have them in my car and by the door!
I have SAD and I find Vitamin D pills make a HUGE difference. My SAD lamp from the thrift shop works really well, and less cheap but still a huge game changer is as much hot yoga as possible.
Yes shout out to vitamin D! If you live in New England the chances are high that you are low! I was, and after supplementing this winter I can attest to the huge difference it makes!!
I live in North Texas, so our cold winter weather lasts for about 2 months, chopped up into two-week intervals that alternate with 80 degree weather. The only way to get through it without giving in to climate change despair is to hold on to the whimsy. Picnic in the middle of January in SHORTS? We’re doing it. Whimsy, my friends.
Oh my gosh, Ashley, same! My annuals would’ve almost made it all the way to spring if not for that one week of ice. I’m trying to appreciate the whimsy of reading by the lake in shorts in “winter” and not think about the July-November to come 😂
Living in Arizona, heartily co-sign this sentiment! It’s either whimsy or weep sooooo…
I live in San Diego, so not much winter. I drove through LA yesterday and it was 89! But when we do get some rain and chillier temps, I’m so excited to make soup with the stock I made after Thanksgiving. Literally a turkey carcass with some veggies and spices, boiled down on the stove. I pull it out to make my favorite soups and it’s such a delicious upgrade. You can make it with a rotisserie chicken too, and it feels good to use EVERYTHING.
The song “February” by Dar Williams always runs through my head this time of year <3: And February was so long that it lasted into March And found us walking a path alone together You stopped and pointed and you said "that's a crocus" And I said "what's a crocus?" and you said "it's a flower" I tried to remember but I said "what's a flower?" You said "I still love you"
Thank you for reminding me of this. I’m gonna crank some Dar so hard tonight. ❤️
I’ve had it stuck in my head since it started snowing in January. Here’s hoping February does not, in fact, last into March this year.
Not inexpensive, but cheaper than my frequent ENT visits for bloody noses- I run a Canopy humidifier in my bedroom at night during fall and winter. No more bloody noses and my face is less dry. A happy lamp. I think I bought it on Amazon, but am sure similar devices available other places. You sit near it for about 20 min per day and the bright light helps you make vitamin D/reduce seasonal depression. For places where it is gray half the year.
I cannot stand being cold and also feel the “unmitigated ass ache” (lol) of winter, but goshdarn, the unlikely seems to have happened! The post and all the comments almost make me excited to lean into these remaining days of winter, armed with so many wonderful ideas to make the season bearable, and dare I say, bright? Thank you!
The things keeping my winter going in overcast (but surprisingly warm) Portland winter: 1) Tea. At least 2-3 cups a day. Caffeinated in the AM and herbal in the afternoon. We are fortunate to have so many great tea companies here such as Smith & Portal Tea. 2) cozy sweaters. Any kind and shape, just knits of some form 3) prisms. We bought a bunch for my 6-year olds birthday and have been stringing the leftovers up in all the windows. The look like raindrops or diamonds sparkling on cloudy days and as soon as the sun comes out our living room, dining room, and kitchen are covered in rainbows. 4) fresh eggs from our hens & time outside in the trees 5) hot coco afternoons with my kids post-walk. We cozy up by the wood fire (it’s the best way to heat our home) and have coco with whipped cream and play games or create art.
A space heater aimed at my feet, while I’m working online. Also, silent slippers (that don’t clack on hardwood floors. Surprisingly, some rubber bottoms still make a lot of noise, so now I have felt bottomed slippers and the lack of clack is so peaceful!).
My hands cracked and bled every single winter until I started using Dionis Goat Milk hand cream every night before bed. My favorite scent is candy cane/peppermint, which is unfortunately seasonal, so I’ve been asking Santa for several tubes for the last couple of years :)
After we take down our Christmas tree in January, we settle into the “fifth season” of the year: Deep Winter. Deep Winter is full of cold walks with our three kids followed by hot cocoa- lots of whipped cream and sprinkles. We hang large white paper stars in each window to bring an extra warm glow. We plant lots of narcissus in beautiful pots so they bring green to the whole apartment. We light our little Swedish angel chimes at dusk (the ones with small thin candles that make the angels spin in a circle) and the twinkling sounds make things feel peaceful and cozy. It all makes me love this season as much as the usual four :)
Beautiful!
Care to recommend your favorite hot chocolate? Looking for a good one :)
Absolutely a mug warmer set next to my work laptop is the most convenient thing in winter. I don’t know what I did before I had this (besides drink cold coffee or run to the microwave 1,000 times a day)!
Oops I realized this was supposed to be about inexpensive things and I posted about my cashmere set. In my defense it a gift so it was free to me! But this set of twinkle lights is $9 so it definitely qualifies: https://a.co/d/0cbHN8aM We hung it across our two front windows and it makes our living room so cozy with just the perfect amount of warm light.
I feel Casey’s remarks here in my very soul: “the emotions I feel about winter are mostly loathing and despair.” I don’t enjoy winter–I get chilblains on my toes, my hands crack from the dry weather no matter how much aquaphor I slather on, and it’s soooo dark. I put up my holiday lights on Thanksgiving weekend and leave them up until the beginning of March. It’s my one way of bringing extra cheer when it is really dark outside! *Ironically, I usually take down all my Christmas decor about two or three days after the 25th. But the lights–they get to stay.
A wearable electric blanket. I look like Gandalf wearing it but for a terminally cold person, it’s ultra-soft, has hand and foot pockets and you can choose your temp and timer. I bought mine on Amazon for around $80, so not inexpensive but completely worth it.
Patagonia R1 pants–how do I love thee?!?!!? Ok, maybe not the cheapest, though I got mine on sale and other pairs on eBay. I put a pair on first thing every morning for a wintry hike with my dogs, then keep them on under ski pants for downhill skiing, and by the afternoon, why bother crushing yourself in jeans, just KEEP THEM ON! (Though weekdays they come off post dog-hike…sigh…and off to work in ‘hard’ pants) My whole family has at least one pair. They are the ultimate cozy winter pants, fluffy, warm, and not too tight.
Immediately googling these…
I have the absolute privilege of having a husband who sees & gets me AND is a top tier internet shopper. I present to the jury two exhibits based on (1) my cold-girl status (autoimmunies unite!) and (2) being a full-time resident of the great white North. Each of these items was in the $75-$100 range, but I use both of these on a daily (at least) basis in the winter, so the per-cost use is a penny or two at this point, most likely. Exhibit A: a towel-warmer. Looks like a spare laundry hamper, gives you a toasty-roasty post-shower experience. Exhibit B: a heated mattress pad. And, dear reader, he often remembers to turn it on for me about 20 minutes before my usual crawl-under-the-covers time.
Something tells me a Brooke Williams home tour would be great!
A nice mug full of tea. I will add to please support your local potters! Surprised by so much East Fork love on here. East Fork is a factory – nothing is handmade. Look into their expansion right after firing employees before Christmas…really not a good look! You’re buying a Target mug but for $50 — but you do you.
Thank you, Mae—I had no idea! Off to a local artisan market instead!
HI! I didn’t realize that it’s made in a factory now either, but that makes sense due to their scale. I guess it differs from Target in that their factory is in Asheville and they source materials domestically. But still–great to support to small local potters in your community!
If you are in the Boston, MA or Providence RI area, I highly recommend the ceramics from Myrth. Really gorgeous feel in the hand. I don’t have a mug from them (yet) but I love the two platters I have.
Had no idea! If you’re in California, I highly recommend Jered’s Pottery: https://jeredspottery.com/ Saw them at a local holiday market and they are the nicest people with the loveliest pottery… such beautiful colors and shapes. My favorite is their Purpinkle color!
Also a potter friend pointed out that the east fork mugs are too bottom heavy—I’d gotten a couple in one of their sales to try them out and I really don’t like how they feel! But once they were sold on quince I was like oh this isn’t the company what I think it is. I have one set of cheap white mugs from crate and barrel or somewhere because my husband likes them, and then we started buying handmade single mugs on trips. It’s a fun way to remember a trip and have a cute little collection (though I’m prone to breaking things so they don’t last forever but I still love them while they survive).
I find draping a flat sheet over an extension rod between door frames keeps rooms cozier during frigid nights without having to raise the thermostat.
Hillary, are you talking about rooms like living and kitchen or bedrooms? I’m wondering because our hallway stays warm but all of our bedrooms are cold at night with the doors closed!
That’s what in Japan is called a noren – search Japanese door curtain and you’ll see examples. My non-asian friend made a really beautiful one that was floor length and out of heavy material, an easy alternative to a sheet, lol! But you’re right: works like a charm to keep the room warm but easy to walk in and out of!
I have a “door duvet”. A curtain that hangs by the front door that we close over the door in winter. I call it a duvet because my mum made it (thanks mum!) with a layer of padding inside for extra insulation. It hadn’t occurred to me to do this elsewhere in the house!
Carly, any door frame that would benefit. Those extension rods adapt well to different openings.
Consulting the sunset times online and seeing when there will still be sunlight when I leave work.at one point in December, we start getting a minute more of afternoon daylight each day. That helps me hold on.
brilliant!!! I did notice yesterday that it was very bright out at 4:30pm which was an amazing different from December xoxo
Joanna, I SAVOR the day each year I walk out of work and I can still see the sky! That happened at 5.15 PM this Wednesday!
As a longtime SFBA resident and lover of Oaktwon Spice: Oaktown Spice Shop is incredible but Oaktown = Oakland and saying they are an SF company is kinda insulting in local terms. Oakland is its own city.
thank you so much for this feedback, dahlia! fixed.
Haha, saw that too and was mad on behalf of Oakland! I used their ras al hanout tonight for dinner and as always, it was amazing. For anyone reading this, order a bunch of their spice mixes for roast chicken or salmon, you won’t regret it!
So I did a yoga teacher training a few years ago (kundalini yoga) an the teachers practiced on sheepskins instead of yoga mats because wool is more grounding than synthetic fibers, so now I actually put my sheepskin in my bed on top of my fitted sheet and lie down on it, and then pull my blankets on. That plus a hot water bottle at my feet makes the best winter sleep imaginable!
mmmm! sounds so cozy! Thx for the tip!!
I also realize a sheepskin can be expensive, but I’d had mine for 16 years before I started using it that way! (Or if you buy one it would last at least 10 years and cost less per year than you’d spend on chapstick/lotion/electricity for heated blanket!) :)
Minnesotan here, and I could not get through winter without Darn Tough socks! I’ve tried all the brands, fancy and basic, and they always get holes in the toes or sole of the foot. But my Darn Tough socks have lasted for years with no holes or worn spots. They’re the best!
Literally was just wiggling my toes in my darn toughs and thinking how much I love these socks as I read this comment. THEY ARE THE GOAT!
They seriously are the best (with a lifetime warranty)!
This winter I said to my husband that the pair of Darn Tough socks I debated on and splurged on are a decade old, while my Smart Wool have been wearing out steadily. I paid $21 for one pair and honestly stressed a lot about that but have likely worn them 750+ times figuring more often in winter and less in summer. Still fine. I’d include this on a best value purchase. I always end up calculating cost/use on items and this has been superb.
I love Darn Tough, and I want every wider-foot/powerful calf person to know about their new-ish subsidiary brand, Wide Open!!! Same people, same wool socks, same lifetime guarantee – but wider! Game changer for me. My toesies always felt a bit squished in Darn Tough, but the Wide Open ones are perfection. I can’t stop telling people about them! (I feel like my enthusiasm makes it sound like I work for them. Alas, I do not. I just love them that much!)
Ooh, thanks for this tip, Claire!
I have a trick for to increase cosiness right away! I keep my hairdryer close to my bed, i turn it on and blast it into the covers rights before I climb in – so toasty and by the time the heat is gone, my own body heat has warmed it up and it’s not too hot. I do the same when I have to wear something that feels cold. I just aim the hairdryer into the sleeves :D
Honestly this is genius!
When I turn the oven off in the winter I open it an inch amd hold my shirt open so he hot air blasts my tummy. It’s so nice. This must be similar!
A bit bougie but so worth it…. heated mattress pad.
Love this, a solution that removes the need for a hot water bottle!
When I was a little girl, my mom used to put my nightdown in the dryer for a few minutes right before bed. I would pop it on and hop right under the covers. So cozy!
This reminds me of when I was a teenager and would bring my clothes into bed about 10 minutes before I got up so they would be warm to put on! LOL
Heated mattress pad all the way. Life changing
OMG my friends and family all know how much I love to warm myself and my bed up with my hairdryer! Love that you know how great this is!
My Bombas gripper slippers!! I’ve never loved a slipper like this before. Okay, fine, they’re not cheap. And I got mine as a gift. But they feel worth it. Snow pants!! Lands End snowpants (always on sale) will last you a lifetime and make every snow day a fun opportunity instead of a wet slog. And like everyone else said, long underwear and all the other proper gear to stay warm and be able to make a snow angel whenever you feel like it. Audio book + knitting project And of course, subscribing to HBO so you can watch Heated Rivalry
+1 on snowpants!! Mine are North Face from MEC and they’re the best. I don’t know why I waited until I was a mom in my forties before finally investing in them. Yes they aren’t cheap but if you spend any time shovelling / playing in snow you deserve them! My kids always have good winter gear, I deserve it too!
Bombas gripper slippers are amazing! My pair is going on three years and still in great shape!
I genuinely love all of the seasons, including winter – but a few things make it more comfortable and enjoyable for me: -long underwear tops (agree about the Heattech, and also Cuddl Duds -wool hiking socks -down mittens from LLBean -shearling-lined Birkenstock slippers -unscented candles from Ikea (inexpensive and great for creating cozy ambiance) -hot tea in a favorite mug -really good books!
Inexpensive things that make my life easier in winter, broken into two categories: a) Making inside cozy and pampering A veritable smorgasbord of herbal tea! Beeswax candles – they last and smell so nice! Hot baths with Epsom salts Cuticle oil and Gerlan hand cream by my sofa where I read/watch TV Good books Cozy log fire absolutely transforms an evening and a mood! This year I started wearing indoor shoes (not slippers) and find that’s keeping me warmer than slippers (also better on my joints) b) Whatever helps me get outside and enjoy it Wool socks, waterproof boots, stack of clean hankies to put in the pocket, head lamp, crampons, fur coat, long underwear, Craft thermal pant with wind breaker front, etc. Two dogs that need lots of walking Hiking with the dogs in the nearby conservation area – winter is so beautiful in Ontario! Just getting out for a change of scenery – my fiancé and I did “tourists in our town” one afternoon recently and enjoyed looking in shops and having coffee and cake in a café
I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again- hot water bottle!! Under $10. Low tech. Nothing beats it.
Agreed, mine is in constant use over winter. Love it!
As a Californian, I feel for you all, but I cannot relate. When spring/summer rolls around, I’d love to see a related post of ‘what makes your life easier during months of 100+ degree weather?’.
Could not agree more! Summer truly is our winter.
Floridian here. Me too!
Yes please. I live in DC. Whereas winter speaks to my soul (and I’m loving these recs for leaning further in), the summers are really rough for me. I find the endless light draining – maybe I’m part vampire?
Agree. Coastal NC for me and it is so hot and humid, never mind kids being home from school and so many hours of daylight!
Southerner supporting this message. Summer is my LEAST favorite season- the heat! the laundry! the sunscreen! the kids aren’t in school!
I love my heated throw blanket. I’d be lost without it. Double bonus my teenager son will snuggle next to me when the blanket is on. :) Hot tea before bed with a bit of honey.
A hot bath with a lot of epsom salts and dried herbs – just steeping myself like a little tisane until I’m warm to the very marrow of my bones. Nothing beats it!
Electric Foot Warmer pad!!!! My husband has had cold feet forever. Nothing kept him warm enough. Now he happily sits on the couch toasty warm while we watch a movie. I found it thru a link on Cupofjo in December. THANK YOU!
Me tooo! Thank you COJ reader who recommended it!!
I got this too lol!
I need this. lol
Hand warmers. I buy them in the giant box from Costco and slip them into my mittens daily. Even after I’ve come indoors, i keep them in my pockets or on my desk to get every drop of 8-hour warmth i can get from them. I’ve thought about getting a re-chargable pair, but i’m pretty sure I can’t be trusted to keep them charged.
They stay charged for more than a week.
The rental we moved into two years ago has a gas fireplace, and it is our saving grace during the frigid months. Sometimes at night, when the hubby has gone to bed, I turn off all the lights and sit on a blanket in front of it. It’s so calming and warming. I will gladly pay the higher gas bill to have it running most mornings & evenings to heat up a chilly living & dining room.
I use wyze plugs to have lights turn on when the sun sets or a little before. If the light is already on in the living room when I get home from work in the darkness, I am much more likely to sit on the couch and read a book rather than head into the bedroom and wish for spring to come like Toad in Frog and Toad. It is helpful in the morning too!
Doing sauna at least once every week at my gym after a workout (I pay per entry so it’s relatively cheap). It’s for females only so everyone is naked, sitting on their little towels. I much prefer this mode than having to wear a swimsuit in a mixed gender setting. But I’ll take any sauna opportunity I can get so … Hestra merino glove liners – they are thin, take scarcely space in my pocket, and provide just enough warmth in those “ from car park to office” moments. Lately I want more ease in my movements so I try to avoid overstuffed coat pockets with bulky accessories. Nars orgasm multi stick to brighten up these cheeks. I also like doing a weekly hydrating mask with Muji tissue masks (they expand when you soak them in a capful of serum or other hydrating liquid).
a classic hot water bottle for my feet at night. I have an upcycled cashmere cover for it, it’s divine on a chilly evening.
“unmitigated ass ache” lololollll
Not inexpensive unless you look at cost per wear are the uggliest fuzzy Birkenstock slippers. A friend insisted on gifting them to me- in pink. They are ridiculous and I also have never done anything nicer for my body. I look forward to putting them on the second I get home year round and have worn them every day for 5 years (so, cost per wear stands at .08) https://www.birkenstock.com/us/arizona-shearling-suede-leather/arizona-shearling-suedeleather-0-eva-u_49.html I have since talked other friends into wearing them and everyone agrees, they are heavenly. And for free – I can not believe I am just now discovering Robby Hoffman. I’m obsessed. She has two specials, one on YouTube and one on Netflix. Treat yo’ self!
I would LOVE any recs for extremely dry, peeling lips. Unfortunately this is not a seasonal issue for me but spans all year. Things I’ve tried include but are not limited to: Dr. Dan’s Cortibalm Prescription lip balm “Slugging” with aquaphor/vaseline Avene Cicalfate O’Keefe’s balm Revision Skincare Youthful Lip Replenisher The Ordinary Exfoliatinh Lip Serum and Balm Significantly increasing my hydration Lanolin Laneige mask Paw paw balm Rosebud salve SUGAR exfoliant and balm The classics (Blistex, Chapstik, Burt’s Bees) Despite essentially owning the entire lip care aisle of a CVS, my lips are still constantly peeling, so would love any new ideas because clearly I’m willing to try!!
i wonder if it could help to take time off from treatments? sometimes i think my lips get immune (it’s happening right now) and get itchy and peely despite the things i’m slathering on. perhaps you’ve already tried this, but just in case! :)
Pure shea butter. The chunky yellow stuff—it comes in a tub, just scrape a bit off with your nail and slather it on. I think it has natural (low) spf protection too.
1. Have you seen a dermatologist? Just to make sure everything’s good otherwise? 2. This stuff is an influencer fav so I was suspicious of it BUT it’s helped me so much because of the exfoliation—works much better for me than a lip scrub: https://eadem.co/products/le-chouchou?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=shopping&tw_source=google&tw_adid=726420781434&tw_campaign=22057257532&tw_kwdid=pla-2410021708729&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=22057257532&gbraid=0AAAAABxKeLBVJ7tiAqRHd0WRvkGGVUoDI&gclid=CjwKCAiA-__MBhAKEiwASBmsBO5fchH8TR9Q99kckEnRLwfBjnepDxOCm7d3V2YQyLOz2gIGbJsgbxoCGqAQAvD_BwE I use it daily! 2. This stuff is also not cheap but I love it: https://www.google.com/aclk?sa=L&ai=DChsSEwiYlqv70veSAxVAcEcBHcLVE14YACICCAEQNhoCcXU&co=1&gclid=CjwKCAiA-__MBhAKEiwASBmsBB6wz0UaHX_rEa2OCy9x75cL0bUeQLDP9aJYCb_Gh4v0NN1UKOKexBoCDn8QAvD_BwE&sph=&cid=CAAS3gHkaBFy-cIQbA2P34B-Z3B1l9mPk2NSayFN4pXzIdskUq0FDzYm3QhFk85LQ6e8yU6RIPpzZa7aKe8lwzs7SrVUQp7Al2D7OauzQ86BXGTBbHWOIBryUAC0wsHXDo9wShyS6Tqs3G1HgGiYF51cc-uJjOs-c1OvGmVeqUT_5ckZ1-_UxNM8UvAeHv39J9tqbRzZZ08R_DPsZi2_yKaaoXzhMCxMgN9f4H1iDYUxB1TziEDplMrD4t0YuWHCPOUIKdU-_GmXvsTRZWFYuoya3lxD8QHdXfZydPK0rhCo8cw&cce=1&sig=AOD64_0p04HpZ___LCyzLXlqEV8gglfoFA&ctype=5&q=&ved=2ahUKEwjElaP70veSAxWfM1kFHZ31HXQQwg8oAHoECAoQJA&adurl= I have super dry skin and these, plus cerave healing ointment on top, have helped a lot. PSA on slugging that it only works if you put moisturizer under it! It’s an occlusive to keep in moisture, not moisture on its own. I also sometimes put a heavy cream on my lips and the healing ointment on top. Good luck!
I have used Nuxe Reve De Miel for many years and love it!
I think i have tried everything on this list and more. I used to panic if i didn’t have a burts bees in every pocket, bag, and car door. I have found Caudalie’s lip conditioner to be a holy grail of sorts. It’s expensive but has changed my lips completely and worth the price bc i’m no longer spending approximately a billion dollars a week on other inferior lip products. https://us.caudalie.com/p/359/359-lip-conditioner.html
You may have an allergy to an ingredient in your toothpaste, lip product or skincare. This happens to me too. I started using Crest Bubblefruit toothpaste and that reduced the issue significantly. I’d suggest going to an allergist…I am allergic to balsam of Peru which is in many products but falls into “fragrance” on the ingredient list so it is hard to rule out. Now I know the signs if I’ve tried something new in the last few days and my lips get mad that I’m allergic to it.
Have you tried Carmex medicated? It works wonders for me.
Since you didn’t mention it – Aquaphor is the only thing I use on my lips in the dry winter weather! I slather it on before bed, after brushing teeth in the am, before walking the dog, etc. I keep a large tube in my nightstand and bought smaller tubes for my coat pocket & car.
La Roche Posay Cicaplast Lips! The ONLY thing that has actually ever taken my lips from dry, chapped & cracky to totally healed in a few days.
Vaseline Lip Therapy! I used to have terrible chapped lips and this is the only thing that works. I keep so many of those little tubs all over the house. Pro tip: get the cocoa butter one, it tastes better.
you been tested for allergies? My dermatologist did a patch test on me and it showed a sensitivity to polyquanternium. It is a common additive in some liquid hand soaps , conditioners, and shampoos. I tossed all of my products that have those in them, and have had way fewer outbreaks of chapped lips since! I still can’t use any lip stain/gloss products directly, and stick to Vaseline exclusively, but the bliss of a whole winter without cracked lips is REAL.
I’ve heard jojoba oil works well for this! (I personally use Vaseline throughout the day and before bed, but it looks like you’ve tried that!)
I have the same issue! I usually wear vaseline and reapply often and still have peeling lips all year round. It’s frustrating to use lipliner/lipstick/lipgloss only for it to get clumpy from the neverending peeling. Ugh! I can’t live without Cetaphil cream moisturizer. My dry, itchy, menopausal skin soaks it up and I like that it’s unscented.
I like the Neutrogena Lip Sleeping Mask. Totally unscented and worked well for me when nothing else did. Also drink lots of water and make sure your not like allergic to your toothpaste, which can cause peeling. If your lips are peeling all year, also worth getting labs to rule out B/iron/zinc deficiencies?
If it happens all year long and not just from dry winter indoor air, you may have a sensitivity to your toothpaste or a nutrient deficiency. If you also get canker sores/mouth ulcers inside of your lips/on your gums, consider getting tested for Celiac Disease, as these are common symptoms. For short term help, Dr. Shereene Idris’s “lip basting” which involves a chemical exfoliant followed by a zinc cream, might be helpful: https://www.instagram.com/reels/C4dSENHLESd/
Kee, same here, and finally found ISDIN Protector Labial SPF 50 in my (german) pharmacy. It is a European brand, but maybe also available in the US? Good luck!
Simple vaseline. It’s really that effective. Keep your lips lightly coated with vaseline and they will stay protected and have ability to hydrate/heal on their own.
Have you tried Carmex? It also comes in a squeezable tube, but I like and use only the Carmex balm that comes in a little white jar with a yellow metal lid. I put it on year-round whenever i go outside and at bedtime. Stays put and has resolved my painfully-dry, cracked lips. I’ve seen Carmex in the squeezable tubes at lots of stores, but had/have to go to the big “A” website (which I try to avoid) to get Carmex in those little jars. Worth it for the balm-y format, not the lipgloss-y version in a tube. And the scent is lovely (to me!). If you try Carmex, I hope you get the same good results I do. Best wishes for everything else, too. Can I Be Anonymous Today?
Ever get tested for Sjogren’s syndrome? That’s a hefty list of products with no results. Easy blood test. Chronic lip lickers, lip biters, spicy food, can also contribute to excess dry lips. I use one product: nipple ointment. Nothing with water added to the ingred list. Good luck! I feel ya.
Same! LUSH sugar lip scrubs did the trick for me
Do you drink enough water throughout the day? It almost seems like you might be dehydrated. OR maybe you’re allergic to your toothpaste?
Thinking outside the box here. Do you have allergies? Is your nose stuffy forcing you to mouth breathe? Are you applying, say the good Ole chapstick, like your life depends on it? Like, 24 times a day? Could you have an allergy to petroleum? Or beeswax? Something really basic that would be on most of these products? This is gonna sound wild, but based on my last thought, have you tried nothing? If it were an allergy, this might be the fix, and then find something you’re not allergic to…… I hope others will have some helpful suggestions. This sounds so tough.
Kee, I wonder if the problem is an allergy? Have you tried switching out your toothpaste? Sometimes the sodium lauryl sulfate can cause cracked or peeling lips.
Try wetting lips with water (not saliva), apply a thin layer of lotion, and THEN vaseline on top to lock it all in. I had the same problem and I was missing adding moisture to trap underneath the lotions and balms.
ILIA makes two lip balms that I really like. Maybe it’s also worth checking to see if you have a lanolin allergy or sensitivity to other common lip balm ingredients? I’ve found that castor oil makes my lips feel worse so avoid it. I have also found that dry lips can be a perimenopause system (along with dry skin and burning mouth, which have all improved since I started HRT) — not sure if that applies to you or not. Hope you figure out something that helps!
Paula’s Choice lip products. I love the lip and body treatment balm. It costs $15 and lasts a long time. I’m guessing I’ve had mine for at least 2 years.
I also have this problem on occasion, and have found out on a dentist’s visit that I probably breathe through my mouth while I sleep and it’s due to that, you might want to consider a visit to your dentist just to be sure?
Weleda skin food nourishing night cream — this is the one thing that has stopped my lips from peeling.
Avene cold cream stick lip balm & glossier’s balm dot com are the two things that have worked for me, among many that did not. Also using a humidifier and improving my water intake.
I use Satya “The One Stick” (not sure if they ship outside of Canada) and I have to use it less and less to keep my lips in good shape. There are no irritating ingredients (for me), so it only helps! https://satya.ca/collections/multipurpose
I have found the following to be helpful: 1. Applying my moisturizing serums and face lotion to my lips, not just my face; and 2. Immediately applying Aquaphor lip balm (the one in a squeezy tube) or Nuxe Rêve de Miel (in the pot). At night I layer both – Aquaphor after my skincare in the bathroom and then Nuxe once I’m done reading and ready to turn out the light.
I am also in this club. My lips are sooooo dry all year long! The only thing I’ve found that works is the Laneige mask at night (which I know you’ve tried) + really increasing my water intake. I think the water makes the biggest difference honestly!
Kee, sending love your way — I went through the same thing. My dermatologist was kind of at a loss. What ended up being the culprit for me was that I’d been getting allergy shots for two years. I forgot to get my shots for a couple of months, and after 6-8 weeks my lips were “normal dry” (whereas they’d been fully shedding off every 3-5 days for 1-2 years). I’d been taking allergy meds every day to no avail; the allergen load from the allergy shots was just too much for my immune system. Since stopping the shots, lip products are slightly helpful again. Wishing you all the luck!
I agree that checking with dermatologist might be a good next step BUT I also have a miracle lip product that you didn’t mention so I wanted to include it – Chap-et. It’s the best! In fact, my husband who hates all forms of lotion, lip balm, etc. steals it from me. It’s not expensive. I have not seen it in stores but you can definitely order it online, though I will say it can be tricky to find and is sometimes out of stock. If you see it, GRAB IT!
I don’t think anyone has mentioned it yet, but when I was on Accutane, I was told to use Qtica Intense Lip Therapy Balm. I get it on the dreaded Amazon, so I’m not sure where else you can find it. Good luck! I’m addicted to lip balms, chapstick, etc., but I don’t have peeling, flaky lips.
Wow, so many comments here, it’s nice to know we’re not alone in the peeling lips journey! Besides all the lifestyle and allergy advice already offered, the one product I have had the most success with is Lansinoh hypoallergenic 100% lanolin. It’s sold as a nipple cream, but I don’t mind because it means it comes in a generous sized and well priced container. I gently rub any dry skin or buildup off my lips with warm water, then apply a thin coat of this stuff while my lips are still wet. It’s thick and sticky and keeps my lips soft and moisturized for a good long while. I do still need to apply multiple times a day, but maybe 3-5 times instead of the 12-20 times I used to with other lip balms, and I no longer have any cracking or peeling. Best of luck finding a solution, even if it’s not this one!
I’d also struggled with extremely dry, itchy and flaky skin around mouth and lips the last few winters. Product-wise, the closest thing that provided some relief was a layer of Aveeno eczema cream slugged with lots of vaseline. This winter I’ve been going to the sauna at my gym (once or twice a week for 10-15 min) and miraculously the dryness hasn’t flared up yet. Not sure if it’s directly correlated or there’s something else going on with my skin, but could be worth checking out!
Y’all I don’t even care if my lips continue molting forever, I was just brought to tears by the idea that this many people would try to help with something that seems so small but is important to me!
You have a lot of responses but I’m going to suggest one more! I had really dry lip corners, like cracking and painful. I went to the pharmacist, turns out, due to aging, the skin starts to sag a bit and yeast or fungus can build up. She gave me athlete’s foot cream! It works like a charm! I dap a tiny bit on the corners at night and it clears up overnight. This might not help you if your issue is your entire lip surface, but just in case someone else struggles with this, I thought I’d mention it.
I used to get this and it was an allergy to SLS in my toothpaste. Swapped that out and now i just get ‘normal’ dry here and there- best thing i found was just using my normal face moisturiser across them at night and adding a balm on top (something basic like aquaphor)
How about Dr. Hauschka’s lip care stick? My daughter and I love it. Feels like luxury self care.
I also have dry lips year round and need to moisturizer heavily even in the summer to keep my face and body skin from being dry and flaky. This is just the way im built, I think, since I can’t remember an age where I didn’t have skin like this. I am well hydrated and eat well and just have chapped lips all the time. Or i would, except for my lip balm!!!! I only use Vermont bee balm lip original lip balm and I swear by it!!!! Everything else is inferior and pointless.
I’ve been biting my peeling lips since I was a kid and can’t get myself to stop because they are so dry/itchy/peely. You all have blown my mind! I’m very sensitive to lots of things. I’m going to have to run this by the derm and try some experiments to test the allergy theory. I recently realized my childhood dairy allergy has resurfaced, so maybe something else is also an issue. Thank you wonderful ladies of the internet!
Hi Kee! Chiming in late with a couple things I didn’t see listed- Jack Black Night Mode is great. I use it all hours of the day despite the name. It has a matte finish for lack of a better term and lasts forever: https://www.getjackblack.com/products/nightmode-lip-treatment And Summer Fridays lip butter balm is the only thing I can get my toddler to put on his dry crusty lips without wiping it off and it’s made a huge difference for him! The 4 year old recommends toasted marshmallow for the top lip and hot cocoa for the bottom lip because obviously 😅 https://summerfridays.com/products/lip-butter-balm-hot-cocoa?variant=41303080599629&country=US¤cy=USD&utm_medium=product_sync&utm_source=google&utm_content=sag_organic&utm_campaign=sag_organic&tw_source=google&tw_adid=&tw_campaign=20410527802&tw_kwdid=&gad_source=1&gad_campaignid=20410559191&gbraid=0AAAAAC6gpK2o-ZhxSXNd2xmv5CPz8f4AG&gclid=CjwKCAiA-__MBhAKEiwASBmsBBbrZppIJ_PJbShiaHShQlK5iVkt6IwzFPNf56WeWBf1dLLihpooTxoCTPYQAvD_BwE
Could tallow help? It’s helped a lot for dry skin for me and I love it on my lips before bed. It feels very different from any other moisturizer I have tried.
I follow MrsDerm on instagram and she said that sometimes if chapping is so persistent, it might be yeast or fungal. So she recommended hydrocortisone cream, topical lotrimin and topical Monistat. Take a tiny bit of each and make a little lip balm. Put it on just one night and then the next morning and see if it changes anything.
You’ve had lots of ideas, but I am adding one more! Hurraw lip balm works best for me. https://hurrawbalm.com/products/unscented-lip-balm Good luck!
Oh wow, so many responses! I will chime in because I don’t think this has been mentioned yet. A friend told me that the dry skin blocks moisture from penetrating into the deeper layers of tissue that need it. You can use a lip scrub, but what I do is gently brush my lips after I’ve brushed my teeth. Not gonna lie—it stings a bit, but it sloughs off enough of the dead skin so that moisture can penetrate, and immediately afterward it feels okay. I dampen my lips with water when I apply lip balm, and sometimes I go over it with an oil to lock it in. It works for me. I will add, though, that it’s the regular maintenance that helps most. My lips dry out if I don’t follow this practice consistently. I don’t need to do it every day. I can feel when my lips are tightening and drying out, and then I spring into action with my trusty toothbrush! Good luck and will you PLEASE update us when you’ve found a solution that works for you? We are all rooting for you in this impromptu version of “Help This Reader Find a Lip Balm!” :)
AQUAPHOR
Something that has worked wonders for my skin and lips is buying vegetable glycerin and adding a few drops to your lotion. GAME CHANGER! Sometimes I even put it straight on my lips. https://www.amazon.com/s?k=now+vegetable+glycerin&adgrpid=186833680455&hvadid=779555684121&hvdev=c&hvexpln=0&hvlocphy=9029012&hvnetw=g&hvocijid=7864200428572333502–&hvqmt=e&hvrand=7864200428572333502&hvtargid=kwd-325685616394&hydadcr=27096_14902538_2062327&mcid=13323feef85b3b2385144c30b8cb005a&tag=googhydr-20&ref=pd_sl_7b84g3xsov_e
Years ago my dental hygienist told me that badly chapped and cracked lips could be due to a Vitamin B deficiency. I don’t know the science of it, but I’ve found that a B Complex a day makes me feel better in body and brain.
Evan Healy lip balm is my favorite – great to see so many other suggestions!
KIEHL‘S LIP BALM #1!!!!!!!!!
10/10 on cover photo choice😅👌🏼
Agreed, lol (also, love that movie)!
I know this probably an unpopular opinion, but I love winter. I live in a very snowy area where skiing is a big deal. We have around 6 months of winter weather usually, but it’s also very sunny year round, so getting outside for a wide variety of winter activities isn’t to difficult if you have decent clothing. This year my go to inexpensive things are: Body butter: Recently I’ve been using Nivea A near constant supply of homemade soup and no knead bread. It’s not only great for easy cosy evenings, but great for gifting friends and family who are not feeling well. Blue Lotus Chai: A bit expensive, but lasts for a long time. Also agree that I love having a very nice mug. A craft project or activity for long evenings: For me, knitting, puzzles, needlepoint make evenings something to look forward to. Lots of thrift stores in my area stock a good selection of puzzle. After the holidays, I found some very inexpensive needlework kits.
I’m with you Anne-Marie. I love winter too! My whole family skis. I adore cozy sweaters and wintery outfits, especially heading to the office in a fun coat. Winter is the perfect weather for baking delicious treats. Inexpensive winter glimmers for me are: trying a new recipe that makes the house smell delicious, a fun headband to wear over my ears, a hot cup of tea after coming in from the cold, tinted lip balms and glosses (elf has awesome options), and fuzzy warm socks in fun patterns to wear under snow boots.
So jealous of your winter weather Anne-Marie! Yesterday I drove 2.5 hours north of the city I live in to spend a few days working remotely at my aunt and uncle’s place while they’re travelling. I’m planning to go for a cross country ski at the end of every day and I couldn’t be more excited. Enjoy your winter adventures!
I love it too
Not inexpensive, but very good value for money because they will last forever – felt slippers! I have both Kitz Pichler (I love the booties for full foot coverage) and Glerups slip ins. Not having cold feet is a game changer for me.
A good foot pumice and literally just a dollar store plastic soaking tub has been a game-changer. No more terribly dry feet! Throw in some lovely bath salts and a cozy book to cap it off
Strings of battery-operated fairy lights along windowsills, and on our headboard. They can be set to auto on/off, stay on for 6 or 8 hours, and really add some happy warmth. I had them timed to come on at 4:00 since November, but now I have to reset them because it is staying lighter longer! I found these lights on sale, bogo, the only expense now is the batteries every once in a while. Mixing with those inexpensive tea lights is another tip!
Yes! I kept one strand of christmas tree lights when I took down the tree and hung them around our living room on the curtain rods! A really nice “soft” way to leave behind the holiday lights as we slowly move into spring.
Twinkle lights go up in mid-November and don’t come down until… whenever I’m ready :) I have a new apt that doesn’t have a great spot for them so I just kind of …. piled them in my bedroom, ha, and honestly – they’re still magic!
Agreed! Usually for me spring equinox is when the twinkle lights and wreath on the front door come down. It’s a nice tradition
We all wear spikes on our boots in Maine and it’s really the only way to get outside safely. (Endless ice) The biggest difference for me this year has been putting them on one pair of boots and never taking them off all winter. No struggling with cold stretchy–or not so stretchy!–Kahtoolas has been a simple game-changer. Why haven’t I done this before?? So obvious. It’s made me twice as likely to get out there, poles in hand. Yay!
– Completely agree on the East Fork mugs. The hand-feel is SO good. – The Chai Box chai- the concentrate and loose tea is all amazing – Cuticle oil (I use Olive and June) to keep my nails looking good –
A small portable heater to blast myself with while I work has been a gamechanger. My house is old and drafty and I was sick of trying to work while wrapped in blankets. It’s also more economical than cranking the heat up. Most models are $50ish and have modern safety features. I will also echo the Uniqlo heat tech and encourage everyone to freely wear it OFTEN for more enjoyable winters. I think there’s an idea that long underwear is just for like, a minus10 degrees Bears game, but it makes a 30 degree day so much better! Long underwear enables me to be outside a lot in the winter and that’s such a mood booster.