With snow in the forecast over the next couple of weeks, we’re sharing ways to keep warm while working from home – a few tips and tricks that are great to have handy, especially if you’re looking to save on your heating bill.
⚡ It’s electric
Clockwise from top left: Faux fur electric throw (Serta), desktop humidifiers (Refinery29), electric kettle and tea, and a hot water bottle wearing a cozy, blush cashmere pullover (Johnstons of Elgin).
A heated blanket is a great option for those who want to stay cozy and warm. These come in a variety of sizes including a smaller throw size, great for spreading across laps while at your desk. Opt for a larger twin or full-size if you’re looking to wrap yourself up into a human burrito.
Dry air can make a room feel colder, so consider adding a small humidifier to your workspace area to help keep the air moist and comfortable. Portable or mini humidifiers have a super small footprint, perfect for keeping on your desktop, bedside, dining table, sofa, or anywhere you find yourself working. (Consumer Reports: Best Humidifiers of 2023)
Stay warm from the inside out with hot beverages like tea, cocoa, and coffee. Swap herbal teas in the afternoon if you’re looking to cut down on caffeine. My trusty electric kettle boils water in no-time flat and is indispensable in the winter months. (Note: I went searching for my Krups model which is now discontinued. I’ve had this baby since 2010 – cost per use is down to fractions of a penny.)
Create a tisane from warming ingredients like ginger, cinnamon, and tumeric which have the additional benefit of keeping potential sniffles at bay.
Kettle-hot water not only keeps the hot tea coming, they fill hot water bottles, too. Get a cute one you love, wrap it in a towel or cozy, and place it on your lap or under your feet for added warmth. Electric kettles are available at all price points from no-frills to temp-controlled down to the degree. (The Spruce Eats: The 11 Best Electric Kettles of 2023)
🧣Layers and layers
Clockwise from top left: Uniqlo x MARNI Heattech, the viral $50 cashmere sweater (Quince), fingerless gloves (White + Warren), Thermal Double Layer Socks (Earth Therapeutics)
Next, layer up! It may be tempting to lounge around in your pajamas all day, but piling on the layers will trap heat close to your body and keep you warm. Start your day with a warm bath or shower and don’t forget to slather on a super hydrating moisturizer to combat the dry winter air.
From there, opt for warm but breathable layers starting with long underwear or leggings and/or undershirts. I love the Heattech line from Uniqlo – the thin fabrics are surprisingly warm and perfect as a base to add or remove outer layers throughout the day.
To avoid the dreaded feeling of becoming a sausage wrapped up in a too-tight casing, stick with natural, lightweight fabrics like wool, cashmere, and silk, which are better at insulating than synthetic materials. Quince went viral with their $50 cashmere crewneck and their featherweight scarves and beanies bring the heat at an affordable price.
Finish off with a wrap, cozy hat, fingerless gloves, and don't forget the socks! Cold feet can make your whole body feel chilly, so make sure to have a pair of warm socks. Wanna level up your sock game? Four words: Thermal. Double. Layer. Socks. The super-soft inner layer is infused with rich, hydrating Shea Butter to continually moisturize and condition. The outer layer pads and protects, keeping feet nice and toasty.
🤸♀️ Keep it moving
Clockwise from top left: working next to a sunny window, stretching it out with desk yoga (Adventure Yogi), walking while WFH-ing (Gizmodo), dodging drafts with this DIY doorstop pattern (Etsy)
Make use of natural light. Position your desk near a window to take advantage of the sun's rays during the day, and open the blinds or curtains to let in as much natural light as possible. Not only will this help to warm your space, but it will also help to stave off the winter blues.
Once the sun slips beneath the horizon, pull heavy drapes or curtains to cut the cool from frozen windows and leaky sills. Prevent freezing air from sliding under doors with a draft guard. These come in a variety of styles from utilitarian to chic to too cute for words.
Lastly, don't forget to take breaks and move around. Sitting in one spot for hours on end can make you feel colder than you would if you were active. If you have the budget and the space, an under the desk treadmill is a great way to get in your steps while working.
Set an alarm to remind you to stand up, stretch, and move around every hour or so. Try a low-impact, 10-minute exercise routine with no equipment needed. A lovely walk around your living room or around the block also works great to get blood flowing, elevate your mood, and warm you up.
