Winter’s Chill: The Little Things That Make a Big Difference
Winter’s inescapable grasp can be a real challenge. Every step feels like a battle, every cold snap a reminder that the war is far from over. But what if I told you that there are inexpensive ways to turn the tide? Little things that can make a big difference, that’ll transform your winter experience from a slog to a serene stroll.
1. Palmer’s Cocoa Butter: Softening Dry Feet
I don’t mean to sound like Lieutenant Dan, but it’s essential 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!
2. Uniqlo HeatTech and Quince Ultralight Sweaters: Staying Warm and Cozy
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. 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.
3. Onsen Saru Bath Soak and Acorn Original Slipper Socks: Relaxing and Cozy
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.
4. Better Spices: Elevating Everyday Cooking
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.
5. Dr. Bronner’s Hand Spray: Staying Healthy and Hygienic
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!
6. A Really Good Mug: Warming Up with a Cuppa
I grew up in Montreal, so I know winter. It really helps to have a mug that you love, and for me, that’s this East Fork mug that I asked for as a birthday gift a few months ago. It’s not just any mug, though — it’s one that my aunt was recently visiting from London and brought back for me. She uses it for tea when it’s cold, or just as a water bottle. And when I’m sipping something hot from it, I feel like I’m wrapped in a warm hug.
7. A Stainless Steel Thermos: Keeping Drinks Hot and Cold
My aunt was recently visiting from London, and when she was getting ready to leave, I asked her to bring me back a gift. It turned out not to be a flask of liquor, but a stainless steel thermos. I’ve been using it nonstop since then, to keep my coffee hot in the mornings and my tea warm in the afternoons. It’s a small thing, but it’s made a big difference in my daily routine.
8. A Heated Mattress Pad: Warming Up Your Bed
I’ve been using a heated mattress pad for years, and it’s been a game-changer for my winter sleep. It’s not just about the warmth, though — it’s about the coziness factor. When I climb into bed at night, I’m wrapped in a warm, toasty blanket, and it makes all the difference in the world. Plus, it’s a great way to stay warm on those chilly nights when the heating bill is getting out of control.
9. A Set of Good Knives: Making Meal Prep a Breeze
I recently discovered the joy of investing in a good set of knives. It’s not just about the quality of the blades, though that’s certainly important. It’s about the ease of use, the way they glide through even the toughest ingredients with ease. And let’s be real, when you’re cooking up a storm in the kitchen, the last thing you want to worry about is whether your knives are up to the task. A good set of knives makes all the difference in the world.
10. A Cozy Throw Blanket: Adding a Touch of Warmth to Your Home
I’m a bit of a throw blanket fanatic, and I’ve got a collection of them scattered throughout my home. But one of my favorite things to do during the winter months is to make a big ol’ cup of tea and snuggle up with a good blanket. It’s not just about the warmth, though that’s certainly a big part of it. It’s about the coziness factor, the way the soft fabric envelops you in a warm hug. And let’s be real, when you’re feeling stressed or overwhelmed, there’s no better feeling than wrapping yourself up in a cozy blanket and letting the world just melt away.
The Verdict:
Winter may be a challenge, but with the right tools and a little bit of creativity, it doesn’t have to be a slog. From Palmer’s Cocoa Butter to a good set of knives, these inexpensive winter essentials can make all the difference in the world. So go ahead, invest in a few of these must-haves, and watch as your winter experience transforms from a battle to a breeze.
