7 Little Things That Make Winter at Home Easier

Winter has a way of making everything feel a little harder. The mornings are darker, the floors are colder, and the couch gets very hard to leave.

I've learned that it's the small things that help most. Here are seven easy ones that make my winter days feel softer.

1. Get your morning ready the night before

Set out your mug, your slippers and tomorrow's clothes before bed. On a dark, cold morning, one less decision makes a big difference.

2. Keep warmth where you sit

Instead of heating the whole house, keep a throw or heating pad next to your favorite chair. You'll feel warmer and can leave the thermostat a little lower.

3. Light up the dark corners

Short days make hallways and stairs feel gloomy. A motion-sensor night light turns on when you walk by, so there's no fumbling for a switch.

4. Make one warm drink a ritual

A cup of tea or cocoa at the same time each afternoon gives the day a cozy pause to look forward to.

5. Do a 10-minute reset before bed

Clear the counter, fold the throw, and set the dishwasher running. You'll wake up to a calmer home. My free 10-Minute Home Reset checklist walks you through it, step by step.

6. Warm up the bed before you get in

Cold sheets are the worst part of a winter night. A heated mattress pad, or even a hot water bottle placed 15 minutes early, makes bedtime something to enjoy.

7. Let the sun in

On sunny days, open every curtain and let the light warm the room. When the sun goes down, close them to hold the heat in.

Find the little helpers

I keep my favorite winter comforts together in one place: heating pads, wearable blankets, heated wraps and more.

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— Jonine