The season of cold feet is almost upon us and no doubt many of us will be seeking tips for keeping our feet warm. And for a lot of us, it's as if we're born with a permanent window open.
How can we be boiling and yet still have cold feet? We don't know, but we're definitely not alone in this struggle. If any of this sounds familiar, we've gathered some tried-and-true tips to help you turn those frosty toes into toasty treasures.
Ready to warm up? Let's dive in!
1. Wear Slippers
Step one to keeping your feet warm? Slippers. That's real slippers, not the flimsy, thin-soled kind that might as well be made of paper. I'm talking about those soft, fuzzy, foot-hugging creations that feel like mini clouds wrapped around your feet.
Slippers are the unsung heroes of cold weather - they're there when you need them, waiting to swoop in and save your toes from the perils of hardwood floors and chilly tiles.
Pro tip: Get ones with grippy soles, because nothing says "cosy" like avoiding an accidental ice-skating routine in your hallway. And bonus points - they don't take up much storage in the summer!
2. Night Socks / Bed Socks / Fluffy Socks
We know that socks in bed is a bit of a controversial topic. But be warned, these aren't just any socks; bed socks need to be soft, breathable, and most importantly, warm.
You won't have these socks suffocating your feet in the middle of the night like some woollen boa constrictor. If you go for materials like cashmere or thermal socks, you'll see they're the cosy blankets your feet have been begging for. Breathable, warm and soft - what's the controversy again?
3. Hot Water Bottle
The humble hot water bottle might be one of the easiest ways to stay warm in winter.
Not only does it keep you warm, but it's also like carrying around a mini heat-filled squishy friend. Simply fill it with hot (not boiling!) water, and plop it under the covers at the foot of your bed. It's kind of like a foot spa without the water jets, and it'll keep your feet warm for hours. Bonus tip: You can even wrap it in extra layers (a soft towel or cover), just in case you're worried about it getting too hot. Who knew feet could be so high-maintenance?
4. Warm Bath
Not only does a foot soak feel amazing, but it's also a quick way to warm your toes before bed. You don't even need to run the entire bath!
Run enough to cover your feet, maybe add a little Epsom salt, and you're away. Plus, warm water helps improve blood circulation, which is one of the reasons our feet get cold in the first place.
Just be careful not to make it too hot, or you'll go from frosty feet to roasted pota-toes. Everything in moderation.
5. Microwave Foot Warmers
If you've never heard of microwave foot warmers, get ready to have your life changed. There's a few to choose from: the traditional slipper versions or microwaveable wheat bags. The latter are magical little packs filled with heat-retaining beads or grains that can be heated up in the microwave.
After just a few minutes, they'll radiate warmth like tiny, personal fireplaces for your feet. Pop them in your slippers or place them at the end of your bed, and suddenly your toes will feel like they're on a tropical vacation. Warning: You may never want to take them off.
The slippers are more straight-forward again. Just pop them into the microwave whole and it'll be like stepping into a dream when they're done.
6. Stay Dry
One of the fastest ways to turn your feet into popsicles is by letting them get damp. There are few horrors worse than wet socks. We're sorry to have even brought it up, but this is a serious matter!
Whether it's snow seeping through your shoes or sweaty socks from a workout, moisture is the enemy. Always, always make sure your feet are dry before you try to warm them up. Invest in moisture-wicking socks, and if your feet do get wet, change out of those soggy socks ASAP.
Dry feet are happy feet, and happy feet are warm feet.
7. Avoid Cold Floors
You'd think the floor would be on our side, but no. Those cold tiles and hardwood floors are like little icebergs waiting to sabotage your warm feet.
The solution? Slippers (obviously), thick rugs, or even floor mats. If you don't want to live in fear of that first footstep in the morning, cover those cold surfaces. And hey, it's an excuse to redecorate! Win-win, right?
8. Preheat Your Bed
This one sounds fancy, but it's actually pretty simple. You can throw a hot water bottle under the blankets about 10 minutes before you get in, or if you're feeling extra high-tech, invest in an electric blanket or heated mattress pad.
By the time you climb into bed, it'll feel like a cosy cocoon of warmth. Your feet will thank you.
9. Stay Active
When all else fails, remember that sometimes cold feet are your body's way of saying: "Hey, let's move around a little?"
Staying active boosts circulation, and better circulation means warmer feet. You don't have to run a marathon, but even a few stretches, a short walk, or some light exercises can get the blood flowing and warm up those chilly toes.
Plus, it's a great excuse to do that victory dance when your feet finally feel toasty.
Bonus Tips:
- Layer Up: If one pair of socks isn't cutting it, double up! Thin socks underneath thicker ones can provide an extra layer of insulation. Just don't cut off circulation - cold andnumb feet are not the goal here!
- Have some tea: While this might not directly warm your feet, sipping on hot tea or coffee can make you feel cosier all over. Plus, it's the perfect accompaniment to snuggling up with a hot water bottle and your favourite book.
- The holistic approach: Sometimes, cold feet are just a symptom of overall chilliness. If your core temperature is low, your body will prioritise warming your vital organs over your feet. Keep the rest of yourself warm with sweaters, blankets, and whatever else it takes.
Conclusion: The Quest for Toasty Toes
Cold feet don't have to be your destiny. With these 9 helpful tips (plus a few extras!), you can banish the cold and welcome in the warmth.
Whether you're lounging around in your favourite slippers, cuddling up with a hot water bottle, or mastering the art of bed socks, your feet will be feeling toasty in no time. Stay warm, stay cosy, and may your toes never be cold again!
We go to great lengths to ensure that all our microwave slippers and slippers are easy-to-use, effective and comfortable. You may also find our essential guide useful if you want to learn more about finding your perfect bed throw.
