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Office always cold? Here’s how to stay warm at work when you can't control the thermostat

Maryal Miller Carter   Paste BN
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The ongoing battle for control of the office thermostat has been an epic discussion around the water cooler for decades. Whether it's a over-heated coworker relentlessly lowering it to sub-zero temperatures or the frustration of no thermostat access at all, the quest for warmth can become a daily challenge.

But freeze not, office warriors! We’re sharing an arsenal of genius solutions and easy tricks to keep you comfortably warm in the workplace without resorting to a full-blown thermostat war. Here's how to stay warm at work when the temperature plunges and the thermostat’s out of reach or out of your control.

Watch the video above to learn how to stay warm at work when the office temperature is too cold.

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How to stay warm at work when the office temperature is too cold

  • If office safety protocols allow, use a small, energy-efficient space heater to warm your personal office space. Just make sure you’re adhering to all office and manufacturer guidelines to ensure you’re using it safely.
  • Fingerless gloves can go a long way to ensure your hands stay warm while still allowing you the freedom to type.
  • If the idea of sporting fingerless gloves at work has you hesitant, you can always use rechargeable or disposable hand warmers to give your chilly hands a quick hit of heat when you need it. They’re both affordable and can fit neatly inside a desk drawer.
  • Drape a wool blanket over your shoulders or lap. Wool is an excellent insulator and will harness the power of your body heat to warm you up.
  • If you’re really bold, you can always drape an electric blanket over your chair, shoulders or lap to keep you toasty.
  • If an electric blanket in the office feels too conspicuous, try a more discreet option like an electric heating pad. You can place one on your chair to act as a heated seat.
  • Another way to stay warm in the office that may not seem as obvious as electric heating pads or personal space heaters is simply staying hydrated. Drinking plenty of water throughout the day will help maintain proper blood circulation and regulate body temperature.
  • If you keep a hot beverage in an insulated mug at your desk, it will stay hot and warm you up from the inside out for hours. Holding it can also help warm those icy hands when office temperatures are chilly.
  • The simple act of moving your body can help keep you warm in a cold office. Set an alarm on your phone to remind yourself to get up and move every hour throughout the day.

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