Surviving winter in New York City requires more than long John’s and a heavy parka. Your home—and car—need to be equipped to withstand the cold, too. Check out our top five cold-weather essentials below, guaranteed to insulate and protect you from the worst of winter temperatures.

Crane Mini Fireplace Heater

A space heater is one of the best cold-weather home items you can invest in for winter. Yet they tend to be ugly, or at best, utilitarian in design. The Crane Mini Fireplace Heater is both warming and stylish. It’s small, so doesn’t take up an awkward amount of space, and comes in bright pink, yellow, and white. What really makes this our favorite plug-in heater though, is the faux fireplace screen on the front.

Honeywell Germ Free Cool Mist Humidifier

Flu season doesn’t seem to stop until the flowers are blooming. The Honeywell Germ Free Cool Mist Humidifier battles dry air that irritates respiratory problems, while simultaneously killing up to 99.9% of bacteria and germs. We mean those dangerous ones caused by mold, fungus, viruses, and other sources. Honeywell’s patented UV technology is 25% more effective than other humidifiers, and comes in a sleek design. You can choose between white and black.

Sunbeam Premium Quilted Heated Mattress Pad

Avoid getting into a cold bed. With the Sunbeam Premium Quilted Heated Mattress Pad, you have 10 settings of heat to choose from for warm and cozy sleep. And both sides of the bed have their own remote controls. Even better, you can preheat your mattress to toasty perfection. The mattress pad is made of cotton, which protects your mattress for longer, and can be machine-washed.

Ready America Cold Weather Survival Kit

If you own a car in New York City, you have to double-down on maintenance the next few months. Are you prepared to dig your vehicle out of snow? Or able to weather out a few hours in the cold if the engine breaks down? These situations are serious, and can happen to anyone. The Ready America Cold Weather Survival Kit has the tools you need to survive. The package can be left in your trunk until needed and comes with a shovel, LED headlamp, emergency food and water, blanket, and body warmers.  

Secure Step Stair Treads

Inclement winter weather can cause serious injury when snow, ice, or cold rain water melts and freezes on your steps. To prevent accidents and injuries, use Secure Step Stair Treads. They are ideal for steps leading up to your entryway, particularly townhomes with steep stairs. It’s easy to brush snow off them, and they grip to the bottom of any shoe. Your neighbors and friends will thank you for the extra traction. As an extra bonus, they’re an environmentally-friendly purchase, being made from recycled tires!

Don't waste space on summer clothes and vacation supplies. Pack them up for storage and have more space this winter. 

By Emma Alois

Image via Pixabay