The Best Gadgets to Keep You Warm (That Aren't Space Heaters)

Space heaters are a perfect invention, in my opinion, but I recognize that they can be unsafe in some locations. If you live in a dorm or otherwise under someone else's dominion, they can be against the rules-and if you're out and about without access to an outlet, forget about it. You need options to stay warm no matter where you are. That's where these gadgets and tools come in.

The best gadgets for staying warm at home or the office

First up, why not a heated floor mat? My parents always used to tell me when I was a kid that if your feet are warm, your whole body will be warm. They swore this up and down when I was refusing to put on gigantic socks to brave the North Dakota winters, but as I've aged, I've found that they were right: I do feel warmer if my feet are warm. This certainly doesn't stop me from going out in nothing more than sheer tights and dainty shoes, but while my commitment to wintertime fashion can't be challenged outdoors, my interest in warm feet can certainly be helpful inside. A heated mat fits perfectly under an office desk or in front of your couch, keeping your tootsies toasty.

Hodeamy Heated Floor Mat Under Desk for Foot Warmer - Wider 110V Adjustable Temperature Electric Space Heaters Heating Pad - Carbon Crystal & Energy Saving Feet Warmers for office,home (Black Gray) $37.99 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $37.99 at Amazon

Speaking of the office, you really can't control how warm or cold it is in your workplace, which is a fact that has bedeviled me at every job I've ever had. I am cold all the time and coworkers often know me as the little freak who sits under a blanket and uses all kinds of gadgets to stay comfortable. Things like these mousepad and keyboard heater pads are just perfect for keeping your hands warm enough to type.

USB Heated Mouse Pad Hand Warmer $28.97 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $28.97 at Amazon Electric Heating Pad $24.99 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $24.99 at Amazon SEE -1 MORE

Whether at home or in the office, you should also consider a heated seat cover, which is ideal for keeping toasty in an office chair or while you're lounging around.

Heated Seat Cover at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now at Amazon Tools for staying warm on the go

Now, let's get to commuting and otherwise running around. Years ago, my mom sent me this heated vest, which is powered by a rechargeable battery pack and fits easily under a coat. It's slim but effective and enables me to continue wearing cuter jackets through the winter without having to prioritize function as much. Once at the office or my destination, I can keep it on when I need extra warmth. Also, the battery pack can be used to charge a phone in a pinch, which made me love it even more.

Heated Vest $51.98 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $51.98 at Amazon

For something even more nondescript, consider a portable heating pad. Usually associated with cramps, these are a secret weapon for staying warm on the go. Make sure you get a rechargeable one, not the plug-in kind. Plus, it's small enough to stash away in a bag when not in use.

Portable heating pad $24.99 at Amazon Shop Now Shop Now $24.99 at Amazon

Finally, I have to mention Hot Hands shoe inserts. I was introduced to these one year at the Macy's Thanksgiving Parade by the people I went with, who had a bunch in their bag. I couldn't believe how warm a simple little insole could make my feet and I wore that gifted pair for days, until they kind of disintegrated and left the inside of my shoes all gritty. You don't need to do that. You can get 16 pairs for about $30.

HotHands Insole Foot Warmers $29.45 at Amazon $47.80 Save $18.35 Shop Now Shop Now $29.45 at Amazon $47.80 Save $18.35