You like warmth?

With winter just right around the corner and temperatures dropping, there's one thing that everyone can agree on. It's really cold outside at this time. While it may not be that big of a deal for some people, others do whatever it takes to stay warm. Some wear thick clothing, warm winter jackets, or even use thick blankets to sleep. However, something interesting that has been going around recently is portable and rechargeable hand warmers. These items come in different shapes and sizes. Some are shaped like a cylinder, others an oval, and the list goes on and on. It is sold in stores like Walmart, Dicks and Scheels. The easiest place to buy these items is online. While these hand warmers are easy to buy, some people wonder whether or not they are worth the money.

For the most part, electric/portable hand warmers have received good reviews. So much so that Wirecutter, a website owned by The New York Times that reviews products, compiled a list of great hand warmers. The most popular brands from these were Zippo, Celestron, and HotHands (for one-time use).

While electric hand warmers may have received positive reviews, what are the benefits that these small items offer? Aside from warmth, these items are small, portable, and also able to be recharged and used over a long period of time. They are also great for people who like to do outdoor activities in the cold and snowy weather. According to Zippo, their hand warmers offer heating settings that can go up to 120 degrees Fahrenheit, as well as a sturdy design and frame that will last a considerable amount of time. Buyers also have the option of purchasing warmers that last either 6 or 12 hours. Overall, electric hand warmers are a great item to have around if you’re planning on being outdoors for extended periods of time. Whether or not that will be the case for you, they are still handy to have around just in case.

Another item that is used frequently during the winter is heated blankets. They are very similar to a normal blanket but offer optimal warmth. It's no wonder this item is loved by many people. There are also more benefits that come with heating blankets beyond the quality of warmth. According to Land of Sleep, they are energy efficient, help to improve sleep quality and help with relieving muscle pain and cramps. The cons of heated blankets, however, would be the risk of fire if not handled correctly. Most aren’t washable. Lastly, heated blankets may not be pet-friendly. Overall both electric hand warmers and heated blankets are great items to have and worthy of being treated with care.

[Note from Annika: Make a sidebar that says this:

5 safety tips for electric heating pads and blankets

Don’t fall asleep with the heating element on.

Inspect for damage before turning the device on.

Don’t fold the pad or blanket; store it by rolling it up.

Don’t cover the device with other fabrics while it’s turned on.

Be aware of your body: don’t let yourself overheat or get burned.

By Robert Tengker