Winter has finally arrived, and with it comes the need keep the employees warm and comfortable, especially at work. Cold weather makes it difficult for employees to concentrate and be productive, so taking precautions and providing them with office necessities is crucial. As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, it is important to invest in office products that can help employees stay comfortable and productive throughout the season. Here are 5 must-have Winter Office Essentials that can help keep employees warm, healthy, and motivated during the colder months.
So, whether you’re an employer trying to enhance employees overall productivity or an employee looking for ways to stay comfortable and inspired at work, keep reading to know more about some of the excellent winter office essentials.
Space Heaters
Providing a space heater is one of the easiest ways to keep your employees warm in the office. These little portable heaters are ideal for warming up a small space, such as desk or a meeting room. A space heater can easily provide an extra source of heat and it can be moved around as required. Make sure to purchase a space heater that includes safety features such as overheating protection and an automatic shut-off in case it is tipped over.
Stock up with Hot Beverages
On a cold day, a warm cup of coffee, hot chocolate or tea can make all the difference. Consider investing in a coffee machine/plunger or electric kettle so that employees can readily prepare a hot beverage whenever they need. Keep supplies properly stocked, including coffee, tea, hot chocolate, milk, and sugar, to ensure everyone has their preferred drink to keep them warm, comfortable, and productive. A proper kitchen or a drink station provides an excellent incentive for employees to roam around (which also helps them warm up), and a hot cup will assist staff in keeping their hands warm.
Customised Water Bottles and Mugs
Providing your staff with hot water bottles and reusable mugs could be an excellent gesture to promote comfort during the colder months. Hot water bottles are helpful for keeping water warm for a longer period of time without having to fill the bottle again and getting sidetracked. Mugs are a must-have item in any office throughout the winter months. Look for one with a secure lid that can prevent spills and leaks, and are easy to clean. Reusable mugs made of ceramic, stoneware, or porcelain are more likely to keep drinks warm for extended periods of time. Provide an area for employees to keep their mugs, such as a separate cabinet or shelf. Employees will be encouraged to bring their own mugs, reducing the waste produced by disposable cups. Consider customising the mugs and water bottles with your company logo or employee names as it will create a sense of ownership and pride amongst employees, and also promote your brand.
Facial Tissues
Cold weather can lead to runny noses, coughing, and sneezing, which can be uncomfortable for employees and can also spread germs. Providing facial tissues can help alleviate these symptoms and promote a healthy work environment. Ensure that facial tissues are easily accessible by providing them in every room, including conference rooms, break rooms, and individual workspaces. This will encourage employees to use them and prevent the spread of germs. To save money and reduce waste, buy facial tissues in bulk. This will ensure that you have enough tissues for the entire winter season, and you won’t have to worry about running out.
Air Purifier
During the winter, an air purifier can be a valuable addition to your office. During this season, windows and doors are frequently closed to keep the cold air out, which can reduce indoor air quality. An air purifier can aid in the removal of pollutants, allergies, and other particles that can degrade the air quality at your workplace. As we know, winter is also a season when cold and flu viruses are common. By removing airborne particles that can spread viruses and bacteria, an air purifier can assist to decrease the spread of these illnesses among employees.
