The transition from fall to winter is often cozy and packed with sweet family memories. But it also signals the start of particularly dry, cold weather, resulting in cracked skin, uncomfortable breathing, and an overworked immune system. Here are 10 ways to care for your home, skin, sinuses, body circulation, and overall wellness during dry, cold winter months. And don't worry, we're not just going to tell you to layer up and drink water!
Care for your air at home
1. Use humidity strategically, not constantly.
Instead of running a humidifier all day, cycle it during sleep or after heating kicks in — it prevents over-saturation that can encourage mold or dust mites. The goal is balanced air, not “humid air.” If your home thermostat doesn't measure humidity, hygrometers are affordable ways to monitor in-home humidity. The EPA recommends that you keep your home humidity between 30-50%.
2. Refresh indoor air without losing warmth.
Have your sinuses ever felt irritated from heater vents? Crack a window for 5 minutes twice a day. It resets CO₂ and pollutant levels that rise from central heaters.
3. Add natural air filters.
Placing plants like peace lilies, pothos, or snake plants near heating vents helps add a bit of natural moisture and filter particulates. Bonus: they're low-maintenance plants that can survive winter light. Make sure your plants are out of reach for little ones and pets!
Skin and sinus health
4. Hydrate your nose, not just your skin.
Dry nasal passages are the first line of defense against winter colds. Your nasal passages naturally filter, humidify, and warm the air before it enters your body. Using an age-appropriate saline spray or solution before bed can reduce cracked mucus membranes or uncomfortably dry passageways (especially in homes with forced heat).
5. Aid physical mucus removal with natural solutions.
Since little ones can't blow their noses, pickers or aspirators are a great way to clear physical blockages. Once they're 3+ months, keep their noses clear through the night by dabbing a small amount of calming, USDA-certified organic Breathing Rub on their chest or feet. Gentle combinations of rosemary and eucalyptus can help keep airways open!
Support your immune system
6. Warm your core
Cold hands and feet usually mean your body is redirecting heat. A heating pad over your abdomen or lower back for 10 minutes can help blood circulate to fingers and toes better than thick socks alone.
7. Aid digestion with warm drinks
Drinking something warm before a meal increases circulation and digestion, improving nutrient absorption. If your immune system is already working overtime in the winter, a little help can go a long way.
8. Keep a colorful diet
Winter diets tend to become repetitive (think: soup, pasta, bread). These cozy foods are great—just make sure to rotate in as much vitamin-packed produce as you can (think: leafy greens, colorful root vegetables, citrus). This can boost your immune system, lower inflammation, and make you less prone to colds!
Make the most of bathtime
9. Moisturize immediately after towel-drying.
Don't wait! Lock in moisture within a minute of towel-drying to aid your family's skin barrier function. Use your favorite gentle fragrance-free lotion or baby-safe balm.
10. Proactively remove buildup after baths.
Bathtime steam naturally moistens passages and loosens debris. Use a gentle nose picker or aspirator after baths for the easy, quick cleaning.
We hope that these ten tips will help your family turn winter blues into comfy, sweet memories!
