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Advice / Succeeding at Work / Break Room

11 Items You Need at Your Desk to Stay Happy and Healthy This Winter

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Who doesn’t have a fear of the winter plague? When your co-worker starts sneezing next to you, there’s nothing you’d rather do than run and hide. When you’re shaking hands with clients, you’re silently praying they washed their hands (don’t deny it).

Luckily, there are plenty of handy items you can keep right on your desk to stay healthy all season long—whether it’s to fight off a cold, avoiding getting your co-worker’s cold, or just boost your immune system in general.

Here are 11 things you must (in my personal, humble opinion) stock up on—some more practical, some just really fun to have.


1. “Baby It’s Cold Outside” Handy Warmer USB Portable Rechargeable Hand Warmer, $12



Whenever the heat’s on low (or you’re extra chilly), this little accessory will warm you back up—and help you get back to typing.


2. Bundle of 5 Stress Relief Hand Sanitizer Gels, $14.99



This should be enough to get you through all the handshakes and door holdings you’ll do this winter. Bonus: This one doubles as a stress-reliever.


3. Tissues, $11.19



Definitely a staple during the cold months—but who says your tissues can’t have some flare?


4. Smartphone Sanitizer, $19.95



Let’s be real: Your phone could easily be the cause of that sudden flu. So get to it before it gets you.


5. Mini Mushroom Desk Cleaner, $6.24



Keep your space dust (and germ) free with this tiny helper.


6. Healthy Snacks, Price Varies



Help keep your immune system strong by stocking up on healthy snacks you can reach for when a craving calls, such as this snack pack by Justin’s.

(Or, try packing a healthy lunch instead of making a run to the nearest burger joint.)


7. Tea, $13



Having a batch of good wellness teas can make all the difference when you start to get the sniffles.


8. Water Bottle, $13.95



Your daily reminder to stay hydrated (and away from sodas).


9. USB Humidifier, $16.89



For those lucky enough to have a private office, this USB humidifier’s the perfect way to keep the room from getting too dry.


10. Stress Ball, $12.30



This guy gets you—and he’ll even let you squeeze your frustrations out on him.

(For even more fun options, check out these 18 stress-relieving toys that’ll fit right on your desk!)


11. Medicine, Price Varies



As your mother said, always best to be prepared for the worst. So, probably a good idea to have Dayquil, Emergen-C, and cough drops handy at all times.



Want more tips for a healthy winter? Check out these 19 office hacks that’ll turn your daily routine around.