--- title: 15 Clever Ways to Survive Summer in a Freezing Cold Office description: Many employees complain about working in a freezing cold office. Here are some products and strategies to survive a cold office in summer. authors: - name: Martha C. White role: Writer url: https://money.com/author/martha-c-white/ education: BA, English, Princeton University at_money_since: 2015 articles: 348 covers: - Lifestyle - Banking - Business - Career Advice - Credit - Credit Cards - Debt - Economy and Politics - Education - Federal Reserve Rate Cuts - Health and Wellness - Housing - Identity Theft - Insurance - Investing - Loans - Mortgages - Personal Finance - Professional Services - Retirement - Shopping - Taxes - Technology published: '2018-05-30T14:06:45.000Z' modified: '2024-04-02T04:28:56.000Z' section: Lifestyle tags: - shop money - Workplace word_count: 1106 canonical: https://money.com/cold-office-summer-survive/ type: Article source: structured-blocks --- > **Disclosure:** We research all brands listed and may earn a fee from our partners. Research and financial considerations may influence how brands are displayed. Not all brands are included. [Learn more](https://money.com/page/disclaimer/). ![young male using laptop computer keyboard wearing fingerless gloves](https://img.money.com/2018/05/survivecoldoffice-cr-121857013.jpg) Ah, summer — that time of year when you’re dripping in sweat the moment you go outside, and then piling on sweaters once you're at the office. According to a new CareerBuilder survey, 18 percent of men and a whopping 36 percent of women say their office is too cold in the summertime. In fact, CareerBuilder found that summer office temperatures can cause some, um, heated reactions at work: 15 percent of people said they have argued with a co-worker over their office temperature, and close to 20 percent have secretly changed the thermostat. ## [Cashmere Cardigan](https://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=93xLBvPhAeE&subid=0&offerid=390098.1&type=10&tmpid=8158&RD_PARM1=https%253A%252F%252Fshop.nordstrom.com%252Fs%252Fnordstrom-signature-cashmere-cardigan%252F4729280&u1=MYcoldofficeMW) This is an obvious, logical choice for staying warm in overly air-conditioned workplaces. A slouchy cashmere cardigan in a neutral color is the ideal go-to: It’s loose enough to easily go over whatever else you’re wearing, you don’t need to wrestle it over your head to take it on and off, the color will match (or at least not clash) with the rest of your outfit, and the soft material is great at chasing away the chill. Better yet: This [navy topper from Nordstrom](https://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=93xLBvPhAeE&subid=0&offerid=390098.1&type=10&tmpid=8158&RD_PARM1=https%253A%252F%252Fshop.nordstrom.com%252Fs%252Fnordstrom-signature-cashmere-cardigan%252F4729280&u1=MYcoldofficeMW) is half off right now, at $124.49. ![](https://img.money.com/2018/05/cashmerecardigan.jpg) ## [Lightweight Jacket](https://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=93xLBvPhAeE&subid=0&offerid=390098.1&type=10&tmpid=8158&RD_PARM1=https%253A%252F%252Fshop.nordstrom.com%252Fs%252Ftommy-bahama-floral-fade-stretch-cotton-zip-jacket%252F4821018&u1=MYcoldofficeMW) If you don’t want to do a sweater, a warm-weather jacket is another option for chasing away the chill in a cold office. This [one by Tommy Bahama](https://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=93xLBvPhAeE&subid=0&offerid=390098.1&type=10&tmpid=8158&RD_PARM1=https%253A%252F%252Fshop.nordstrom.com%252Fs%252Ftommy-bahama-floral-fade-stretch-cotton-zip-jacket%252F4821018&u1=MYcoldofficeMW) ($135), says, “I’m into summery prints!” rather than, “I can’t feel my fingers!” Bonus: It also has thumb holes. ![](https://img.money.com/2018/05/cottonjacket.jpg) ## Open the Window If you’re lucky enough to have access to a window — one that actually opens, that is — warming up could be as simple as opening it to let in some of those summer breezes when you start to get chilly. Just remember to shut the window after you've warmed up. ## [Small Space Heater](https://www.amazon.com/Lasko-754200-Ceramic-Adjustable-Thermostat/dp/B000TKDQ5C) No window? No worries: A teeny space heater will warm up your personal space quickly. [This one](https://www.amazon.com/Lasko-754200-Ceramic-Adjustable-Thermostat/dp/B000TKDQ5C) has three settings and is small enough to tuck unobtrusively under a desk. Nearly 8,400 Amazon reviewers give it five stars. ![](https://img.money.com/2018/05/spaceheater.jpg) ## [Fingerless Gloves](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00WQOSM12) If you need some serious heating-up without encumbering your ability to type, these [USB-powered heated fingerless gloves](https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00WQOSM12) ($20) deliver. If your fingers aren’t quite that frozen, [regular fingerless gloves](https://www.amazon.com/Gravity-Threads-Unisex-Finger-Stretchy/dp/B00BD7G3XM) ($6.50) will do the trick. They're small enough to easily stash in your bag or desk drawer. ![](https://img.money.com/2018/05/fingerlessgloves.jpg) ## [Shirts With Thumb Holes](http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/8147966/type/dlg/sid/MYcoldofficeMW/http://us.boohoo.com/sarah-v-neck-soft-knit-thumbhole-jumper/CZZ95137.html) A little less over-the-top than gloves, shirts with thumb holes also let you pull an extra layer over your hands while keeping your fingers free for important tasks. Although this style tends to be more common in athletic-inspired and workout tops (like this pretty [pink running hoodie](https://shop.nordstrom.com/s/adidas-by-stella-mccartney-run-hoodie/4861296)), there are some options you could get away with at the office. This [super-soft sweater](http://www.anrdoezrs.net/links/8147966/type/dlg/sid/MYcoldofficeMW/http://us.boohoo.com/sarah-v-neck-soft-knit-thumbhole-jumper/CZZ95137.html) with a wide v-neck, for instance, is office-appropriate, not to mention wildly affordable (just $16!) from boohoo.com. ![](https://img.money.com/2018/05/screen-shot-2018-05-29-at-2-59-31-pm.png) ## [Throw Blanket](http://www.pntra.com/t/2-304359-131940-135982?sid=MYcoldofficeMW&website=250361&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.parachutehome.com%2Fproducts%2Fgraphic-throw%3Fvariant%3D51294946068) If you’re not already among their ranks, yes, there are folks out there who keep a blanket at their desk and drape it over their legs when July starts to feel like January, courtesy of the office AC unit. Avoid the hobo-Halloween-costume look with a sophisticated throw, like this [graphic wool-cashmere blend](http://www.pntra.com/t/2-304359-131940-135982?sid=MYcoldofficeMW&website=250361&url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.parachutehome.com%2Fproducts%2Fgraphic-throw%3Fvariant%3D51294946068) with a jacquard weave featuring the signature geometric designs famous ceramic artists Kat & Roger. The other key to keeping it chic: Make sure you choose a throw-size (like the 50”x70” this blanket is) rather than a bed-sized blanket. If walking around with a blanket is too over-the-top for you (or makes you feel like [Linus from "Peanuts"](https://www.amazon.com/Celebrating-Peanuts-Charles-M-Schulz/dp/144947182X)), an oversized wrap or cape is another option. This [recycled cotton poncho](https://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=93xLBvPhAeE&subid=0&offerid=390098.1&type=10&tmpid=8158&RD_PARM1=https%253A%252F%252Fshop.nordstrom.com%252Fs%252Feileen-fisher-recycled-cotton-poncho-wrap%252F4895480&u1=MYcoldofficeMW) in a cool indigo hue says, “I’m accessorizing,” not, “I’m freezing.” ![](https://img.money.com/2018/05/graphicthrow.jpg) ## Turn on the Tap Running your hands under hot water can do wonders and get the blood flowing to frozen fingers. ## [Eat Something Spicy](http://www.pntrs.com/t/2-219961-131940-137592?sid=MYcoldofficeMW&website=250361&url=https%3A%2F%2Fsriracha2go.com%2Fcollections%2Fall-products%2Fproducts%2Fsriracha-keychain-package-small) Hot and spicy foods can [rev up your metabolism](http://www.health.com/heart-disease/health-benefits-of-spicy-food). Keep some heat literally at your fingertips with this [kit from Sriracha2Go.com](http://www.pntrs.com/t/2-219961-131940-137592?sid=MYcoldofficeMW&website=250361&url=https%3A%2F%2Fsriracha2go.com%2Fcollections%2Fall-products%2Fproducts%2Fsriracha-keychain-package-small), which includes a bottle of Huy Fong Sriracha and a pair of keychain-attachment dispensers, one small and one medium, so you can spice up lunch and warm up from the inside out. ![](https://img.money.com/2018/05/srirachabundle.jpg) ## [Heating Pad](https://www.amazon.com/Heating-Pad-Gift-Set-Extra-Large/dp/B0773RH5FM) A heating pad isn’t just good for soothing aching muscles; it can also be a way to stealthily keep warm during the workday in a chilly office. This [bestselling combo pack](https://www.amazon.com/Heating-Pad-Gift-Set-Extra-Large/dp/B0773RH5FM) includes an oversized rectangular pad you could drape over your chair seat or back, as well as a neck and shoulder heating pad that would be handy if you’re stuck sitting right under an air vent. They heat up fast and have automatic shutoff, so you don’t need to worry if you leave work and forget to turn it off. ![](https://img.money.com/2018/05/heatingpad.jpg) ## [HotHands Toe Warmers](https://www.amazon.com/HotHands-Toe-Warmers-Odorless-Activated/dp/B0007ZF4PE) Although they’re more typically used by hunters, skiers and cold-weather outdoor sports enthusiasts, these long-lasting [adhesive-backed heat packs](https://www.amazon.com/HotHands-Toe-Warmers-Odorless-Activated/dp/B0007ZF4PE) will keep your toes warm for the entire work day. (The [hand warmers](https://www.amazon.com/HotHands-Hand-Warmers-Pair-Super-Saver/dp/B00UPCVQII) are an option for frozen fingers: Tuck a pair in your sweater or blazer pockets to give your hands a quick hit of heat.) ![](https://img.money.com/2018/05/hothands.jpg) ## [Get Moving](http://www.pntrac.com/t/2-203869-131940-110253?sid=MYcoldofficeMW&website=250361&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.colehaan.com%2Fwomens-2.zerogrand-ballet-flat-with-stitchlite-black-knit-black%2FW10850.html) A short brisk walk for a cup of coffee or just to get some fresh air will get your blood flowing — and if you take that stroll outside, you’ll get to soak up the heat, to boot. Slip on a pair of rubber-soled, mesh flats to keep your feet cool and comfortable. ![](https://img.money.com/2018/05/screen-shot-2018-05-29-at-3-08-50-pm.png) ## [Drink Something Warm](https://www.amazon.com/Twinings-Herbal-Decaf-Tea-Sampler/dp/B06XJC888P) Hot [coffee](https://www.amazon.com/Starbucks-Instant-French-Coffee-packets/dp/B01LTI961K) or [tea](https://www.amazon.com/Twinings-Herbal-Decaf-Tea-Sampler/dp/B06XJC888P) can help ward off the chill, and if you keep it in an [insulated travel mug](https://www.amazon.com/Hydro-Flask-Double-Insulated-Stainless/dp/B00GA03F2O), your hot beverage will stay warm for hours. ![](https://img.money.com/2018/05/hydroflask.jpg) ## [Scarves and Wraps](https://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=93xLBvPhAeE&subid=0&offerid=452324.1&type=10&tmpid=10933&RD_PARM1=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.clubmonaco.com%2Fproduct%2Findex.jsp%3FproductId%3D147155886&u1=MYcoldofficeMW) When it comes to scarves, give yourself a few options. This [chic, tassled silk scarf](https://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=93xLBvPhAeE&subid=0&offerid=452324.1&type=10&tmpid=10933&RD_PARM1=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.clubmonaco.com%2Fproduct%2Findex.jsp%3FproductId%3D147155886&u1=MYcoldofficeMW) in an abstract neutral print is perfect if you’re just a touch chilly, or you could break out a heavier wrap if you’re feeling major goosebumps. One silver lining to freezing in the summertime is that you can often score great deals on winter-weight scarves, like this [bright cashmere-wool blend](https://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=93xLBvPhAeE&subid=0&offerid=390098.1&type=10&tmpid=8158&RD_PARM1=https%253A%252F%252Fshop.nordstrom.com%252Fs%252Fnordstrom-tissue-weight-wool-cashmere-scarf%252F4990949&u1=MYcoldofficeMW) at 40% off at Nordstrom. (It also comes in a [poppy floral](https://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=93xLBvPhAeE&subid=0&offerid=390098.1&type=10&tmpid=8158&RD_PARM1=https%253A%252F%252Fshop.nordstrom.com%252Fs%252Fnordstrom-tissue-print-wool-cashmere-wrap-scarf%252F4991955&u1=MYcoldofficeMW) — for the same price of $59.40 — if that’s more your speed.) ![](https://img.money.com/2018/05/screen-shot-2018-05-29-at-3-12-38-pm.png) ## [Wool Socks](https://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=93xLBvPhAeE&subid=0&offerid=446514.1&type=10&tmpid=24184&RD_PARM1=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.llbean.com%2Fllb%2Fshop%2F120609&u1=MYcoldofficeMW) I will also put in [another plug](https://money.com/best-socks-smartwool-brand-running/) for my favorite sock brand, Smartwool: This two-pack of [“hide and seek” socks](https://click.linksynergy.com/fs-bin/click?id=93xLBvPhAeE&subid=0&offerid=446514.1&type=10&tmpid=24184&RD_PARM1=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.llbean.com%2Fllb%2Fshop%2F120609&u1=MYcoldofficeMW) are invisible under loafers, and the lightweight (and non-itchy) wool knit will keep your toes toasty and wick away sweat. ![](https://img.money.com/2018/05/screen-shot-2018-05-29-at-3-14-01-pm.png) *We’ve included affiliate links into this article.* [*Click here*](https://money.com/page/disclaimer/) *to learn what those are.* ```json { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@graph": [ { "@type": "BreadcrumbList", "@id": "https://money.com/cold-office-summer-survive/#breadcrumb", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 1, "name": "Home", "item": "https://money.com" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 2, "name": "Lifestyle", "item": "https://money.com/lifestyle/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 3, "name": "Health and Wellness", "item": "https://money.com/health-and-wellness/" }, { "@type": "ListItem", "position": 4, "name": "15 Clever Ways to Survive Summer in a Freezing Cold Office" } ] }, { "@type": "WebSite", "@id": "https://money.com/#website", "url": "https://money.com", "name": "Money", "publisher": { "@id": "https://money.com/#organization" } }, { "@type": "WebPage", "@id": "https://money.com/cold-office-summer-survive/#webpage", "url": "https://money.com/cold-office-summer-survive/", "name": "15 Clever Ways to Survive Summer in a Freezing Cold Office", "isPartOf": { "@id": "https://money.com/#website" }, "datePublished": "2018-05-30T14:06:45.000Z", "mainEntity": { "@id": "https://money.com/cold-office-summer-survive/" }, "inLanguage": "en-US", "breadcrumb": { "@id": "https://money.com/cold-office-summer-survive/#breadcrumb" }, "dateModified": "2024-04-02T04:28:56.000Z" }, { "@type": "Article", "headline": "15 Clever Ways to Survive Summer in a Freezing Cold Office", "articleSection": "Lifestyle", "image": [ { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://img.money.com/2018/05/survivecoldoffice-cr-121857013.jpg", "width": 5855, "height": 3889, "caption": "young male using laptop computer keyboard wearing fingerless gloves" }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://img.money.com/2018/05/cashmerecardigan.jpg", "width": 280, "height": 430 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://img.money.com/2018/05/cottonjacket.jpg", "width": 280, "height": 430 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://img.money.com/2018/05/spaceheater.jpg", "width": 280, "height": 361 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://img.money.com/2018/05/fingerlessgloves.jpg", "width": 280, "height": 187 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://img.money.com/2018/05/screen-shot-2018-05-29-at-2-59-31-pm.png", "width": 280, "height": 422 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://img.money.com/2018/05/graphicthrow.jpg", "width": 280, "height": 210 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://img.money.com/2018/05/srirachabundle.jpg", "width": 280, "height": 280 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://img.money.com/2018/05/heatingpad.jpg", "width": 280, "height": 280 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://img.money.com/2018/05/hothands.jpg", "width": 280, "height": 280 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://img.money.com/2018/05/screen-shot-2018-05-29-at-3-08-50-pm.png", "width": 280, "height": 128 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://img.money.com/2018/05/hydroflask.jpg", "width": 280, "height": 571 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://img.money.com/2018/05/screen-shot-2018-05-29-at-3-12-38-pm.png", "width": 280, "height": 392 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "url": "https://img.money.com/2018/05/screen-shot-2018-05-29-at-3-14-01-pm.png", "width": 280, "height": 273 } ], "author": [ { "@type": "Person", "name": "Martha C. 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