9 Cozy Essentials to Make Winter Sleep Even Sweeter

As soon as the temperature drops below freezing and the sun starts setting before 5 p.m., I lose pretty much all desire to hit the town after work. And once there’s snow on the ground? Forget about it! I’d much rather curl up under a blanket or two, snuggle with my dog, and read a book—usually all at once. (I just finished Beneath a Scarlet Sky, and I’d definitely recommend it.) And if I end up falling asleep at 9 p.m., so be it!

If you’re feeling snuggle season as much as I am, you know there are things that could take it from cozy to best-sleeps-of-your-life—for instance, a lofty down comforter for optimal warmth! Here are some of my absolute favorites to help you get comfy, cozy, and ready for sleep...until the sun decides to come back in spring.

1. SFERRA Dover European Down Duvet, Food52

Down duvets are absolutely essential for maximum comfort in the winter, especially if you live in a super cold climate like I do. Personally, I love a down comforter with a high “fill power” like this one, because it basically makes you feel like you’re wrapped up in a cloud.

2. Bamboo Essential Oil Diffuser, Food52 & Lagunamoon Essential Oils, Amazon

Another one of my favorite ways to power down is with aromatherapy. I’ve owned this inexpensive, cult-favorite essential oil diffuser for almost a year, and it’s the perfect way to make your bedroom smell like a spa. (Plus, it adds moisture to the air to help combat dry winter skin.) Lavender is the most popular sleep-friendly essential oil, but I also have a blend of orange, peppermint, and lavender that’s incredibly soothing.

3. Sleep With Me podcast

Who said bedtime stories were just for kids? If your eyes are too tired for reading, have a relaxing bedtime story read to you instead via the Sleep With Me podcast. There are more than 800 episodes to choose from, read by the host Drew Ackerman, all intended to be “boring” enough to put even the worst insomniac to sleep.

4. LectroFan White Noise Sound Machine, Amazon

Back when I lived with a roommate and we kept radically different schedules, this little white noise machine was an absolute lifesaver for me. It only makes fan and white noise sounds—so no crickets or ocean waves—but it will make you feel like you’re nesting in a cocoon of coziness…even if your roommate is banging around in the kitchen.

5. Calm App

Another way to prepare your body and mind for a good sleep session is with the popular Calm app. This meditation and relaxation app offers a variety of guided meditations for sleep, and it can also be used to help minimize anxiety, improve focus, and practice gratitude.

6. Gravity Weighted Blanket, Target

Everyone needs a weighted blanket. Personally, my all-time favorite is the OG Gravity Blanket, which used to be quite pricey but has recently been on sale. The outer shell is super soft and plush, and when you put the blanket over your body, you’ll feel like you’re being wrapped up in a hug.

7. Icelandic Sheepskin, Food52

These plush sheepskins have so many cozy applications around your home. Will you use it as a rug to protect your toes from the cold floor? Or drape it over your dining room chair to embrace you during dinner? It really is the ultimate snuggly home accessory.

8. Alaska Bear Natural Silk Sleep Mask, Amazon

This sleep mask has more than 11,000 reviews, and people absolutely love it! The mask comes in a wide range of colors and patterns, but most importantly, it’s silky smooth, cool, and breathable on your eyes, helping to block out the world and lull you to sleep.

9. Flameless Wax Candles, Food52

When the sun disappears on you at 4.30 pm, you can bring a warm glow to your home with these flameless wax candles. They have a flickering wick on top that makes them look like real candles, but they’re battery-powered and remote-controlled…which is much safer for when you fall asleep—and forget to turn them off.

What is your favorite way to prep your home for winter coziness? Tell us in the comments below!