18 Items Under $25 to Help You Brighten Your Winter Blues at Home

published Nov 30, 2022
We independently select these products—if you buy from one of our links, we may earn a commission. All prices were accurate at the time of publishing.
Someone reading on sofa in living room
Credit: Photo: Christopher Testani; Prop Styling: Carla Gonzalez Hart; Nails: Mamie Onishi; Blanket: Courtesy of Happy Habitat

As the news (and the thermometer) is reporting six feet of snow in Buffalo, NY, last week, shorter days and treacherous winter weather are officially here. Translation: You’re probably going to be spending a lot of time indoors over the next few months. While some people relish being inside with no complaints, others (me included) find too much darkness a bit hard on the psyche. That’s why the team of experts over here at AT put our heads together to come up with a list of affordable ways to beat the winter blues at home.

Below you’ll find our top picks, from light-therapy lamps that mimic the effects of sunlight to snuggly throw blankets. You’ll also find self-care essentials like delish snacks and aromatherapy shower bombs. And because each one costs less than $25, you won’t have to put added stress on your wallet to make it through the dark days ahead.

1 / 18
Amazon
$21.60

If you feel down when the days get shorter, you might be experiencing seasonal affective disorder (SAD). This SAD-therapy lamp helps combat the winter blues by emitting a glow that mimics the effects of sunlight, giving your mind and body everything you need to stay on top of your game. "I got this for my mom," Alicia, our senior commerce editor, shared. "She really dislikes the dark Illinois winters, and this budget-friendly LED light has helped her out."

2 / 18
Maisonette
$21.99

Put your mind to work on this 1,000-piece puzzle that showcases an adorable illustration of cats lounging on the Italian Riviera. Usually these high-quality eeBoo puzzles can be pricey, but right now you can bring them home for just $22 each. If you have any puzzlers on your gift list, this is the perfect time to stock up.

3 / 18
Amazon
$12.48

Plants (literally) bring a room to life, and they're extra important to have around when the daylight hours get shorter. This adorable String of Dolphins Succulent from Amazon is easy to grow and requires very little maintenance — but even better, the leaves look like little dolphins! We never knew plants could be so cute.

4 / 18
Anthropologie
$22.00

Candles are a must-have when you're spending lots of time inside. We're big fans of Capri Blue, the brand that makes Anthropologie's iconic Volcano scent. To prep for this winter, right now you can score mini votives in three of the company's other sumptuous scents: Pumpkin Clove, Spiced Cider, and Fir & Firewood.

5 / 18
See's Candies
$12.50

If you're going to hibernate for the winter, you're gonna need some fuel. We suggest munching on these tasty treats from AT-editor-favorite chocolatier See's. Each bag includes crunchy roasted almonds enveloped in creamy milk chocolate, so you get the sweet-and-salty combo that your taste buds love.

6 / 18
Always Fits
$22.00

Keep your hands as busy as Blanche's boudoir with this Golden Girls-themed cross stitch kit. It comes with 12 different patterns, along with step-by-step instructions, an embroidery hoop, a needle, floss, and fabric (unless you prefer to use your own pillowcase or garment). Throw in a cheesecake and some binge-watching, and you'll be all set to spend your time inside laughing along with the ladies.

7 / 18
Macy's
$17.99
was $54.00

When the temperature drops, wrap yourself in coziness in the form of this ultra-plush throw from Madison Park. Not only is it stylish, but the polyester faux fur is so soft that this blanket will quickly become your new favorite home accessory. You certainly won't mind being stuck in the house when you have this baby to keep you warm.

8 / 18
Rifle Paper Co.
$16.20
was $18.00

If you're bummed about being stuck inside, why not get a head start on planning all of the fun things you're going to do after the snow thaws? This gorgeous gold-foil-stamped 2023 planner from Rifle Paper Co. is the perfect spot to jot down your appointments, parties, important dates, and more.

9 / 18
Amazon
$8.58
was $9.99

Loved by AT readers and staff alike, the Maxsoft Hair Scalp Massager Shampoo Brush is the self-care essential you never knew you needed. This hair tool exfoliates the scalp (reducing dandruff and stimulating hair growth) for a salon-worthy massage from the comfort of your own home.

10 / 18
Amazon
$8.99
was $9.99

At first glance, this item looks like a regular string of festive lights, complete with twisted green wiring and multicolored vintage bulbs. Look closely, though, and you’ll realize it’s actually a charging cable for your iPhone — how fun is that? It's the perfect way to add cheer and functionality to your space.

11 / 18
Brooklinen
$21.75
was $29.00

Give yourself and your skin a good night’s rest with this luxurious silk eye mask. The soft, luscious Mulberry silk prevents creases around the eyes and avoids friction-induced hair damage, leaving you looking and feeling refreshed come morning. The silk is also cool and breathable, so it's a comfortable fit, no matter the season.

12 / 18
Nguyen Coffee Supply
$18.00

Nguyen Coffee Supply is a favorite brand over here at AT, so if you're looking for a smooth brew that can keep you going through those winter days, give Moxy a whirl. This particular variety of single-origin Arabica features flavor notes of chocolate, cherry, honey, and wild berries. Choose whole beans or ground, and the Brooklyn-based roaster will ship your order straight to your door.

13 / 18
Uncommon Goods
$20.00

When it's too icy to head to the museum, why not bring the museum to you in the form of this sculptural decor piece from Uncommon Goods? Designed to look like an open baggie filled with jellybeans, it's an artistic way to add whimsy to your space during dark winter days.

14 / 18
Nordstrom
$18.00

Turn an everyday shower into a spa-like experience with these effervescent aromatherapy shower bombs. This set comes with six bath bombs in three different varieties: Happy, Detox, and Calm. Just place one in the bottom of your shower, take a deep inhale, and let the delicious scents help transport you to a spa.

15 / 18
GIR
$13.95

Time inside is the perfect opportunity to try new hobbies... like baking! Editor-favorite brand GIR makes all sorts of fun and affordable accessories to help make your kitchen outings a success. We particularly love the Sprinkles pattern, which you can find on this handy baking mat along with spatulas and other tools.

16 / 18
Bed Bath & Beyond
$24.99
was $29.99

When you're feeling rundown, rejuvenate yourself with this HoMedics Bubble Bliss Foot Spa. It makes soothing bubbles, maintains the perfect water temperature, and offers acupressure for those tired soles. Put on some calming music, close your eyes, and bliss out.

17 / 18
Amazon
$24.89

Put the "om" in home with this lightweight sticky mat from Gaiam. It offers just the right amount of cushioning under your joints, whether you're working out with weights or centering yourself during an online yoga session. Not sure where to start? The mat includes a free downloadable yoga class.

18 / 18
Grace Farms Foods
$27.00

This cold-brew coffee press from Bodum will keep you caffeinated through those dreary winter months and beyond. Comprised of BPA-free plastic, silicone, rubber, and stainless steel, the eco-friendly brewing system is available in four chic colors.