Let’s be honest — while the holidays are wonderful, they can also be extremely stressful. This year they’re bound to be even more stressful with the threat of another wave of COVID-19 hitting the U.S. Luckily, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has guidelines to make the holidays safer. They also have plenty of suggestions for dealing with stress.
While there’s no denying that this holiday season is likely going to be the most stressful one yet, there are some eco-friendly products to get you through the time of year. Read on to learn about some of the helpful options out there.
Wool Dryer Balls
By purchasing eco-friendly wool dryer balls to add with your wet clothes as you take them out of the washer and put them in the dryer, you can shorten your dry time and instill a natural softness to all of your fabrics. These dryer balls also prevent static cling and allergies so say goodbye to lint and rashes caused by sensitive skin. Plus, according to reviewers, you can add a couple of drops of essential oil on the dryer balls to add your preferred calming fragrance to a whole load of laundry.
Tru Earth wool dryer balls are the perfect natural alternative to traditional dryer sheets (which are bad for your dryer and your skin) and fabric softeners, as they are made of 100 percent New Zealand wool (never any fillers or synthetics) and naturally provide softness. Unlike dryer sheets, dryer balls prevent wrinkles, soften fibers, and absorb moisture reducing dry time, which also saves energy.
Bonus tip: add a drop of lavender essential oil to your dryer ball so that your dry clothes will keep you calm throughout the holidays.
Online Petite Clothing
According to a Business Insider article from 2016, unlike the body-positive “battle cry” for the plus-sized community, there’s a lack of support for petite ladies despite the fact that roughly 70 million women living in the U.S. are under 5’4.” The author’s number one solution? Skip the outlets and shop online.
Whether it’s a formal outfit to pose for your holiday card or cozy clothes for relaxing by the fire, you can find petite women’s clothing to update your wardrobe from the comfort of your own home. From petite leggings and denim to skirts, you’re sure to find something stylish (and cozy) to fit your petite legs. To fit your petite waist stylishly and comfortably, check out White House Black Market’s wide selection of dresses and outerwear such as jackets, sweaters, coats, and comfy sweatshirts in petite sizes.
Bonus tip: Check out their free return policy and free shipping on petite sizes as well!
Natural and Calming Scents
One of the best ways to help calm yourself is with your favorite scent. During the holidays, things like cinnamon-scented pinecones or soy candles in your favorite holiday scents can give your home a much-needed level of joy and comfort. It may even remind you of simpler times before the pandemic.
Bonus tip: Purchase a diffuser and add some lavender essential oil to help you sleep.
Natural Cleaning Products
According to an article in The Washington Post, when it comes to COVID-19, it could be best to avoid using “green products” on frequently touched surfaces as not many of these products have been shown to actually kill the virus. To kill the virus, you will need to use products made with bleach, isopropyl alcohol, quaternary ammonium compounds, etc. However, washing your blankets and bath towels with green products is perfectly fine.
Note: towels used for disinfecting and clothes worn outside the home should be washed separately and carefully.
Want more good news? Multiple sources (including the CDC) recommend washing your hands with plain soap and water to prevent spreading germs. This means that you can choose natural soaps to wash your hands and body. Choose a hand soap and shower gel that smells great, helps you relax and keeps your skin soft all through the holidays.
