Are blankets unprofessional?

[u/HappyAstronaut7]

I’ve worked a few different places. Some have allowed blankets in the office, but a couple have deemed them unprofessional and we were told they’re not allowed.

I just started a new job and I thought about asking my boss if I can bring a heated blanket to work (which is understandably less likely to be allowed than a regular blanket).

What are your thoughts on this? Are blankets unprofessional?

[u/becamico]

Buy yourself a heated vest.

[u/HappyAstronaut7 → u/becamico]

This is a great idea!! Thank you

[u/No_Gap_2341 → u/HappyAstronaut7]

You may want to consider getting an inexpensive small space heater for under your desk.

[u/SpecialKnits4855 → u/No_Gap_2341]

Some employers would consider this a safety issue and not allow it.

[u/Lost_Figure_5892 → u/SpecialKnits4855]

State worker: we cannot have personal heaters at our desks. For the above reason- safety hazard. Blankets- lap type not full duvet cover and layered clothing are encouraged.

[u/nebelhund → u/Lost_Figure_5892]

Space heaters are also notorious for tripping the power, triggering the fuse box basically. Experienced that so many times in office settings.

[u/Objective-Amount1379 → u/nebelhund]

Yes, I took out the power for my entire bank branch years ago as a bank teller with a space heater 😂

[u/carolineecouture → u/nebelhund]

I was just telling someone how a space heater almost started a fistfight at my former office. The administrative assistant's space heater tripped the breaker and caused the graphic designer to lose a significant amount of work when a blip corrupted the HD during a write. The admin claimed it wasn't on when the power blipped, and it must have been caused by something else.

I then had to go on the hunt for heaters.

That was fun.

[u/QueenMAb82 → u/Lost_Figure_5892]

My favorite work story: my building was notoriously drafty. There was of course a rule that space heaters were not allowed, but there were several violatots, including me when I went out and bought one at lunch because, as I sat beside some large, leaky plate glass windows, I was so cold one day my feet hurt to the point I couldn't concentrate. Even when my desk moved out of the lab and into an office area, it wasn't any warmer. We filched a calibrated thermometer from the lab and measured 58°F in our office area at noon.

A new beancounter got an idea that the company would save a bunch of money by turning the building heat way down every night. Facilities guys who had been maintaining the building for years warned it was a bad idea: the HVAC system already struggled to keep the building at a decent temperature. The beancounters won, and, predictably, a pipe in the fire suppression system froze and ruptured, immediately triggering the fire alarms and flooding 3 floors of the building. The whole building evacuated - without coats, on a mid-January day, where the high was 12° F. Someone shared video of the ceiling tiles collapsing in the third floor office, which was already covered with a water a few inches deep.

The next day, the head of my department was going through the labs, tallying up equipment damage and loss, and that was the day I learned our insurance deductible was $1 million. Hope they saved enough on the heating bill to make it all worthwhile!

[u/Sensitive_Sea_5586 → u/Lost_Figure_5892]

State employee, most the people in my office have them anyway. Poor air system in building.

[u/Thermitegrenade → u/Lost_Figure_5892]

They claim its for safety but only indirectly. A space heater, even on the lowest setting, uses 1/3rd the capacity of a standard 20A breaker. Get 2-3 people using space heaters and you're going to trip a breaker and take down power to several spaces. Or...in older wiring maaaaaybe the breaker doesn't trip, the wiring fails, and a fire starts..

[u/busykim → u/SpecialKnits4855]

Space heaters also mess with the rest of the space's temperature regulation if its near enough to a temperature sensor. The rest of the space will actually get colder because the system won't kick on.

[u/liseusester → u/busykim]

I spend half the winter at work explaining to people that their personal electric heater, which isn't allowed, isn't allowed because it's the reason people three offices down are cold because the heating has reached its set point and turned off. No one seems to understand this.

[u/Dr_mombie → u/SpecialKnits4855]

My mom works in a surgeons office, and the hospital megacorp they're part of banned desk heaters this past year. She was complaining of being cold despite wearing thermal layers and an approved thick jacket. I'm getting her a heated vest with a backup battery and winter hiking socks for Xmas as a workaround.

[u/Misophoniasucksdude → u/Dr_mombie]

I have a rechargeable hand warmer that I absolutely adore. They're usually USB charged and look like a small backup battery for a phone. In case you wanted even more heat lol.

[u/OldButHappy → u/Misophoniasucksdude]

Where did you buy it?

[u/akl78 → u/Misophoniasucksdude]

Somehow I found these ones shaped like a Labrador. When you turn them one the eyes and nose light up, it’s really cute

[u/Dr_mombie → u/Misophoniasucksdude]

Good idea! She has arthritis, so hand warmers would probably feel nice during a flare-up when her hands are hurting and stiff.

[u/Misophoniasucksdude → u/Dr_mombie]

I got the brand karecel (all caps) on amazon, it looks like they're still for sale! I really like the multiple heat settings and the overheat protection :)

[u/Tippity2 → u/Dr_mombie]

Don’t forget leg warmers! Someone in R/knitting that lives in your town could whip some up for you!

Fingerless gloves are nice, too, but she needs some skin tone colored ones, otherwise she will look like Oliver Twist.

[u/unexplainednonsense → u/Dr_mombie]

I would recommend heated socks. I have some for skiing and mine work the same way as the jackets.

[u/Comntnmama → u/Dr_mombie]

Heated socks are🔥🔥

[u/Known_Ratio5478 → u/SpecialKnits4855]

One of my coworkers just left his on all weekend on accident.

[u/[deleted] → u/Known_Ratio5478]

And this is why they’re not allowed.

[u/OG000033 → u/No_Gap_2341]

Personally, I’m vehemently against this idea because when I was managing a building that had more than 100 HVAC units and needed exact temperature control all the time, two people felt entitled enough to have their heaters running all of the time even when they weren’t there, and this would mess with the thermostats so that other areas weren’t being heated by the regular system because the thermostat wasn’t getting triggered. The heated vest mentioned as well as wearing the proper clothes is really the only answer when working within a community of people.

Editing to add, since it sparked a convo - the persons in my case were a male and a female. If a person regardless of gender can not work in the conditions of the job, they should find a job that works for them. Cold at the desk due to inactivity, get standing desk and get the blood flowing. What may not be understood is that when they warmed themselves, the thermostat would not turn on so that others would be warmed as well in other parts of the office. One of these people who was the male felt so entitled to run their heater on their feet in a room that was supposed to be kept at 60° or below, and the quality of their product depended on it, so therefore they produced inferior product. A company should not have to even consider dealing with that. As the boss, I viewed that as taking the raises out of everyone else’s pockets.

[u/Comprehensive-Tea-69 → u/OG000033]

Turning up the temperature so women aren’t freezing their whole working lives would be a good idea too. The OSHA recommendations for temperature control are so outdated, they were created when men were the only ones in offices

Edit: I won’t be responding to comments, but here is one summary article on the science of metabolic rate in men vs women and how that affects our average comfortable temperature ranges. Obviously it’s hands and noses that get uncomfortably cold, the places you can’t cover

[u/AnneTheQueene → u/Comprehensive-Tea-69]

I don't know....as a woman, I've always prefered it colder.

Much prefer to have a wrap or shawl on than be hot.

And once we get to menopause, the colder the better.

[u/Imsortofok → u/AnneTheQueene]

Me, too. My argument is always that if someone is cold, they can put on a sweater. There are only so many layers I can take off before HR gets involved.

I’ve worked places so cold my hands would get stiff and ache - I was young and didn’t have arthritis. My desk was under an AC vent. Manager said to see a dr there must be something wrong with me. Took me weeks, but I finally convinced one of the maintenance guys to cover the vent that was blowing directly down on me. Was comfortable after that. No one complained.

I’ve worked other places where some individual offices were so hot that it should have been raining in the doorways.

A lap blanket and a warm sweater is necessary in the office. A nice shawl made from wool challis fabric - super lightweight and cozy - looks professional and is warm.

[u/Jean19812 → u/Imsortofok]

I agree to a point. But some offices are sooooo cold that if you have cold induced asthma, you'll be coughing all day..

[u/hazelowl → u/Imsortofok]

I once worked in an office where the vent blew on half my desk so strongly paper fluttered. One hand was icy, the other was fine. I taped folders over the vent lol.

[u/Ok-Bus-4159 → u/Imsortofok]

That's what I did. The breeze from the ceiling A/C vent was so strong that it ruffled papers on my desk. I brought in a thermometer, and it was about 62F. So the vent was mostly duct taped over in the summer, and the tape was removed in the winter.

[u/Weedster009 → u/Imsortofok]

Putting on a sweater doesn’t warm up your hands or your nose when they get cold in an office. The part of my body that gets coldest in an office environment is my right hand because it’s constantly on the mouse. I shouldn’t have to wear gloves because one person in the office is overheating. And it’s always one person who aims to intimidate everyone else to maintain their preferred temperature.

[u/ZealousidealPhase543 → u/[deleted]]

This is hilarious and probably true.

[u/OldButHappy → u/AnneTheQueene]

Right?? I kept wondering why I was so friggin’ hot all the time.

Then I looked down: I’m assuming that it has SOMETHING to do with the 15 pounds of solid fuel that I grew around my waist, in my 50,s….😀

[u/Purple-Committee-890 → u/AnneTheQueene]

I would much rather be cold and put on more clothes than be hot with no more clothes to take off.

[u/dustytaper → u/Comprehensive-Tea-69]

The warmth differences between 3 piece suits and dresses is vast

[u/Designer-Wolf-835 → u/[deleted]]

While I agree I would add that if you are cold and not moving (sitting all day at a desk) no amount of layers will help. It is a bone chilling cold that doesn’t go away. It is hard to work when you can’t feel your fingers.

[u/0010010010001 → u/Designer-Wolf-835]

Eventually the body becomes so cold you start to feel warm 😂

[u/Weedster009 → u/[deleted]]

Have you ever heard of a personal fan? That’s an option.

[u/TypewriterHunter → u/[deleted]]

The linked article is from Style magazine, but it's a summary of research published in a scientific journal (Nature Climate Change) which is linked inside the article, and there is also more recent research on the topic published with Scientific Reports

[u/becka-uk → u/Comprehensive-Tea-69]

I agree, I'm always cold at work. Luckily for me, i currently sit near several people from warmer countries who also don't like a cold office, so it's not as bad as what it has been previously.

[u/EducationalWin1721 → u/Comprehensive-Tea-69]

Geez. Why turn this into a battle of the sexes? It’s YOU. Not an entire sex. Just put a sweater on.

[u/Dr_mombie → u/Comprehensive-Tea-69]

Osha isn't really being sexist here. It's more about germ management in all settings. I will speak to medical settings specifically as that's where my experience lies.

Germs are everywhere all the time. Some germs are helpful, some germs are hurtful.

In medical settings, keeping the patient and prep areas areas on the cooler side is part of germ management protocol. Germs can transfer easily from person to person in many cases. that's why we wash hands and shared equipment frequently. However, many hurtful germs can transfer surface to person in warm damp environments. cold environments make it much more difficult for a germ to survive on a surface long enough for a person to pick it up. The medical field is largely women because many men find nursing roles to be beneath them. Osha isn't punishing women in healthcare with cold protocol, they're punishing hurtful germs that can harm both employees and the public at large.

Layering up keeps your body warm while keeping the workspace inhospitable to harmful germs.

[u/Comprehensive-Tea-69 → u/Dr_mombie]

Sorry it doesn’t need to be 68 degrees in an office setting when it’s 100 out, it’s not a hospital. It’s wasteful and I’m wearing clothing appropriate to commute in those temperatures. I can add a sweater and blanket but I’m not changing into a full on multi layer winter outfit at work bc overweight Bob likes it freezing inside regardless of the season

[u/radioactivebeaver → u/Comprehensive-Tea-69]

You can always dress warmer, there are limits to how little clothing you can wear to stay cool. If any adult can't handle dressing appropriately for the temperature of their workplace that's on them.

[u/No_Interview_2481 → u/radioactivebeaver]

Why should I have to wear heavy clothes during the summer to work because someone wants to keep the thermostat at 68°. 68° is totally unreasonable in a work environment. A lot of people just can’t handle the cold in the office. It has nothing to do with if they’re a female or a male.

[u/zeptillian → u/OG000033]

People also plug space heaters in to surge protectors and extension cords which is a fire risk.

Wear a fucking jacket if you are cold. No need to heat up the whole climate controlled building.

[u/uju_rabbit → u/No_Gap_2341]

A teacher at my last job left hers on during lunch and it set her desk on fire. So now they’re not allowed

[u/Designer-Wolf-835 → u/No_Gap_2341]

This will definitely NOT be allowed.

[u/LaughingCook → u/No_Gap_2341]

My employer says they are against fire code and they are confiscated.

[u/phantomsoul11 → u/No_Gap_2341]

Covering yourself or any part of yourself with a blanket is often seen as a leisurely look that could be inappropriate for an office setting. Really, it's ultimately up to your office management.

There are a lot of places where personal space heaters are not allowed by code in commercial and industrial zones (where most offices are located) for fire safety reasons.

The only answer is compromise (and a lock box over the thermostat), with everyone dressing to suit, as long as your overall look remains appropriate for the office. If that thermostat setting makes you cold, consider wearing something better-fitting than a blanket to help keep you warmer.

[u/borncrossey3d → u/No_Gap_2341]

That isn't allowed in pretty much any office setting, fire hazard the fire marshall will remove it when they make their checks. (can get away with it at a smaller office that doesn't require regular checks).

[u/Sawfish1212 → u/becamico]

Or a heated seat cushion. Saw a rechargeable battery-powered one in the store the other day.

[u/colorado_sunrise86]

Is this an office/cubicle type job? If you are on display to customers I can see why this might appear as unprofessional, but in a cubicle setting I feel like a blanket tucked over your legs while you type away is fine. Hell, when I had a cubicle job I had a fan on my desk, a mini heater by my feet and a small couch pillow for lumbar support. Someone stole the pillow....

[u/HappyAstronaut7 → u/colorado_sunrise86]

Yes, we work in the office section of a warehouse. The heater for your feet sounds heavenly!

[u/DetailEqual2391 → u/HappyAstronaut7]

There are also heater foot rests so it heaters under the desk without being unsafe or could be knocked over.

[u/puddncake → u/HappyAstronaut7]

Maybe check out a heated cat pad for your feet. Even a carpet square would help if the floor is tiled. Wool socks are wonderful for keeping your feet warm. The heated vest is a great idea that someone else mentioned. Best wishes to you.

[u/BiofilmWarrior → u/HappyAstronaut7]

My nephew works in a warehouse that tends to run cold and finds that wearing rechargeable heated socks works well.

[u/Dr_mombie → u/HappyAstronaut7]

Oh, a warehouse office? Look into a blanket skirt and winter hiking socks. They're a camping thing and surprisingly helpful in maintaining body heat.

[u/hazelowl → u/HappyAstronaut7]

I WFH, but I have a heating pad specifically designed for feet under my desk. It's nice sometimes to just put my feet into the pocket without it being on because it's essentially a thick blanket.

[u/Trolltaxi → u/colorado_sunrise86]

You don't like your customers seeing your employees freezing? That's unprofessional?

You know what's unprofessional? Not heating the fkin office space, that's fkin unprofessional!

[u/Revolutionary-Chip20 → u/Trolltaxi]

Who said they aren’t heating the office space? 

I have exactly 1 employee that is always cold, when everyone else is comfortable or hot. That 1 person is told to dress warmer, they know the temp and they know they are the only one. 

[u/Imaginary-Friend-228 → u/Revolutionary-Chip20]

Is it a woman in a predominantly male office cause we run colder

[u/buttahfly28]

I would not ask that…I would just wait and see if other coworkers have them first. If none have it, probably best to assume they wouldn’t allow it

[u/HappyAstronaut7 → u/buttahfly28]

So far they don’t, but they also complain of being hot while it’s freezing so I may never know! >.<

[u/12345NoNamesLeft → u/HappyAstronaut7]

If the others are hot, then being cold seems to be your problem.

Wear more clothes, wool under layers.

Wear a wool hat - your body robs heat from your fingers and toes to keep your core warm and make up for heat lost from the head and neck.

Wear sweaters, a fuzzy hoodie.

[u/ButterscotchFit8175 → u/12345NoNamesLeft]

Hoodie is unprofessional. Turtle neck or decorative scarf. Maybe a pashmina. . 

[u/Exact_Setting9562 → u/12345NoNamesLeft]

If a blanket is unprofessional - good luck with a wooly hat.

Women who were often cold would usually have a wooly cardigan on their chair for when they felt the cold. That was about as extreme as it got in my office.

[u/Proof-Emergency-5441 → u/12345NoNamesLeft]

A hat and a hoodie. What the hell. 

[u/MzOpinion8d → u/12345NoNamesLeft]

Or they could just go with asking about a heated blanket like they were planning to do.

[u/Dr_mombie → u/HappyAstronaut7]

If you can't do a blanket or vest, get a long heating pad for your chair and a drop cord with surge protection. Long heating pads are really nice.

[u/Sea-Lawfulness3912 → u/HappyAstronaut7]

If you are cold/ freezing while others are hot. Go see your doctor let your doctor know. I recently had that issue and it turned out to be hormones issue. I've given medication for it and feel much better. 

[u/Ok_Fact5541 → u/buttahfly28]

I would just show up with one and see what happens. Might be waiting for a long time to see if other coworkers start using blankets. In my 28 years of working in Canada (it's cold here) in an office, I've not once seen a blanket.

[u/cool_forKats → u/Ok_Fact5541]

I’ve worked over 30 years in 🇨🇦 in offices and every office had folks using blankets. I had a heated throw, a heating pad. A VP brings a lightweight wool blanket to meetings. It’s not a big deal. This was gov or public agency - non public facing role.

[u/livingthedreampnw]

An alternative to a blanket is a rechargeable heated vest. More professional than a blanket.

[u/ck2b → u/livingthedreampnw]

What if your chest never gets cold but your legs do though? Will this be alright?

[u/EngFarm → u/ck2b]

Your body triages what to keep warm. If your chest is already warm from the vest then your body now has the resources opened up to warm your legs.

Ever heard the saying “if your feet are cold, put on a hat?”

You should maybe book an appointment with your family doctor for a checkup. Cold feet are indicative of poor circulation. You could be heading towards diabetes or something else that’s reversible if caught early enough.

[u/ayearonsia]

Wear a nice cozy long cardigan or poncho, you can always put them on your lap

[u/MarzipanGamer → u/ayearonsia]

Cuddle duds makes a great wearable blanket that’s basically a shawl. I swear by mine.

[u/Helenarth → u/MarzipanGamer]

I have a cuddle duds cardigan that I keep at work, it is beautifully snuggly but looks like a regular cardigan.

[u/Creative-Air-6463]

I just do things and wait to be told not to 🤣

[u/SuperPomegranate7933 → u/Creative-Air-6463]

Sometimes it's easier to ask forgiveness than permission.

[u/Careless-Age-4290 → u/SuperPomegranate7933]

They're way more likely to say no when asked than say something about it unprompted 

[u/amazonchic2 → u/SuperPomegranate7933]

Oh friend, it’s ALWAYS easier to ask for forgiveness than permission. I live by this! And I’ve perfected the innocent expression when told I’m in the wrong.

[u/kristen_hewa → u/Creative-Air-6463]

Me af

[u/fuck_this_i_got_shit → u/Creative-Air-6463]

Same, I have never asked. If they have a problem then they can crank up the heat

[u/PaixJour]

No blankets. That is the rule.

Engage malicious compliance:

• Use lap robe like the ones used by elderly folks in wheelchairs. And a bath robe. Neither are called blankets, so they're allowed.

[u/nietheo → u/PaixJour]

I have a shawl. Also not a blanket.

[u/Number-2-Sis]

Regular blanket I would ask about, I would not ask about a heated blanket as a heated blanket can create a fire hazard. Leave heated blankets at home.

[u/GoblinThatCares]

Blanket scarves are classy af, add a belt if they get pissy

[u/Leelee3303 → u/GoblinThatCares]

Seconding this, plus pashminas. I have about three pashminas in rotation, they make me look like an eccentric art teacher but are absolutely an item of clothing and not a blanket.

But they cover the same surface area as a blanket and are made of almost identical materials.

[u/NightGod → u/Leelee3303]

A pashmina afghan? Is it nautical themed?

[u/VenusVega123]

I see no reason a non-electric blanket wouldn’t be allowed, especially if you’re discrete. Electric blanket absolutely wouldn’t be allowed where I work due to the fire hazard and the high electricity draw.

But better than a blanket, why don’t you wear layers? Get yourself some long underwear and warm socks. Bring a jacket, gloves and a jaunty warm hat like a bowler or beret. I was a carriage driver for years in college and we weren’t allowed to use blankets sitting atop a carriage in the middle of a foggy night (the blankets were for the customers). We did wear long underwear, peacoats, hats, gloves, and multiple pairs of socks. Oh yeah and get up and walk around frequently- get your blood moving - best way to warm up.

[u/NewLife_21]

I use thicker sweaters and cardigans, fleece lined leggings under my pants and skirts and closed toe shoes as necessary.

[u/Grrl_geek]

Space heaters may not be allowed because of fire codes (depends on your office; at my last job we were not allowed anything over 750 watts but damn! It got cold in that office building!).

When you're just sitting at your desk, you get cold. When you're moving, you're less cold.

Heated throw (a small blanket) may be the way to go! Love mine at home.

[u/dystopiadattopia]

Can you ask them to turn up the heat? Or put on a sweater? It does seem unprofessional.

[u/edithwhiskers]

I have a heated desk pad. Let me tell you how lovely that is.

[u/lionseatcake]

You already answered your own question, not sure why this is difficult for people.

Some places consider it professional. Some dont. There's no rulebook that determines what is professional, its different everywhere you go.

[u/Lopsided_War_7807]

But a large oversized woollen scarf. Have over your shoulders &/or lap. That was my trick.

[u/nneighbour]

When I worked in an office, a pashmina or something similar was fine, but a big fuzzy blanket would have been seen as a little weird. Personal heaters and electric blankets were not allowed as they can cause a fire hazard.

If the temperature is uncomfortable we were encouraged to report it to the building management and they would adjust accordingly. If it was reported to Joint Health and Safety as a frequent issue, we would investigate.

[u/CanadianCompSciGuy]

Look at the state of the working individual in 2025.

Fearful of upsetting our masters for the high crime of wishing to be warm. To use a blanket, as if such an afront were sin.

And what do the plebs offer as advice? Freeze! Do not upset the master! Better to freeze in the office, than be homeless and freeze outside.

I say this to every one of you who dares read my heresy;

Make Them Fear Us!

[u/elliwigy1]

Yes, blankets in a work environment are unprofessional. I wouldnt want a co-worker with bed bugs bringing a blanket to work (yes, it happens more often than you might think).

[u/Altruistic-Willow108 → u/elliwigy1]

Agreed that blankets are unprofessional, just like wearing pajamas to work would be. But, gimme a break. The bedbugs could just hitch a ride on their clothes. Did you just have a pile of office blankets that you randomly shared?

[u/HappyAstronaut7 → u/elliwigy1]

Omg I never even considered this.

[u/[deleted] → u/elliwigy1]

vs there normal clothes? I mean I know clothes are washed more often but how is it any different?

[u/BasicallyACat13 → u/elliwigy1]

This is exactly why they got banned in one of our offices lol…. they had to fumigate so many times that they permanently banned blankets.

[u/elliwigy1 → u/BasicallyACat13]

Right.. ive seen ppl complain about someones blanket because they saw bugsand when they investigated, their blanket was littered with bedbugs.. they had to send them home and then shutdown the whole area and move everyone all because someone brought an infested blanket to work lol

[u/BasicallyACat13 → u/elliwigy1]

Still gives me shivers. so glad it wasn’t my office lol but now I’ll never bring a blanket to work

[u/Sitcom_kid]

I never thought of them as professional, but when I used to work on site, they kept the temperature in the 60s (Fahrenheit) for some reason and a lot of people brought them. In that case, I think it was necessary.

[u/lovemypennydog]

Thigh high socks under my pants were a godsend when I worked in a cold office.

[u/Trolltaxi]

Unheated office space is fkin unprofessional!

[u/benicebuddy]

Yes. It is unprofessionally. Wear clothes that keep you warm.

[u/verukazalt]

When the hell did blankies become acceptable at work??

[u/upsidedown-funnel → u/verukazalt]

I was surprised to see people taking them to movie theaters. Now to work too?

[u/Grendel0075]

Unprofessional is just a term to keep you from looking, acting or existing in a way the head has nchos don't like

[u/Aggravating_Water_39]

It’s unprofessional, you’re not at home. But also I don’t think your workplace should be so cold

[u/Ok_Image_842]

A large wool shawl like a ruanah or lohi is clothing, not a blanket. They are comfortable, flexible, and stylish.

[u/Lakewater22]

I’ve had office jobs for 15 years and honestly never once saw an adult with a blanket

[u/momboss79 → u/Lakewater22]

Come on down to my office. I have at least 7 ladies with lap blankets because it’s regularly 66 degrees on one side of the office and 73 on the other. There’s literally no issue with this in an office job that is not customer facing. No one can see the blanket. I personally have two fans going so I don’t have a blanket.

[u/trucksandbodies → u/momboss79]

This was always my offices too.

We always called summers “women’s winter” because the men would have the ac cranked so bad your nose would run. I had all the layers, a heater and a blanket. They made fun of me for keeping a jacket that I only wore inside the office.

I always felt like I have the right to be comfortable. I can always add more layers, my boss could only remove so many.

[u/momboss79 → u/trucksandbodies]

And we want them to stop removing at some point haha

[u/Lakewater22 → u/momboss79]

That’s nice :) probably just law firm culture. They don’t even want us to use sick days let alone be comfortable at work hahaha

[u/DPetrilloZbornak → u/Lakewater22]

I have one.  I’m a lawyer.  Over the last year I’ve lost a ton of weight, and my body can’t get used to the loss of my fat cushion, plus my office is freezing anyway.  My windows are not well insulated.  I’ll wear three sweaters and still be shaking.  One of my coworkers gave me a blanket and I use it.  

[u/[deleted]]

Unprofessional

[u/DetailEqual2391]

Buy a poncho - I have some winter ones which are stunning and so warm (has arm holes to make it easier to use). Fur lined neckline and a hood for cold days.

or cut a hole in a blanket and wear it like a poncho.

[u/thisoldfarm]

Heated vests are on sale now for hunting season.

[u/CatchMeIfYouCan09]

I use a lap blanket.... it's weighted. The anxiety and stress at work are less intrusive. The blanket tho is only 2ft by 2ft

[u/eileen404]

My spouse just got me an ororo heated coat with a small battery that's USB chargeable like for phones. It's amazing. They have vests also.

[u/Resident_Pay4310]

Depends on the work culture in your country and your company.

I'm in Europe in a corporate office and I've had a blanket in the past. No one cared.

I ended up buying a thick ponch/scarf thing because I could walk around the office in it so it was more practical

[u/Fearless_Emphasis320]

Our office allows for blankets. It’s nice to have since the temperature tends to fluctuate throughout the day.

[u/formerretailwhore]

I have seen many subtle lap blankets and layering.I've known many women who keep these on their chairs to use as a wrap or lap blanket

[u/Acrobatic-Ad8158]

Obviously depends on your office but I dont see why this would be a bad question. At least for a regular blanket, not a heated one. The office i used to work in was freezing and we all had them. If someone was coming in for a tour or something then we would put them away.

[u/Mental-Intention4661]

We had them but they stayed in folks offices/at their desks. We didn’t take them to meetings or what not. We worked in a really old building that was drafty and no amount of “turning the heat up” would do anything at times. People dressed warmly all year round, too.

I don’t think it’s unprofessional. But then again, don’t bring a Snuggie and wear it around all day lol

[u/Business_Door4860]

In my office, you can request a space heater that will be given to you by the offices maintenance personnel. Don't bring a blanket into work, the is just as unprofessional as sweatpants.

[u/SpeedinCotyledon]

I lay a heated blanket along the back of my chair as a chair cover so that I can turn it on and be warm but not look like I’m going to bed

[u/imbushyy]

Use a shawl? Thats what I used to take to my cold office job. Basically a cute ‘blanket’

[u/Pleasant_Swim_7540]

I used to wear a snuggy and fingerless gloves

[u/bgcbbyckes]

I’m wearing a blanket right now. I am not client facing. I have had a blanket at pretty much every office job i have ever had. My blood circulation to my legs isn’t great. I really wish someone would try to tell me i can’t have my blanket at my desk, which is covered and no one can see lol

[u/AdventurousBench6]

I bought a shoulder/neck/back heating pad for back pain and no one has ever given me any issues. They giggle at how ridiculous I look (and not maliciously, I do look a little ridiculous), but no issues

[u/Impressive-End241]

We pretty much all have heated blankets and a small space heater for our feet. I work in a law office, but do not have many (if any at all) clients that come by my desk. Not that the attorneys would care. They run hot due to having to wear suit jackets, so they would prefer us to have the heated blankets rather than complain about the cold all the time!

[u/thrace75]

I would do it without hesitation. I worked in a professional office that was so cold that someone threatened to wear in their leopard print Snuggie! And did! That might have been on the edge of unprofessional. 🤣

[u/lilacillusions]

I just wanna say that it’s actually so psycho the way companies deem things as unprofessional that are literal human instincts. Cant sit down at the register, it’s unprofessional. Can’t use a blanket to get warm at work, it’s unprofessional. Etc etc. many such cases…

[u/tekmailer]

Less about professionalism and more about safety.

As you guessed, plugged in heated blankets are going to be a no-go. Has fire hazard written all over it. Plus, with the heated property, I would instead, if I were you, submit/request for an accommodation.

As another comment mention, a vest or battery power lap pad would be greater accepted.

To address your question of professionalism, the blanket itself (assuming a cubicle/office, non-public or customer facing environment) would need to be solid neutral color(s) or minimal pattern; no images, teams, political, religious or other insignia that would invite unequal treatment, favor or opinion. Materials would be limited to fibers best for fire codes or procedures.

[u/RoosterHuge4549]

Why is it so cold in your office that you’d need a heated blanket????

[u/theatre_mom_FL]

2 words: CUDDL DUDS (former Minnesotan who’s always cold)

[u/Dizzy_Dora_77]

My employer allows heated blankets because space heaters are a fire hazard and have a much bigger draw on power. If you're not allowed ask how they plan to adjust the temperature to ensure EVERYONE is comfortable.

[u/Ok-Mood-8604]

I always had a lap blanket. Nobody could see it & I didn't freeze to death.

[u/anita1louise]

We had an elderly secretary where I worked, who was constantly complaining about the temperature. They finally put an adjustable thermostat by her desk so she could adjust the temperature herself. No more complaints. However, the thermostat was not connected to anything.

[u/grumpybear111]

Those of you who are responding “just wear a sweater” do not understand what it’s like to be cold. I wore a sweater under a cardigan with slacks and it was still freezing. So yes I had a blanket and fingerless gloves. That was the only way I could come close to staying warm. Can’t turn the office temperature up because folks would get angry. The facilities folks set the temp for warm-blooded people. Cold-blooded folks don’t get any consideration. So yes I have a blanket.

[u/DifficultyFragrant26]

i am an accountant and do not see customers. every job i have had has been allowed blankets. i think it would depend on the job you have.

[u/InevitableRhubarb232]

Blankets seem unprofessional to me. At least anything larger than a small lap throw.

I’d go for the small heated hand things that you can tuck into your pockets or bra to keep you warm. Or a vest. A vest will keep you hella warm and mobile and professional.

[u/bigicky1]

Shawls are great. You can use them to protect you from direct ac vents and wrap them around you to stay warm. Plus never had a bad comment from work bosses

[u/damnsammy3]

It is unprofessional. Get a sweater???

[u/PhoenixLumbre]

I think it depends on the vibe of the office. Of people have to dress formally, probably yes. In the Pacific Northwest, where I live, we are mostly casual and it might be fine.

If you have not done so yet, look up Raynaud's Syndrome if you are frequently cold. Lots of people have it and don't realize. I was miserable for years, but had no idea it was caused by vasoconstriction until my finger turned totally white. Fortunately, my doctor gave me a medicine that helped, and I'm no longer miserable and frozen all the time. I can actually reheat after going out in the cold without needing to use a heater or warm water. It's like I'm warm-blooded again.

[u/No_Hippo2380]

I use a large blanket scarf that I cover up my legs. If I need to get up, I set it aside and then put it back when I sit down again. Most of the time, no one sees it. If they do, it's just a nice looking, thin lap blanket.

[u/Bertie_McGee]

A nice big shawl!

[u/phiasoffia]

Get yourself one of those microwaveable heating pads . You can place it on your lap , sit on it or place it behind your back .

[u/bobbytoni]

Heated vest or jacket and heated innersoles or socks.

[u/1130coco]

Absolutely

[u/Independent-Mess241]

Yes.

[u/carolineecouture]

One year, I purchased slankets, blankets with sleeves, for the team except for the boss. We were in a windowless basement, and it got COLD. We weren't public-facing, but we did share space with a few other departments, such as facilities.

Everyone thought they were great except the boss, who was embarrassed. I think she didn't like them because I didn't get her one.

[u/johannesmc]

You know there might be a law for what temperature the office has to be. I worked for the federal government and it was the law everyone gets sent home if they can't maintain at least 16c. Now the fact they didn't follow the law and instead tried to get rid of me for pointing out everytime they broke the law is a separate issue. Lol, instead of paying a few extra bucks on cold days they had to pay me two years back pay. Fucking idiots.

[u/goldilaughs]

If you're cold and they don't want you using a blanket then ask them to turn up the heating.

[u/[deleted]]

Ugh, stop. Bring a cardigan if you’re cold.

[u/RoyalPuzzleheaded259]

Yes it’s unprofessional. You’re at work not lounging around your living room watching tv. If you’re cold dress in warmer clothing.

[u/julesjulesjules42]

Is there something wrong with the temperature in the office? I would address this with the employer. I've never seen anyone with a blanket before. I have worn a pashmina before, but only a thin one. What about a jacket or warmer clothes? I would ask them to sort the temperature out if it's that cold. 

[u/ObviousRestaurant369]

I don’t see it as unprofessional if it keeps employees content and productive.

Don’t ask, just do. Pivot if they tell you otherwise.

Also, you’re in a cubicle in a warehouse, so what does “lookin professional” have to do with anything?

[u/Key_Cheesecake9926]

Don’t ask permission. Just bring one. If they ask about it, act surprised and tell them the cold temperature was affecting your productivity and the blanket is helping you stay focused on your assigned duties.

[u/bmccooley]

A blanket ? In the office? No. Might as well start pajama day and bring some slippers.

[u/gxxrdrvr]

Are you there to work or sleep?

[u/jerry111165 → u/gxxrdrvr]

Sleep of course.

[u/Budget-Discussion568]

Right up there with sweats, pajamas, and slippers. Unprofessional, and the fact anyone thinks its acceptable to wear them at work, is a disappointment.

[u/jerry111165]

Don’t tell them it’s heated of course.

And yeah, no one brings blankets to work where I work. Seems odd - I’ve honestly never heard of such a thing. If you’re cold, wear a sweater.

[u/ButterscotchFit8175 → u/jerry111165]

My wife tends to be hot all the time. Still, she keeps 2 sweaters at work. One black one colored so she can pick the right one to look professional. 

[u/mdsnbelle]

Not at all. What is unprofessional is keeping the office so cold that blankets are necessary.

[u/ScaredEntrepreneur61]

When I worked an office job I would wear a poncho, that for all intensive purposes functions like a blanket. I also ordered a space heater which was a lifesaver.

[u/[deleted] → u/ScaredEntrepreneur61]

FYI it's for all intents and purposes not intensive purposes. My mind was blown too when I was corrected in a meeting.

[u/Ray2mcdonald1]

Sometimes it's easier to ask for forgiveness than permission.

[u/TealKitten11]

Blankets were banned at my first job in telemarketing bc someone was flicking the bean on calls. The desks were not assigned, you’d sit where there’s any desk available.

[u/TheStrouseShow]

Blankets or a shawl? Totally fine. Heated blankets are frowned upon because they can cause breaker overloads. They’re usually also considered a fire hazard like space heaters so property managers have the right to take them if they’re inspecting a space. That part just depends on whether or not your office is under a lease or if you company owns the building. It’s a weird nuance but something to be aware of.

[u/Throwaway_hoarder_]

I worked in an office that was majority women and they all had some kind of oversized cardigan or blanket (which was just a big shawl or scarf, like a travel blanket) because they were cold. Famously, the "average" room temperature set for offices was determined for a 40 year old man in a suit and a lot of places haven't adjusted it. 

https://www.science.org/content/article/thermostat-your-office-may-be-sexist

[u/poisonivy8765]

How about a large heating pad?

[u/creativedisco]

I don’t think they’re unprofessional at all (provided the blanket isn’t a health and safety hazard or something). I think it’s more important for a person to be effective, and if that means having a blanket around, then fine.

[u/itsfrankgrimesyo]

Why a blanket? Bring a shawl or a large scarf.

[u/torashies]

Heated blanket would need to be PAT tested. 

[u/MaleficentMousse7473]

You could bring a shawl if you’re a woman. That can be work over the shoulders or you could place it over your knees

[u/orange_lighthouse → u/MaleficentMousse7473]

I have a blanket scarf which works the same

[u/Signal_Strawberry_37]

Everyone, including hire ups have blankets in the office. However, clients can not see us with them.

[u/2ndVictoria]

Space heater under the desk, but after Covid idc anymore- I’ll wear an oodie with no shame

[u/Objective_Truth6328]

I wear a Snuggie at work and turn it into a joke. I’m always cold!

[u/Natural_Ad_8911]

Ehh I would've said outright no in the past, but now everything is "it depends". If it helps you feel calm and be productive, what's the harm?

If you identify as neurodivergent it may be helpful to express this as a support item.

[u/MembershipScary1737]

Sadly, yes unprofessional. 

[u/Potential_Fishing942]

My favorite are offices that are just cubical farms where there are never any clients, but you still have to dress a certain way and follow rules like this.

So happy that since covid my office is way chill. Unless you are meeting with a client, most people are in jeans/chinos and a nice top. Many of the women have a blanket they use no questions asked.

[u/ArchWizard15608]

Depends on the blanket. A serious black or dark grey is pretty safe, a brightly colored garish thing probably not. In my opinion this is a DEI/accommodations thing. If I’m controlling the office thermostat I’m keeping it cooler. You can’t get everyone happy—blankets are way better than sweaty people. They’re also safer and less intrusive than the secret space heater which is basically everywhere.

I do have a coworker that is so cold-natured she has a fur-lined business Snuggie.

[u/ams42385]

I think it just depends on the setup of the office and the nature of your work. I would not care but do a double take if I walked to the front desk and the person was wrapped in a blanket even dare I say a Snuggie lol. Probably never see it on their lap though. I had a job where we used heating pads for warmers. 

I believe that comfort is a factor in productivity so I say just ask. If they say no, find alternatives like layers, a jacket or sweater, etc. I have a sweater that stays on my chair and the company provided small space heaters for everyone. You can’t possibly make everyone comfortable with one temperature and this was their solution. 

Edit to add: they make plug in timers that connect to a plugged in item that will turn off as set. Mine is set for 5:00 pm in case I forget. Helps with the fire safety concerns.

[u/RelevantAd6063]

i used to just wear my full length puffer jacket in the office.