Creature Comforts

Some Simple Ways to Improve your Everyday Life

In the modern world of ever-increasing aggravation and stress, it is incumbent upon us to arrange for some comfort in our lives to whatever extent is possible.

To that end, I suggest a few ideas that may seem trivial or silly — until you actually try them.  I am confident that, if you have not already discovered one or more of these comfort-enhancements, you will be amazed at how much more pleasant certain everyday activities can become.

GET RID OF YOUR WIRE COAT HANGERS

Of course, everyone needs some wooden hangers for heavy items such as overcoats, and there are specialized designs for pants and the like.  But the bulk of your clothing is draped on ordinary hangers, probably the blackish wire kind.  These are difficult to see in a dark closet, they are easily bent and become tangled with each other regularly, and they don't even hold your clothes all that well.

It doesn't have to be that way.  Replace those hideous things with some nice, thick plastic hangers in a color of your choice — preferably white, which is easiest to see.  The best ten dollars you could spend will buy you a hundred hangers at a discount department store.

USE FLANNEL BED SHEETS

Unless you are one of those "It would be beneath me to have anything other than silk next to my pretentious pink body" types, you probably are spending one-third of your life encased between ordinary satin sheets.

If that is true, then try out a set of flannel equivalents, with or without the nifty red cardinal pattern.  They are softer and more moisture-absorbent.  The first time you curl up between your new acquisitions, you will wonder why you ever used anything else.

GET THICK FLOOR MATS FOR YOUR CAR

For those who do a lot of driving, their feet get enough of a workout as it is.  These days most cars come with floor-coverings, which principal intended functions are enhanced appearance and reduction of wear and tear on the carpet.

But that is not why you are proceeding directly to your favorite auto-supply outlet to select the softest, thickest, industrial-strength floor mats available, in the color that best matches your vehicle's interior.  They often are sold in packs of four, but at the least, get a pair to place up front.

Install the mats, climb into your car, and observe the satisfying feeling as your heels sink into that soft cushion.  Your feet will thank you, every mile.

WEAR WHITE SOCKS

Yes, some people are "required" to dress up, or feel compelled to do so — whether for work, their mother's funeral, or because it's "expected" of them.  Dressy outfits such as suits tend to feature dark-colored socks to match the traditionally dark-colored shoes and pants.  Many folks, however, have rejected the old-fashioned "dress ethic," electing to keep their priorities in order and wear what feels best for their own feet.

And that means plain cotton footwear, not synthetic fabrics.  If one doesn't understand why white socks are more comfortable than others, it doesn't matter.  The fact that they do feel better is reason enough to use them more or less exclusively.

Note: serious hikers, among others, recognize that wool or wool-hybrid socks are best for their needs, primarily because of wool's superior moisture-absorption capability.  But for everyday wear, cotton socks are just fine, at a fraction of the cost.

Bonus Feature, Mostly for Men

USE FAT SHOE LACES

The next time you purchase a pair of shoes, select a model that features round laces similar to those furnished with hiking boots.  Numerous attractive such styles are readily available to those who don't suffer from old-fashioned notions.

The tying of shoes can be a several-times-daily activity.  Fat round laces are easier and more fun to use, and they don't break.  Moreover, you never will have to hassle with a tiny knot again.