5 essential Taobao items for your family this autumn and winter

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Photograph: courtesy Ba Zi Sha via Tmall

As the weather gets chillier, it's time to prep ourselves for the cooler seasons. Thanks to Taobao and the abundance of delivery services in China, one never lacks the resources for shopping. Besides all-time favourites like the beast and Jing Republic, we've found some of the most stylish and useful products out there.

Thermos

When it’s cold out, nothing warms us up more than a hot drink in our thermos. From your most basic flask for just 20RMB to more luxurious ones for ten times the price (or more), you’ll be sure to find something you fancy. Take the bottle with you on the go and you could even enjoy discounts in cafés around the city. One of our recommended brands would be Sogoo – its various nature- and fantasy-themed designs, good quality and price make it ideal for parents and kids alike.

Full range of bottles available on Taobao from 20RMB.

Hand and body warmers

Kobayashi's nuanbaobao is one of the most popular and reliable warmers in the country, and it's not hard to see why. These handy packets can be stuck onto undershirts and each is supposed to last ten hours on end. They can also be used to relieve all sorts of pain, though do be reminded not to stick them directly onto your skin and that children should be particularly careful with the heat.

Available on Taobao / Tmall at 69RMB for one box (containing 30 packets).

Hats and ear warmers

Forget about onesies – these hats are where it's at. With sizes available for parents and kids, this item functions simultaneously as a hat, ear warmers and a scarf, perfect for pyjama parties or just snuggling up at home. Do be warned about the cuteness overload, though.

Available on Taobao / Tmall for 20RMB.

Hot chocolate

This cup of goodness is a crowd favourite no matter the age. While you can get local brands on a budget, imports like Whittard, Ovaltine and Hershey's are also featured on Taobao and Tmall. Get ready for a sweet, comforting taste of home.

Full range available here for 10RMB and up.

Moisturisers

The dry seasons of autumn and winter are more damaging for our skin, making moisturisers an essential item in your daily routine. Say goodbye to cracked hands and chapped lips, as Taobao's got all that you need from the good ol' Vaseline to fancier brands like La Mer. A mid-range recommendation would be L'Occitane – its products will always leave you smelling lovely and feeling nourished.

Full range of moisturisers available here from 16RMB and up.