Whether you’re renting your home or own your property, keeping warm without burning money, is something of an ongoing problem. The good news is that you don’t have to turn the thermostat up to max and suffer the bill – there are plenty of different ways to stay snug and still save those pennies.
Wonderful Warmers
Comfort Foods
Warmth isn’t just about the physical notion of temperature. There’s a psychological aspect as well. That’s why we tend to enjoy comfort foods during the colder, winter months. There’s something a hot hearty meal delivers which can transcend any cold snap.
This includes piping hot soups, chunky stews and bubbling casseroles. Cooking in itself adds heat to often cold areas like the kitchen, which will then permeate to the rest of the home. There’s nothing quite like settling down with a bowl of homemade soup and some crusty bread to bring a little winter warmth. Try out these great recipes from Good Housekeeping if you want some of warming comfort food around.
Hot drinks are better than a nip of scotch if you want to keep the chill away. Alcohol can dilate the blood vessels and make us lose heat. A traditional mug of hot chocolate or a throw back to a hot malted milk drink… that will make you feel warm and cosy just thinking about it!
Layer Up and Save Money
Turn the thermostat down a few degrees and add some extra layers of clothing. Woolly socks, a quality jumper and dig out a summer vest top for underneath, this may be all that you need to stave off the chill. Thermal underwear, whilst not the most attractive proposition will keep you warm. Make sure you choose something that feels comfortable and doesn’t get you over heated – a few more layers will be much more effective at keeping you warm than turning up the thermostat.
Keep Out Those Draughts
It can get cold in older houses because there are so many draughts; little nooks and crannies that let in the outside air. Most of these can be found around door areas so introducing a few draught excluders here and there can make a big difference to the overall ambient temperature of your home. You can get draught proofing for windows, which won’t cost the earth. These simply stick to the frame and provide a tight seal, keeping the elements firmly outside.
Open Your Curtains
People tend to think that, because the winter is cold, it’s best to keep those blinds and curtains closed. You can add a few degrees to your home by opening your window coverings up during the day. When the sun shines, it pierces the window and raises the indoor temperature. You can then close the curtains at night to keep the heat in.
Snuggle Up with a Blanket
There’s nothing more comforting on a cold night than snuggling up on the sofa in front of your favourite TV programme. You can get a variety of comfy, warm blankets, try a woollen blend or fleece lined blanket for a really toasty warmth. Of course, the onesie is still popular and as long as you don’t mind being the subject of ridicule by the rest of the family, these are comfortable and warm.
However, you choose to keep warm during the cold snap, aim for ultimate comfort and maximum cosiness.
