As the winter season settles in, finding cost-effective ways to keep warm can be tricky. That’s why I’ve compiled a handy list of my top tips for staying warm in the winter without turning your heating up.
If it’s not just the cold that’s getting you down, make sure you know how to make the most of winter - from cosy living to clever savings, we’ve got you covered.
1. Stay active
Keeping your body moving is an easy way to stay warm during the winter without spending a penny. Whether you’re doing a walking workout or lifting weights, you’ll be surprised how quickly you warm up.
Walking pads are also a great way to increase your activity – I tested one for a year to find out if it was worth the money.
2. Consume warm food & drink
Winter is all about soup, broths, porridge, and herbal teas – anything that can increase your body temperature. Batch cook some of your favourite recipes and pop them in the freezer for a stress-free dinner option.
There’s nothing quite like a warming meal to take the chill off.
3. Light candles
Candles don’t just create a cosy ambience – they keep you warm too. Light a candle in your room of choice and be sure to shut all doors to that room. You’d be surprised how fast just one candle can heat a room – even better if they smell good too!
4. Layer up
Forget spending money on thermals because it’s all about the layers. Raid your wardrobe and layer up the clothing. I always do this and then actually end up overheating (yes, in winter!).
5. Have a bath
If you’re anything like me, being out in the cold can make your body feel tired and achy. Treat yourself to a lovely hot bath to counteract that winter chill – not only are they super relaxing, but they raise your core body temperature slightly, which is why you’ll feel warmer even after you’ve gotten out.
6. Close doors & windows
Prioritise keeping windows and doors closed throughout your home to help insulate your living space. The little heat that you have can escape easily through doors and windows, making it more tempting to boost the heating.
7. Share a blanket
If you live with at least one other person, then make the most of their body heat and snuggle up. Alternatively, if you don’t have someone who will sit under a blanket with you, then utilise a pet who is happy to cosy up.
8. Wear a hat & scarf
Grab your hat and scarf and whack them on. You might look funny, but if it saves you money on those pesky heating bills, then it’s worth it. If they can protect you against the cold outdoors, they can certainly help indoors too.
9. Double up bedding
Instead of purchasing winter bedding, which can be costly, utilise the bed sheets you already have. Double up to help you feel toasty at bedtime – in my opinion, there’s nothing worse than a freezing-cold bed.
10. Only heat necessary rooms
If, after trying all of these tips, you’re still feeling the cold, then save money by only heating the necessary rooms. Heat rooms you’ll be sitting in for most of the day, like home offices or lounges.
Use heating apps like Hive to time your heating for whatever suits your lifestyle.
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