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Staying warm in the colder months can feel tricky, especially with rising energy costs. But keeping cozy doesn’t have to mean a higher utility bill. Here are 17 practical and budget-friendly ways to stay warm this winter without relying on the thermostat.
Open Curtains During the Day, Close Them at Night
Let the sunlight naturally warm your home during the day, then close the curtains at night to keep the warmth in and the cold out.
Switch to Winter-Ready Window Treatments
Lightweight summer curtains won’t cut it in the winter. Upgrade to thermal-lined curtains, insulated blinds, or heavy drapes to reduce drafts and add extra insulation.
Upgrade to a Smart Thermostat
A smart thermostat lets you efficiently manage your home’s temperature by customizing heating schedules and reducing unnecessary energy use. Over time, these devices can even learn your preferences and adjust automatically, saving you money and keeping your home comfortable.
Close the Chimney Flue
When your fireplace isn’t in use, close the flue to prevent cold air from creeping in through the chimney.
Remove or Cover AC Units
Store window air-conditioning units during the winter, or cover them with insulated covers to block drafts that might seep through vents.
Shut Doors to Unused Rooms
Keep the heat focused where you need it by closing the doors to unused spaces. This prevents warm air from spreading into areas you’re not using.
Close the Air Vents In Unused Rooms
Redirect warm air to the rooms you use most by closing air vents in spaces that don’t need heating.
Spend Time Upstairs
Take advantage of rising heat by spending time on upper levels of your home, where it tends to be warmer.
Snuggle Under Blankets
Keep cozy by adding blankets in your favorite spots around the house, like the couch or your bed.
Layer Up Indoors
Stay warm by layering your clothing—think sweaters, socks, and cozy loungewear. It’s an easy way to adjust your comfort level without turning up the heat.
Seal Cracks and Gaps
Block cold air from sneaking in by sealing gaps and cracks around windows and doors.
Add Door Sweeps
Install door sweeps on the bottom of doors to block drafts and keep rooms warmer.
Wear Warm Socks or Slippers
Keep your feet cozy with warm socks or slippers, especially on hard floors that can feel cold.
Lay Down Area Rugs
Add rugs or mats to bare floors to provide insulation and create a warmer surface underfoot.
Eat Hot Meals
Warm yourself from the inside out with comforting dishes like soup or stews.
Sip Hot Beverages
Boost your body heat with warm drinks like tea, coffee, or hot cocoa.
Get Active
Get moving to generate body heat. Exercise, cleaning, or tackling home projects are all great ways to keep warm naturally.
12 Unexpected Things You’re Hoarding in Your Garage
Undertaking a garage cleanup may seem significant, but the rewards of reclaiming the space are substantial. This effort might even allow you to park your car again. Looking at all the stuff that has piled up over the years, you might not know where to start. You can start by getting rid of these 12 common items that usually clutter up garages.
12 Unexpected Things You’re Hoarding in Your Garage
Tamara White is the creator and founder of The Thrifty Apartment, a home decor and DIY blog that focuses on affordable and budget-friendly home decorating ideas and projects. Tamara documents her home improvement journey, love of thrifting, tips for space optimization, and creating beautiful spaces.
