If you’re like us, you have really enjoyed the mild winter weather we’ve been having here on the East Coast. Unfortunately, that stretch of warm weather has seemingly come to an end and this week—as we usher in snow and brutally cold temps—you may be looking for some ways to keep your home warm and toasty.
Even if you didn’t have time to winterize your home with a programmable thermostat or new windows, you can still stay warm this winter season with this 5 tips:
Invest in Heavy Window Coverings
“My grandma has always had double thick curtains and drapes,” says Kyley Eagleson of Environically Speaking. “As a kid I always wanted to open them in the winter so I could look outside, but now I understand why they were closed.” Thick, insulating coverings (think velvet or flannel) help prevent heat from escaping your home and provide a barrier between you and drafty windows, something that is especially helpful if you are living in a home or apartment with older windows.
Close Your Doors—All of Them
Remember when your parents used to tell you to keep the doors closed as you paraded in and out of the house with your winter gear? There is some real truth to their house rules, but keeping doors closed goes beyond just our entrance areas. Keep doors to unused rooms and closets closed during the winter months to allow the heat to go into those spaces where you are actually living.
Warm Up Your Colors
“Sometimes warmth is a matter of perception,” states an Apartment Therapy blog post. “Warm colors and textures make you feel warmer so change out your décor.” This could include tossing a soft blanket over your couch, adding some lush pillows to your bed or even putting down an rich-colored area rug (which will also help keep heat from escaping through your floor boards).
Open Up Your Shower
Homesessive reminds us that the great steam produced during those morning showers should not be wasted on just the bathroom. If possible (and this may be tricky if you have roommates and/or children), leave the door to your bathroom open while you shower so the steam can spread throughout your home.
Get Rid of the Electric Blanket
Nothing is better than climbing into a warm bed on a cold night. However, before you plug in that electric blanket, try this tip from Nigel’s Eco Blog: “Put a spare blanket under your mattress sheet, warmed by a couple of hot water bottles an hour before you go to bed.” This simple trick will keep you toasty all night without using any electricity.
Talk to us: What is your best “stay warm” tip for the winter?