17 ways to feel warmer without turning the heating on
Words by Gail Shortland
Winter is here, and while cranking up the thermostat is the obvious solution, there are smarter, cosier ways to stay warm without racking up your energy bill. From simple lifestyle tweaks to clever home hacks, these tips will help you feel toasty, indoors and out.
1. Layer smartly
Start with a thermal base layer to trap heat close to your skin, then add a sweater or fleece. Don’t forget socks, slippers, and a cardigan. Small details make a big difference.
2. Wrap up in blankets
Keep throws handy on sofas, chairs, and beds. Wrapping your legs or shoulders in a blanket warms you instantly. Weighted blankets trap heat particularly well.
3. Sip something hot
A cup of tea, herbal infusion, or hot chocolate raises your body temperature. Holding the mug adds extra warmth for your hands.
4. Eat warming foods
Stews, soups, curries, and meals with spices like ginger, chilli, and cinnamon stimulate circulation, keeping you cozy from the inside.
5. Move your body
Even small movements boost circulation. Try stretching, marching on the spot, or a quick dance around the kitchen to warm up naturally.
6. Keep feet toasty
Cold feet make your whole body feel chilled. Layer socks, use slippers, or warm them briefly with a hairdryer before putting them on.
7. Add soft furnishings
Rugs, cushions, and curtains don’t just look cosy, they also trap heat and reduce the chill from hard floors and bare walls.
8. Close curtains at night
Windows are a major source of heat loss. Closing curtains or blinds as soon as the sun sets helps trap warmth inside. Thick, lined curtains are best.
9. Let sunlight in during the day
Open curtains on sunny days to naturally warm your home. Even winter sunlight can make a noticeable difference.
10. Block drafts
Use door draft-stoppers, foam tape, or chimney covers to keep cold air out. Check key problem areas like windows, floorboards, and loft hatches.
11. Rearrange furniture
Sofas or beds against exterior walls feel colder. Move seating closer to interior walls and away from drafts to make your space feel warmer.
12. Use heat packs or hot water bottles
Hot water bottles, microwavable heat pads, or safe electric blankets provide instant warmth. Place one in bed a few minutes before sleep for maximum comfort.
13. Warm lighting
Warm-toned bulbs, table lamps, and even candles make spaces feel visually warmer, tricking the mind into feeling cosy.
14. Layer bedding
Combine cotton sheets, fleece throws, and thick duvets. Multiple layers trap heat better than a single heavy blanket. Flannel sheets are particularly snug in winter.
15. Focus on small spaces
Close doors to concentrate warmth in the rooms you use. Use rugs, cushions, and throws to make “warm zones” where you spend most of your time.
16. Create a cosy atmosphere
Use deep colours, soft textures, and layered fabrics. A calm, inviting space makes your body feel warmer, plus, curling up with a book or movie adds comfort.
17. Wear a hat indoors
A lightweight beanie traps heat that escapes from your head, keeping you surprisingly warmer, especially in drafty rooms.
Photos: Getty
