One of the biggest problems of living in a cold climate is figuring out how to stay warm in the winter. As I write this, the Midwest is under siege by a winter storm. In my area, we’re having snow, sleet, and ice, and temperatures are plummeting.
When the weather gets like this, we generally hunker down at home, and don’t go out. The last thing the people that have to go out need is someone else out there lookie-looing around. But what are the ways to stay warm in winter? And more importantly, how do you do it without breaking the bank? I’ve got some tips for you!
Dress in layers
While no one wants to look like the abominable snowman, or wear 30 garments, a little layering can really keep you warm. I generally wear lounge pants and a t shirt around the house, but I found that I was chilly. I added a lightweight, cotton knit yoga jacket and was much warmer, simply because my arms were covered.
If it gets really cold, I may also trade my tee shirt for a long sleeve shirt and get a pair of sweats out.
Wear socks or slippers
When it gets really cold, one of the ways I stay warm during the winter is covering my feet. You can do this with a pair of slipper socks, or an actual pair of slippers. You can wear socks, if you have carpet in your home. But if you have tile, hardwood floors, luxury vinyl plank, or laminate flooring – watch out! I’ve unexpectedly gone sock skating down the hall more times than I care to admit.
Put up curtains
You would really be surprised by the difference that this makes. Curtains add a layer of insulation between your room and your windows. Since most heating ducts are along the walls, a lot of times that warm air goes straight out the window. The curtains help keep the warm air in, and the cold air out. In the summer, they help keep the heat out and the cool in.
Turn the heat up
I can hear you now. “But Greta, utilities are so expensive, and have had a huge rate hike.” I know, and I’m not immune to that same price increase. However, sometimes the best way to stay warm in the winter is to be in a warmer environment. Now, I’m not saying that you have to make your house like a tropical getaway. But bumping up the thermostat a degree or two can make a huge difference when you’re feeling especially cold.
Have a warm beverage
Warm beverages are so delightful. This helps to warm you from the inside out. Plus, it’s a nice, pleasant ritual. Whether it’s coffee, tea, chai, hot cocoa, or anything else you like, see how everyone’s face lights up when you bring them a mug of something warm.
Bundle up and watch a movie
What’s better than snuggling together and watching tv or a movie? Make some popcorn or your favorite snack, get a couple blankets, stream your favorite movie from Netflix and stake your claim on the couch!
A roaring fire
Of course, this only works if you have a fire place. Wood burns nice and warm, plus you get to have a little ambiance. Combine this with snuggling up and watching a movie, and you have a cozy night in.
Use alternative fuels
While this takes a little more planning, and has more upfront expense, appliances like pellet stoves make for a popular heating alternative. In addition to being one of the eco friendly ways to stay warm in the winter, they have styles that blend in with any décor style. No longer do we have to deal with giant pot-bellied open stoves of days gone by.
Solar panels are another great alternative fuels option. Once they’re installed and set up, you’d be shocked by how much lower your utility bills can be.