A good way to reduce your energy bill, as well as your environmental impact, is to turn down your thermostat. Doing so though can often make your house uncomfortably cool. Fortunately, there are many old-fashioned tactics you can employ to stay warm and cozy while making your home more energy-efficient. From Treehugger author Katherine Martinko, here are some cold-busting tricks that not only allow you to keep the thermostat lower but also make the cold winter months cozier and more enjoyable.
- Wool socks and slippers: If carpets are not a thing in your house, wool socks and slippers are a real game-changer. While each on its own is helpful, put the two together and cold feet will become a thing of the past at home.
- Hot drinks: In addition to being delicious and comforting, hot beverages can also go a long way in raising your body temperature and boosting your mood.
- Hot water bottle: An old-fashioned hot water bottle is a simple yet incredibly neat way to keep your hands and toes warm.
- Flannel sheets and a duvet: What makes flannel sheets so special is that when you have them on a bed, you don’t have to wait for them to warm up — they feel cozy the second you crawl in. Add a down-filled duvet on top of that and you’re set for the night.
- Undershirts and sweaters: Undershirts can be a real saver on a winter’s day. Having that extra thin layer against the skin makes a big difference and eliminates cool drafts. It goes without saying, sweaters are also a must, especially those made out of wool or cashmere.
- Rugs and throws in strategic places: Covering cold tile and hardwood floors can help keep the heat in your body, especially if it’s in a place where you stand still. This could be where you brush your teeth, comb your hair, apply makeup, or prepare a meal. Keeping a blanket basket in the living room or where you spend most of your time at home is also a good idea.
- Fireplace: A little bit harder to get ahold of, but a fireplace at home can make all the difference. One of the nice things about these homely amenities is that they allow you to increase the temperature in one room while keeping the rest of the house cool. Add on top of that their aesthetic appeal and you’ve got yourself a guaranteed mood-booster on dark winter days.