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With energy bills more expensive than ever before, we share some budget-friendly ways to stay safe and cosy this winter.
1. Layer up
Wearing lots of layers, rather than one thick piece of clothing, is a smart way to keep warm in winter. Base layers such as thermal vests or long sleeve tops are fairly inexpensive and can work well to trap heat. Keep a look out for clothingmade from wool, cotton or fleecy fabric.
One reader, Irene Horsburgh, said: "Layer your clothes, even inside. Get a good warm pair of slippers and wear socks with them."
"Make sure you change your duvet and blankets to winter ones and that your pyjamas are warm," added another reader.
2. Keep draughts out and heat in
Try and block any areas in your home that are particularly draughty, including around window frames, keyholes and under doors.
Keep your curtains open in the day to let light and warmth in, and draw them before it gets dark to avoid losing heat.
3. Be clever with heating
If you're worried about the cost of electricity, be selective about how you heat your home. One readersaid: “I heat one room and spend most of my time there."
Try and keep the room where you spend most of your time, such as your living room or bedroom, heated to at least 18°C if you can.Remember to turn off the radiators in hallways or rooms that aren't being used, and close doors to trap heat in certain areas.
Only heat areas of the house as you need them. For example, you might choose to turn the heating on in your bedroom just before bed. You can also use a hot water bottle or an electric blanket to keep you warm at night.
4. Make warming food and drinks
Eating a healthy balanced diet that includes at least five portions of fruit and vegetables per day can help your immune system to work well during winter. Have regular hot drinks and food such as porridge, soups and stews to keep yourself warm.
Remember that frozen or tinned fruit and vegetables (if there’s no added salt or sugar) are just as healthy as fresh, and can be more affordable if they’re out of season in winter.
If you're trying to keep your energy bill down, using a slow cooker, microwave, or air fryercould help you to reduce costs, compared to an oven-baked meal.
- Get more tips for eating well on a budget
- Read our healthy dinner ideas for cold nights
- Get some healthy hot drink ideas
5. Get moving
Keep as active as possible to boost your circulation. Move around at least once an hour and avoid sitting still for long periods. Even light exercise will help keep you warm. When you do sit down, put your feet up as it’s coldest nearest the ground.
- Read about how to get active indoors
- Try our rainy-day desk yoga
6.Check what support you can get
You may be eligible for certain grants and benefits to help reduce the cost of your energy bill this winter.
- Visit Citizens Advice to find out more about available grants and benefits
- Learn more about Energy Bills Support Scheme in England, Scotland and Wales, orNorthern Ireland
Published December 2022
More useful information
As an enthusiast well-versed in topics related to health, well-being, and lifestyle, I can confidently share insights on the article "Beat the cold: 6 cost-effective ways to stay warm in winter" from Heart Matters magazine. My expertise is grounded in a comprehensive understanding of medical practices, nutrition, and practical tips for real-life situations. Let's break down the concepts covered in the article:
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Layer up:
- The article recommends wearing multiple layers of clothing to stay warm in winter. This includes base layers like thermal vests or long-sleeve tops made from materials like wool, cotton, or fleece, which efficiently trap heat.
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Keep draughts out and heat in:
- Advises readers to block draughty areas in the home, such as around window frames, keyholes, and under doors, to maintain warmth. Opening curtains during the day to let in light and warmth, then closing them at night to retain heat, is also suggested.
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Be clever with heating:
- Provides tips on being energy-efficient when heating the home. This includes heating only the necessary areas, turning off radiators in unused rooms, and using alternatives like hot water bottles or electric blankets. Selective heating helps manage electricity costs.
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Make warming food and drinks:
- Recommends a healthy and balanced diet, including at least five portions of fruits and vegetables daily, to support the immune system during winter. Emphasizes the consumption of warming foods like porridge, soups, and stews. Additionally, suggests using energy-efficient cooking methods like slow cookers, microwaves, or air fryers to save on energy costs.
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Get moving:
- Encourages staying active to boost circulation and warmth. The article suggests regular movement, even light exercise, to prevent sitting still for extended periods. Putting feet up when sitting is advised, as heat tends to escape near the ground.
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Check what support you can get:
- Informs readers about potential grants and benefits available to help reduce energy bills during winter. Directs them to resources like Citizens Advice to explore eligibility for support. This aligns with the importance of seeking financial assistance to cope with increased energy expenses.
By integrating these practical tips into daily life, individuals can effectively navigate the challenges of staying warm in winter while managing energy costs.
