It's getting pricey to stay warm, making cold weather feel bleaker. Energy prices have skyrocketed, not helped by the global trend towards eco-friendly solutions as well as the instability caused by wars and geopolitics.
Luckily, keeping warm is something we can help with - even when that includes contributing to a reduced carbon footprint. Here are some of our tried and tested energy-saving warmth tips for you to consider.
But firstly, why is it important to stay warm?
Keeping your body warm is vital for optimal health – keeping your body in balance requires maintaining a core temperature of 37 degrees Celsius.
When you’re cold, your body expends a large amount of energy to warm you up. Cold temperatures are also associated with more aches and pains1.
Of course, utilising your wardrobe wisely and layering in warm fabrics is the number one tip for staying warm during winter. But it's not always enough. Let's explore 11 other ways to stay cosy without breaking the bank.
#1 Use microwave wheat bags
Hugging a microwave wheat bag is an inexpensive way to keep warm when working at a desk, sitting on the couch, or snuggling in bed at night. If your child is cold, we offer a range of Plush Warmies – microwavable stuffed animals that provide comfort.
Always follow your product's instructions to ensure safety as they can vary. Typical instructions may involve removing the wheat bag from the cover, and microwaving for 2-3 minutes. Once the microwave has finished, removing the product and letting it cool before replacing the cover for safety, and finally popping it under the covers for 15 minutes before climbing into bed.
You can also add a few drops of essential oils to microwaveable warmers. Our Sleep Well Pillow Mist is ideal for stimulating the relaxation response.
Safety First! Always adhere to the provided instructions for safe and efficient use. For more information, read our guide on keeping warm with a microwave wheat bag.
#2 Cover up with blankets
Among the most effective eco-friendly heating alternatives are bed throws and blankets.
It's crucial to cover up with warm duvets and layers of insulating blankets at night to avoid a high energy bill. A soft, luxurious wool throw blanket or similar is the ideal addition to your bedroom. You can even throw it over your winter duvet for extra warmth. Layering blankets creates a barrier between you and the environment, helping you hang onto body heat.
Our handmade, luxury bed throw range comes in various colours, styles, and materials. Cuddling up under a wool throw blanket in winter is pure comfort!
#3 Keep your feet warm
When the temperature drops, heat is directed to your vital organs and away from your extremities, creating cold hands and feet!
Warming your feet improves your circulation and supports thermoregulation. Studies also show having warm feet helps you relax and sleep well2.
Our favourite products for warm feet are luxury slippers, slipper socks, microwavable slippers and boots. We suggest keeping a pair at the front door and slipping them on as soon as you come home.
#4 Make your home cosy
Cold, dark winter days can make your home feel less cosy!
You can make your home cosy through comfy and sustainable heating solutions. This includes using hot water bottles to warm your bed, rugs on tiled or wooden flooring to bring warmth and avoid cold feet, as well as energy-efficient light bulbs which can also contribute to the warmth of a room. Keep plenty of throw blankets on chairs and couches in your living area so you can cover up and add colour to your home on dreary days.
Tip: Check your doors and windows for drafts that may be sucking the warmth and moisture from the air. A rolled-up throw blanket under the door can help to block drafts without making the room too stuffy.
#5 Wear a neck warmer
Having a chilly neck makes you tense, cold, and unable to think of much else. It could also contribute to neck stiffness.
Our microwavable neck warmers mould to your neck like a scarf, keeping you snug and easing tension. Place one in the microwave for 2-3 minutes before draping it over your neck and shoulders and tucking it into your jumper. The soft cotton fabric makes it perfect for wearing around the house and office. As a bonus, our neck warmers are infused with relaxing lavender essential oil!
The benefits of our neck warmers are significant; they ease muscle tension and promote relaxation.
#6 Humidify the air with an oil diffuser
Did you know that dry air feels colder?
The drier the air, the less heat it retains. Plus, dry air grabs moisture from you, which makes you feel cold and takes a toll on your sinuses and skin.
To remedy this, place portable ultrasonic essential oil diffusers around your home. They double as cost-effective humidifiers, adding moisture to the air in winter. Plus, a diffuser gives you the benefit of being able to use soothing essential oils.
How to use: Add 4-5 drops of pure, high-quality essential oils and 100 ml of water to an ultrasonic diffuser and let it run for 30-60 minutes. Try 2 drops of lavender oil, 1 drop of rosemary oil, and 1 drop of tea tree oil for an immune-boosting blend.
#7 Grab some rays
The ultimate sustainable warmth solution and green method to get warm is to get some of the sun's rays.
Whenever the sun peeks out from behind the clouds, you can use it to your advantage! Open your curtains wide to naturally heat your home. This is particularly effective in south-facing rooms.
The sun can also chase away the winter blues. Getting natural sunlight into your eyes is essential for vitamin D production and overall health. It regulates your circadian rhythm to improve sleep and reduce feelings of lethargy3. However, avoid looking directly at the sun to prevent eye damage.
#8 Close the curtains promptly
When the sun starts to set and the afternoon chill sets in, close the curtains to trap some heat. You can also hang throw blankets over your curtains for extra insulation – especially if you have thin curtains. We recommend thick, thermal-lined curtains where possible.
#9 Take advantage of heat from the kitchen and bathroom
Your motto during winter should be: No heat goes to waste.
After you have a hot bath or shower, leave the door open to let the excess heat and moisture move to the rest of the house. Do the same with the oven door after cooking. However, ensure the oven is switched off and maintain a safe distance for both kids and pets. Always ensure safety first; never leave ovens unattended.
#10 Insulate your home
If you're a homeowner, insulating your ceiling and installing double glazing is a good investment for the future. It might feel expensive initially, but it will save you on energy costs in the long term. Plus, insulation protects against the freezing winter weather and the summer heat. Remember to consult professionals for best insulation practices.
#11 Warm up with hot beverages
There’s nothing like a hot drink to warm you from the inside out during chilly days. Beverages such as herbal tea, hot cocoa, or even a simple cup of warm water with lemon not only provide internal warmth but also help keep you hydrated, which is essential during the drier winter months.
Chamomile, peppermint, and ginger teas are not only warming but also come with added health benefits. For a touch of luxury, treat yourself to a rich hot chocolate with a sprinkle of cinnamon on top.
Not only do these drinks give you comfort, but they also act as a calming ritual, perfect for winding down on cold evenings. Plus, it's an eco-friendly way to get warm, especially if you're using a thermal flask or mug.
Final thoughts
Keeping warm doesn't have to cost a fortune in energy bills! A few simple lifestyle tweaks and warming products can help you enjoy the change of season instead of dreading it.
We'd love to hear from you: What are your top tricks for staying warm without cranking up the heating?
Share your eco-friendly warmth tips with us on Facebook.com and Instagram.com. Let's learn together!"
We go to great lengths to ensure that all our hot water bottles are easy-to-use, effective and meet the relevant safety standards. You may also find our essential guide useful if you want to learn more about keeping warm safely.
