As the chill of winter settles in, we are all looking for ways to stay cosy.
At Dreamland, we understand the importance of staying warm during the frosty months. So, we've created this resource to help you and your family stay warm without the need for sizable central heating expenses!
We've got you covered with tips on electric blankets and heating hacks. We also look at nourishing foods, and efficient central heating to help you stay warm and, most importantly, healthy.
Find out how to keep warm in winter and let’s make this your cosiest winter yet!
Table of Contents
- Keeping Warm Inside in the Winter
- Cost-effective Ways to Stay Warm
- How to Keep Other Parts of Your Body Warm
- Low-cost Ways of Using Your Central Heating
- Keeping Warm Outside in the Winter
- Conclusion
Keeping Warm Inside in the Winter
As winter approaches, it is normal to worry about staying warm affordably during the colder months. However, it's important to emphasise the importance of maintaining a warm and cosy space to look after your health and well-being.
The human body's response to cold temperatures is a complex interplay of physiological reactions. Prolonged exposure to cold can lead to a range of health challenges. From mild discomfort, to severe conditions.
Extended exposure to frosty temperatures can lead to a weakened immune system. This may make you more susceptible to illnesses. Common winter ailments such as the flu and colds tend to increase when the body's defences are compromised. Furthermore, chilly conditions can worsen respiratory problems, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions like asthma.
Cost-effective Ways to Stay Warm
Staying warm should always be a priority, even if central heating costs are looking daunting! Therefore, we wanted to share our favourite methods of keeping warm without having to use the central heating:
Electric Blankets
Electric blankets are a brilliant and cost-effective solution. These cosy companions have evolved over the years. They provide a reliable means to fend off the winter chill without breaking the bank. Electric blankets are renowned for their energy efficiency. By focusing heat on your body, they eliminate the need to warm up an entire room. This targeted warmth not only keeps you comfortable, but also significantly reduces your energy consumption. As a result, you'll notice a welcome decrease in your heating bills while staying snug.
At Dreamland, all of our heated textiles include our clever intelliheat technology. Advanced software and sensors automatically adjust the warmth to the temperature of your body and environment for the perfect dreamy microclimate. Set a timer, get your self cosy, and relax without thinking about moving until tomorrow.
Fan Heaters
Fan heaters are known for their ability to provide quick and direct warmth. These devices utilise an internal fan to distribute warm air immediately. This benefit makes them an ideal choice for heating up small to medium-sized spaces in a matter of minutes! Fan heaters are designed to be energy-efficient, which can result in significant cost savings when compared to other heating methods. Their focused heating mechanism ensures that you warm only the spaces that need it, reducing unnecessary energy consumption.
Throws
When the winter arrives, there's nothing quite like the comfort of a warm throw. Throws are more than just decorative accents. They are an instant source of warmth whenever you need it! Whether you're reading a book, watching a film, or simply relaxing on the sofa, a well-placed throw can provide much desired comfort and cosiness. Throws also come in a wide range of colours, patterns, and materials. This makes them an easy way to enhance your home's interior decor.
Overblankets and Duvets
Overblankets are synonymous with layered warmth. Whether you're snuggled under a few cosy blankets on the couch or nestled beneath a duvet on your bed, layering these insulating covers provides exceptional warmth and comfort. One of the key advantages of blankets and duvets is their versatility. You can choose the level of warmth and weight that suits your preferences. From lightweight, breathable options to heavier, insulated duvets, you can personalise your comfort to create the ideal cocoon of warmth.
Draught Excluders for Doors
Draught excluders, also known as door draft stoppers, act as a barrier to keep cold air from entering your home and warm air from escaping. By sealing gaps around doors, they help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature. One of the main benefits of draught excluders is their contribution to energy efficiency. When doors are properly sealed, your heating system doesn't need to work as hard to maintain warmth. This can result in lower energy bills.
Cosy, Warm Food
Winter cuisine is all about comfort and indulgence. From steaming soups to rich stews, these dishes can heat you up and make your evening a little less chilly. Winter dishes make the most of seasonal ingredients, featuring root vegetables, hearty grains, and robust herbs and spices. These elements not only add flavour but also enhance the nutritional value of your meals. Many winter ingredients are rich in essential nutrients. They provide vitamins and minerals to fortify your immune system and sustain your well-being during the cold season.
Keep Moving!
During the colder months, the inclination to hibernate indoors can be strong. However, physical exercise can be a great way to keep yourself warm, happy and healthy! Staying active supports a robust immune system, which is crucial during the cold and flu season. Regular exercise can help your body fend off illnesses and keep you healthier throughout winter. Additionally, many individuals experience a dip in mood during the winter, often referred to as Seasonal Affective Disorder, or, "S.A.D." Physical activity is a natural mood booster, releasing endorphins that combat feelings of sadness and fatigue.
How to Keep Other Parts of Your Body Warm
Your toes and hands are renowned for getting cold during the winter months! Sometimes, it feels like no matter what you do, you can’t keep them warm. Here are our top tips for keeping your feet and hands warm:
How to Keep Your Feet Warm In Winter
It's easy to underestimate the vital role your feet play in maintaining overall comfort during the chilly months. The sensation of cold feet can leave you feeling remarkably uncomfortable!
The foundation of warm feet begins with investing in the right footwear. Look for insulated boots or shoes specially designed for cold weather. They may feature advanced insulation materials like Thinsulate or Gore-Tex.
Also, you should never overlook the concept of layering your socks! It's a strategy that isn't confined to your upper body. When the thermostat takes a plunge, consider the dual-layer approach for your feet. Begin with a moisture-wicking, thin sock close to your skin, followed by a thicker, insulating sock. This layering technique is remarkably effective at trapping warmth and ensuring your feet stay comfortably dry.
Equally important is the choice of materials. When it comes to socks and footwear, opt for those crafted from warm materials like wool, fleece, or shearling. These natural insulators excel at retaining heat, providing your feet with the warmth they deserve.
We also recommend using a footwarmer! These pockets are a fantastic way of keeping your feet warm while you are sitting in the house. Whether you’re working from home, or just watching a winter film, these devices are plush, velvety, and help to warm your whole body through your feet.
How to Keep Your Hands Warm
In the pursuit of winter comfort, the warmth of your hands is often a neglected yet incredibly crucial aspect. Cold hands not only bring discomfort but also compromise your dexterity and overall well-being in cold weather!
Surprisingly, the warmth of your extremities, including your hands, can be influenced by keeping your core warm. Therefore, it's essential to ensure you're adequately dressed to maintain overall body warmth, as this can indirectly impact the comfort of your hands. Insulated gloves are designed specifically for cold weather. They typically use thin and lightweight materials that deliver exceptional insulation without the bulk. This offers you the essential foundation for warm hands.
Much like the principle of layering clothing for enhanced warmth, applying the same concept to your hands can be remarkably effective. Begin with a thin, moisture-wicking glove as your base layer, and then add a thicker, insulating glove or mitten on top. This layering technique not only provides warmth but also maintains the flexibility you need.
Low-cost Ways of Using Your Central Heating
Central heating is a modern convenience that keeps our homes warm and cosy during the cold winter months. However, it can also contribute to intimidating energy bills if not used efficiently:
Programmable Thermostat
Invest in a programmable thermostat to schedule heating based on your daily routines. This smart device allows you to lower the temperature when you're away or sleeping and warm up the house before you return. This simple adjustment can result in significant energy savings.
Zone Heating
If your central heating system allows, consider zoning your home. This means heating specific areas when needed rather than the entire house. Zone heating lets you focus warmth on the rooms in use and avoid wasting energy on unoccupied spaces.
Seal Drafts
Drafts around windows, doors, and vents can let precious heat escape and cold air infiltrate. Seal these gaps using weatherstripping, caulk, or door sweeps to keep your home airtight.
Radiator Reflectors
If your central heating system relies on radiators, consider placing reflective panels behind them. These panels reflect heat back into the room, preventing heat loss through the walls.
Keeping Warm Outside in the Winter
Although you might not want to, it's inevitable that you will have to venture into the outdoors over winter! It's important that you are prepared for the brisk air. Layered clothing is your first line of defence against the cold. Start with moisture-wicking base layers to keep sweat away from your skin, add insulating layers for warmth, and finish with a waterproof and windproof outer layer to protect against the elements.
You should also invest in insulated boots designed for cold weather. These will keep your feet warm and dry, ensuring that you can venture outdoors without discomfort. Finally, don't forget the effectiveness of warm accessories! Hats, gloves, scarves, and earmuffs are essential for retaining heat and protecting your extremities from the biting cold.
Keeping Warm in Winter: Final Thoughts
The key to winter warmth lies in a combination of smart choices, cosy clothes and a little dash of creativity. By following our recommendations, you not only keep your home snug but also contribute to a more sustainable and cost-effective way of enjoying the winter!
From keeping your feet and hands cosy to maximising the efficiency of your central heating system, we've covered the essentials for a warm and comfortable winter.
At Dreamland, we’ve been creating innovative heated textiles to improve your well-being and comfort for over 50 years. Our priorities lie in making sure our customers receive the best quality, so you can relax in a lovely environment. View our selection of electric blankets, over blankets and electric fan heaters to make your winter more snug!
FAQs
How does cold weather affect your health?
Cold weather can have a significant impact on our health. The frigid air that we breathe in during winter can cause irritation in the airways and lead to breathing difficulties for those with underlying conditions such as asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Additionally, cold temperatures can constrict blood vessels and increase blood pressure, putting individuals with heart problems at risk. Our mental well-being can take a hit too. Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a type of depression that occurs during certain times of the year, typically in winter, when there are shorter days and less sunlight.
What is the cheapest way to stay warm in winter?
Opening up curtains and blinds during the day allows sunlight to pour in, warming up indoor spaces for free. Additionally, insulating windows and doors with weather stripping or draft stoppers prevents cold air from seeping in and warm air from escaping. Layering clothing is an effective way to trap body heat, so think about wearing thermals under your regular clothes to keep warm indoors. Keeping active also helps generate warmth internally, so consider incorporating regular exercise into your routine as a cheap and easy way to stay cosy throughout winter. Finally, electric blankets can be a game-changer. They use minimal energy compared to central heating systems and provide targeted warmth while you sleep or relax on the couch.
How can I keep my heating bills under control during the winter?
One effective way to keep your heating bills under control during the winter is to properly insulate your home. Insulation helps in trapping heat inside the house, preventing it from escaping and reducing the need for excessive heating. Make sure to check for any gaps or cracks where warm air could be escaping, such as around windows and doors, and seal them with weather stripping or caulk. Additionally, consider adding insulation in areas such as attics and crawl spaces to further preserve heat. Another strategy is to use a programmable thermostat. This allows you to set specific temperature levels at different times of the day based on your schedule.