11 Simple & cost-effective ways to stay warm this winter

Dress in layers and wear slippers

Like when you're going outside, dressing in layers indoors can help you stay warm. Add sweaters, jackets, and other layers as needed to maintain a comfortable body temperature. Keeping your feet warm also helps - wear slippers or warm socks around the house, especially on cold floors.

Use the oven and stove for cooking

When you bake, leave the oven door open to let the heat escape and warm the room. But be cautious around hot surfaces and keep children and pets away. Avoid relying solely on the oven for heat, especially if it uses natural gas, as it can increase carbon monoxide levels.

Enjoy a cup of soup or warm beverage

Warm your body from the inside out with hot meals and drinks. Opt for soups, which take a while to cook and can help heat the kitchen as they simmer. Enjoy tea, coffee, hot cocoa, or your favorite warm beverages throughout the day for an extra cozy feel.

Use a humidifier

Humid air generally feels warmer than dry air. Run a humidifier to balance indoor humidity levels, especially if you use the heat and it dries the air. Look for models that allow you to choose between warm and cold air.

Reverse the ceiling fan

While it might seem counterintuitive, using a ceiling fan in a clockwise direction during the colder months can help keep you warm. This pushes warm air that rises toward the ceiling back down to the floor level.

Use microwaveable heating pads

Heating pads can provide relief from cold hands and feet. You can microwave basic heating pads made from dried beans in cotton fabric or opt for electric heated pads for a more convenient solution.

Clear heat vents, registers, and radiators

Maintain clear paths for heat to circulate by pulling furniture away from vents, registers, and radiators. Avoid blocking these with plants or curtains. Also, ensure your HVAC system is inspected annually and functioning properly.

Don't run the bathroom fan after showering

Skip using the bathroom fan when showering to maintain humidity in the room. After, leave the door wide open to allow the moisture to spread to other parts of the home. If you're prone to mold, consider using the fan briefly.

Spend more time upstairs

Hot air rises, so spending more time on upper levels of your home can make you feel warmer. Consider moving your workspace or TV to the upstairs areas during the colder months.

Do something active

Movement generates body heat. Engage in activities like cleaning, exercising, or tackling home repairs to keep your body temperature up. Set a timer to remind yourself to move periodically and avoid getting too cold and stiff.