As the nights are drawing in, you are likely seeking a way to feel homely and comforted inside your four walls. You hope to warm up your winter holiday in whatever ways you can. It is especially important in this difficult time to find comfort where we can. So, with this in mind, let’s guide you through seven ways you can warm up your home these winter holidays.
Change up your rugs and curtains
While the trend might be for wooden floors and blinds, these are not the ways to bring warmth to a home. Walking around in bare feet is a no, no and there is nothing protecting you from the cold glass of your windows.
With this in mind, your first chore when warming your home for the holidays this winter is looking to your flooring and your drapes. What better way to feel warmer than with a huge shaggy rug on your floor. Imagine lying on this thick pile next to a roaring, open fire. We feel better already.
Then, look to your windows. You need a thick layer of material to pull across the window to keep out the chill and the potential drafts. A heavy pair of curtains pulled closed can turn any chilly space into a haven this winter.
Get yourself some fuzzy throws
There is nothing like a soft touch to make the world a better place. The best way to fend off a chill is to wrap yourself in a flannel blanket and surround yourself on your sofa with fuzzy throws. Honestly, there is a reason why we give bears to babies made of this stuff, it is just super comforting and makes the world feel just right.
The other bonus of blankets and throws that you can use to wrap around yourself is that they do not use your utilities. The problem with winter heating is the spring bill. So, one or two blankets close at hand could also save you a tonne of money.
OK, if money is no option and you are happy to suck the electrical grid dry – then you should opt for an electric blanket. Trust us when we say you will have the best nights’ sleep beneath that toasty cover.
What makes an electric blanket a sensible option is if you have an occasional guest drop by. Rather than try to heat the spare bedroom from ice chiller to cosy haven, you can throw an electric blanket on their bed and keep them warm that way. This is a wise choice for your budget too, as it will cost less to run the blanket than to blast heating into the room.
Space heater
Some of us are just cold. Even in the heat of the summer we think about a jumper. If you are one of these people too, you might want a space heater. A heater offers direct heat to the place you sit in. So, if your family is fine with a slightly chilled edge to the home but you need a blast furnace, this is a way to compromise.
Again, a space heater is also a great way to quickly heat a spare room if you have unexpected guests. Also again, these heaters cost a small fortune to run, so it should definitely be an every now and then thing!
An open fire
We had to mention our love of an open fire. Burning logs give off the most wonderful glow and delicious heat. More than that, there is the smell of wood smouldering, which is the very essence of the holiday season.
Really, if we were honest, the reason to have an open fire is the roasting of marshmallows. Imagine, Christmas Eve, the family gathered round the open fire, poker in hand and a marshmallow dipped into the flames.
To complete this picture, you also need to purchase some tea light candles. It is surprising how cosy these little flames can make any room.
Hot chocolate
We mention marshmallows. The other reason to invest in the sweet treats is to adorn your hot mug of chocolate. It is literally a staple food during the winter period.
If you want something even more warming during the holiday season, may we also suggest a toddy – but only for the adults in the room.
Comfort food
When all your options are exhausted and your heating system is pumping at one hundred percent, your only option left is to seek comfort in food. The bonus is that while you are baking cookies and cakes your oven is on. This has to be the ultimate win, win, right? Not only do you get the most delicious sweet treats; not only do you fill your home with the most comforting smells, but the oven keeps the kitchen cosy throughout. Genius!