How to Keep Your Home Warm in Winter | 247 Blinds

There's nothing quite like a warm, cosy home to make the winter months a little more bearable! In this guide, we'll walk you through some of the best ways to keep your home toasty without ramping up the thermostat (and your energy bills!). Warm isn't just a temperature, it's a feeling. So from practical, energy-saving tricks like installing thermal blinds to decor tips that make your home feel extra cosy, we've got you covered! 

Turning up the thermostat isn't your only option to stay warm this winter! From maximising your radiator efficiency to adding stylish window dressings, there are plenty of ways to keep cosy while keeping heating bills in check. 

Before winter really settles in, give your radiators a clean to remove any dust or dirt. This little bit of TLC boosts their efficiency, allowing them to heat up your space more effectively without needing to stay on as long. For an extra warmth boost, place a radiator reflector or even some tin foil behind them, especially if they're on exterior walls, to bounce heat back into your room instead of letting it escape through the walls. 

Be sure not to block or cover your radiators with any clothes or furniture, this includes curtains that may sit on top or in front of your radiator. Radiators work by drawing warm air up the rafdiator and out of the top, so having nothing restricting this airflow will make it more efficient.

Up to 40% of heat that escapes your home is down to your windows, and this is exacerbated if you have older windows or draughty frames! Replacing your windows can get expensive quickly, so for a budget-friendly solution, begin by giving your windows a deep clean, checking for any gaps or draughty spots, and use a suitable filler to cover them.

Another way to insulate your windows without replacing them is investing in thermal blinds. These blinds are designed to boost the energy efficiency of your home, reducing heat loss and keeping your energy bills down. Check out our guide to thermal blinds to discover the range of styles available - from classic Roman blinds to pleated no-drill options! Make sure to keep your thermal blinds closed especially at night time when the temperatures drop, in order to eperience their full benefits. 

Set your heating on a schedule that matches your daily routine, so it's on only when you need it to be! For instance, have it switch on just before you wake up and shut off once you've left for work. This not only keeps your home warm at the right times, but also helps to avoid the temptation to tunr the thermostat all the way up in a hurry and forget to turn it back down! Aim to keep your thermostat between 18 to 21 degrees for an optimal balance of warmth and energy efficiency. 

Winter can be touch on pipes, especially if they freeze! Invest in some affordable pipe insulation to keep things running smoothly and avoid any frosty surprises. It's a small effort now that can save you from potential headaches and expenses later on. 

Gutters take the brunt of year-round weather while draining the water from the roof, and they often get overlooked when it comes to maintenance around the house. Unintentionally collecting the rubbish and leaves blowing in the wind, gutters can become clogged and cause dampness and mould, so it's a great idea to check and clear any blockages before the cold weather sets in. 

Once you have finished cooking, it's a great idea to utilise the warm air from the oven. You can do this by leaving your oven door open to recycle the warm air, but make sure you do this safely and responsibly without any children or pets around. 

That little gap at the bottom of your doors might be letting precious warmth escape! Install a door sweep or draught excluder to keep your heat where it belongs. Choose from a range of textures and fabrics to suit your style, adding insulation with a touch of flair. For exterior doors, thermally lined curtains are a great way to insulate and add style. 

Beyond simply staying warm, winter is the perfect time to create a snug, inviting space that's as comfy as it is cosy. 

Light some candles

Let's be real, winter evenings aren't made for the 'big-light', and using it isn't kind to your energy bills either! Candles are the perfect alternative, adding warmth, ambience, soft lighting and lovely scents all at once. 

Not only do candles add a touch of warmth, but their flickering glow creates a cosy, welcoming vibe that's perfect for chilly nights. Mix different types for variety; try clustering chunky candles of different heights on a tray for a stylish warm glow. Opt for seasonal scents like pine or cinnamon to give your home that festive feel. 

If open flames aren't ideal, battery operated LED candles are a great fire-free alternative, offering the same warmth and charm with a little extra peace of mind. 

Create a cosy atmosphere

Turn your home into a winter retreat with the right cosy touches. Start with chunky throws, extra cushions, and a soft rug if you have hard floors - these add both physcial and visual warmth. For an even cosier vibe, layer up with Roman blinds and curtains on your windows. Roman blinds add a plush element to your interiors and are perfect for blocking out chilly draughts when paired with thermal lining, plus with no-drill Twist&Fit installation you can have them up in seconds. 

Declutter your space 

We tend to spend more time indoors as it gets colder, so why not take the chance to declutter? A tidy home feels more relaxing, and it's a great way to prep for any seasonal decor you might want to add. Try rearranging your furniture for a fresh feel, or swap out cushions to give your space a quick refresh. 

Add some seasonal touches

Once all the cleaning and decluttering is over - reward yourself with some extra embellishments in the form of yummy home fragrances and seasonal decorations: 

Scatter scented candles in seasonal fragrances like cinnamon, spiced apple, or vanilla around your home. Consider popping a diffuser in your entryways so your home smells delicious as soon as you walk through the door. Don't wait until Christmas for the decorations! Start small by hanging a wreath of seasonal dried flowers and foliage on your door, this can be store-bought or DIY-ed using a wreath frame.

Get cosy under a blanket

There's no better feeling than getting into a warm, comfy bed and snuggling up when it's cold outside (and there's no worse feeling than having to get out of it in a morning!), so now is a good time to give your sheets, pillows, and blankets a season appropriate refresh:

Swap out any lighter summer bed linens and duvets for heavier, cosier options for maximum snuggle factor.

Add decorative throw pillows and blankets if you want to go the extra mile and make your bedroom feel like a high-end hotel.

Appeal to all senses by purchasing a seasonal scented fabric softener to make your sheets smell just as good as they look. 

Double up with window dressings

If you already have blinds or curtains in place, consider unelashing your inner interior designer by layering up your window with both. Adding a second window dressing won't only add dimension and interest, it can also add extra insulation.

Wooden blinds & Roman blinds: A double-blind combination that gives you the best of both worlds - place wooden Venetians inside your window recess to allow light to filter in throughout the day, with a thermal Roman blind outside the recess to keep the chill out at night. Make sure to order your Roman blind a touch bigger than your window recess for maximum coverage and to give the appearance of a bigger window!

Blinds & Curtains: This combo gives you the freedom to choose your favourite blind style - whether it's energy saving or otherwise - and layer thermal curtains over the top so your windows can benefit from their insulative boost! Make sure to extend your curtain track or pole past the sides fo your windows for full coverage, and place it slightly higher to give the illusion of taller ceilings. Go for a floor-length finish for the ultimate luxe look, or finish just above your radiators if they're located under your windows. 

Keeping your home warm doesn't have to mean sacrificing style. At 247 Blinds, we offer a wide range of thermal blinds and curtains to suit every taste and home style. Whether you're looking to save on energy bills or just want to add a cosy, welcoming vibe to your space, we've got everything you need to winter-proof your windows. Explore our collection and discover the perfect finishing touch for your snug winter retreat!