Brrr… Stay Warm in Your Apartment this Winter on a Budget

 

Winter brings chilly temperatures, but that doesn’t mean you have to shiver indoors. With a few simple adjustments and thoughtful strategies, you can create a warm and inviting atmosphere in your apartment. In this blog, we’ll explore effective ways to stay warm in your apartment this winter on a budget.

Seal Drafts and Insulate Your Space

One of the first steps to stay warm in your apartment this winter on a budget is identifying and sealing any drafts. Inspect your windows and doors for gaps, and use draft stoppers or weather-stripping to seal them. Apply insulating film to windows for an extra layer of thermal protection. It’s super easy with a window insulator kit. Similar to plastic wrap with double-stick tape, you can fasten it to your windows and use a hairdryer to shrink wrap it in place. This stuff is cheap (grab some at Walmart) and it works great.

Consider using draft snakes or door sweeps to prevent cold air from seeping under doors. Additionally, insulating your space with thick curtains or blankets can minimize heat loss and provide extra insulation during cold nights.

Program Your Thermostat

Take advantage of a programmable thermostat to maintain a comfortable temperature without wasteful heating. Set your thermostat to lower temperatures when you’re away or sleeping, and program it to increase the warmth before you wake up or return home. By using programmable settings, you can save energy and money while ensuring a cozy living environment. This is an inexpensive investment that will pay off big-time. You can get a programmable thermostat for under $50, and installation can take less than an hour. There’s no need to pay to heat your home while you’re not there, so schedule your thermostat to drop lower while you’re out. Live in an apartment? Don’t forget to get permission from your property manager first!

Utilize Window Coverings

Harness the natural warmth from the sun by keeping your curtains or blinds open during daylight hours. This allows sunlight to enter your apartment and naturally heat the space. Once the sun sets, close your window coverings to maximize insulation and prevent cold air from seeping in.

Layer Up and Embrace Cozy Fabrics to Stay Warm in Your Apartment this Winter on a Budget

Layering isn’t just for clothing—it’s a smart strategy for staying warm indoors too. Opt for cozy and soft blankets, throws, and cushions that you can snuggle up with while reading or watching TV. Add area rugs to insulate cold floors and provide a warm surface for your feet. Incorporate heavier curtains or thermal blinds to trap heat inside and create a snug ambiance.

Create Ambient Warmth

In addition to traditional heating methods, consider alternative ways to generate warmth in your apartment. Use energy-efficient space heaters to provide localized warmth in frequently used rooms, but always follow safety guidelines. Utilize soft, warm lighting through floor or table lamps to enhance the cozy atmosphere. Engage all of your senses with soothing scents like cinnamon or vanilla through scented candles or essential oil diffusers.

Housework helps to keep you warm too.  You may not be all that domestic, but vacuuming, dusting, and scrubbing will help you work up a sweat. Also it has the added benefit of a sparkling clean house or apartment when you’re done. Getting hungry? Your home has a kitchen for a reason! Heat from the stove or oven paired with a warm meal in your belly will definitely help fend off the chills. Invite some friends and family over for bonus points.  More people means more body heat! Plus, the friendly company will help keep away the winter blues.  These are all ways to stay warm in your apartment this winter on a budget.

Winter doesn’t have to mean a cold and uncomfortable apartment. By focusing on insulation, using programmable thermostats, leveraging natural light, embracing cozy fabrics, and creating ambient warmth, you can create a cozy and inviting living space. Stay warm and enjoy the comforts of winter in the warmth of your apartment.

Find a Great Apartment in Southern NH

Southern New Hampshire and the city of Manchester are great places to live.  Need an apartment?  Red Oak Apartments can help you find your perfect place.  Many of our apartments include utilities.  This is certainly a great way to keep more money in your pocket.  Check out all our available apartments here.