[As wintry weather whips across the United States, staying warm is a challenge many face, especially those who can’t afford or are cutting back on indoor heating. Staying warm is necessary for a variety of health reasons, including comfort, and can be achieved with a little savvy and some affordable methods.
Here are 25 ways to stay warm this winter with or without indoor heating:
How to warm your body:
1. Use store-bought hand warmers, microwavable heating pads, hot water bottles, or heated blankets.
2. Move your body through physical activities like indoor exercise or dancing.
3. Think twice about taking a warm shower or bath.
4. Cuddle with others to increase skin contact and retain body heat.
5. Change your perception of cold by wearing clothing in layers, removing it gradually, or adapting to the temperature.
Optimize your home and appliances:
6. Enjoy warm beverages and foods, and use the oven and stove to cook them.
7. Layer on the clothes, focusing on keeping the torso warm.
8. Wear thick socks and slippers.
9. Pile on the blankets, and wear a skull cap to retain heat.
10. Embrace less breathable clothing and linens.
Work with the weather:
11. Open your curtains or blinds to let the sun in during the day.
12. Seal your windows and doors with caulk or shrink film.
13. Close off unoccupied rooms to prevent heat loss.
14. Reverse your ceiling fan to circulate warm air.
15. Sit near indoor heaters, but be cautious and follow safety guidelines.
Home and appliance maintenance:
16. Move anything that’s blocking heat vents or radiators.
17. Spend time and sleep in the upper levels of the house.
18. Don’t run the bathroom fan or close the door after showering.
19. Buy magnetic vent covers to direct heat to occupied rooms.
20. Put down rugs or carpets to warm bare floors.
Home improvements:
21. Insulate your attic to retain heat.
22. Research what your residential area offers, such as warming centers.
23. Light a fire in your fireplace, but follow safety guidelines.
24. Have a backyard bonfire if allowed, but be cautious.
25. Don’t light candles, as they can be dangerous.
Remember to be “broadly thoughtful about how to stay warm in the winter,” and always check the safety of any method before trying it.
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