It’s that time of year when we all start piling on the layers and digging out the hot water bottles. And while it’s important to stay cosy yourself, many of us also have loved ones we’re worried about – especially those who may be more vulnerable to the cold.
What we hoped would be a white Christmas is looking more like a sludgy one – but either way, it’s definitely chilly out there. To help you stay warm, safe and well this winter, we’ve rounded up some of the best advice from trusted sources including the NHS, Age UK and British Gas.
Top tips from the NHS
- If you’re not very mobile, are aged 65 or over, or have a health condition like heart or lung disease, aim to keep your home heated to at least 18°C (65°F).
- Keep your bedroom at 18°C overnight if you can – and remember to close your bedroom window.
- During the day, your living room can be a little warmer than 18°C if you prefer.
- For babies, rooms should be heated between 16°C and 20°C to reduce the risk of sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).
- If you’re under 65, healthy and active, it’s okay to have your home slightly cooler, as long as you feel comfortable.
- Draw your curtains at dusk and keep doors closed to reduce draughts.
- Get your heating system checked regularly by a qualified professional.
Advice from Age UK
- If you’re sitting still, a shawl or blanket can help keep you warm – and try to keep your feet off the floor, as the air is colder near ground level.
- Dress warmly for bed. On cold nights, thermal underwear, bed socks and even a hat can help – a lot of heat escapes through your head.
- Use a hot-water bottle, wheat bag or electric blanket to warm the bed. But never use a hot-water bottle and electric blanket at the same time, as this can be dangerous.
- Get your electric blanket checked every three years by an expert.
- Make sure your blanket is suitable for overnight use – some are only for warming the bed before you get in. If you experience continence issues, speak to your GP before using one.
- Keep your hands and face warm. Hats, gloves and scarves are essential – and wrapping a scarf around your nose and mouth helps warm the air you breathe when outdoors.
- Layer up – several thin layers trap more warm air than one thick one. Opt for wool or fleecy synthetics like polyester over cotton. Start with thermal underwear and build from there.
- Choose warm, non-slip footwear like lined boots or thermal socks.
- Stay informed by checking the weather forecast regularly.
Energy-saving hacks from British Gas
- Heat your home – not your walls! Place a sheet of card covered in foil behind radiators to reflect heat back into the room.
- Insulate your pipes with pipe lagging – this keeps water hotter for longer and helps your system run more efficiently.
- Draught-proof your windows and doors to keep the cold out.
- Bleed your radiators to ensure they’re working efficiently.
- Use rugs on bare floors to stop heat escaping through wooden boards.
Don’t forget to check in on others
While it’s great to take steps to keep yourself warm, one of the kindest things you can do this season is check in on others. Call an elderly neighbour or family member to see if they’re okay – and offer to pick up some groceries if the weather’s grim.
Sometimes, the little things really are the most important.