Want to make sure that your home is a cosy refuge while the weather is cold? Here are five easy ways to winter-proof your space for guaranteed comfort.
Down the drain
Our gutters only work effectively if water is able to flow freely down into the drains below. Nature, however, doesn’t always care about the rules, and plenty of debris can collect in the pipes and cause obstructions. This can, in turn, lead to bursts and breakage when the seasonal rains start to bucket down. On a clear day, use a ladder (with someone supervising, just in case!) and check the gutters around your house, remove any build-up and cut back any branches that could damage them should a storm roll in.
Sort you space
An easy way to free up some space in your wardrobe and bedroom is to start doing seasonal rotations. This means that once the cooler weather sets in, you pack your summer clothes away into a suitcase or chest, which will leave more room for your bulkier winter wardrobe. This is a great way to keep track of what you own, and ensure your cupboard space stays clutterfree. Donate unwanted items in good condition to a charity so that others can be warmly dressed this winter, too.
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You might not want to open the windows too widely in winter – brrrrr! – but one thing that can help to warm your house is to allow as much sunlight into your home as possible. Keep the curtains open throughout the day to allow the sun’s rays to do their warming-up work. This will also make the space seem lighter and brighter, and help to elevate your mood.
Up in smoke
The days are cooling down, and there’s no better way to warm up than in front of a crackling fire. But first, how clean is your fireplace? If you don’t sweep your chimney regularly, it can become blocked with anything from a build-up of soot to birds’ nests, and this can not only make the room unpleasantly smoky, but can also, in some instances, cause a fire. Make sure you clean yours out with the appropriate equipment, or call in the pros before the chill sets in (and, while you’re at it, you should have your fire extinguishers serviced, too!).
Light & bright
South Africa boasts a variety of climates, which means that while some provinces are experiencing heavy downpours in winter, others are dealing with extreme dryness. One thing that we all have in common, however, is that the days become shorter and are considerably darker than in summer. Make sure that your home has adequate lighting for the gloomier days ahead by replacing broken bulbs and adding more lamps to common areas.
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When it comes to creating the perfect winter space, adding some candles to the mix is a sure-fire way to ensure maximum cosiness. Not only are they an additional source of light and heat, but many of them are infused with essential oils that can bring a sense of comfort and contentment, even on the bleakest of days.
Turn down the heat
Ever noticed that your electricity bill is significantly higher in winter? This is because we consume much more of it through the heating of water and our homes. An economical way of regulating the temperature of your house is by installing insulation. It helps to keep cold air out in winter, and prevents rooms from becoming too hot in summer. And while it might be a pricey one-off expense, it can save you money in the long run.
Words: Ruby Meyers | Hautestock
