Tips On How To Warm Up Your Home Without Touching The Thermostat

by Michele Cheplic | More from this Blogger

10 Feb 2007 12:59 AM

Today is the first day in more than a week that the mercury rose above 10 degrees Fahrenheit. For days we have been dealing with sub zero temperatures and wind chill readings around minus 35 degrees. It is unbearably cold and according to our crack team of local meteorologists, it doesn't look like we will be warming up anytime soon.

I won't even tell you what I have my thermostat set at (let's just say when I look at the display window all I see are $$$$). As a result, I'm trying to find alternative ways of making our home feel warm and cozy without having to touch the thermostat.

Here are a few suggestions to consider if you too are trying to make your home a refuge from the bitter cold:

Warmth Via Color

The right color can make any room look brighter. Consider painting your walls a sunny gold or a burnt orange. Or, cover your sofa with a warm-toned slipcover. If that seems a bit much, you can simply add pillows or a throw blanket in cozy shades such as melon, sun-kissed sienna, or peach.

Add More Light

My mom got us a new lamp for Christmas. Initially, I put it in storage thinking we had sufficient lighting in our family room, but the other day I took it out to add light to a corner my daughter had set up a pup tent. It helped eliminate shadows and really brightened the room... and my mood. Well placed lights can also help illuminate photographs and other objects you love, which in turn can help warm your heart.

Add Texture

This is a simple touch you can add to a bed or couch. During the winter I use flannel bedding (sheets and blankets) to make beds extra soft and cozy. I also place chunky throw blankets with open weaves on sofas and chairs in the living room. Chenille throws also add a warm touch to furniture.

Bring The Outdoors In

I'm not talking about the wind and snow. Rather, real plants and bright flowers can give your home a much-needed breath of fresh air (they actually impart oxygen into the air, which is a welcome addition to homes that are sealed tight during the cold winter months). You could even take the idea one step further by using a small birdbath or large urn as your "vase." Birdbaths also make wonderful displays for candle arrangements---simply set a large candle in the center and smaller candles and flowers around it.

Related Articles:

How NOT To Heat Your Home

Lighting and Your Home: The Master Bedroom

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Popular Paint Choices

Winterizing Your Home: 10 Ways To Lower Your Gas Bill

Learn more about Michele Cheplic

Michele Cheplic was born and raised in Hilo, Hawaii, but now lives in Wisconsin. Michele graduated from the University of Wisconsin-Madison with a degree in Journalism.

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