You Might Not Need to Turn up the Heat Yet

by Sherry Holetzky | More from this Blogger

30 Oct 2006 01:39 PM

Have you ever walked into someone's home and felt like you stepped into an oven? It happens a lot with people who get cold easily. It also happens quite often when the weather first begins to change, because we are not used to the chill.

However, there are better ways to get warm than cranking up the thermostat. Instead of immediately reaching to turn up the heat, try slipping into a warm sweater or robe. Grab a cozy throw. Colder weather is a great reason to squeeze in some extra snuggling, too.

It also makes sense to put something on your feet. Unless you have heated floors, your floors are probably rather chilly, even if carpeted. Thick, warm socks or slippers will help keep you toasty.

Putting on warmer clothing or a blanket is also a great way to conserve energy and to keep your heating costs down. Of course, I'm not suggesting that you keep the heat so low that you have to really bundle up, I'm just saying that you might be surprised by how energy you'll save if you reach for something warm to cover your body with instead of reaching for the thermostat.

Personally, I prefer to grab a blanket or something and leave the thermostat alone. I breathe better when the air is not stifling. I never want our house to feel stuffy inside. I am always reminding my kids about this stuff, as they walk through the house in shorts and bare feet when the temperatures are dropping. Each one has heard me say, "Put something on," more times than they would like to count.

For sleeping, try a down comforter or a nice micro-fiber down blanket. Not only are both incredibly warm but they are also extremely soft and feel just wonderful. You'll sleep like a baby!

*Check back for tips on selecting quality down comforters.

Related Articles:

Winterizing Your Home: 10 Ways To Lower Your Gas Bill

Home Safety: Stay Safe While Staying Warm

Learn more about Sherry Holetzky

Sherry Holetzky is a work at home mom and freelance writer. Married to her best friend, Sherry and her husband are raising their family in a quiet rural setting in the beautiful Ozark Mountains.

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