As winter and the festive season approach, many renters worry about keeping their homes warm without pushing energy bills through the roof. The good news is that creating a cosy, comfortable space doesn’t need to cost much. With a few small changes and smart habits, you can make your home feel welcoming, warm, and affordable to run — even on a low income or while receiving DSS support.
Keep the Warmth In
The first step to staying cosy is to stop heat escaping. Close curtains and blinds before dusk to keep daytime warmth inside, and try using thicker curtains or thermal linings if you can. You don’t need to replace them — even hanging a blanket or extra fabric behind your existing curtains can help.
If you feel cold air coming from under doors, roll up a towel or use a draft excluder. A small rug or mat over bare floors can make a big difference. And if you have radiators, don’t block them with furniture — give warm air room to circulate freely around your home.
Make Lighting Do the Work
Lighting has a big effect on how a space feels. Instead of using bright ceiling lights all evening, switch to smaller lamps or LED fairy lights. They’re cheap to run and create a gentle, festive glow that helps you relax.
If your tenancy allows candles, use them safely — never leave them unattended, and place them on heat-proof surfaces. Otherwise, battery-powered tea lights can give the same cosy atmosphere with zero risk.
Layer for Comfort
Soft textures make any space feel warmer. Add a couple of throws or fleece blankets to your sofa and bed. Cushions, rugs, and even fabric wall hangings can help block cold and make rooms feel snug.
If you’re trying to save on heating, a hot water bottle or heated blanket on a low setting costs only a few pence per hour — far less than heating the whole property. These simple additions bring warmth directly to where you need it most.
Cook, Cup, and Gather
Winter is the perfect time to enjoy home-cooked food and quiet evenings in. Batch-cooking soups, pasta sauces, or stews not only warms your kitchen but also saves money on energy and ingredients. When you cook, keep lids on pans to trap heat and let food cook faster.
After dinner, make a hot drink and spend time with friends or family instead of going out. Shared time, films, or a simple meal at home can make your place feel more alive and homely without costing anything extra.
Use Heat Wisely
If you pay your own bills, try to heat only the rooms you use most often. Keep internal doors closed to trap warmth, and avoid turning heating on and off — steady moderate heat uses less energy overall.
If you’re allowed, bleed radiators to release trapped air and improve efficiency. Check for cold spots — if they stay cool, ask your landlord to check the system. Those in homes with “bills included” should still use heat responsibly; steady, sensible use keeps costs fair for everyone.
Extra Tips for Renters
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Hang a thick curtain or blanket over internal doors to stop draughts.
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Use radiator reflectors (or even kitchen foil) behind radiators on external walls.
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Dry washing with ventilation to avoid damp and mould.
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Keep windows slightly open on the “trickle” setting for a few minutes each day to release moisture.
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Create a cosy corner with a soft throw, cushion, and small lamp — perfect for reading or relaxing.
Affordable Warmth and Peace of Mind
Comfort isn’t just about temperature — it’s about stability, safety, and peace of mind.
If your heating costs are high or your income is low, check if you qualify for extra help like the Warm Home Discount, Cold Weather Payments, or Local Housing Allowance (LHA) to support your rent.
Simple actions add up: keeping heat in, using light creatively, layering soft textures, and managing energy wisely. Together, they create a warm, peaceful space that feels like home — even when money is tight.
This winter, take pride in making your home comfortable through smart, affordable choices. A cosy home doesn’t come from spending more; it comes from caring for the space you already have.