Cheap and Free Ways to Stay Warm in the Winter

Heating and energy bills can really put a dent in our wallet when the weather outside is cold. The winter times are often harsh with furnaces running continuously and windchills that read below zero. Turning up our thermostat anymore than needed makes us squirm because we fear of the gas or electric bill that awaits us in the mail. Believe it or not, there are cheap and even free ways that we can stay warm without burning a hole through our pockets when we pay for our heating bills.

One way to stay warm begins right in the midst of our own closets and dressers. Put on more clothes! Try adding a sweater, hoodie, or even a shirt underneath your sweater. Put on two pairs of socks. Or, put on long underwear under all of your clothing. Long robes are also very warm if you have the golden opportunity to own one of those bulky soft ones. If you don't plan on going out at all, stay dressed in some warm flannel pajamas with a warm robe tied around you.

Another way to add warmth and coziness to your home is to stock up on soft fleece blankets. You can never have too many blankets when the weather outside is cold. Soft fleece blankets are perfect for curling up on the couch to watch a movie, read a book, or to snuggle with those that you love the most. They are also wonderful to put in your car for emergency cases. If you are lucky to own an electric blanket or heating pad-take advantage of those perks as well!

When you feel a chill coming on from deep down inside, rade your kitchen cabinets! Popular winter items include hot chocolate, hot tea, soups, and toasted cheese. Think of comfort foods when you start to feel cold. A warm mug of hot chocolate can circulate warmth through your body for minutes after you finish drinking. A big bowl of hot tomato or chicken noodle soup is also perfect for those winter chills. Add a toasted cheese sandwich and you have dinner!-not to mention a warm and cozy dinner that is....

If you are still cold, jump in a hot steamy shower for a few minutes. Be careful not to run the water for long though! You don't want to run up a high water bill... The purpose of a short warm shower is to warm up, dry off, and snuggle in your soft bathrobe. You might want to dry your hair though-walking around with wet hair complete defeats this purpose.

During the winter, turning up your thermostat is not your only option to staying warm. Many of these wonderful and cozy amenities lie within the comfort of your own home. Just be sure to stock up before winter hits! Add these important items to your winter checklist: hot chocolate or other warm beverage of your choice, your soup of choice, long underwear, extra socks, fleece blankets, and a soft and bulky bathrobe. With those items, you can stay warm and snuggle with those special people in your life.