How to Make Your House Cozy and Warm for the Winter

Do you envision yourself curled up on the couch with a quilt, snuggled in front of the fireplace and sipping a cup of hot cocoa? Learn how to make your house warm and cozy for the winter.

Stop drafts. One sure way to make your house cozy in the winter is to stop the drafts. Caulk around windows and doors. Hang energy efficient window treatments especially designed to keep the cold air out and the warm air in. Put draft stoppers along the floor by the doors.

Give added heat to a room. There isn't a better way to be cozy and warm in the winter than to be in front of a crackling fire in the fireplace. Space heaters are another option to warm up a room. Moving the furniture closer together by the fireplace or space heater will also make the room seem cozy.

Create ambiance. If you don't have a fireplace, candles can create the same ambiance. Light a few candles and place them in a group on the coffee table. Choose a candle that is apple scented to give the illusion of a freshly baked pie.

Make sure the room has adequate lighting. A dark room is sure to make one feel dreary. Place a long arm lamp over a reading chair or bed to create more intimate lighting. Use pink light bulbs or incandescent bulbs to create a warm glow. Adding mirrors will reflect light.

Textures. Throw a couple of soft, fluffy chenille pillows on the couch. Slipcover your couch in a chenille or corduroy. Put a blanket on the back of the couch that can be cuddled up in. Area or throw rugs on a hardwood or tiled floor will not only make the floor look warmer but will actually be warmer to walk on.

Plant an indoor garden. What better way to think of spring and warm weather than to grow some plants inside? If you don't have a green thumb, buy a bouquet of fresh flowers for the dining table.

Make your bedroom cozy. There is nothing worse than getting into a cold bed on a cold, winter night. Change your bedding to flannel sheets. Adding an electric blanket or a down comforter will make your bed even warmer. Winter is the time to get out the flannel pajamas.

Bake cookies. This should be at the top of everyone's list. And with cookie dough available in ready to bake packages, there is no excuse for not being able to pop a batch of your favorite cookies in the oven. Be sure and save one for me.