Massive global events in recent years have created a perfect storm for a financial crisis. The Covid-19 pandemic coupled with the Russia/ Ukraine war and other factors like Brexit have all driven costs up, leading to recession and a cost of living crisis. This has affected just about everyone to some extent, and this winter has been particularly tough with many people (even though that previously never struggled with money) finding it difficult to eat and heat their homes.
We still have a number of cold months ahead of us, and since these trends are set to continue for at least the next couple of winters it’s worth coming up with a plan. Finding ways to stay warm when energy costs are high can mean you and your family stay much more comfortable.
Heating yourself rather than your home is a good place to start since this works out much cheaper, and there are lots of great tools and gadgets on the market these days that can allow you to do this. Here are some examples.
Electric Blanket
The good old fashioned electric blanket is a great way to stay warm. These used to be popular decades ago before houses had the same insulation, good quality windows and central heating that they have now. But now that all of us are having to drop down the thermostat, they’re becoming increasingly popular again.
It costs a matter of pence to run meaning you can stay toasty and warm in bed without having to heat your entire house. Some gas and electricity companies are giving electric blankets away for free this winter so it’s worth enquiring or doing some research.
Heated Clothing Items
Electric blankets limit you since you can only really use them in bed. If you want to be able to move around your home then heated clothing items might be a better bet for you.
You can purchase battery operated warming vests to wear under your clothes, or if you’re happy to be confined to a chair then a dressing gown that plugs into a socket could work well for sitting watching tv.
Heated Car Seat Cover
There’s nothing worse than getting into a freezing cold car, and it can take a long time for it to heat up. A heated car seat cover could be the answer, visit this site to find out more. They heat up much more quickly and use less power than warming the entire car. Ideal if you do a lot of shorter journeys, or just struggle getting into a cold car in the mornings on your commute.
Hot Water Bottles
Finally, old fashioned water bottles shouldnt be overlooked, the perfect way to warm your feet in bed or just take the edge off the cold sheets before you get in. They stay warm for hours and they can be purchased incredibly cheaply so even if you’re on an extreme budget this is something you could do.
How have you stayed warm during this winter while there’s a cost of living crisis on?
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