Brief

Experts advise simple steps to keep homes warm without raising heating

Energy‑efficiency specialists recommend footwear, clothing layers, sealing drafts and using curtains to retain heat during colder weather.

By Felo News Desk · Published Mon, 12 Oct 2026 19:06:25 GMT

With temperatures falling across the United Kingdom, experts have outlined low‑cost measures to stay warm at home without increasing central‑heating output, according to the Independent.

What happened

The article, published on 12 October 2026, compiles advice from three specialists: Stephen Hankinson of Electric Radiators Direct, David Walter of Utility Warehouse and Helen O’Connor of 247 Blinds. Each offers practical actions that can be implemented immediately, such as choosing appropriate footwear, adding clothing layers, sealing gaps and managing window coverings.

What the reports add

Hankinson stresses that warm feet contribute significantly to overall body temperature and circulation, recommending thick, fluffy socks, indoor slippers and warm foot baths, provided the feet are dried afterwards. He also links proper clothing to skin health, noting that dry‑skin conditions can worsen in cold, dry air and that insulated fabrics like thick cotton and wool help prevent hypothermia for vulnerable individuals.

Walter highlights the financial impact of untreated drafts, explaining that un‑insulated lofts or walls “pay to heat the outside world”. He suggests weather‑stripping, draught‑proofing tape or traditional draught excluders as inexpensive fixes.

O’Connor advises keeping curtains closed while away from home to retain heat, and recommends thermally lined blinds or floor‑length curtains to minimise heat loss through windows.

What was said

“Warm feet play a major role in contributing towards your body temperature and blood flow, therefore need to be looked after,” Hankinson told the Independent.

“Weather‑stripping, draught‑proofing tape, or even a good old‑fashioned draught excluder can work wonders,” Walter said.

“Keeping your curtains closed while you’re out will help retain the heat throughout the day for when you come home,” O’Connor added.

How it came about

The guidance arrives as the UK experiences a seasonal dip in temperatures, prompting concerns about rising energy costs and the health risks of prolonged cold exposure. Earlier Felo coverage has highlighted the link between indoor comfort and health, and this piece expands on practical steps households can take without major renovations.

Key facts

• Thick socks, indoor slippers and warm foot baths improve foot circulation and overall warmth. (independent.co.uk)
• Sealing gaps around windows, doors and letterboxes reduces heat loss and can lower heating bills. (independent.co.uk)
• Closing curtains or using thermally lined blinds helps retain indoor heat when the home is unoccupied. (independent.co.uk)
• Layering clothing with insulating fabrics such as thick cotton and wool reduces the risk of hypothermia. (independent.co.uk)
• Un‑insulated lofts or walls cause heat to escape, effectively heating the outside world. (independent.co.uk)

Sources

• [1] independent.co.uk — originally reported as “Nine expert tips for staying warm at home without turning up the heating”