10 Smart Tips to Stay Warm This Winter

As the mercury dips and winter tightens its grip, apartment living can present some unique challenges when it comes to staying warm—especially when you’re trying to keep energy bills in check. Whether you’re in a studio or a high-rise unit, there are practical, budget-friendly ways to stay cosy without cranking up the heater. Here are some clever tips and tricks to warm up your space (and yourself) this winter.

1) Harness the Power of the Sun

Natural sunlight is your best friend during the colder months. Open your curtains or blinds during the day to let the sun naturally heat your home. Once it sets, draw the curtains to trap that warmth inside. If you don’t already have thermal or blockout curtains, consider them a smart investment—they help insulate windows and prevent heat loss.

2) Seal Out Drafts Like a Pro

Even small drafts can significantly chill your apartment. Check around windows, doors, and vents for air leaks. Use weather stripping, door snakes, or even rolled-up towels to block out cold air. You can also apply inexpensive adhesive foam tape around windows and use removable draft stoppers for doors.

3) Layer Up—Yourself and Your Furniture

Put on your warmest socks, jumpers, and loungewear—thermal clothing helps retain body heat, reducing the need for extra heating. Likewise, layering your furniture helps too: cover couches with blankets or throws and lay rugs on bare floors (especially if you have tiles or floorboards) to prevent heat loss through the ground.

4) Space Heating Smarts

If you’re using a portable heater, be strategic. Only heat the rooms you use the most and keep the doors closed to contain the warmth. Consider a ceramic or oil-filled electric heater with a timer or thermostat to avoid overheating and wasting power. And always unplug when not in use.

Bonus Tip: Keep your reverse-cycle air conditioner filter clean—it’ll run more efficiently and consume less power.

5) Cook More, Eat Warm

Cost: Integrated into your grocery budget

Use your oven and stovetop to your advantage—baking and cooking meals at home not only warms the kitchen but fills your apartment with delicious aromas. Dishes like soups, stews, and casseroles are not only hearty and nutritious but also heat you up from the inside out.

6) Maximise Humidity

Dry air feels colder. Adding humidity to your space can make it feel warmer. A budget-friendly option is placing a bowl of water near a heater or radiator (but be safe!) to add moisture to the air. Houseplants or a small humidifier can also do the trick and improve indoor air quality.

7) Close Off Unused Spaces

Why heat a space you’re not using? Keep closet doors and spare rooms closed to concentrate warmth where you need it most. This simple trick helps maintain a comfortable temperature in your main living areas.

8) Reverse Ceiling Fans

If you have ceiling fans, flip the switch to reverse the direction (clockwise in winter). This gently pushes warm air—which rises—back down into the room. It’s a surprising but effective hack that can complement your other heating methods.

9) Insulate from the Inside

If your apartment has older windows, consider temporary window insulation kits. They’re easy to apply, affordable, and removable at the end of the season. Even bubble wrap taped to the glass works surprisingly well in a pinch.

10) Sleep Smarter

Winter bedding is worth every penny. Invest in flannel sheets, thicker quilts, or a hot water bottle to keep you warm at night. Electric blankets are also efficient, especially when used on a timer setting. Pro tip: warm your bed before you get in, then switch it off to save power.

Final Thoughts

Staying warm in winter doesn’t have to mean skyrocketing power bills or living in a puffer jacket. With a little planning and a few small changes, you can create a cosy, energy-efficient haven in your apartment all season long. Embrace these tips, and you'll be snug, stylish, and saving money while others are still shivering. For all your strata needs, contact Compass Strata, we’ve got layers of experience, and we’re not afraid to use them.