10 STEPS TO WINTER WARMERS

Time to start getting snug for winter. We look at ways to stay warm and cosy as temperatures drop

1 SHUT THAT DOOR

After a summer of leaving doors open to let breezes flow through, in winter we are all about closing them to keep the heat in. If yours are allowing draughts to leak through, block their means of ingress with some simple excluders. Easy-to-fit foam tape can be used to insulate the sides of an ill-fitting door (or window). For beneath, attach a door sweep that can also keep the worst of the winter weather out. These can be screwed or stuck on, so it's a job you can tackle yourself. If it's an internal door, try a draught excluder that matches your décor - then you can move it from room to room.

2 Stylish shutters

An enduring style trend, window shutters have many practical benefits aside from the decorative. They're excellent for improving a room's energy efficiency, blocking the cold when the slats are down, and helping to cut energy bills. They can also keep rooms cool in summer by creating shade. Shutters help to black out a room if you need total darkness for a good night's rest (or if you sleep in the day because you work nights). Easy to maintain and clean, they're a good investment, adding value when it's time to sell.

3 Get rad

If your radiators have been off all summer, they might need bleeding before winter in order to increase the heat they emit. If they are working efficiently, then you won't need to keep your central heating on for as long. Follow our instructions on how to do it at realhomes.com/advice/ how-to-bleed-a-radiator. If the heat from yours is being blocked by furniture, move bulky seating forward to allow the warm air to flow freely and not just toast the back of your sofa.

4 Snug sleep