With older windows and doors, winter often brings drafty breezes, chilly floors, and that lingering “winter chill” in every corner of the house. Many of us live in older homes or simply can’t afford costly window replacements, door upgrades, or major insulation projects. Let’s be honest, those heating bills can feel impossible to manage. That’s why I put together this roundup of practical, budget-friendly ideas to keep your house warm and cozier this winter, all without cranking up the thermostat! Post contains affiliate links.
Seal Door Drafts and Window Drafts to Keep your House Warm
Sealing drafts might seem obvious, but it’s one of the easiest and cheapest ways to keep your house warm in winter. Caulking windows and doors worked wonders with the drafts in our home. These squeezable tubes make it so easy!
Door draft stoppers are another simple solution. You can buy them, or make your own with a sewn pouch filled with pipe insulation for just a few dollars from Lowe’s!
For exterior doors, these seal strip style are also a great option.
Weather stripping on doors and windows also helps block sneaky breezes, and foam sealant or rope caulk can fill tougher gaps. Another easy option is placing a rug at the door threshold. Heavier rugs or ones designed specifically for draft blocking work best for stopping drafts while adding a cozy touch. With just a few of these tweaks, you can trap warmth indoors without cranking up the thermostat.
Where Drafts Commonly Hide (Beyond Windows & Doors)
I was honestly shocked at all the sneaky places I could feel cold air creeping into our home, in spots I never would have suspected! Drafts don’t just sneak around window panes or under doors; they can hide behind trim, in corners, and under sills. Here are the most common spots and easy solutions:
Window Trim & Molding: Gaps between the window frame and trim are common in older homes. Seal small cracks with caulk, or use foam backer rod before caulking for larger spaces.
In our old home, I found this large gap between the sheetrock and the trim, as well as a pretty big gap under the threshold to the sliding door.
We used regular white caulk on the wood trim against the sheetrock, and a brown colored caulk for the threshold strip underneath.
Corners & Joints of Window Frames: Mitered corners often have tiny gaps. A bead of silicone or acrylic latex caulk usually does the trick, and for gaps over 1/4 inch, spray foam works well.
Under the Sill: Cold air can sneak up beneath the window. Slide in thin insulation strips, foam weatherproofing tape, or carefully use spray foam for larger gaps.
Door Trim & Baseboards: Check where trim meets doors and corners where baseboards meet casings. Caulk or rope caulk can block these drafts, and a door draft stopper adds extra protection.
Rugs at Door Thresholds: Heavy rugs or ones designed for draft blocking trap cold air before it enters, giving an extra layer of warmth.
Pro tip I learned: On a windy day, hold a lit candle or incense stick near windows, doors, and trim. Watch for flickering flames or smoke movement. It’s a simple, visual way to spot hidden drafts. Focus on the largest gaps first, and you’ll feel a noticeable difference in warmth without cranking up the thermostat!
Warm Up Your Windows
Even after sealing drafts, windows remain one of the biggest sources of cold in our homes, especially older, single-pane windows. The good news is, there are several stylish and practical ways to trap warmth, even without replacing your existing curtains or making your space feel like a construction zone.
Here’s a breakdown of top strategies:
Thermal Curtains or Drapes
If you don’t already have curtains, adding them is a simple way to block drafts while instantly adding style. For the best results, look for thermal curtains or drapes with an insulated backing. I like to keep mine open for natural light during the day, but even having the panels covering the edges of a window makes a huge difference in stopping drafts.
Already have curtains you love? Try layering thermal panels or insulated sheers underneath. This traps warm air inside while keeping your favorite decor front and center.
Cellular (Honeycomb) Shades
Cellular Shades are one of the most energy-efficient window treatments you can add.
The honeycomb-shaped cells trap air to act as a buffer, keeping warm air inside during winter and hot air out during summer.
- Available in a range of colors, opacities, and finishes to fit any style. We ordered ours from Allen Roth at Lowes and love them!
- Top-down/bottom-up versions give you flexible light control without sacrificing insulation.
- Motorized shades let you program them to open with the sun (for natural heat) and close at night, so practical and high-tech!
Insulating Window Film
If you want something more discreet than heavy curtains, insulating window film is a budget-friendly way to keep your house warm during winter (and block excess heat in summer).
Products like Duck Brand Window Insulation Film are nearly invisible once installed, so your windows still look clean and bright, not like a plastic-covered construction zone.
The film works by creating a clear barrier that reduces heat loss through the glass while also cutting down on drafts. Many kits are renter-friendly and can be removed without damage at the end of the season.
Renter-Friendly Magnetic Window Kits
These may work well for renters or anyone who doesn’t want a permanent change. These magnetic insulation kits attach around the window frame, creating a reusable seal you can pop on and off as needed. They’re cleaner-looking than taped plastic and can be stored flat for next year.
Draft Guards at the Sill
Even the best curtains and shades won’t stop drafts from creeping in at the bottom of windows. That’s where draft guards or stoppers come in.
- Look for decorative fabric versions that blend with your home’s style.
- A simple rolled towel works in a pinch.
- Foam strips or silicone seals can be a more discreet, semi-permanent option.
Extra Notes!
Layering Works Best: Combining multiple techniques, such as curtains and shades, creates a stronger barrier than using either alone. Even one thin thermal panel behind your favorite drapes can make a big difference.
Pretty Options Exist: From patterned cellular shades to fabric-covered draft stoppers, you don’t have to sacrifice style to keep your house warm!
Keep Your House Warm: Layering Rugs & Soft Textiles
Hard floors get chilly fast, and they don’t hold warmth. Adding area rugs, even over carpet, creates an extra layer of insulation and makes rooms feel instantly cozier.
Place rugs near beds, under sofas, or along drafty hallways. Layering smaller rugs (like faux sheepskins or runners) over larger ones adds texture and warmth!
Beyond floors, don’t forget throws, weighted blankets, and cozy textiles! These are all simple upgrades that make you feel warmer without touching the thermostat.
Upgrade Your Bedding
Your bed should be the warmest, most inviting spot in the house on a cold night. Swapping out light summer bedding makes a big difference.
–Flannel or jersey sheets feel warmer when you first climb in.
–Down comforters or plush duvets trap heat effectively without feeling heavy.
-For maximum coziness, add a heated blanket or mattress pad. Many now come with auto shut-off and dual controls for couples with different comfort levels.
Smart Supplemental Heat
Sometimes central heating alone just isn’t enough…or it’s too costly to crank it up! That’s where small, targeted solutions shine.
Ceramic space heaters: great for offices, bedrooms, or small living spaces. Many now include timers, tip-over protection, and thermostats.
Infrared heating panels: slim, wall-mounted options that blend into a room better than bulky heaters.
Compact electric fireplaces: these add instant ambiance while giving off real warmth, perfect for living rooms or bedrooms that need a cozy focal point! I really love this white one!
Cozy Atmosphere Without Heat
Not every winter comfort has to be about cranking up the temperature. Sometimes it’s about creating the feeling of warmth.
- Warm lighting (lamps, string lights, candles) makes rooms feel inviting.
- Candles or flameless alternatives give off a soft glow that instantly feels warmer.
- Small touches like slippers by the door, a stack of folded throws, or even a basket of hot cocoa packets make winter nights feel like an experience rather than just surviving the cold.
Ready to get started cozying up your home for winter? We’re on a mission this season stay warm, save money and energy, and make our home the cozy retreat we’ll love all season long! Do you have any other ideas for keeping our homes comfy on a budget? I would love to hear about them!
