With winter tightening its grip and energy bills a primary concern for households, Martin Lewis' Money Saving Expert (MSE) has delivered a definitive verdict on the most cost-effective way to stay warm. The team has concluded that heating the person is generally cheaper than heating the entire home.
Who Should Avoid This Cost-Cutting Measure?
However, this blanket money-saving advice does not apply to everyone. MSE issues a crucial warning that this approach is not suitable for vulnerable groups. This includes the elderly, individuals with asthma, those struggling with mental health conditions, and people whose rental agreements require them to keep the property at a certain temperature.
The experts also highlighted that some popular personal heating methods, such as hot water bottles and electric blankets, carry safety risks if they are not used correctly.
The Most Economical Heating Devices Revealed
In their analysis, MSE identified the most economical gadgets to run. USB-chargeable items like heated gloves and socks are incredibly cheap to operate, costing an estimated just 4p per week.
For whole-body warmth, an electric blanket that plugs into the mains is a more substantial option, costing around 92p per week to run. One satisfied user shared their experience, stating: "I experienced the delight of an electric blanket for the first time. It saved me a lot on heating costs and there is nothing quite like getting into a toasty warm bed in a chilly room."
Affordable Clothing and Unconventional Tips
Another straightforward strategy focuses on what you wear. While natural fibres like wool are excellent for heat retention, they can be expensive. MSE suggests that synthetic materials can be a more affordable alternative and recommends investing in a good thermal base layer.
For those on a budget, many savvy shoppers recommend the Heatgen thermals from M&S, which cost between £8 and £25. A fleece can also be purchased for as little as £8.99 from Sports Direct.
The advice doesn't stop there. MSE also offers some less conventional wisdom for maintaining body heat. The NHS recommends eating regularly and having at least one hot meal a day, a tip endorsed by MSE. Hot drinks can also help. Furthermore, they advise paying close attention to your feet, as cold feet can make your whole body feel chilly. Keeping them off cold floors by wearing slippers or resting them on a chair is an effective countermeasure.
In conclusion, while focusing on personal warmth is typically more cost-effective than heating an entire property, the suitability of this approach and the methods chosen depend entirely on your individual circumstances and health needs.
