For the first 25 years of her life, central heating was completely unknown to Vita Molyneux. Growing up in New Zealand, it's practically unheard of, and neither she nor any of her friends or relatives had it.
That might seem strange to people in the UK, where cosy, warm and dry homes are the norm, but for those on the other side of the globe, it was simply how things were. On New Zealand's north island, temperatures don't drop quite as low as they do in Britain, but that doesn't mean it's tropical all year round. During winter, days hitting 0°C are typical, and waking up to frost on single-glazed windows isn't unusual.
Why She Avoided Radiators
Molyneux had space heaters, or occasionally a heat pump, in her rental properties, but they were costly to operate. Without double glazing or proper insulation, switching them on would only keep the place warm for a few hours anyway.
So instead, she became quite skilled at staying warm without relying on electricity. If you're looking to reduce your electricity bill this winter, the first thing to do is get a thick beanie. Keeping your head warm makes far more difference than you'd imagine, and simply popping on a hat can quickly take the chill off.
Clothing and Bedding Tips
Another top clothing tip is to invest in merino base layers. Several sets of merino wool long-sleeve shirts and long johns can make a world of difference. Merino wool is breathable yet keeps body heat close to you, meaning you stay warmer for far longer. Layer them beneath a pair of tracksuit bottoms and a woolly jumper to stay snug throughout the winter months.
Thick socks are another brilliant way to keep the cold at bay — try wearing a light merino wool pair underneath a chunkier, slipper-style sock to keep your toes toasty. Hot water bottles are also an absolute lifesaver. Rather than placing them directly on your body, fill two (or even three) around an hour before bedtime and tuck them under the duvet to warm the sheets before you climb in. They retain heat for hours and are a fantastic way to stay warm through the night.
When it comes to bedding, it's well worth switching to flannelette sheets. They trap heat far more effectively and feel considerably cosier than standard cotton — during winter, they can make the difference between a cosy evening and a freezing one.
Draught-Proofing Your Home
It's also wise to tackle any draughts in your home. As soon as the sun begins to set, draw all the curtains to retain the day's warmth. For the best results, opt for floor-to-ceiling curtains to block out any cold air seeping through gaps around the windows.
A rolled-up towel placed along the bottom of a door frame can also help keep heat locked inside a room and prevent chilly air from sneaking in.
