When winter rolls in, so does the temptation to crank up the heater and watch the energy bill climb. But keeping kids warm doesn’t have to mean draining your bank account.
A bit of planning and a few smart tricks can go a long way in making your home snug and your wallet intact.
Whether you’ve got a toddler who insists on crawling across cold tiles or a teen who never seems to feel the chill, these practical, low-cost hacks can help keep the whole family cosy through the colder months.
1. Layer Smart, Not Heavy
It’s not just about piling on clothes—it’s about choosing the right ones. Cotton might feel comfortable, but it holds onto moisture and can leave kids feeling colder once they start to sweat.
Instead, opt for a base layer made from wool or synthetic materials that wick away moisture. Add a middle layer of fleece or wool, and finish with something wind-resistant if needed.
At home, focus on dressing for warmth instead of heating every room. Warm socks, thermal pyjamas, and hooded robes can do wonders.
A good tip: pop their clothes on the heater or in the dryer for a few minutes before dressing. It’s a tiny detail that makes chilly mornings more bearable.
2. Seal the Heat In
You’d be surprised how much heat escapes through tiny gaps in doors and windows. Draught stoppers are a simple, cost-effective solution—no fancy installation needed. You can even make your own using old tights filled with rice or fabric scraps.
For windows, consider thermal curtains or simply add an extra layer of fabric. Keep them open during sunny hours to let in warmth, then close them as the sun drops to lock it in.
If you’ve got any windows that don’t get direct sunlight, keep them covered during the day too.
As highlighted by Metropolitan Heating and Cooling, “up to 40% of a home’s heating energy can be lost through windows.”
3. Snug Beds = Better Sleep
A well-prepared bed can keep kids warm all night without needing to heat the room. Start with flannelette or brushed cotton sheets—they trap heat better than standard cotton. Layer up with blankets or quilts rather than one heavy doona, as trapped air between layers provides extra insulation.
Hot water bottles or heat packs (carefully used and checked for safety) can warm up the bed before your child climbs in. Electric blankets can work too but use them to pre-warm the bed, not as an all-night solution for young children.
And here’s a simple old-school trick: tuck a wool blanket between the sheet and the mattress for extra insulation from below. It makes more of a difference than you’d expect.
4. Keep Feet and Floors Warm
Bare feet and cold floors are a quick path to chills. If your home has tiles or timber, consider adding rugs to commonly used areas like the living room and bedroom. They don’t need to be expensive—even second-hand ones can do the trick.
The Australian Government’s YourHome programme reports that up to 20% of winter heat may be lost through uninsulated floors, so adding a warmer surface underfoot is more than just comfort—it’s smart energy sense.
Slippers or thermal socks should be part of the morning routine. Some families swear by fleece-lined booties or Ugg‑style indoor shoes, which can often be found at budget retailers if you time it right.
Children often play or sit on the floor, so creating a warmer surface underneath them makes a noticeable difference. Foam floor mats or thick picnic rugs work well if carpets aren’t an option.
5. Warm Food, Warm Kids
It’s not just about heating the house—what they eat matters too. Warm meals and drinks help regulate body temperature. Think slow-cooked soups, stews, and porridge for breakfast. Hot milo or herbal teas in the afternoon can warm them up from the inside out.
Get creative with snacks—baked apples, toasted sandwiches, or warm banana muffins can bring a bit of comfort and heat.
In the evenings, a shared family meal around the table also helps take the chill off, both literally and emotionally.
It’s worth noting that energy bills are a real concern for many households. In fact, the Australian Energy Regulator has projected that residential electricity prices in some regions could rise between 2.5% and 8.9% from July 2025. That makes it all the more important to find warmth without over-relying on the heater.
Beat the Chill Without the Bill
Staying warm in winter doesn’t need to be a battle between comfort and cost. These hacks don’t require fancy gadgets or a complete lifestyle overhaul—they just need a bit of attention to detail and some thoughtful preparation.
Whether it’s sealing gaps or serving hot meals, the key is consistency. Small habits add up quickly, and by focusing on the areas where heat is lost and where kids feel the cold most, you can create a warm, welcoming home—without the stress of a shocking power bill.