Keeping Costs Low and Staying Warm in Winter

High electricity bills may persuade you to keep the heating low in winter but being cold is no fun - here are a few tips to ensure that you stay warm and keep costs low this winter.
Use hot water bottles
Water bottles have come back into fashion. If you're frightened of a hot water bottle bursting, then look into 'hotties', which can be either bags of wheat or some form of chemical, depending on your preference. They are heated in a microwave, usually for no more than two minutes. Always be careful with hot water bottles of any form - ensure that they are covered and are not too hot and you will be able to keep nice and warm at night and during the day.
Hot drinks and meals
Don't be tempted to eat cold food such as sandwiches. Eat well-balanced hot meals that will help keep you warm. If you like spicy food, then all well and good - the heat generated will help you to feel warmer. If you have mobility issues, then make up flasks of hot drinks and keep them close by.
Wear layers
So many people turn the heating up a notch in winter when all they need to do is put on another layer. Layers of clothing are the way to go. Start off with thermal underwear, both tops and bottoms, then a top of some kind and then a jumper. Add to this if necessary. If you are still cold, then stick a hot water bottle close to the skin or get a blanket - it doesn't look very elegant but it is better to be warm than not!
Wear socks and hats
Don't forget your feet or head. One pair of socks probably won't be enough to keep your feet warm, so add an extra pair. Look into thermal socks or wool socks - these are particularly warm. You will certainly need a hat when you are outside but if your house is cold, you can wear one inside as well - despite old wives' tales that say you lose more heat from your head than the rest of the body, you don't but it is still worth keeping your head covered.
Purchase a halogen heater
Consider buying a halogen heater, which is supposed to be more cost-effective than other types of heating, although that doesn't seem to have been comprehensively proved. They are usually equipped with safety features, so that if they fall over, they switch off. However, as with any heating appliance, you should carefully do your research before purchasing. Heaters of any kind can be used to heat the room that you use most frequently, saving the cost of heating the whole house.
Clean the house/exercise
Exercise of any form will help keep you warm. If you have been sitting still for a while, get up and move around the house - some housework will help warm you up, particularly if you have your hands in hot water. Alternatively, go out for a walk. This will warm you up and the house will feel much warmer compared to outside when you return.