It’s a freezing Thursday evening in November, you’ve just binged the last season of Succession, and the thought of leaving your warm ottoman bed feels about as appealing as a cold cup of tea.
We’ve all been there. Teeth chattering, wrapped in more layers than a Greggs sausage roll, wondering how on earth you’ll survive another Baltic British winter. But fear not, fellow cosy connoisseurs, because we’re about to dive into some seriously snuggly solutions to keep your ottoman bed toasty warm this winter.
And yes, we all know the obvious way to keep warm in bed (wink, wink, nudge, nudge), but let’s keep this PG, shall we? So, instead, how about we explore some eco-friendly ways to turn your ottoman bed into a winter wonderland of warmth.
1. Layer Your Bedding Like A Master Chef
Think of your bedding as a meticulously crafted lasagne, where every layer serves a purpose. Start with a thermal mattress protector to trap heat from below. Next, switch out standard sheets for flannel. Their soft, brushed texture not only feels divine but traps air for added insulation. Follow this with a lightweight wool blanket, which works wonders for retaining warmth, and finish with a high-tog duvet for some serious cold-busting.
For added flair and warmth, layer a throw or quilt on top. Wool or fleece are excellent choices. If you’re feeling extra creative, try a weighted blanket. They’re calming and super warm. The trick is in the air pockets between layers, which act as natural insulation to keep you snug all night long.
2. Mattress Toppers: Heat Guardians
A mattress topper is like a thermal jacket for your bed. Wool and latex options are fantastic for winter as they’re breathable, regulate temperature and trap heat effectively. Wool toppers also wick moisture away, meaning no waking up clammy in the middle of the night.
If you’re on a tighter budget, opt for memory foam or microfiber toppers. They’re cheaper but still help retain heat and add extra comfort to your bed. Consider a dual-season topper if you want versatility. Be cool in summer, warm in winter. Regularly fluff and rotate the topper to maintain its insulating properties. Combine it with a thermal underlay for an extra layer of warmth.
3. Switch To Flannel Sheets
Flannel sheets are the superheroes of winter bedding. Their soft, fuzzy texture traps air and keeps you warmer than traditional cotton or polyester. Unlike silk or satin, flannel feels warm to the touch even before you climb into bed, making it the ideal choice for cold nights.
Available in a range of patterns, flannel sheets also add a touch of cosiness to your bedroom decor. When shopping, look for high-quality brushed cotton flannel. It’s durable, breathable and eco-friendly. Pair these sheets with a matching duvet cover for a coordinated and toasty aesthetic.
4. Seal The Drafts
A warm bed can be sabotaged by sneaky draughts, so it’s time to block them out. Use draught excluders at the base of your bedroom door and seal any gaps around windows with weather stripping or insulating tape. You’ll be surprised how much warmer your space feels once the cold air is banished.
If you’re feeling crafty, make your own draught excluder using fabric scraps and rice or dried beans for filling. These handy tools also come in quirky shapes – think sausage dogs or foxes – adding charm as well as function to your bedroom.
5. Hot Water Bottles: Old-School Charm
The humble hot water bottle is a winter staple for good reason. Fill it with hot water (not boiling) and place it in your bed 20 minutes before you plan to hop in. By the time you’re ready to sleep, your bed will be a toasty paradise.
For an extra touch of luxury, invest in a soft cover. Fleece or faux fur options not only feel lovely but also retain heat longer. Use one at your feet and another for hugging to keep your entire body warm. Eco-friendly and cost-effective, this is a hack you’ll want to use every night during the colder months.
6. Electric Blankets For Instant Warmth
Electric blankets are the ultimate quick fix for cold nights. Designed to pre-warm your bed, they make getting in feel like sinking into a heated cocoon. Modern versions come with adjustable temperature settings, timers and low-energy options, making them both efficient and customisable.
Use your electric blanket to warm the bed for 15–30 minutes before you climb in. Always switch it off before sleeping to save energy and for safety. If you’re concerned about your carbon footprint, look for energy-efficient models made with eco-friendly materials.
7. Add Rugs Around Your Bed
Cold floors can suck the warmth right out of your room. Placing rugs around your bed is a stylish and practical way to combat this. Choose thick, plush rugs – wool, shag, or faux sheepskin work wonderfully – to insulate your feet from chilly surfaces.
For maximum impact, layer smaller rugs over a larger area rug to trap heat and add visual interest. Opt for warm tones or textured patterns to bring a touch of cosy charm to your bedroom. A warm floor makes a warm bed all the more inviting.
8. Bed Canopy: Enclose The Warmth
A bed canopy isn’t just a whimsical design choice, it’s also an effective way to trap heat. By enclosing your bed, you reduce the circulation of cold air, creating a warm microclimate.
Choose a thick fabric canopy for extra insulation, or go for something sheer to keep it light and dreamy while still retaining warmth. String fairy lights around the canopy for added ambience. The result is a bedroom fit for a hygge queen.
9. Use Thermal Curtains
Windows are a major source of heat loss in winter. Thermal curtains are specifically designed to trap warmth inside while blocking cold drafts. Close them at night to keep the heat in, and open them during the day to let sunlight naturally warm the room.
For an even better seal, layer them over blinds or regular curtains. They come in a range of styles, so you can choose one that complements your room while keeping things snug.
10. Reflective Radiator Panels
Radiators do a great job of heating your space, but much of that warmth is wasted as heat escapes through the walls. Reflective radiator panels are an ingenious solution. Simply place them behind your radiator to bounce heat back into the room rather than letting it seep away.
This simple DIY trick is inexpensive, easy to install and improves your radiator’s efficiency. Plus, it’s a great way to save energy and keep your heating bills down.
11. Wear Thermal Nightwear
Invest in high-quality thermal nightwear made from natural fibres like cotton or wool. These materials are breathable and trap heat without making you sweat. Layer them with thick socks to keep your extremities warm.
If you’re a fan of loungewear, upgrade to fleece-lined options for the ultimate cosy experience. Just imagine wrapping yourself in a warm hug every night.
12. Heated Floor Mats For Toasty Feet
If cold floors are a persistent problem, heated floor mats might be the solution. These mats provide a gentle, radiant warmth underfoot, perfect for placing beside your bed or under your desk.
Energy-efficient and easy to use, heated mats are a luxurious way to stay warm without raising the room temperature. Pair them with a thick rug for double the heat retention.
13. Have A Hot Drink Before Bed
A warm drink is the perfect pre-bedtime ritual to raise your body temperature and soothe your soul. Whether it’s a classic English breakfast tea, rich hot chocolate or herbal chamomile, sipping something warm helps prepare your body for a cosy night.
Combine your hot drink with a book or some relaxing music, and you’ve got the ultimate wind-down routine. Just remember to avoid caffeinated options if you’re hoping for a restful sleep.
14. Layer Cushions For Added Warmth
Throw cushions aren’t just decorative, they can also insulate. Arrange them around the edges of your bed to trap heat and add an extra layer of softness. Opt for cushions in warm textures like velvet, fleece or faux fur for maximum effect.
Choose colours and patterns that complement your bedding for a cohesive look. The result? A bed that feels as good as it looks.
15. Close Doors To Conserve Heat
It might seem like a small step, but keeping your bedroom door closed can make a big difference in maintaining warmth. By sealing off the room, you prevent warm air from escaping and cold air from creeping in.
This works even better if your home’s heating system allows you to focus heat in certain areas. Close the doors of unused rooms during the day to direct warmth into your bedroom. Add a draught excluder to the base of your door for an extra barrier against chilly air.
16. Install A Bed Tent
A bed tent might sound like something for camping enthusiasts or kids, but it’s a game-changer for winter nights. This clever contraption creates a microclimate around your bed, trapping heat and shielding you from draughts.
Modern bed tents are designed to look stylish while serving their insulating purpose. Some even come with built-in pockets or light hooks for added convenience. They’re perfect for anyone struggling with a particularly draughty room, or anyone who secretly dreams of sleeping in their own cosy fortress.
17. Opt For Warm Lighting
Lighting plays a psychological role in how warm we feel. Swap out cool-toned bulbs for warm LED lights that emit a soft, golden glow. The cosy ambience they create can make a cold room feel more inviting.
Use table lamps or string fairy lights around your bed for added charm. Not only do they set a relaxing mood, but the warm tones also trick your brain into feeling cosier – a win-win for those long winter nights.
18. Upgrade To A High-Tog Duvet
If your duvet isn’t up to the challenge of a British winter, it’s time to upgrade. Duvets with a tog rating of 13.5 or higher are ideal for keeping you warm without needing extra blankets. Look for natural fillings like goose down or wool for excellent insulation.
If you prefer synthetic options, microfibre or hollowfibre duvets offer a great balance of warmth and affordability. Many modern duvets are also hypoallergenic and lightweight, meaning you don’t have to sacrifice comfort for warmth.
19. Use Thermal Underlays
Thermal underlays are an underrated winter hero. Placed between your mattress and sheets, they add an extra layer of insulation that traps heat and prevents cold air from seeping up through the mattress.
Natural materials like wool are ideal for thermal underlays, as they regulate temperature while remaining breathable. Combined with a mattress topper, they’ll make your bed so warm and inviting you might never want to leave.
20. Block Window Draughts
Windows are notorious for letting the cold in, but a few simple fixes can make a world of difference. Use weather stripping, insulating film or draught-proofing tape to seal gaps around window frames. For a temporary solution, a thick blanket or towel pressed against the sill works wonders.
To go the extra mile, add thermal blinds or insulated shutters. These create a barrier against the cold and can even help reduce energy bills by keeping warmth inside.
21. Bring In Some Heated Mattress Pads
A heated mattress pad is like an electric blanket but better. Placed directly under your sheets, it warms you from below, creating an evenly distributed heat source that’s perfect for frosty nights.
Many models come with adjustable settings, allowing you to tailor the temperature to your preference. Look for energy-efficient options with automatic shut-off features to keep your costs down and ensure safety.
22. Introduce Reflective Foil Behind Radiators
Reflective radiator foil is a budget-friendly way to improve your heating system’s efficiency. These sheets bounce heat back into the room instead of letting it escape through the walls.
Available in rolls or pre-cut sizes, the foil is easy to install and works well in any room with external walls. Pair this with proper radiator bleeding to ensure your system is running at full capacity.
23. Create A Warm Bedtime Routine
Sometimes, staying warm is as much about preparation as it is about your surroundings. Incorporate warming rituals into your nightly routine, such as taking a hot bath, wearing cosy pyjamas or enjoying a hot drink.
Combine this with one or more of the hacks above, and you’ll create a nightly routine that leaves you warm, relaxed and ready for a restful sleep. It’s the perfect antidote to those chilly winter nights.
Final Thoughts
Staying warm in bed doesn’t mean cranking up the thermostat or spending a fortune. These eco-friendly ideas are affordable, effective and perfect for transforming your ottoman bed into a winter sanctuary. By combining practical fixes with creative touches, you can beat the cold and enjoy the cosiest season of all.
So, brew a cuppa, grab your fluffiest socks and let the warmth take over. Because your ottoman bed deserves to be as snug as it is stylish.
KEY TAKEAWAYS ABOUT KEEPING YOUR OTTOMAN BED WARM
• Layer Up For Insulation: Treat your bedding like a cosy lasagne, layering thermal underlays, flannel sheets and warm duvets for maximum heat retention.
• Upgrade Your Bedding Materials: Opt for natural materials like wool and high-tog duvets that trap warmth without overheating.
• Seal The Cold Out: Use draught excluders, window seals and reflective foil to block icy draughts and keep warm air in.
• Embrace Heated Solutions: Electric blankets, heated mattress pads or hot water bottles offer quick, cost-effective warmth that doesn’t require heating an entire room.
• Focus on Room Atmosphere: Add thermal curtains, warm-toned lighting and fluffy rugs to create a snug and heat-retaining environment around your ottoman bed.
• Stay Practical and Eco-Friendly: Close doors to conserve heat, target unused spaces and incorporate small DIY fixes like weather stripping or bed canopies to boost your bedroom’s thermal efficiency.
• Personal Warmth Is Key: Don’t forget the basics – warm pyjamas, cosy socks and a soothing hot drink before bed can work wonders for keeping the chill at bay.
Do Other Experts Have Any Additional Tips For Keeping Your Bedroom Toasty?
“Windows are one of the main reasons why a room loses heat, but luckily, there is a way to keep the heat in your bedroom and keep the heating off for longer. This includes investing in thermal curtains, which are best for keeping the heat in. If you don’t have them, doubling up curtains can slow down the heat loss.”
Sophie Harris at Daily Express
Read More: Britons urged to use ‘double’ curtain barrier hack to keep bedrooms warm without heating
“Whether you’re considering an electric blanket for your bed or some foot warmers while working at your desk, it’s important to use them in the most effective way.”
Hannah Mendelsohn & Blossom Boothroyd at Good Housekeeping
Read More: How to keep warm this winter (without turning up the heating)
“As the largest piece of furniture in the space, the bed will to some extent dictate the bedroom layout you’re able to have, but it also dictates how warm the room is and how warm you can be in bed.”
Kezia Reynolds at Ideal Home
Read More: Experts have revealed the best place to position your bed to stay warm this winter
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