No Need for Room Heaters: 5 Desi Hacks to Keep Your Home Warm in Harsh Winter and Save on Electricity Bills

With the arrival of winter, the demand for room heaters shoots up. While heaters provide quick warmth, they also hike electricity bills and absorb essential moisture from the air, often causing dryness-related health issues. But did you know that traditional Indian household tricks can keep your room naturally warm—without heaters and without high costs?

Northern India experiences intense cold waves every year, making it a challenge to maintain warmth indoors. Though many rely on electric heaters and blowers, these appliances often burden the pocket and compromise indoor humidity. Fortunately, several age-old, economical Indian techniques can help retain warmth effectively, naturally, and safely.

1. Seal All Doors and Windows

The biggest enemy of winter comfort is the cold draft sneaking into your room. To keep your space warm, block every gap around doors and windows.
Simple, low-cost materials such as door tapes, cardboard sheets, or thermocol can be used to fill cracks.
You can also roll up an old saree, towel, or thick cloth and place it at the bottom of doors to stop chilly air from entering.

2. Switch to Heavy Curtains

After sealing gaps, pay attention to your curtains.
Let sunlight enter freely during the day, but before sunset, cover windows with thick thermal-lined or woolen curtains.
Dark-colored curtains help retain heat for longer, preventing outdoor cold from creeping in and preserving the warm air inside.

3. Spread Rugs or Carpets on the Floor

Cold floors absorb body heat rapidly. Laying thick rugs or woolen carpets acts as natural insulation.
This prevents heat from escaping and also keeps your feet warm.
If you don’t have an expensive carpet, use old woolen blankets, jute sacks, or thick fabric layers—a perfect low-cost desi hack that makes the room instantly cozier.

4. Make Smart Use of Sunlight

Sunlight is the most effective and absolutely free source of natural heat.
Open all sun-facing windows in the morning and early afternoon to allow direct sunlight to warm your floors, walls, and furniture.
As the sun begins to set, close the windows immediately to trap the stored heat inside.

5. Use Warm Bedding and Hot Water Bottles

Traditional methods for direct body warmth are safer and more comfortable than electric heaters.
Use warm bed sheets, woolen blankets, or thick quilts at night.
Before sleeping, heat your bed using a hot water bottle—widely available and easy to use.
Placing one near your feet or inside the quilt provides sustained warmth throughout the night.

Disclaimer:

This article is based on information available from online sources. Navbharat Times does not verify or guarantee the accuracy of these claims.