BECAUSE of rising living costs, we've all been trying hard to keep heating use to a minimum, and many of us are avoiding switching it on unless we really need it.
Which means we're all on the look out for clever heating hacks we can use to save money, and handy products to effectively heat ourselves rather than our home.
Thankfully, there are lots of simple items that can keep you toasty on a budget.
For example, here cost-cutting pro and consumer champion Jane Hawkes shares her top five ‘must haves’ to keep you warm and cosy this winter without having to put on the heating – all for under £5…
Heated bean bag
Jane says: "A new breed of consumer has emerged in the cost-of-living crisis, one which is innovative, savvy and determined to cut costs.
"Our buying habits have adapted accordingly with a significant shift in focus from wants to needs.
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"Comfort and practicality of purchases has become of paramount importance and we have become increasingly discerning about what we spend our money on.
"Heated wheat bags or ‘hotties’ [like this lavender one from Ebay, £3.99] are a cost-effective alternative to hot water bottles as they are designed for use in a microwave.
"This negates the need for a kettle to heat the water for a
bottle.
"It’s important to adhere to the manufacturer’s guidelines for safe use."
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Hot drink flask
Jane says: "For many of us, simply turning up the heating to keep warm just isn’t an option.
"Understanding, calculating and monitoring energy usage has become more important than ever in order to reduce costs but there’s so much more we can do.
"Energy efficiency products are increasingly in popularity.
"Hot drink flasks have stood the test of time as one of the best vessels for keeping drinks warm.
"Mine was free from Facebook Marketplace, but you can pick up lovely stainless-steel alternatives for a fraction of the cost in stores, like this one from Tesco, £5."
A snuddie or oversized jumper
Jane says: "Soaring energy costs have meant that a large number of those working from home are now considering a return to the office as the increased use of appliances causes bills to stack up.
"The pressure of constant price rises has meant that we are now having to think outside the box to make ends meet.
"Undoubtedly the best gifts I have ever received is my Primark snuddie, an oversized snuggly hoodie which is just perfect for heating the human as opposed to the home to save money."
Get your mitts on a snuggly jumper for £4.99 on Amazon.
Bed socks
Jane says: "Keeping extremities warm is really important so a good pair of bed socks are an absolute ‘must’ for chilly winter nights.
"My fluffy pink ones, like these from New Look cost £4.99 and complement my Snuddie perfectly and I am as snug as a bug in a rug.
"They won’t break the bank price wise either."
Thermal throw
Last but not least, a cosy blanket is a surefire winner.
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Jane says: "The last essential addition to the ‘keep warm’ list is a lovely thermal throw so I can cosy up anywhere in the house.
"There’s currently up to half price off in the sales, like this one from Homebase, priced at £4."
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