Preparing for Winter: How to Winterize Your Home with Textiles
Posted by The Ichcha Team on 9th Dec 2024
As the days get shorter and the chill grows sharper, it's that time of the year again when you get to spend more hours indoors. As such, there's every need to winterize your home to make it cozier for the months ahead. And you can achieve that using textiles like curtains and throws.
Winterizing your home with textiles is also an opportunity to give your interior a design facelift as you prepare for the holidays.
Although this doesn't replace space heaters and insulation, these fabrics can boost your overall energy efficiency and save you money, while making your home look so cozy and inviting that you won't mind spending all day on the sofa binge-watching the Home Alone franchise all over again.
So, grab a cup of tea as we bring you some inspiration on how to winterize your home using textiles.
Use Thicker Curtains
Windows are a primary source of heat loss in most homes. Even when locked, heated air escapes while frigid air enters through the gaps, forcing your HVAC to work twice as hard, thereby skyrocketing your energy bills. Drafts account for up to 20% of your space heating bill.
To winterize your home and improve energy efficiency, curtains are an ideal solution. Winterize your home by swapping out your lightweight summer curtains for thicker, more insulating options. Blackout and thermal curtains are particularly effective in keeping out drafts and maintaining a consistent indoor temperature.
Open the windows and curtains by afternoon to allow sunlight to heat up your home naturally. Shut it all up as the temperature drops.
Layer Your Curtains
If you already have a good set of standard curtains, it's ok to not want to discard them just because of a few cold months. Layering up your curtains can be an effective way to winterize your home, especially if you live in a moderate climate or a newer-built home with fewer draft issues.
To pull this off, you'll need double curtain rod brackets, and of course a new set of curtains. Consider using these block print curtains; floral and patterned, the aesthetic appeal of these windows can add color and warmth to your living space this winter.
Note that layered curtains may not be as effective as thermal curtains in frigid climates, which is why we recommend them for moderate temperatures.
A key advantage of layered curtains is you can stack away the new set until next winter.
Add Throws and Blankets Everywhere
Throws and blankets are the ultimate winter accessories for any home. Fold them neatly over the arm of a couch or casually drape them across the back for a laid-back look.
These blankets provide physical warmth and create a visually snug environment perfect for cuddling up during the colder months. Imagine wrapping yourself in the cozy fabrics as you settle in for some Netflix ‘n’ chill.
Switch Out Your Throw Pillows
Throw pillows are one of the easiest and most affordable ways to refresh your home’s look for winter. If you only have a few, get more. And swap out your lightweight covers for plush fabrics like organic cotton, velvet, or wool. These materials exude warmth and create a tactile experience perfect for snuggling up on a cold day. It's a "little act of kindness" your guests will greatly appreciate this holiday.
Consider choosing pillow covers in deep colors to add life to your space.
Layer Bedsheets and Pillows
Does it get awfully chilly at night? Layered bedding is a clever cheat code to winterize your home using fabrics.
Dress your bed as you dress yourself up for winter. Start with high-quality flannel or cotton sheets as a base; their soft and warm texture is perfect for the season. Layer on a quilt or a lightweight duvet, followed by a heavier comforter or weighted blanket for those particularly chilly nights.
The right choice of fabric all comes down to personal preference, but the goal is optimal comfort. Add decorative pillows in wintery fabrics and tones to complete the look. A pretty brilliant way to add warmth, depth, and luxury to your bedroom all at once.
Lay Down Cozy Rugs
Cold hard floors biting your feet? Solve that challenge using fur rugs, as they add a thick layer of insulation.
For large spaces, area rugs are the way to go, while smaller accent rugs can be used near beds, sofas, or entryways for added warmth. If you wish to max out the aesthetics, layering rugs is a popular trend worth considering. For instance, you can place a smaller fur rug on top of a neutral-colored area rug—the visual appeal is out of this world.
Dress up Your Dining Area
Don’t forget about your dining area when winterizing your home. Use textiles like table runners, placemats, and cloth napkins in warm, seasonal tones or patterns to create a cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
Consider using these eco-friendly block print table linens; made of plush organic cotton with colorful floral patterns, they're the perfect way to add warmth and life to your table setting this winter.
These small touches can transform your dining space into a festive and inviting area where loved ones want to linger.
Wrapping Up
Winterizing your home with fabrics goes beyond just staying warm—it’s about creating an environment that feels like a retreat from the cold. A place where you can lounge with family, friends, and loved ones, with the plush throws and blankets wrapped around you.
So, hang those curtains, fluff up your velvet pillows, and let your home radiate warmth and joy all season long.