The winter doldrums can set in quickly, especially when the sun goes down early and the frigid weather keeps everyone cooped up inside. These three tips offer terrific ways to brighten your home and combat those long, dark winter afternoons.
1. Play with Light: The basic overhead lighting and lamps you have in your house are great for year-round lighting, but they may not be enough to brighten up your home throughout the winter. Bring some of those fun Christmas lights inside for a change—try draping them over a mantel with a garland or wrapping them around a stairway rail or window rod. Their cheery glow will jazz things up just in time for the holidays. During the daytime hours, keep heavy curtains drawn to take advantage of natural light. A well-lit home is a terrific way to combat the wintertime blues.
2. Warm Up: It’s important to stay toasty during the coldest of winter days. Light some candles to create a happy, warm glow in your dining room or den and save on your electricity bills all winter long. Take advantage of the fireplaces you have in your home by maintaining them throughout the fall so that they’re ready to go by the time the chilliest days arrive. Not only will a cozy fire keep your heating bills down, but it will create a fun, warm centerpiece in your house for your whole family to come together over. Invite over friends and neighbors, pour some hot drinks and turn your fireplace gathering into a winter celebration.
3. Burrow In: It’s easy to go stir-crazy in the winter, what with all the family time, busy holidays and cold weather keeping everyone indoors. Turn that frustration into an opportunity! Save money and stay green by turning out the lights, getting out some candles and telling ghost stories as a family. Save even more cash by avoiding the bustle of restaurants and staying in for an afternoon of cooking as a family, or by inviting the neighbors over for a potluck. Take advantage of family and friends over the holiday season, and stay warm and cozy in your bright and happy home.
These tips are some great ideas to keep your home bright and your bills low during the winter. Maximizing your fireplace, candlesticks and daytime light will help save electricity and make your holiday season merry and bright.
