1. Use Old Towels or Clothes

One of the easiest and most cost-effective ways to create draught excluders is by using old towels or clothes. Simply roll them up and place them against the bottom of draughty doors or windows. Secure them with string or elastic bands to keep them in place.

Tip: Choose materials that are thick and insulating to maximise draught exclusion, such as fleece or thick cotton.

2. Create a Door Snake

Door snakes are long, tube-like draught excluders that you can easily make at home. Fill a leg of an old pair of trousers or a long sock with rice, sand, or dried beans, and sew or tie the ends to prevent spillage. Place your homemade door snake at the base of doors or on window sills to keep cold air out.

Tip: Add a few drops of essential oil to the filling for a pleasant scent that freshens up your room as well as keeping it warm.

3. Seal Gaps with Foam Strips

Foam strips are an inexpensive way to seal gaps in doors and windows. You can purchase self-adhesive foam strips from most hardware stores. Cut them to size and stick them around the door or window frame to prevent cold air from entering and warm air from escaping.

Tip: Ensure the surface is clean and dry before applying the foam strips to ensure they adhere well and provide an effective seal.

4. Upcycle Bubble Wrap

Bubble wrap is an excellent insulator. Use it to cover the glass parts of doors and windows to reduce heat loss. Simply cut the bubble wrap to size, spray a little water on the window, and stick the flat side of the bubble wrap to the glass. The water will hold it in place without the need for adhesives.

Tip: This method is particularly effective for single-glazed windows, where heat loss is more significant.

5. Draft-Proof Letterboxes and Keyholes

Small openings such as letterboxes and keyholes can be significant sources of draughts. Install a brush strip on your letterbox and a purpose-made cover that slips over the keyhole to prevent wind from getting through these small openings.

Tip: These items are relatively cheap and easy to install but can make a noticeable difference in keeping your home warmer.

Summary and Key Takeaways

• Recycle old towels and clothes to block draughts under doors and windows.
• Make a door snake using old clothing and fillings like rice or beans for an effective draught excluder.
• Use foam strips to seal gaps around doors and windows, cutting down on unwanted airflow.
• Upcycle bubble wrap as an insulator for your windows to prevent heat loss.
• Install simple fixtures like brush strips and keyhole covers to stop draughts from letterboxes and keyholes.

Implementing these simple, DIY draught-proofing methods can lead to significant savings on your heating bills, making your caregiving duties a little lighter financially. For more tips and resources on how to manage your home more efficiently as a carer, visit CarersCardUK.