Keep warm for pennies: the cheapest ways to stay cosy without turning up the heating in 2026

With energy bills continuing to put pressure on household budgets, knowing how to stay warm without turning the central heating on all day could help you save money this winter. The good news is that you don’t need to spend a fortune on expensive gadgets. Some of the best ways to keep cosy cost nothing at all.

From hot water bottles and thermal clothing to heated throws and rechargeable heated vests, we’ve rounded up 15 affordable ways to stay warm in 2026. We’ve also looked at how much different electrical products cost to run, so you can decide whether they’re worth buying.

15 cheap ways to stay warm without central heating

1. Use a hot water bottle
2. Warm your bed with an electric blanket
3. Try an electric heated throw
4. Compare heating products at AO
5. Switch to warmer bedding
6. Stop cold draughts
7. Wear thermal clothing
8. Consider a Venustas heated vest
9. Keep your feet warm
10. Wear a blanket hoodie
11. Use rugs on cold floors
12. Try a microwaveable wheat bag
13. Move around regularly
14. Make the most of daylight
15. Keep your home safely warm

1. Use a hot water bottle

Sometimes the old-fashioned solutions really are the best. A hot water bottle can keep you comfortable while watching television, reading or sitting in bed, without having to heat an entire room.

You can often find a basic hot water bottle for around £5–£10. The Range and Matalan are worth comparing, while supermarkets and discount shops may have inexpensive options too.

Heating enough water in a kettle for a hot water bottle can cost just a few pence, depending on how much water you use and the efficiency of your kettle.

2. Warm your bed with an electric blanket

An electric underblanket is one of the most economical ways to warm your bed before getting in. Rather than turning the central heating up for the whole house, you can concentrate warmth exactly where you need it.

Silentnight’s Comfort Control range is a good starting point when comparing budget electric blankets. Check George at Asda and other major retailers for current prices.

For example, a 60W electric blanket running continuously at full power for two hours would cost approximately 3.2p at an electricity unit rate of 26.32p per kWh. Actual usage varies with the settings and thermostat.

Only leave an electric blanket switched on overnight if the manufacturer specifically says it is safe to do so.

3. Try an electric heated throw

Heated throws are particularly useful for people who work from home or spend evenings sitting on the sofa. They provide personal warmth without needing to heat an entire room to the same extent.

At Lakeland, the StaySnug Grey Velvety Heated Throw is listed at £44.99. It’s a useful mid-range option if you’re looking for something soft and comfortable that can also be used as an ordinary throw.

It’s also worth comparing heated throws at Dunelm, particularly when seasonal offers are available.

4. Compare heating products at AO

If you’re considering an electric heater, heated blanket or another appliance to help with winter warmth, it’s worth comparing the options at AO.

Before buying a portable heater, look carefully at its wattage. A 2,000W electric heater running at full power for one hour uses 2kWh, which would cost approximately 53p at the example electricity rate used in this guide.

That can be worthwhile if you’re heating one occupied room, but it’s considerably more expensive per hour than using a low-powered heated throw. Remember that a heated throw warms you, while a heater warms the room.

5. Switch to warmer bedding

Changing your bedding can make a big difference to how comfortable you feel on a cold night. Brushed cotton sheets, fleece duvet covers and an appropriate winter duvet can all help retain body warmth.

You don’t necessarily need to buy a completely new bedding set. Adding a spare blanket or fleece throw you already own is a free place to start.

If you do need something new, check supermarket homeware departments, Dunelm and seasonal sales before paying full price.

6. Stop cold draughts

Cold air coming through gaps around doors and windows can make a room feel chilly even when the heating has been on.

Start by closing curtains when it gets dark, using a draught excluder and checking for obvious gaps around external doors. A rolled-up towel can work as a temporary draught excluder without costing anything.

Be careful not to block permanent ventilation, trickle vents needed for airflow or air bricks. Adequate ventilation helps reduce condensation and damp.

7. Wear thermal clothing

One of the cheapest ways to stay warm is to wear several comfortable layers rather than relying on one thick jumper.

Thermal leggings, long-sleeved base layers and fleece tops can all help. Supermarkets and discount retailers are often worth checking before spending more on specialist clothing.

Damart is another option if you want dedicated thermal clothing, although ordinary layers you already own may do the job perfectly well.

8. Consider a Venustas heated vest

If you’re frequently outside in cold weather, a rechargeable heated vest could be worth considering. Unlike a heated throw, you can wear one while walking, travelling or doing outdoor jobs.

Venustas makes heated vests with adjustable warmth settings and rechargeable battery power. The manufacturer advertises up to 9.5 hours of warmth on the lowest setting for its classic women’s model, although battery life varies with use.

These are more expensive than ordinary thermal clothing, so they’re best treated as an optional upgrade rather than a budget essential. Check the total price, battery inclusion, delivery charges and returns policy before ordering.

9. Keep your feet warm

Cold feet can make sitting still particularly uncomfortable. Thick socks, insulated slippers and a rug under your desk can help.

You don’t have to buy expensive sheepskin slippers. Look for comfortable footwear with a warm lining and suitable grip, especially on hard floors.

10. Wear a blanket hoodie

Oversized blanket hoodies have become popular because they combine the warmth of a fleece blanket with the convenience of a jumper.

The Oodie is one of the better-known brands, but plenty of cheaper alternatives are available. Compare fabric, size and washing instructions rather than buying on the strength of a brand name alone.

11. Use rugs on cold floors

If you have wooden, tiled or laminate flooring, a rug can make the surface feel more comfortable underfoot.

Try moving a rug you already own into the room where you spend most of your time. Make sure it lies flat and doesn’t create a trip hazard.

12. Try a microwaveable wheat bag

Microwaveable wheat bags provide localised warmth and can be convenient when you want to warm your hands or lap.

They can be useful alternatives to hot water bottles, but it’s important to follow the heating instructions carefully. Overheating wheat bags can cause burns and fires.

13. Move around regularly

If you’re working at a desk or watching television for several hours, getting up and moving around periodically may help you feel more comfortable.

Gentle movement can help circulation and costs nothing. It isn’t a replacement for adequate heating, particularly if your home is already very cold.

14. Make the most of daylight

Open curtains when sunlight is coming through the windows and close them when the sun goes down.

Natural solar warmth won’t replace central heating in winter, but making use of it is a simple habit that costs nothing.

15. Keep your home safely warm

Saving money on heating is important, but so is protecting your health. Personal warming products can help you feel comfortable, but they do not adequately heat the air or protect the whole building against damp and cold.

How much does it cost to keep warm in 2026?

To give you an idea of the difference between appliances, we’ve calculated some example running costs using an electricity rate of 26.32p per kWh. These are illustrative figures, not guaranteed costs for specific products.

Calculations exclude electricity standing charges. Actual costs depend on your tariff, appliance and usage. Appliances with thermostats may not consume their full rated wattage continuously.

Frequently asked questions

What is the cheapest way to stay warm without heating?

Using clothes and blankets you already own, reducing draughts and using a hot water bottle are among the cheapest options. Avoid buying new gadgets unless you genuinely need them.

Are heated throws cheaper to run than central heating?

A heated throw generally costs much less per hour than heating a whole home because it uses less energy. However, it only provides personal warmth rather than heating the room.

Is an electric blanket worth buying?

If you regularly need to warm your bed, an electric blanket can be a practical and economical purchase. Compare the price, wattage and safety features before buying.

Can I get a free electric blanket in 2026?

Some energy suppliers and support schemes offer free electric blankets to eligible households. Availability and eligibility can change, so check our guide to free electric blankets and energy grants for the latest information.

Have you found a clever way to stay warm for less? Let us know your favourite winter money-saving tips in the comments below.