With Britain experiencing prolonged freezing conditions and significantly higher energy costs, households nationwide are desperately searching for practical ways to reduce their heating expenses. Experts consistently point to one surprisingly simple solution that delivers remarkable results.
The Draught-Proofing Advantage
Multiple studies indicate that gaps surrounding doors, windows and floors account for 10 to 20% of heat escaping the average home. The Energy Saving Trust confirms that effective draught-proofing can save households approximately £85 annually on energy bills.
Christine Matthews, a respected heating appliance expert, has previously described draught-proofing as the 'first and most cost-effective line of defence' against heat loss. While traditional draught excluders, silicone strips and weather sealing around doors and windows all help prevent cold air infiltration, there's an even simpler method gaining expert approval.
The Remarkable Rolled Towel Solution
Heating specialists have revealed that one of the most effective draught excluders requires nothing more than household items you already own. Using a rolled-up towel or even old clothing creates an instant barrier against cold air entering under doors and through window gaps.
The method couldn't be simpler: tightly roll towels or fabric and position them against the bottom of draughty doors or windows. For added security, wrap elastic bands around the rolled materials to maintain their shape and placement.
This ingenious approach received top marks from consumer champion Which? last year, when they ranked it superior to store-bought draught excluders. Their testing demonstrated that the towel method 'blocked out even the strongest draughts' more effectively than commercial alternatives.
Substantial Savings Compared to Professional Solutions
While professional draught-proofing delivers excellent results, it comes at a considerable cost. According to Checkatrade, homeowners typically pay around £50 per window, £100 per door and £100 for wall crack repairs. Retrofitting an entire property with comprehensive draught-proofing measures can reach approximately £180.
The rolled towel method provides comparable draught protection at virtually no cost, making it particularly valuable during the current cost of living crisis. With energy prices remaining stubbornly high and cold weather persisting, these basic interventions can substantially increase home comfort while reducing unnecessary expenditure.
Beyond immediate financial benefits, proper draught-proofing supports broader environmental goals. The National Audit Office reports that heating Britain's 28 million homes accounted for 18% of all UK greenhouse gas emissions in 2021, the most recent year with available data. Reducing heat loss enables lower thermostat settings, simultaneously cutting both energy bills and carbon footprints.
As winter tightens its grip, implementing straightforward measures like installing homemade draught excluders, applying silicone strips and utilising rolled towels represents one of the smartest investments homeowners can make for their comfort and their wallets.
