Frugal prepping for Autumn/Winter

[kat360]

As its getting colder I thought it would be a good idea to share how to prep for colder weather frugally.

MSE Winter checklist

Warm Home Discount Scheme - Not everyone gets it but its worth a try

Which guide to free insulation - Not everyone gets these either but there is some interesting links on there

*I got some radiator reflector foil quite cheaply from lidl last year, it was on a roll so you could cut it to size. Ideal for our unusual shaped rads.
Found this in screwfix direct Radiator reflector roll
I'm sure you can make your own but I think the backing makes a difference.

*Checking the sealent around windows and doors, I didn't realise how much I needed to do this

*Hang a door curtain if possible, This makes a lot of difference

*Layering, I mostly have my dressing gown on in the house in the winter. So do my kids, Slippers or slipper socks also help keep you warm.

*Hot water bottles in beds before bed, pop the kids pjs on top and it warms them up too.

Thats all I can think of for now but feel free to add.

[Grumpyoldblonde]

The first colds of the year have arrived here, good idea to make sure you have plenty of tissues, paracetamol and suchlike in, As this is a frugal thread it's worth pointing out that 20p paracetamol and 30p Ibuprofen is the same thing as the pricey brands, same goes for stomach meds, £4 for Immodium or 80p for Wilko own? Same ingredients.
I love the MSE prep threads previously mentioned, they think of everything! Has anyone mentioned a car kit yet? Torch, blanket, snacks etc.

[Grumpyoldblonde]

Can someone tell me what the radiator foils are supposed to do? Do they make The room warmer?
The foil reflects heat back into the room

[Fluffycloudland77]

Trying It's a clear film attached with strong tape, 3m make it in kits.

Google window film kits. YouTube videos are good too.

[Tryingtosaveup]

Thanks Fluffy, I will both Google and look on YouTube. I really need to do something as conservatory windows leak....yes let in water.

[TheJunctionBaby]

Grumpyoldblonde we've been foraging rowanberries, elderberries, rosehip, blackberries etc and made lots of hedgerow syrup which is high in vit c and a to help ward off winter bugs. Much cheaper than buying supplements (apart from sugar and lemons its free!) and very tasty. My kids look forward to their daily dose :-)
I've also been making batches of fermented veg like sauerkraut, honey garlic and lemons. They are packed full of probiotics and vitamins and again, way cheaper than anything you can buy in a shop. Plus they are yummy. These are a couple of the ways we stay healthy on a budget.

We've just spent the last 5 years in Canada where winters can be brutal. We would wear leggings under our regular clothes as a cheaper option to base layers. Even my son had his own black pair lol!