Stay warm indoors by ditching heating and using 1 cheaper item

The temperatures are defintiely dropping, which means we are all looking for ways to try and stay as warm as possible indoors. As much as we may not like it, sometimes we now need to use the heating or look for alternative methods to keep toasty when we’re staying in.

If you’re looking to cut down your energy bills, there’s a trick you may want to know about, as it could just help you to save a lot of money. According to consumer experts, Which UK, it costs just 3p an hour to run and is “much cheaper” than using central heating on a daily basis during the colder months.

In a new video shared on TikTok, people were told exactly what they need to know. It comes after Martin Lewis also shared a simple trick to help keep homes warmer during the evening. 

The video explained: “Heated throws are having another moment. They’re cosy, warm and really cheap to run. You can pick up great value throws for as little as £55, and they cost just 3p per hour to run on their highest heat setting.

“Meanwhile, heating your home costs around £1.68 per hour. So, if you have your heating on for eight hours, you’re paying around £13 a day so this means, if you were to use a £60 throw for three hours a day instead of your central heating, it could theoretically pay for itself in less than two weeks.”

The video has been viewed over 3,000 times since it was shared, and people were quick to comment too. They had all different sorts of ideas to share.

One person said: “I love my heated blanket. So cosy.” Another added: “Last year heating was costing us £1 per hour. We can’t afford to have the heating on every day, so these heated throws are a great way to save on gas.”

A third replied: “Great tip, thanks.” Other people didn’t agree though, as a fourth commented: “A decent wool blanket also keeps you warm without turning over the electricity meter.”

Someone else also added: “In the long term, keeping your heating on is cheaper. Once you get cold walls and damp, there is no going back.”

To this, someone else replied: “Yeah, I made this mistake last winter and learned my lesson. Now I turn my heating on in the morning to warm the flat. I turn it off after a few hours, and use electric blankets/hot water bottles in the evening.”

What to know about heated throws

Generally, heated throws are considered good for providing cosy and energy efficient warmth if you’re relaxing on the sofa, or having some downtime during the evening. However, it’s important to note their quality can vary.

They are often celebrated for being soft, quick to heat up and cheap to run, which means they are a cost-effective alternative to heating your entire home. However, you need to invest in a good quality one to witness success.

When it comes to staying warm in bed, it’s said they shouldn’t really be used for this. They are less practical for use on a bed when compared to a dedicated electric blanket, as an blanket is actually designed to stay in place under a fitted sheet.

Not to mention, if you have pets, you need to be careful when using one around them. Always supervise them as their claws or chewing could damage the blanket or pose a risk.

Like any other electrical appliance, the throws can also pose a fire hazard. When using them, ensure they’re not left unattended and never leave them on for long periods or when you’re asleep.