Published: December 15, 2024

Tips to Make Your New Home Cozy

Moving during winter brings unique challenges, from frigid temperatures to early sunsets. Once you’re in, creating a warm and comfortable atmosphere can help you settle into your new space and keep winter chills at bay. Here are some essential tips for transforming your new house into a cozy winter retreat.

1. Prioritize Winterizing Your Home

Before unpacking, focus on ensuring your new home is winter-ready. Winterizing your space helps keep the cold outside and preserves heat inside, lowering heating costs and making the home comfortable from day one.

• Seal Windows and Doors: Cold drafts can easily sneak in through windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or caulking to seal gaps, or even consider installing insulated curtains to keep warmth from escaping.
• Inspect Insulation: Check your attic and crawlspaces for proper insulation. Adding a few layers of insulation can go a long way in keeping the heat in and the cold out.
• Check HVAC Filters: Ensure your heating system is running efficiently by cleaning or replacing HVAC filters. A clean filter can significantly boost the performance of your heating system, saving you energy and money over the winter.

2. Set up Heating Essentials in Your New Home First

Getting the heating up and running should be a priority. Whether your home has central heating, space heaters, or a cozy fireplace, you’ll want to have a reliable heat source as soon as possible.

• Adjust the Thermostat Settings: Many thermostats have energy-saving settings, but it’s best to set them for comfort in a new home. Choose a warm, consistent temperature and set the thermostat to adjust overnight and while you’re away.
• Prep the Fireplace: If your new home has a fireplace, make sure it’s cleaned and ready for use. Keep kindling, wood, or gas on hand for quick access, and consider adding fireplace screens or tools if they aren’t already available.
• Utilize Portable Heaters: Portable space heaters can be an efficient option for quickly heating specific areas. Make sure to choose safe, modern models with automatic shut-off features and use them in well-ventilated spaces.

3. Create a Warm Ambiance With Lighting and Decor

The right lighting and decor can instantly transform a chilly space into a cozy sanctuary. Since winter days are shorter, extra lighting adds warmth and personality to each room.

• Add Warm Lighting: Use warm-toned LED bulbs or soft lighting to bring a comforting glow. Table lamps, floor lamps, and candles also add a homely feel, especially in the evenings.
• Layer with Textiles: Incorporate cozy textures like thick blankets, area rugs, and soft throw pillows. These additions not only keep you warm but also soften the look of each room, making the space feel inviting.
• Embrace Seasonal Scents: Scented candles, essential oil diffusers, or a simmering pot of cinnamon and cloves on the stove create a warm, seasonal ambiance that’s instantly welcoming.

4. Settle in With the Essentials First

When moving in, you might feel overwhelmed by the number of boxes to unpack. Prioritizing certain rooms and items can make settling in faster and create a cozy atmosphere from day one.

• Unpack Bedrooms and Living Areas First: These rooms are often the most comforting. Set up your bedroom with soft bedding and unpack living room essentials to create areas where you can relax quickly.
• Stock the Kitchen: A warm meal is one of the best ways to beat the winter cold, so setting up your kitchen and pantry first is a good idea. Stock up on hot beverages and quick-to-make meals to enjoy cozy nights.

5. Prepare for Winter Maintenance

Winter weather can be unpredictable, so stay prepared to manage snowfall, ice, and other seasonal challenges.

• Keep Snow Removal Tools Handy: Shovels, de-icers, and snow blowers should be easy to access. Consider a storage area near the door or garage where these tools can be quickly retrieved when needed.
• Prepare for Power Outages: Winter storms can sometimes cause outages. Have a supply of flashlights, extra blankets, and non-perishable food handy for peace of mind.

Moving into a new home during winter doesn’t have to mean enduring the cold. With a few simple winterizing tips, quick heating solutions, and cozy decor ideas, your new space will feel warm and welcoming in no time.

For an easy way to move to your new home, visit UNITS® Moving and Portable Storage of Northeast Kansas or call us at (785) 465-4727.