Summer has definitely come to an end, and as such, your attention may turn to get your home and yourself ready for the winter as it has a way of creeping up on you when you least expect it. South African winters are generally not that cold but we do need to gear up and be ready for it. Well here are a few tips to get you ready for this year’s winter:
1. Get a flu shot
Winters are the flu season and trust me you don’t want to catch it. To avoid this go to your nearest clinic or doctor and get a flu shot. When you get vaccinated, your immune system produces antibodies to protect you from the viruses included in the vaccine. This will help you a lot because you will be performing your daily duties at your best without sniffing and coughing the day away.
2. Swap out bedding
Swap out your light summery bedding with lush and cosy colder weather bedding. Incorporate fabrics such as wool, sheepskin, faux fur or even velvet to create a cosier atmosphere. Layer it up! Creating layers is the easiest way to create warmth, and achieve a great looking bed at the same time.
3. Do a seasonal conversion in your wardrobe
It is time to put away those shorts and flip flops ladies and bring the coats and boots front and centre. Prepare your wardrobe for the winter by taking out your stored sweaters and packing away your tank tops. Taking your lighter summer clothes to the back of your wardrobe and bringing your warm winter clothes to the front will give you easier access to your clothes and you will get to clearly see what you still need to get for your winter wardrobe.
4. Candlelight romance
Flickering candlelight can turn a dull and cold winter night into a magical and intimate setting. Use a few candles to usher in a charming warm glow that will instantly make you feel all warm and toasty. Scented candles also work very well especially if you choose the ones that have scents associated with winter-like cinnamon, black hibiscus and vanilla. Not only do they smell good but you will definitely cut a percentage off your electricity bill.
5. Turn the heater on
Getting a heater is as close as you can get to having an indoor fireplace. If you are blessed to have one then, great. If you do not have one then invest in a good quality gas heater that will keep you warm through the winter. Why gas? It will not eat into your electricity bill as you will need it to be on most of the time.
6. Hang Curtains
Take down your light summer curtains and put up heavier wintery ones to keep your rooms warm and cosy. Dress your windows with fabrics that will keep you warm through the cold winter but will still be light enough to let the natural light in.
7. Fridge and freezer
Clear out of your summery staples. I’m not saying throw out the ice-cream but toss out empty bottles of sauce and salad dressing you might have used in the summer. This will help you to get ready to stock up your fridge with all your favourite winter treats and in-season vegetables. Remember to give your fridge and freezer a good cleaning with semi-warm water and disinfectant to keep your food from cross contamination.
8. Crockery change
I know this might seem a bit excessive but trust me it will make a big difference and get you into the winter spirit. The major thing with crockery changing is just the colour. You might want to choose crockery in wintery colours such as red, black and greys. This will definitely add to making your home feel like a warm and cosy cocoon.
