As the cold snap continues, people are looking for ways to keep their homes warm for less. A mum is delighted as she can save money on her heating bills with this affordable trick
As the cold bites, staying cosy indoors becomes far more tempting than braving the frosty outdoors. We all have our go-to methods to beat the chill, from snuggling under a duvet to wrapping up in a favourite blanket, or sipping on a steaming cuppa.
And let’s not forget cranking up the heating, taking a hot shower, or firing up electric heaters for that extra toastiness. However, with energy costs soaring, keeping warm can scorch a serious hole in your wallet – a sting felt all too keenly during the post-Christmas pinch in January.
But fear not, as one clever mum has cooked up a genius method to keep the heat high and the costs low, spending merely two pence an hour to stay snug. Gemma Bird, affectionately known as Money Mum, has hailed this trick as “the best money saving hack” she’s ever discovered.
The social media sensation, a regular on ITV and boasting a whopping 468,000 Instagram followers, divulged: “The heating bill is crazy so we been turning off around 8pm when kids in bed but I’m sitting here cold!”
Taking to Instagram, Gemma revealed her lightbulb moment. She said: “When driving I’ve got a heated seat in my car and I thought wow wish I had this inside. Then it clicked, I will make one.”
To solve this problem, Gemma used a double electric blanket from Visage – transformed into a DIY seat warmer for her couch. Gemma lifted the sofa cushions and laid the blanket flat. Gemma exclaimed: “Now I’m turning heating off at 7 as house stays warm for hours. I sit on this to watch TV and it’s saving me a fortune.”
She also highlighted that running the blanket costs her just one to two pence per hour. Her video has gone viral – with many saying they’ll give it a go.
One appreciative person replied to Gemma’s clever recommendation: “I’ve been doing the since it’s been cold to keep the heating cost down! My dogs love it and get right in for a cuddle too.”
Another admitted: “I need to get one of these, I’m always cold.” One other added: “What a good idea.” The hack even caught the attention of @majormumhacks who chimed in with: “Love this, such a fab idea.”
Tesco are selling a double under blanket sheet warm throw for £19.99. Debenhams also have one on sale for £17.84. Argos also have a range of options, including one for £26.66.
Dangers of electric blankets
Rebecca Swain, mattress expert at WinstonsBeds.com, has issued a warning about being careful when using electric blanket.
She cautions: “Electric blankets can be a great way to stay warm during colder months, but it’s important to use them with care. Simple steps like inspecting your blanket for damage, keeping it at a safe temperature, and never leaving it unattended can make all the difference in avoiding risks like overheating or fire hazards.”
Swain warns especially about the potential for overheating and associated dangers, such as burns or disrupted sleep if left on too long. Faulty blankets could also pose fire risks or give off electrical shocks, she advises.
Individuals with pacemakers or similar devices are advised to consult with their healthcare provider about the safety of using electric blankets. Rebecca further warned: “If you have diabetes, poor circulation, or are elderly, you might not feel when the blanket gets too hot. This could lead to burns or discomfort, so extra caution is needed.”
