Save Money By Insulating Your House With Bubble Wrap This Winter

Bubble wrap—it’s not just for popping! In fact, one Alaskan grandma swears it will keep you warm all winter long.

YouTube personality AlaskaGranny says a mix of bubble wrap and water is the best insulation trick to keep warm air inside this season.

You’ll save money on your energy bill, and you won’t have to rely on those store-bought kits that can be difficult to install or cost a pretty penny. While this method won’t work for super tall windows or glass doors, it’s a great alternative for smaller windows in an entryway, bathroom or kitchen.

Here’s what you’ll need:

a spray bottle filled with water
bubble wrap

Watch the video to see how it’s done:

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AlaskaGranny says the bubble wrap should stay in place all winter or for as long as you want. When you are ready to remove it, the bubble wrap comes right off and there won’t be any marks left behind.

For aesthetic purposes, you may not want to use this technique in a highly visible location like a bay window in your kitchen, however it could be a great heat and money-saver in a little-used guest room or underneath a window covering that is often kept closed.

Here are five more ways you can seal off off drafty windows and doors without having to call in a professional to help:

1. Use Weatherstripping

Weatherstrips are an inexpensive way to help seal drafty doors and windows. This guide from Lowes can help you knock out this task in a few easy steps.

Level of Difficulty: Easy

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2. Install New Sweeps

Replacing old door sweeps with new ones can make a world of a difference. “This Old House” contractor Tom Silva recommends purchasing a wood sweep that can be painted or stained to match your door.

To ensure a good fit, close the door, measure the length of the door, and cut the size you need. There are a few different kinds of sweeps (like heavy duty, drip-cap and brush). Asking an expert at your local hardware store which one is right for you will help ensure you get the best bang for your buck.

Level of Difficulty: Easy

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3. Use Foam Tape

Highly-sticky foam tape is a great weather-proofing alternative to doors that may be slightly warped and don’t have a true and snug fit. Simply cut to size and secure in the areas with a draft.

Level of Difficulty: Easy

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4. Apply Window Film

Window film looks a bit like saran wrap. When put in place and heated with a hair dryer, it shrinks and seals drafty windows. Recruit a friend to help hang it on larger windows. It’s much easier that way!

Level of Difficulty: Easy

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5. Hang Insulated Curtains

Thermal curtains are a great way to retain heat in your home during the winter. The only drawback is they need to be closed to work. Note: Thermal curtains do work well in the summer too, as they can help block out the suns’s hot rays.

Level of Difficulty: Easy