We may receive a commission on purchases made from links. Dealing with drafty windows can be a real pain, but don’t worry – there are plenty of easy DIY fixes to try before calling in the professionals. From using a candle to spot the problem areas to sealing up gaps with inexpensive tape or fabric, you’ve got lots of options to make your home cozy and warm this winter. Some of these hacks might not be the most long-term solution, but they’re super simple and cheap to do yourself. And they can make a real difference in keeping that cold air out until you’re ready to invest in more permanent window upgrades. So give a few of these a try and say goodbye to drafty windows for good!
Stay Warm This Winter With These 13 Easy Fixes For Drafty Windows
First, use a candle to detect where the draft is coming from
Using a candle or incense stick is a super handy way to pinpoint exactly where those drafts are coming from. Just move it around the window frame and look for the spots where the flame or smoke gets pulled. That’ll show you the trouble areas that need some extra sealing.
It’s best to do this on a windy or cold day when the drafts will be more noticeable. Then you can mark down the problem spots and get to work fixing them up.
Use a blanket to temporarily stifle drafts
Grab an old blanket and use it to block drafts in a pinch. You can either hang it over the window or roll it up to use as a draft excluder. It’s not a permanent fix, but it can help keep the cold air out until you can address the issue more fully.
For hanging, use velcro strips to attach the blanket snugly around the window frame. Or just roll up a thinner blanket and position it at the base of the window. Either way, it’s a quick and easy way to seal up those drafts.
Seal your windows with anti-draft tape
Anti-draft tape is super affordable and easy to apply. You can use it both inside and outside your window frames to plug any gaps letting in cold air. Look for tape that expands or foams up to create a robust, weatherproof seal.
It’s a simple DIY fix that can make a big difference in keeping your home toasty this winter. No need to hire a contractor – just measure, cut, and stick the tape around the trouble areas.
Make a draft excluder from some fabric and a pool noodle
If you’ve got an old pool noodle lying around, you can turn it into an awesome DIY draft excluder. Just wrap it in some fabric, secure it in place, and pop it at the bottom of your window. Cheap, easy, and super effective at keeping cold air out.
Even if you don’t have a pool noodle, you can easily make one using inexpensive materials. It’s a simple project that can make a big difference in your home’s warmth and comfort.
Let the light in, trap heat, and banish the cold with an opaque shower curtain
Using an opaque shower curtain is a quick and easy way to block drafts, especially if your regular curtains aren’t cutting it. Just hang the shower curtain over your window, securing it with velcro strips for a snug fit. It’ll trap heat inside and keep the cold out.
It’s not a permanent solution, but it can work well as a temporary fix to stay cozy when the weather turns nasty. Just be sure to take it down when you want to let the sunshine in.
Upgrade your weatherstripping
Replacing old, worn weatherstripping is one of the most effective ways to tackle drafty windows. The good news is, it’s a pretty easy DIY job. Just measure, cut, and apply the new weatherstripping around your window frames.
Weatherstripping comes in different styles and materials, so you can find an option that fits your needs and budget. And it’ll make a big difference in keeping your home cozy and energy-efficient all winter long.
Improve window insulation with some window film
Window insulation film is a quick, affordable way to create an extra airtight seal over your windows. It’s super easy to apply – just clean the windows, stick on the film, and shrink it into place with a hair dryer.
While it’s not a permanent fix, insulation film can be a game-changer for keeping drafts out and your home warm. It’s a simple DIY project that can make a big difference in your comfort and energy bills.
Close your curtains earlier to trap in heat for the evening
One super simple trick is to just close your curtains a bit earlier in the evenings. That way, you can trap the warm air inside and keep the cold drafts out, especially on especially chilly or windy days.
Whether you use regular curtains or other window coverings, closing them up before the bad weather hits can make a big difference in maintaining a cozy, comfortable temperature in your home.
Tape bubble wrap to the inside of your windows
Taping bubble wrap to the inside of your windows is a super quick and budget-friendly way to add some extra insulation. The air pockets in the bubble wrap help slow down heat transfer, keeping your home warmer.
It’s not the prettiest solution, but it can be surprisingly effective at blocking drafts
