How to Prepare Your Apartment for Winter in 9 Steps — Do It Before December!

During the summer, we often prefer spending time outdoors rather than at home. But in winter, the opposite is true. Here's how to get your apartment ready for the long winter in just nine simple steps, ensuring a cozy and comfortable living space.

1. Lay a Mat in the Hallway

Winter can mean fluffy white snow or messy slush, depending on where you live. Either way, shoes tend to bring in water or dirt. Protect your flooring and keep your hallway clean by placing a mat at the entrance.

• Absorbent Mats: These require regular washing.
• Waterproof EVA Mats: Featuring grooves, they are easy to rinse off in the shower.

2. Clean and Winterize Your Windows

Before temperatures drop below freezing, give your windows a thorough cleaning, including the frames.

• For Wooden Frames: Seal all gaps with adhesive strips.
• For Modern Plastic Windows: Switch them to "winter mode" by turning the adjustment pin on the frame to the horizontal position.

3. Invest in a Humidifier

Heating systems tend to dry out indoor air, which can negatively affect your skin, mucous membranes, and even houseplants. Dry air also causes static electricity buildup.

• Get a humidifier to maintain proper moisture levels.
• Add a hygrometer to monitor humidity.

4. Service Your Air Conditioner

Air conditioners need winter prep too. If you’re not planning to use yours:

• Run it on heating mode to dry it out.
• Unplug, clean the filters, and dust the unit.
• Consider hiring a professional to transfer refrigerant to the outdoor unit for safe storage.

5. Store Summer Items

Declutter by putting away summer clothes, shoes, and accessories like picnic gear or sports equipment.
Tip: While organizing, discard or donate items you no longer need to free up space.

6. Add Warm Lighting

Brighten up your home with cozy lighting. Use wall sconces, floor lamps, table lamps, or string lights to create a warm atmosphere during long winter evenings.
Tip: Opt for warm light bulbs in the 2700K–3200K range for maximum coziness.

7. Swap Out Textiles

Prepare your home with winter-friendly textiles:

• Bring out blankets for chilly nights.
• Replace throw pillow covers with seasonal designs.
• Lay down rugs to add warmth and comfort.
• Consider removing curtains for extra daylight or switch to ones in warm, bright colors like yellow, orange, or terracotta.

8. Tidy Up the Balcony

If you have an open or unheated balcony, clean and organize it before winter sets in.

• Furniture Tip: Bring indoor items inside or cover them with waterproof material to protect them from snow and rain.

9. Light Scented Candles

Add the final touch by filling your home with delightful seasonal aromas.

• Bake a spiced pie with cinnamon and ginger.
• Brew thyme tea.
• Light candles with winter scents like citrus, apple and cinnamon, gingerbread, or even juniper.

Pro Tip: Try unconventional scents like "antique library" for a unique cozy vibe.

By following these steps, you'll transform your apartment into a warm and inviting retreat for the winter months ahead!