Your Utopi Winter Warming Guide
Looking for ways to stay warm this winter? Have a read of our sustainable winter warming guide.Look, we get it. Winter is hard. You're trying to balance staying warm with studying for exams AND having a social life. But here's the thing, keeping cosy doesn't have to mean cranking the heating to tropical levels or wearing every item you own simultaneously.
Climate anxiety is real, and so are energy bills. The good news? Small changes actually add up. If everyone in student accommodation made these tweaks, we'd collectively save enough energy to power a small city. Plus, you'll feel less guilty about those 3am Deliveroo orders.
1. Layer Up (But Make It Fashion)
Thermal tops under your fit aren't just for skiing trips your parents forced you on
That hoodie you stole from your ex? Perfect middle layer
Oversized everything is already in you might as well make it functional
If you’re feeling fancy… Invest in one quality fleece blanket for your bed and one for your desk chair. Game changer for late-night essay sessions.
2. Heat Smarter, Not Harder
The WHO says 18°C is fine for healthy adults. Yeah, it sounds cold, but with proper layering? Chef's kiss. Your room doesn't need to be a sauna.
Only heat your room when you're actually in it (revolutionary concept, we know)
Set timers if you can, heating an empty room is literally just vibing with climate change
Study in shared spaces when possible, body heat from your flatmates = free heating
3. Windows and Doors
If the heating is on, keep your windows closed (just make sure you air things out once a day). Yes, even when your flatmate's cooking smells suspicious. Opening windows while heating is basically just paying to warm the outside. And on that note, keep your door closed too. It's not antisocial, it's physics. Heat goes where it wants, and you want it staying with you.
4. Draught-Proofing
That rolled-up towel under the door actually works
Curtains closed = instant insulation (especially those thick ones you never thought you'd appreciate)
Check window seals, if you feel a breeze, report it to maintenance
5. Radiator Hacks
Keep furniture away from radiators and let the heat circulate
Dry your clothes on an airer, not the radiator (fire hazard AND blocks heat)
If you have radiator controls, learn how to use them (ask your site team for the Utopi Guide to your heating controls!)
6. Hot Drinks > Hot Rooms
Controversial take: a hot water bottle and your comfort beverage of choice > overheating your entire room. More sustainable, more cosy, and who doesn’t like an excuse to drink more hot chocolate!
7. Spa night? Or just a shower
Try putting a ten minute timer on for hair wash night. Look, we're not saying give up your everything-shower routine, but maybe save the 45-minute concerts for summer? After a quick shower, seal in that warmth with layers. Your skin and the environment will thank you.
8. Tech Check
Unplug When Not In Use! Everything on standby is still using energy. Your phone charger doesn't need to be plugged in 24/7—it's not that needy. Btw: Laptop on Your Lap = Free Hand Warmer. Just saying.
9. Community Heating
The Flat Hangout Strategy One room, multiple people, shared heating costs, good vibes. Movie nights aren't just fun, they're energy efficient.
10. When To Actually Turn Up The Heat
We're not monsters. If you're genuinely cold to the point of discomfort, turn the heating on. But maybe try the other stuff first? The planet (and future you) will appreciate it.
Report The Issues
If your heating system is acting sketchy or your room feels abnormally cold, report it. Faulty systems waste energy AND leave you freezing, and your comfort and safety comes first.
Staying warm sustainably isn't about suffering through winter in a puffer jacket indoors (unless that's your aesthetic, no judgement). It's about being intentional with your heating. Heat the person, not the planet. Layer up, close doors, time your heating, and actually use those curtains.
Got heating issues or questions? Reach out to your accommodation team. They’re there to help.