The Plastic Wrap Hack That'll Help You Keep Warmer Inside

Drafty windows are a nuisance that let cold air into your house during the winter and let expensive warm air escape. Luckily, a common household item can help you seal up your windows to easily take care of drafts. With just a roll of plastic wrap, you'll be able to cover your windows to create some makeshift window insulation. You can even stuff the wrap into cracks around the window to add a little extra protection.

Since plastic wrap is not as conductive as glass, it does a better job of keeping outside air from coming in than glass does. However, plastic wrap is also very thin, so it cannot make a huge difference. However, for more draft protection, you can use multiple layers of plastic wrap. While plastic wrap will stick to itself and other things, securing your wrap with tape around the edges will create a better seal around your window. It's also helpful to trap an air bubble between the plastic and your window, as this adds another layer of insulation. However, a word of warning: While it's on, plastic wrap insulation can add a warped, unsightly look to your windows, but it can still be a helpful choice in a pinch.

Before getting out your plastic wrap, make sure the window and the frame are clean. Place double-sided tape around your window frame to make applying the plastic wrap easier, or use single-sided tape to secure the plastic wrap once you've finished. Unroll your wrap and place a strip along the width of the window. Since the roll won't be tall enough to cover the entire window, you'll need to do this several times until your window is fully covered. Make sure to press the pieces of plastic wrap together as you work.

You can also use a hairdryer to shrink the plastic wrap so that it fits more snuggly around the window. Use it on a medium or low setting, and direct the hot air around the edges of the window and the places where the pieces of plastic wrap meet, holding the hairdryer a few inches away.

You could end up saving money on your heating costs with plastic-wrap-covered windows, ensuring that your windows are sealed well and that your utility bill will get a break. While window insulation kits can be expensive, plastic wrap is generally only a few dollars, which makes this hack extremely affordable. The plastic wrap also helps against condensation, which will keep mold from forming. If you want your home to stay warmer during winter and save some money, try covering your windows with plastic wrap.

Bubble wrap can also be a helpful window insulator. Bubble wrap is thicker than plastic wrap, and the air inside the bubbles is a helpful extra layer of insulation. But unlike plastic wrap, you won't be able to see through the bubble wrap, so if you love the view from your windows, it may not be the best choice.