As a cold spell grips the eastern states of Australia, residents are seeking effective ways to keep their homes warm. While layering up and cozying under blankets are common strategies, experts suggest that warming your home environment can be equally crucial. According to Mariam Gabaji, a utilities expert at Finder, one of the most cost-effective methods is the strategic use of floor rugs. With affordable options available from retailers like Bunnings and Kmart, staying warm this winter doesn’t have to break the bank.
Gabaji explains, “Popping a rug on tiled or timber floors around your home can help stop heat escaping and keep your feet warm.” Social media platforms have been abuzz with shoppers sharing their excitement over the variety of rugs available at these retailers. A video captioned “Run to Bunnings” showcases a range of rugs priced between $49 and $249, offering styles, textures, sizes, and colors to suit any home aesthetic.
The Unsung Heroes of Winter: Rugs
Echoing Gabaji’s sentiments, Tiffany NG-Spann, head stylist at the popular rug brand Miss Amara, describes rugs as the “unsung heroes of winter.” She emphasizes that rugs provide an extra layer of insulation on hard floors, which can feel icy during colder months. “Laying a rug beneath your bed, sofa, or dining table helps block out cool air at floor level and keeps toes toasty all season long,” she notes.
NG-Spann recommends wool rugs or those made from heavier man-made fibers for added warmth and softness. “The plushier the pile, the warmer the feel,” she advises, suggesting high-pile or shag styles for their superior heat retention compared to flatwoven or thinner options.
“Rugs are an easy, cost-effective way to add warmth without committing to major renovations,” says NG-Spann.
Choosing the Right Rug for Your Home
When selecting a rug to warm your home, NG-Spann advises focusing on areas where you spend the most time or where the floors are particularly chilly. “Bedrooms and living spaces are a great place to start, but don’t overlook hallways or entryways,” she suggests. These high-traffic areas benefit from the warmth and comfort of a well-placed rug.
Additionally, the stylist highlights the importance of color and texture in creating a cozy atmosphere. “Opt for warm, earthy tones or richly textured designs to instantly soften a space. Layering rugs is another favorite trick: play with different sizes, textures, and patterns to build depth and a sense of comforting abundance.”
Rug Shopping at Kmart and Bunnings
Both Kmart and Bunnings offer a variety of rugs to cater to different needs and budgets. Kmart shopper Carly Yashenko shared her experience of choosing the Large Dahlia Rug in Natural for $109, while the XL Arch Rug, priced at $155, boasts a high rating on their website. Meanwhile, Bunnings provides wool rugs starting at $95 and shag pile options for added comfort.
“You need a rug that’s big enough to fit under your sofa and underneath your chairs. In the bedroom, it’s all about comfort,” a Kmart buyer advises on TikTok.
Conclusion
As Australians brace for more chilly days, the strategic use of rugs offers a practical and stylish solution to keep homes warm. With a range of affordable options available from Kmart and Bunnings, homeowners can enhance their living spaces without the need for costly renovations. By focusing on high-traffic areas and choosing the right materials and styles, rugs can transform cold, hard floors into warm, inviting spaces.
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