Brits Advised On Simple Fixes That Can Cut Heat Loss In The Bathroom

Homeowners are being urged to give their bathrooms a winter check up as plunging temperatures make cold tiles, draughty windows and chilly showers more common. Bathroom experts at Vidalux say small, inexpensive tweaks can make a big difference to heat retention, helping households stay comfortable and keep energy bills under control.

Cold spots often appear first in bathrooms because of hard surfaces, poor ventilation, and older windows that let warm air escape. Damp and mould can also creep in when rooms stay cold for too long, creating additional risks for families. Bathroom specialists at Vidalux say that bathrooms are one of the quickest rooms to lose heat, but also one of the easiest to fix with a few simple changes. They warn that ignoring the problem can lead to condensation damage and even higher heating costs.

A few minutes spent improving insulation and airflow can help keep bathrooms warmer for longer, even on freezing days.

Andy Ellis, bathroom expert at Vidalux.co.uk commented: “Bathrooms lose heat faster than any other room, so the trick is to focus on small changes that make a big difference. Start by sealing any draughts around the window and add a couple of thick bath mats – you’ll feel the difference instantly. Even simple fixes like closing the door during a shower or upgrading to a thermal blind help trap warmth. It’s all about keeping the heat you’re already paying for where you actually need it. Just remember to ventilate the room afterwards. Trapped steam can lead to condensation, damp patches and even mould if it’s left to settle.”

How to warm up the bathroom this winter:

1. Seal any draughts

Use weatherproof sealant around windows, vents and any visible cracks. Even tiny gaps can funnel cold air into the room. Check around extractor fans too, as poorly fitted units often leave small openings that let heat escape.

2. Add warm, thick bath mats

High-pile, microfibre or memory foam mats act as insulation on cold tiles, helping the room retain heat for longer. They also make stepping out of the bath or shower more comfortable on chilly winter mornings.

3. Upgrade shower curtains or screens

Switching to a thicker curtain or a properly fitted screen helps contain steam and warmth within the shower area. This keeps you warmer while washing and reduces overall heat loss from the room.

4. Install a heated towel rail

Even compact or low-watt models can provide steady background warmth and keep towels dry. This helps prevent dampness and stops the room from feeling chilly after use.

5. Use thermal or lined blinds

Thermal blinds or lined roller blinds create an extra barrier against heat loss. They’re especially effective in older bathrooms with single-glazed or draughty windows.

6. Close the door during showers

Keeping the door shut traps warmth and stops heat drifting into the hallway. It also helps maintain a more comfortable temperature while you’re washing.

7. Check radiators for cold spots

If parts of the radiator feel cool, trapped air may be blocking heat from circulating. Bleeding the radiator ensures it works efficiently and provides consistent warmth.

8. Add storage to reduce clutter

Clear, tidy surfaces allow warm air to circulate properly. Stacking products everywhere can block airflow and create unnecessary cold pockets in the room.