Stop That Cold Draft Under Your Front Door: Quick Fixes Until the Handyman Arrives
A cold draft sneaking in under your front door can make your home feel chilly, increase heating bills, and even make it harder to stay comfortable during the holidays. If the handyman isn’t available until after the holidays, don’t worry—there are several simple, temporary solutions you can use right now to block the draft.
1. Use a Draft Stopper or Door Snake
A door draft stopper (also called a door snake) is a long, narrow tube filled with fabric or sand that sits against the bottom of the door to block cold air.
- DIY version: Roll up a towel or blanket and place it at the base of the door.
- Cheap and effective, and easy to remove when you open the door.
2. Apply Weatherstripping Tape
Foam or rubber weatherstripping is available at most hardware stores and is easy to stick along the bottom or sides of the door.
- Temporary option: Use removable foam tape if you don’t want permanent adhesion before the handyman arrives.
3. Place a Rug or Mat
A thick rug or floor mat at your front door can help trap cold air from seeping into your home. Layering rugs works even better for insulation.
4. Seal Gaps With Household Items
If the gap is small, everyday items can help:
- Folded towels or blankets
- Rolled-up newspapers
- Even socks filled with rice or beans as a makeshift draft stopper
5. Close Other Gaps
Drafts often sneak in from more than just the door. Check nearby windows or vents for leaks and cover them with towels, blankets, or temporary draft stoppers.
6. Keep the Door Closed
It may sound obvious, but minimizing how often the front door opens helps reduce cold air entry. Encourage family members to use another entrance if possible until the handyman arrives.
7. Temporary Door Sweeps
If you have a bit of time, a removable door sweep can slide onto the bottom of the door to block airflow. Many are designed to clip on and can be removed easily later.
Extra Tips
- Inspect the weatherstripping along the sides and top of the door too—sometimes the draft isn’t just at the bottom.
- Use heavy curtains near the entryway to add another layer of insulation.
- Keep pets away from the door area to prevent displacing your temporary fixes.
The Takeaway
Even if a professional can’t fix your front door immediately, temporary measures like door draft stoppers, towels, rugs, and weatherstripping tape can dramatically reduce the cold air sneaking in. These quick fixes will keep your home warmer and more comfortable until a permanent solution is installed.
