If you’re worried about wasting some of your precious central heating, Closer has found the best window draught excluders for winter. They can prevent all the cosiness from escaping and help stop cold air from entering, too. Like an appliance, a draught excluder can help to keep bills down. Window draught excluders come in many forms, and we’ve broken down the basics – with a buyer’s guide, DIY tips, and FAQs answered.
Draught-proofing your home is a “simple, quick, and cost-effective way to keep in the heat and save energy,” says DIY superstore B&Q. Together with a budget dehumidifier, a draught excluder can help to maintain a consistent and comfy indoor temperature.
Best window draught excluder at a glance
Perhaps you're wondering: "Are draught excluders suitable for rented properties?" The answer is yes - they are a great, budget-friendly idea for both renters and homeowners. Though double glazing is an ideal choice for homeowners, it's a pricey choice that will set you back a pretty penny. Just make sure the product you choose (see below) is DIY-friendly and won't leave any unsightly residue. You want that deposit back, after all.
By sealing those sneaky gaps and stopping cold air in its tracks, draught excluders essentially put money back in your pockets. Below, we have found the best draught excluders for windows, from silicone sealants to metal or plastic strips. It’s super easy and you can do it yourself, even if DIY is not your cup of tea. Don’t forget to read our no-nonsense buyer’s guide, too ✨.
Best window draught excluder
Which keeps you warmer: an electric blanket or installing a few draught excluders? Let's find out.
Budget-friendly pick
AmazonOur first pick is the AFAXINRIE Brush Draught Excluder Strip for Windows. Budget-friendly, it has been designed to make homes more comfortable and efficient. They're essentially self-adhesive strips that fill gaps in doors and windows, blocking cold air in winter and hot air in summer. And, if you have problems with dust, insects, and noise, you'll be happy. Not only are the strips easy to install, but they are also durable - and can be cut to the desired length. This draught excluder comes in a 5m roll.
Customers say these are easy to install, effective, and convenient. Some mention that they're easy to cut down to your desired length and are great value for money. However, some customers' opinions differ on the adhesion. Make sure you follow instructions for the best energy-saving results.
Pros
- Blocks drafts, dust, insects, and noise, enhancing indoor comfort
- The self-adhesive design ensures quick and hassle-free application
- An affordable way to improve insulation and lower heating costs
Cons
- Some customers' opinions differ on the adhesion
| Length of roll | 5 or 10 m |
| Thickness | 9 mm |
| Material | ‎Polypropylene (PP) |
| Colour | Grey |
Best window draught excluder strips
AmazonAnother practical solution for improving home insulation and reducing energy costs is this fowong Draft Excluder Strip for Windows, which has a strong adhesive backing and is designed for easy installation. It provides a reliable seal around doors and windows, whether glass, wood, or metal, preventing drafts from spoiling your cosy autumn evenings. This pick is made from high-quality, non-toxic materials and is a durable brush strip - ensuring long-term protection.
With an average rating of 4.3/5 stars, this well-liked fowong draft excluder is said to be great value for money. Customers mention that it works perfectly and is easy to fix to your windows. It's also said to be "impressively robust." Hopefully, you'll feel the benefits of a warm home in no time. However, some customers have different opinions on the adhesion and fit.
Pros
- Reduces heating costs by maintaining a stable indoor temperature
- Easy installation, self-adhesive backing without the need for any tools
- High-density felt and non-toxic materials ensure a long-lasting performance
Cons
- Some customers have different opinions on the adhesion and fit
| Length of roll | 5 metres |
| Thickness | 9 mm |
| Material | Polypropylene (PP) |
| Colour | White |
Longest window draught excluder
AmazonAn ideal choice for DIY projects, the super-long, good-value YANKUIRUI 20m Window Draught Excluder Strip helps reduce heating costs by blocking drafts. Thanks to the self-adhesive, durable foam tape, it's a versatile solution that is resistant to extreme temperatures. This foam tape strip provides effective insulation against cold, heat, and noise while being waterproof and mildew-resistant. It requires absolutely no tools or expertise. We also had a peek at customer reviews.
Customers like the adhesion, ease of application and durability of this well-liked YANKUIRUI strip. It's super long, so you can cover all your windows - and doors, too, if you'd like. With a 4.3/5 average star rating, this strip is said to be sticky, strong and a quick solution.
Pros
- Suitable for doors, windows, cars, and even furniture - a multi-purpose solution
- Durable grid adhesive backing that ensures long-lasting attachment
- Easily cut to size and shape for soundproofing and preventing heat loss
Cons
- Best used for white doors and windows
| Length of roll | 20 m |
| Thickness | 3 mm |
| Material | CR foam |
| Colour | Black |
Best silicone window draught excluder
AmazoWe love this Cosswe Silicone Seal Strip, as its transparent design seamlessly blends in with any decor. Made from flexible, waterproof silicone, this strip provides a durable and self-adhesive seal to protect against drafts, noise, insects, and more. Whether used on doors, windows, glass doors, cupboards, or showers, it helps maintain a comfy indoor temperature by preventing heat loss. It'll also help save on bills. What are the reviews saying?
Customers recommend this sealing silicone strip, which has earned an average rating of 4.2/5 stars. From effectiveness to ease of use to draught prevention, this easy-to-apply silicone seal strip does exactly what you think. It solves your ongoing heat loss issues and ensures your central heating is not wasted. Although it's said to be easy to fit and seal, some customers disagree on the stickiness and value for money.
Pros
- Blocks drafts and temperature fluctuations, helping reduce heating costs
- Can be used on doors, windows, furniture, and more to protect from cold air and moisture
- Easy to apply with no residue left behind, making it a hassle-free DIY project
Cons
- Some customers disagree on the stickiness and value for money
| Length of roll | 10 m |
| Thickness | 35 mm |
| Material | Silicone |
| Colour | White |
Best metal window draught excluder
AmazonThis heavy-duty draught-proofing and weatherproofing Stormguard Qlon Metal Draught Excluder Strip set includes five aluminium carriers designed to bridge the gap between doors and windows. These seals provide effective protection against drafts, rain, and water. Installation is quick and straightforward with a press-fit design. They can also be easily cut to size for a custom fit. Whether used on inward-opening doors, windows, or loft hatches, these metal strips can seal 100mm gaps.
Customers like the effectiveness, ease of installation, and quality of these metal draught excluder strips. With an average star rating of 4.5/5, these metal strips are said to be fabulous, work well, and are stylish, too. However, installing this pick will require a little DIY experience.
Pros
- Offers draught proofing and weatherproofing to prevent drafts and water
- Suitable for doors, windows, and loft hatches - a flexible solution
- Quick press-fit design and customisable length ensure a hassle-free setup
Cons
- You'll need a little DIY knowledge for this one!
| Length of roll | 5 Carries - 105 cm |
| Thickness | 10 mm |
| Material | Aluminium |
| Colour | Metallic |
Best brown window draught excluder
AmazonVersatile, the UPSEN Windows Draught Excluder Foam Tape is a must-have for weatherproofing and noise reduction in the home, office and beyond. Made from high-quality foam, this brown tape returns to shape after compression, offering excellent cushioning. As the tape is self-adhesive, it has a long-lasting bond with the surface of your choice. It's perfect for windows, doors, and more and can help you save on bills. You have a generous 20 metres to play with, which is great news.
Amazon reviewers enjoy this fabulous pick. UPSEN's brown foam tape is said to be easy to install and extremely functional. It is also great value for money and durable and is said to stop all draughts from entering homes. However, some reviewers differ on stickiness.
Pros
- Effectively reduces wind, dust, noise, heat loss and moisture on windows
- Durable, high-quality, and made from flexible foam with a strong adhesive backing
- Easy DIY installation, thanks to the self-adhesive strips for around the home
Cons
- Some customers' opinions differ on the stickiness
| Length of roll | 20 m |
| Thickness | 3.5 mm |
| Material | Foam |
| Colour | Brown |
Are window draught excluders worth it?
Yes - they can help you save money and energy by stopping heat loss from your precious central heating. They're super cheap to buy and you don't need to be DIY-savvy to install your own. Actually, draught-proofing around your windows and doors could save you up to ÂŁ30 yearly, claims the Energy Saving Trust.
How do I choose the right draught excluder for my window?
Choosing the right window draught excluder depends on your window and the size of the gap you need to cover up. We've written a small guide to help you decide, which we can't wait to share.
What are the different types of window draught excluders?
They come in several forms, including adhesive foam strips, rubber seals, brush strips and silicone tape. Foam and rubber seals are great for smaller gaps, whereas brush strips are best for windows that open a lot. Silicone tape is, by far, the most versatile option you can choose, as it works in most cases.
Can I use draught excluders on all window types?
Yes - silicone, foam and rubber seals can be used on various window types. Before you buy, check the product's specifications and instructions to ensure it's compatible with your home.
Do blinds and curtains help reduce heat loss?
We spoke to interior expert Yvonne Keal from leading window dressing specialist Hillarys about how to beat the oncoming winter chill and avoid wasting your precious central heating.
Did you know that windows are responsible for up to 20% of a home's heat loss? Yes - the University of Salford has confirmed our suspicions: windows need a winter upgrade. This is why you must do everything in your power (and budget) to minimise draughts (especially in older builds) during this winter. This can start from draught excluders (from foam tape to silicone sealant) to blinds, shutters and curtains.
Thermal blinds have been designed to trap warm air, which reduces heat loss, says Yvonne. Duette blinds can actually "help to reduce heat loss through your windows by up to 55%."
Shutters minimise draughts and are "especially effective if you live in a period home with original single-glazed windows," adds Yvonne. The University of Salford says they can reduce heat loss by up to 36%.
Roman blinds are ideal "if you have a radiator under a window and don’t want to cover it up with curtains," says Yvonne. According to Salford, interlined Roman blinds can reduce up to 21% of heat loss.
Curtains can be placed over an external door to "eliminate draughts and are a growing trend," says Yvonne. They give your home a snug feel and help with draughts, too. When used in tandem with thermal linings, Salford claims they can help reduce heat loss by up to 41%.
Smart electric blinds are a great upgrade, suggests Yvonne. Why? Well, they can be controlled remotely or with your home smart hub system. You can coordinate opening and closing with your boiler's heating schedule. This way, you are guaranteed energy efficiency during cold nights to reduce heat loss.
We recommend Hillarys Warm Home tool for the best solutions for your home, room by room.
Are window draught excluders easy to install?
Yes, generally, window draught excluders are inexpensive and easy to install. Thanks to the super-handy self-adhesive backing, you don't need to be a DIY expert. Lucky for you, draught excluders can be fabulous quality and last for several years before needing a replacement.
B&Q has written an easy-to-follow guide to fit draught excluders to your windows.
If you're worried draught excluders may damage your windows, don't worry, you're golden - as long as you install them correctly. After all, they are designed to fit snugly without hurting the window frames of glass. When you want to replace or remove them, take care and peel them off slowly.
Piper Huxley is a Homes & Lifestyle Product Writer for Closer, specialising in interior design, alternative fashion and beauty. When she’s not writing about homeware trends or her skincare routine, she’s snuggled up reading a witchy novel or binging (yet another) reality TV show…