Protect Yourself from Frozen Pipes Using Household Items

Alice Riley • January 24, 2026

How to Protect Your Pipes From Freezing Using Household Items

Frozen pipes are one of the most common (and expensive) winter problems in homes and apartments. The good news? You don’t need special tools or professional equipment to help protect your pipes. With a few common household items and a little time, you can significantly reduce the risk of freezing.


Why Pipes Freeze


Pipes freeze when temperatures drop below 32°F (0°C), especially in unheated or poorly insulated areas like:

  • Under sinks
  • Near exterior walls
  • In basements, crawl spaces, or garages

When water freezes, it expands. That expansion can cause pipes to crack or burst, leading to leaks or flooding once they thaw.


Household Items You Can Use to Wrap Pipes

If you don’t have pipe insulation on hand, these everyday items can help keep pipes warmer:


1. Towels, Rags, or Old Clothes

Thick fabric helps trap heat around the pipe.

  • Use towels, washcloths, socks, or old T-shirts
  • Wrap them snugly around exposed sections of pipe
  • Secure with tape, string, or rubber bands

Tip: Layering is better than a single thin wrap.


2. Newspapers or Cardboard

Paper provides basic insulation by slowing heat loss.

  • Wrap several layers of newspaper around the pipe
  • Cover with a plastic bag or plastic wrap to keep it dry
  • Tape it securely in place

Dry insulation works much better than wet insulation.


3. Blankets or Fleece Throws

For larger pipe sections or multiple pipes:

  • Cut an old blanket or fleece into strips
  • Wrap loosely but fully around the pipes
  • Secure with tape or twine

Avoid blocking vents or valves when wrapping.


4. Bubble Wrap

Bubble wrap traps air, which helps retain warmth.

  • Wrap bubble wrap around the pipe (bubbles facing inward)
  • Use tape to seal the seams
  • Combine with fabric for extra insulation if needed


Extra Steps That Make a Big Difference

Wrapping helps, but these small habits add extra protection:

  • Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate
  • Let faucets drip slightly during extreme cold to keep water moving
  • Keep indoor temperatures consistent, even overnight
  • Close windows and seal drafts near pipes


What NOT to Do

  • Don’t use open flames, candles, or space heaters near pipes
  • Don’t use extension cords or heating devices around water
  • Don’t wrap pipes so tightly that joints or valves are stressed


When to Report a Problem

If you notice:

  • No water coming from a faucet
  • Frost on exposed pipes
  • Unusual bulging or cracking sounds

Report it immediately to property management or maintenance.


Final Thoughts

A little preparation goes a long way. Using simple household items to wrap exposed pipes can help prevent freezing, avoid damage, and keep your home safe and comfortable all winter. If you’re unsure whether a pipe needs protection, it’s better to wrap it than risk a freeze.



Stay warm! ❄️

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