# Winter prep checklist — get ready before the cold hits

Winter prep is usually noticed during the first cold snap, in the queue at the tire shop. This list gathers what to do for your home, your car, your wardrobe and your heating, and with a room code you can split the jobs. No sign-up needed.

**In short:** Getting ready for winter covers four areas: the car (winter tires, antifreeze, de-icer), heating (boiler service, bleeding radiators), insulation (window tape, draft stoppers) and clothing (coats, boots, scarf, hat, gloves, thick blankets). Booking the service and tire appointments before the first cold snap is the easiest way to get it all done before the queues grow.

## What's on the list

### General

- Winter tires
- Antifreeze
- Boiler service
- Radiator bleed key
- Window insulation tape
- Draft stopper
- Thick blankets
- Winter duvet
- Hot water bottle
- Winter coats
- Winter boots
- Scarf, hat, gloves
- Firewood or pellets
- De-icer spray
- Snow shovel
- Thermos

### Personal care

- Moisturizer
- Lip balm

## Tips

- Book the winter tire fitting and the boiler service early in autumn, before the first cold snap, because the queues grow fast.
- Check door and window seals before you switch the heating on; that's where most of the heat escapes.
- When you put away summer clothes, go through the winter ones too, so you spot what no longer fits or is missing in one go.
- Split the jobs: one person handles the car and tire appointment, the other the heating and insulation.

## Frequently asked questions

### When should you fit winter tires?

The usual rule is to switch once temperatures regularly drop below 7 °C, which in many regions falls between late October and November. It's safer to go a little early than to wait for the first snow.

### Why are radiators warm at the bottom and cold at the top?

Air has probably collected in the upper part. You can open the bleed valve slightly with a radiator key to let it out, close it once water starts to come, then check the boiler pressure. If you're unsure, ask an engineer.

### What should you keep in the car in winter?

A de-icer spray, a small snow shovel, a thick blanket and a thermos for a hot drink all earn their place. It's also worth having the antifreeze level checked at the start of the season.

### Can I change the list?

Of course. The ready-made list is just a starting point: delete, add, move items between categories.

### Do I need an account?

No. A room code is all it takes — no email, password or signup.

### How long is the list kept?

As long as you use it. A list is only deleted after a month without any activity; even opening the room resets the clock.

### Can I install it on my phone?

Yes. With the room open, tap "Save Room" to add it to your home screen and open it with one tap.

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[Start a room with this list](https://ortakliste.app/en/list/winter-prep-checklist) — 18 items go straight into your new room; delete what you don't need, add what's missing. No account needed.