How to Make a Draft Dodger for Doors and Windows

As the colder months approach, you might find yourself battling unwanted drafts sneaking in under doors and through windowsills. These chilly intruders can significantly impact heating bills and comfort levels. 

Fortunately, there’s a simple, cost-effective solution: the draft dodger. This easy DIY project not only helps seal off drafts but can also add a touch of personality to a home’s decor. Whether you’re a seasoned crafter or a beginner looking for a practical project, making a draft dodger is an excellent way to improve energy efficiency and stay cozy during the winter months.

What Is a Draft Dodger?

A draft dodger, also known as a draft snake or draft stopper, is a long, narrow fabric tube filled with insulating material. It’s designed to block the gap between the bottom of a door or window and the floor or sill, preventing cold air from entering and warm air from escaping. 

Draft dodgers are not only functional but can also be decorative, adding a charming touch to a home’s interior. They come in various styles and sizes, designed to fit any door or window. Whether it’s a slim draft stopper for a narrow window or a bulkier one for a large door, draft dodgers are versatile tools in the fight against cold air infiltration.

Materials Needed for a Draft Dodger

Before diving into the project, it’s essential to gather all the necessary materials. Here’s what you’ll need to create an effective and attractive draft dodger:

Basic Materials

To get started, you’ll need a tape measure or ruler and scissors for accurate measurements and cutting. Select your fabric, which can be cotton prints, old jeans, or any tightly woven material. A sewing machine and thread (or needle for hand sewing) will be essential for construction, along with 10–15 cups of filling material.

Optional Items

Consider having a funnel on hand to make filling easier, as well as a framing square for precise cutting. Newspaper bags can be useful for storing extra materials, and decorative elements like buttons, eyes, or ribbons can add personality to your creation. Selecting the right materials is crucial to ensuring the draft dodger’s durability and effectiveness through the seasons.

Choosing the Right Fabric and Filling

The choice of fabric and filling can greatly affect the draft dodger’s effectiveness and appearance. When selecting materials, consider the following:

Fabric Selection

When selecting fabric for your draft stopper, there are several key factors to consider. The fabric should be durable enough to withstand frequent use and occasional cleaning, especially since draft stoppers often need to be moved or adjusted. 

Consider choosing a pattern or color that complements your room’s decor, as the draft stopper will become a visible part of your window treatment. 

It’s essential to select a tightly woven fabric to prevent the filling from escaping over time. The fabric’s strength and appearance are especially important if the draft dodger will be moved or handled often, like near a busy doorway. A tightly woven fabric ensures the filling stays contained, prolonging the draft dodger’s life.

Filling Options

• Rice: Molds easily to gaps and provides good weight.
• Dried beans or peas: Offer similar benefits to rice.
• Buckwheat: Lightweight and molds well.
• Kitty litter: Inexpensive and absorbs moisture.
• Sand: Provides excellent weight but can be messy if the fabric tears.
• Shredded materials: Rags or plastic bags can be repurposed as filling.
• Styrofoam pellets: Lightweight but less effective at blocking drafts.

The choice of filling affects the draft dodger’s weight, flexibility, and insulating properties. Heavy fillings like sand make a strong barrier but need a tough fabric. Light fillings like Styrofoam pellets are easier to handle but may not block drafts as well.

Step 1: Determine Fabric Length

Measure the width of the door or window and add 4 inches to allow for seams and filling. For example, for a 35-inch-wide door, cut the fabric to 39 inches long.

Step 2: Determine Fabric Width

The width of the fabric will determine the diameter of the draft dodger. Use this guide:

Step 3: Cut and Prepare the Fabric

Lay out the fabric and mark the dimensions. Cut the rectangle, then fold it in half lengthwise with the wrong side out. Ensure the measurements are accurate to avoid any gaps once the draft dodger is placed.

Step 4: Sew the Tube

Sew across one short end and along the long side, leaving a ½-inch seam allowance. Leave one short end open for filling. A well-sewn tube ensures the structural integrity and durability of the draft dodger.

Step 5: Turn and Fill

Turn the tube right side out. Use a funnel to fill the tube with your chosen material, leaving about 8 inches of space at the open end. Distribute the filling evenly to maintain a consistent barrier against drafts.

Step 6: Close the End

Fold the open end’s raw edges inward and sew it closed. Add any decorative elements if desired. Secure stitching at the ends prevents any filling from escaping, maintaining the draft dodgers functionality.

No-Sew Draft Dodger Options

For those who prefer a quicker solution or don’t have access to a sewing machine, there are several no-sew alternatives:

Repurposed Clothing Method

Using an old pair of tights, leggings, or knee socks is one popular approach. Simply cut off the leg portion to the desired length, fill with your chosen material, and tie off both ends securely or sew them closed by hand. This method allows for a creative reuse of old clothing, giving new life to items that might otherwise be discarded.

Fabric Tube Method

Creating a fabric tube begins with cutting a rectangle of fabric as described in the sewn method. Apply fabric glue along the long edges and one short end, then fold and press to create a tube, leaving one end open. 

Once the glue is dry, turn the tube right side out and fill it with your chosen material. Finally, glue the remaining end closed. These no-sew methods are perfect for quick fixes or projects involving children.

Installing and Maintaining Your Draft Dodger

Once the draft dodger is complete, proper installation and maintenance are key to its effectiveness:

Installation

Proper placement of your draft dodger is crucial for optimal performance. Place it snugly against the bottom of the door or window to create an effective seal. For doors that open inward, position the draft dodger on the interior side. 

When using it for windows, place it along the sill where drafts are felt. Proper placement ensures the draft dodger effectively blocks the cold air, maximizing energy efficiency and comfort.

Maintenance

Regular upkeep will help extend the life of your draft dodger. Check often for wear and tear, especially in high-traffic areas where the draft dodger may see more use. Spot clean as needed or follow fabric care instructions for washing when more thorough cleaning is required. 

If you notice the filling has become compacted or loses effectiveness over time, consider replacing it to maintain optimal performance. By maintaining the draft dodger, you can ensure it continues to function effectively, prolonging its useful life and sustainability.

Creative Ideas for Draft Dodgers

Draft dodgers can be more than just functional — they can also be a fun expression of personal style. Consider these creative ideas:

• Animal shapes: Create snakes, caterpillars, or dogs for a playful touch.
• Seasonal themes: Design draft dodgers to match holiday decor.
• Personalized gifts: Craft draft dodgers with recipients’ favorite colors or patterns.
• Upcycled materials: Use old sweaters or jeans for an eco-friendly option.

These creative twists can turn a simple household item into a decorative accent, adding personality and charm to any room.

Benefits of Using Draft Dodgers

Incorporating draft dodgers into a home offers several advantages. By preventing warm air from escaping, they help reduce heating costs and improve energy efficiency. Draft dodgers also get rid of cold spots near doors and windows, creating a more comfortable living environment. 

An added benefit is their ability to minimize sound transmission through gaps, providing a quieter indoor space. These simple devices can also help prevent insects from entering through small openings, adding an extra layer of pest control. 

As a bonus, draft dodgers can serve as a decorative element, adding a charming, personalized touch to living spaces. Using draft dodgers is a practical step towards a more energy-efficient and comfortable home environment.

Final Thoughts About Draft Dodgers

Draft dodgers are a simple yet effective solution for improving home comfort and energy efficiency. Whether sewn or no-sewn, these easy-to-make devices offer a practical way to battle cold drafts and reduce heating costs. 

By choosing materials that complement home decor and getting creative with designs, you can craft draft dodgers that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing. These DIY draft stoppers can make your home feel more comfortable in the colder months. They are easy to make and can help you save money.