If you’re spending your <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/holidays/photos/christmas-at-home-trends-1943709/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">holiday season at home</a> this year, you’ll want to make the most of every bit of space you have. Patio heaters can be an investment, but they can be a great way to make <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/tags/outdoors/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">outdoor</a> areas warm and cozy. If your home has a covered balcony or patio, a waterproof, weather-resistant, ceiling-mounted outdoor heater warms up the space quickly from above. <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B084KLTSLP/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=15121&creative=330641&creativeASIN=B084KLTSLP&linkCode=as2&tag=corusent07-20&linkId=3508b579841f3bed21ec91d4ee26630f" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Simple Deluxe Ceiling-Mounted Outdoor Heater</a>, Amazon, $190. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/photos/balcony-front-porch-design-ideas-1938698/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">15 Balcony and Front Porch Design Ideas We Want to Steal</a>

A little glow goes a long way — especially during the winter months when your patio is dark more often than not. A string (or a few) of warm white outdoor lights adds practical lighting and <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/bedrooms/photos/15-bedroom-decor-ideas-to-make-your-space-cozy-for-autumn-and-winter-1942550/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">cozy ambiance</a> to your patio or balcony on wintery afternoons. Even better? Choosing outdoor lights in a neutral tone ensures you can use them all year long. <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B07T23YM4B/ref=as_li_qf_asin_il_tl?ie=UTF8&tag=corusent07-20&creative=330641&linkCode=as2&creativeASIN=B07T23YM4B&linkId=99ffcad44808d2e6b2d7e24e860df105" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Two Pack Outdoor String Lights</a>, Amazon, $68. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/photos/outdoor-lighting-ideas-for-backyard-or-balcony-1942005/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">15 Outdoor Lighting Ideas to Brighten up Your Backyard or Balcony</a>

While we often think about outdoor furniture when it comes to <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/photos/low-cost-ways-backyard-permanent-staycation-1938419/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">summer staycations</a>, it’s even more important to have a comfy place to sit if you want to enjoy your outdoor space in the wintertime (after all: you’re less likely to sprawl out on your lawn in January). Opt for a comfy outdoor sectional to cuddle up on on clear days — but be sure to choose a design with easy-to-clean cushions that you can take inside should a blizzard strike. <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B07SL5NXHT/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=15121&creative=330641&creativeASIN=B07SL5NXHT&linkCode=as2&tag=corusent07-20&linkId=0f99aba5e440db355eed96a2a1af9d61" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Venice 6-Piece Classic Outdoor Wicker Sectional Sofa</a>, Amazon, $1,615. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/photos/timeless-backyard-ideas-trends-1940222/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">15 Timeless Backyard Ideas and Trends to Make You Fall Back in Love With Your Yard</a>

<a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/shopping/photos/patio-furniture-small-spaces-1937738/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Small patio spaces</a> can be cozy wintertime spots with some lounge-ready outdoor furniture. If there isn’t enough room for an outdoor couch, consider a comfortable, easy-to-clean rocking chair instead. <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B087YRLKBK/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=15121&creative=330641&creativeASIN=B087YRLKBK&linkCode=as2&tag=corusent07-20&linkId=7a0e1d52143dce50d3058cde29e571c9" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Outdoor Rocking Chair</a>, Amazon, $200. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/blog/how-to-clean-outdoor-furniture-1917257/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">How to Clean Outdoor Furniture Like a Pro: Everything You Need to Know</a>

One of the simplest, most cost-effective ways to transform your summer patio set-up into a cozy winter wonderland is with some soft, plush throw blankets (for style points, choose throws and pillows in <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/decorating/photos/2021-pantone-colours-of-the-year-1944625/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Pantone shades of yellow or grey</a>). Stock up on a few machine-washable throws and store them near the door so you’re always ready to cozy up with a blanket and a <a href="https://www.foodnetwork.ca/entertaining/photos/warm-cozy-fall-drinks/" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">warm mug of hot chocolate</a> on a clear, chilly day. <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B01HTQQF2Y/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=15121&creative=330641&creativeASIN=B01HTQQF2Y&linkCode=as2&tag=corusent07-20&linkId=20b3b5226aeec20e42b5b11287531c1f" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Eddie Bauer Red Sherpa Plush Throw</a>, Amazon, $43.

Don’t forget about winter porch decor that’s practical <em>and</em> pretty. A doormat in a wintery motif dresses up your back patio — while also helping keep wet, snowy boots from tracking mess into your home. Want more winter decorating ideas? <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/decorating/photos/winter-decor-according-to-zodiac-sign-1934090/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Here’s some stylish inspo</a>, based on your zodiac sign. <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B08CFKZPW1/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=15121&creative=330641&creativeASIN=B08CFKZPW1&linkCode=as2&tag=corusent07-20&linkId=ef03acef5a1eb2403c04ebc6e5bc6f41" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Elrene Home Fashions Plaid Doormat</a>, Amazon, $33. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/diy/blog/diy-fun-festive-winter-doormat-1943691/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">This Fun and Festive DIY Winter Doormat Can Be Made in 5 Simple Steps</a>

‘Tis the season for <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/holidays/photos/upside-down-black-trees-holiday-trends-1934492/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Christmas trees</a>, but green pines aren’t your only option, especially when it comes to winter porch decor. Lighted trees — like this wintery indoor-outdoor design — are a great way to add season-spanning style and functional light to your outdoor space. <a href="https://www.wayfair.ca/holiday-decor/pdp/the-holiday-aisle-cherry-blossom-lighted-tree-144-light-lighted-tree-thly4176.html?piid=25670258" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Cherry Blossom 144 Light Lighted Tree</a>, Wayfair, $96. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/photos/use-your-outdoor-space-winter-1922732/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">7 Smart Ways to Make the Most of Your Backyard Space in the Winter</a>

Think plant life is for the sunny season only? Think again! While most plants need spring and summer sunlight to thrive, there are some plants that will stand up to cold weather and wintery conditions (here are a few examples of <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/green-living/photos/plants-that-flower-in-winter-1921590/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">plants that will flower in winter</a>). Set up a couple of winter outdoor plants on your patio in pretty metallic planters for a cheerful natural finish — and then plant something else in them in the spring for year-round green goodness. <a href="https://www.jdoqocy.com/click-9190882-13710638?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.chapters.indigo.ca%2Fen-ca%2Fgifts%2Fproduct%2F772349832825-item.html&cjsku=77234983282" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Roni Brass Planters (Set of 2)</a>, Indigo, $143. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/green-living/photos/easy-to-care-for-indoor-plants-1926218/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">21 Easy-to-Care-for Indoor Plants That Go Beyond Succulents</a>

If keeping patio plants alive during the winter isn’t your thing, you can still have a little greenery on your balcony with the help of an artfully arranged (artificial) hanging basket. Choose arrangements that suit the season (like this faux-pine beauty) to help your <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/tags/outdoor-decor/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">outdoor decor</a> look more realistic. Not sure how to hang your new winter decor? You can <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/green-living/photos/hanging-planters-make-buy-under-75-1940078/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">make or buy one of these hanging planters </a>for under $75. <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B00N9VTXL4/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=15121&creative=330641&creativeASIN=B00N9VTXL4&linkCode=as2&tag=corusent07-20&linkId=4e6ac1edd180fccfa58adbadd9b8f432" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Glittery Bristle Pine Hanging Basket</a>, Amazon, $79. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/photos/keep-fake-plants-outside-outdoor-decor-questions-1939994/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">Can I Keep Fake Plants Outside? (And 15 More Outdoor Decor Questions Answered)</a>

Once you’ve made your patio a winter wonderland, be sure to keep it all in great condition for year after year of chilly patio enjoyment. Outdoor furniture covers are always a smart idea, but they’re especially important over the winter months. When you aren’t lounging, weather-resistant or waterproof patio furniture covers can help preserve your outdoor items. <a href="https://www.amazon.ca/gp/product/B07355RRNY/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=15121&creative=330641&creativeASIN=B07355RRNY&linkCode=as2&tag=corusent07-20&linkId=ac41c7934f8c048e0a8ca1210a0f2ab1" rel="nofollow noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">ESSORT Outdoor Furniture Cover</a>, Amazon, $60. <br><br> Related: <a href="https://www.hgtv.ca/outdoors/photos/how-to-winterproof-cottage-trailer-mobile-home-1932223/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">How to Winterproof Your Cottage, Trailer or Mobile Home</a>