Heather says:
Not all of these tips are suitable for every person, but they are a springboard to help readers find inspiration to tackle life in frugal ways. Every day we have a choice to “Use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without.”
General cleaning:
- Plain white vinegar, water, and elbow grease can replace many commercial cleaning products.
- Cut old t-shirts into cleaning rags.
- Keep Lone Ranger socks on hand for extra nasty messes. If you would rather throw it away, there’s no loss.
- Sweeping costs nothing and prevents damage from tracked in dirt and grit, do it often.
- If you can’t ditch your Swiffer, use rags instead of the pads. Shake it outside before tossing it into the laundry.
General Cooking:
- Watch your portions. Overeating is money down the toilet.
- Buy the spices you use most in bulk. Healthfood stores can be a source, as well as the ethnic aisles in the supermarkets.
- Reduce meat consumption by experimenting with meatless meals or by adding beans, rice, or oats to some recipes.
- Don’t waste leftovers, either store immediately or turn them into something else like Mustgo Soup.
- Check your pantry and fridge often for food that will soon expire or spoil and plan meals around these items.
At the Grocery Store:
- Use a list and shop alone.
- Check the produce department for a quick sale bin. Many recipes do not need picture perfect vegetables. Freckled bananas taste better in oatmeal or banana bread.
- If you are disciplined, meat approaching its sell by date is often reduced, freeze or cook it immediately for big savings. Don’t buy it if you know you can’t use it quickly.
- Grocery stores aren’t always the best source for some items. Check the price of milk at drug stores and gas stations, some dry staples can be found at bargain stores such as Big Lots for significant savings.
- Check your receipt and don’t be afraid to mention errors, just be polite.
Entertainment:
- Use the library for books, DVDs, and music.
- Swap books and movies with friends.
- One word: POTLUCK for poker nights, girls nights IN, game nights, etc
- Learn to cook, this skill translates into savings, enjoyment and an ability to create gifts for others at minimal cost.
- For low cost entertainment try supporting your local highschool sports and theater. Who knows, someday you may get to say “I saw them when.”
Common Sense Energy Conservation, because sometimes we all need a quick reminder, best of all these ideas are all green:
- Turn off lights that aren’t in use.
- Turn off the tap when brushing teeth.
- Take shorter showers. -Turn off the water while soaping your body, washing your hair, and shaving. Turn on to rinse-
- Put on a sweater or use a ceiling or table fan before adjusting the thermostat.
- Walk around your home and check for appliances that use energy even when off. Unplug these items or use a power strip.
Can you add to the list?
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