This list is a compilation of ideas to save money. It changes and updates as time goes on, so be sure to check back. Try out the ideas you like and leave what you don’t.
Stress deteriorates health. If money is stressing you, then hopefully these ideas will help.
Starters and Basics
These are things that I feel like everyone should begin first if they’re trying to save money.
-stop eating out
-have a budget (or at least a money plan)
-brew coffee/tea at home
-turn off appliances when not in use
-rinse dishes before putting them in the dishwasher
-do your own hair
-repair/reuse things
-stop buying bottled water
-do your own nails
-cut the cord on cable
-cook at home
-use cloth napkins
Slightly More Intense
These ideas are for people that want to focus on saving a bit more money than by simply doing the basics.
-measure out your coffee (try about 1 Tbsp per 2 cups of water-this is relatively strong, so adjust to taste)
-cut sponges in half to make 2 sponges
-instead of throwing away old clothes, cut them into rags for cleaning
-set the dishwasher to cool dry
-eat less meat
-buy in bulk
-shop thrift stores
-put a container of water in the toilet tank
-bake at home
-utilize the library
-make your own all-purpose, natural cleaner (put half white vinegar and half water in a squirt bottle
-look at unit prices, not overall prices
-put containers of water in the fridge/freezer to fill up space (it uses less electricity to keep a full fridge cold)
-instead of dish washer pods, fill up the soap compartment with white vinegar
-make your own decorations for events
-make your own greeting cards
-buy large cuts of meat and break it down into smaller portions
Let’s Get Serious
Ideas for people who want/need to get really serious about saving money – only for the committed. These aren’t difficult, but they will require some forethought.
-instead of dish washer pods, put a couple drops of Dawn in the soap compartment and sprinkle 1 Tbsp of baking soda in the bottom of the washer
-water down soap
-use rags to wash dishes
-turn the dishwasher off before the drying phase and let the dishes air dry
-patch old clothes
-cook from scratch
-learn a new skill
-wash off foil
-keep livestock (or just keep chickens/rabbits in the backyard)
-hang clothes to dry
-bake from scratch
-wash out plastic bags
-use re-useable menstrual pads or a menstrual cup/ use those rags from the old cloths for a disposeable option
-compost
-grow a garden
-cook dried beans
-use it up, wear it out, make it do, or do without
Frugal Treehugger 