1. Coupons
Learn the art of clipping coupons. Recently, there has been a spike of popular shows about coupons. While many of the people on these shows seem a bit obsessive, you really can save money by using coupons. The best way to start is to go to the library every Sunday. The library offers free newspapers. Many of the coupons you find in newspapers can be copied. Simply copy the coupons you need, and you’re ready to go. However, make sure that the items you wish to purchase are only items that you would have purchased anyway!
2. Trim the Line
Get rid of unnecessary features on your phone. Most cell phone companies charge for certain features such as unlimited texting, as well as long distance phone calls. Keep track of how many texts you send each month, as well as how much you really make long distance calls. Once you know how much you use of each phone feature, remove the features you do not use. Another option is to invest in a pay-as-you-go phone, and get rid of a monthly cell phone bill. You can also consider getting rid of a mobile phone completely and simply keeping a land line (or vice-versa).
3. Return to the Library
After you’ve collected your coupons, use your local library for entertainment! Many people fail to realize just how valuable a library can be. Many libraries offer free story time, as well as free internet, movies, and more. Instead of renting a movie from the movie store or paying a monthly bill for a streaming video service, check out a movie from the library. Get your kids into reading and take them to story time at the library, as well.
4. Liquidate!
Drink tea instead of coffee or soda. If you absolutely need caffeine, switch to tea. Soda and coffee are both expensive. However, you can purchase a box of tea for as little as $2. If you do not make an entire pot of tea, reuse your tea bags a couple of times before you dispose of them.
5. Greenify
Grow your own food. Even if you live in a city, you can still grow your own fruits and vegetables. All you need is fertilizer, seeds, and a small space for growing your crops. Small crops such as tomatoes and green peppers are relatively easy to grow.
6. Home-Made Snacks
Make your own treats! Everyone deserves a sweet treat every once in awhile. However, ice cream, cake, and other treats can be expensive. You can make any of these for half the price with a little rock salt, vanilla, heavy whipping cream, and two tin cans. You can also make brownies from scratch, at a much cheaper price than if you bought a tray of them.
7. Recycle Clothes
Reuse old clothing. Whether you choose to hand down older clothes to a younger family member, or tear apart old clothing to make something new, reusing old clothes can save a lot of money. See if you have anything lying around from yesteryear for a vintage throwback!
8. Dry the Old-Fashioned Way
Hang your clothes to dry instead of using a dryer. In warmer weather, this is especially perfect.
9. Lemon and Vinegar
Cleaning products can be expensive. Instead of wasting your money, simply use what you have around the house. Use lemon and vinegar for a cheap and effective recipe.
10. Homemade Shampoo
Wash your hair with homemade shampoo. Shampoo is an expense that may not even be that good for your hair. Wash your hair in vinegar, lemon or baking soda. Not only is it cheaper to use products around the home, but it can be better for your hair, as well.
Kalisha Lefoinde likes to write about frugal parenting, save money and visit denalinsurance.net.
Related Tips
