Go DIY and save money

Jul 2009
29
by Tyra
Posted In:  other

There are so many different products and services out there today, it can be hard to separate wants from needs. Even harder, what things could you afford to be doing yourself? If you think about it, a lot of things. Learn how to build a "DIY" ethic, have fun, learn something new and save money! After all, if you can save money by doing it yourself, why not?  

A few things you can do yourself...

  1. Dry cleaners- How much do you spend a year just getting your clothes clean? Dry cleaning not only a financial black hole, but a hassle. Use home products that give you dry cleaning results, such as Dryel. Or better yet, buy washer and dryer safe clothes to eliminate the cost and hassle altogether.
  2. Auto care- Do the simple items yourself. Replacing washer fluid, changing your oil, and replacing bulbs are all simple procedures you can do at home. Don't forgot to dispose of oil properly...many local auto parts stores will take used oil for free and dispose of it the right way.
  3. Exercise and fitness- Gym memberships and personal trainers cost hundreds per year. Learn to stay in shape. Home equipment will pay for itself pretty quickly, and running or walking around your neighborhood is always free.
  4. A.M. Coffee- If you are stopping at the local chain coffee shop before work, you are wasting money. Americans waste $900-1000 on overpriced coffee drinks. Make your own at home, and take it with you in a reusable mug or Styrofoam cup. Have a favorite speciality drink or cappuccino? Learn how to make it at home for a fraction of the cost. Check out those listed on All Recipes
  5. Lawn care- Having a professional tend the maintain of your lawn can easily add up to over $100.00 per month (Or $1,200 annually!) Invest in some lawn tools,soils, and fertilizer to save money and reap a health benefit to boot.
  6. Car wash- Don't do it home, it wastes tons of water.  But, you can save by using a do it yourself wash station versus a full service wash.
  7. Beauty- Forgo the salon and save a fortune on manicures, pedicures, facials, hair treatments, dye jobs and anything else. A spa night is also a fun and frugal alternative to a Saturday night out on the town. For tips as well as spa-quality recipes for masks and other treatments, read our article "Low-budget beauty".
  8. Home improvement and maintenance- Take care of the small things before they become big things. Check out doityourself.com ... you might be surprised at how much you can handle yourself.
  9. Dining- Save tons of money by eating at home. For less than half the price of dining out (not to mention, tax, drinks, tips and gas), you can cook up a nice homemade dinner with gourmet ingredients. Going for the experience? Try some ambience lights, and a floral display. Want recipes? Check out our article "Cooking on a dime"
  10. Get creative- Think outside the box. Before hiring anybody to do a minor or major product, research ways of doing it yourself. Same with new purchases...There are so many things you can make yourself at home!

Some example ideas to get you started...

 

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Comments

Re: Go DIY and save money

Submitted by MikeV on Sat, 08/01/2009 - 18:39.

The more you learn to do yourself, the more confidence you will have in tackling other projects - as long as you do them successfully and complete them.
Before long, it will help cut down stress when something goes wrong - knowing that you can fix it yourself. Who knows, before long your friends may ask you for help.