Ways To Save Money
These are some ways to save money that work for me. Read on and see if they can help you.
I use:
- Use hydrogen peroxide instead of bleach when washing clothes. I do this primarily to prevent septic tank issues that bleach can cause.
- Plain old yeast instead of Ridex for my septic tank maintenance – yeast is one of the main ingredients in the expensive Ridex. Go to your local store and buy some yeast. All you need is the 3 pack for your monthly septic tank maintenance.
- Aluminum foil instead of Bounce or anti static dryer sheets. I read about this and thought I would try it. It worked for the most part. The little static after the third load was no big issue. The aluminum foil can be use reused multiple times where the dryer sheets are good for one load. Yes, I tried to use one more than once, but the next load was full of static.
Try store brands instead of the name brand products:
I buy more store brands than ever. I don’t like the idea of paying for a ‘name’.
Regardless of where you shop, most grocery stores now carry store brands. You have to decide for yourself if this is something you want to do.
Store Brand products that save me money:
- Canned goods
- Milk
- Cereal and other breakfast items
- Dish soap
- Sour cream
- Butter
- Biscuits
- Chips and dips
- Paper towels
- Toilet paper
- Trash bags
- Some meats (bacon, lunch meats)
- Cheese
- Olives
- Pickles
- Ketchup
- Mustard
- Washing detergent
- Aluminum foil
- Bread
I haven’t found any store brand fresh vegetables or fruits, so I check around. ALDI has some decent prices if there is one close to you.
Just say ‘No’
If you have kids, then you understand…Mommy, can we get…..?
No! Kids will ask for something every chance they get. As parents, we love seeing a smile on their face when we buy them something. That can get out of hand quickly and become an expectation.
Learn to say ‘no’ even when money isn’t tight. They will not stop loving you. Kids need to be taught the importance of money management. If they seeing to spend money frivolously, they will pickup on your bad habit.
Cigarettes
You can quit smoking or switch to an electronic cigarette. The only financial drawback to eCig is if you have a difficult time finding the type you like.
Initially, I tried the ‘Blu’ eCig and found it to be a complete waste of money. I don’t care for the pre-filled cartridges. I like the vaping eCig with the tank that you fill with the eLiquid. There are several nicotine strengths available. I find them to be very satisfying. I haven’t wanted a real cigarette since.
I was easily spending over $120.00 per month on cigarettes plus the coast of lighters. Since switching to an electronic cigarette or a vaping cig, I cut my spending by approximately 75% annually. That’s a huge savings, not to mention I feel so much better.
My favorite website is Mount Baker Vapor because they have some great prices on the eCig and supplies including the eLiquid. I can get a 236ml bottle of eLiquid for around $40.00. It lasts me for 3-4 months.
Checkout some reputable electronic cigarette website here
So, these are just a few ways I have been able to cut back and I don’t feel like I am missing out on anything.
What are you doing to cut back and save money?