10 Frugal Living Tips That I Learned by Being Frugal

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Frugality isn’t just about cutting costs—it’s a way of thinking creatively, living intentionally, and getting the most value from what you have. Over time, you naturally pick up clever strategies that make saving money second nature.

Here are some of the best money-saving tips I’ve learned through living frugally:

Buy Second Hand

If it can be cleaned, it’s probably worth buying secondhand. Thrift stores, garage sales, online marketplaces—these are goldmines for clothing, home goods, kitchenware, linens, and even the occasional appliance or gift item. The only exceptions I make are for underwear and swimwear. Everything else? Fair game.

Timing Matters

Running your appliances during off-peak hours can make a noticeable dent in your electricity bill. If your schedule allows, try doing laundry or running the dishwasher at night. Also, switching to cold water for your wash and line-drying your clothes when possible are small tweaks that can lead to steady savings over time.

Keep a Routine

Having a structured routine reduces the likelihood of spontaneous purchases. When your days have a rhythm—grocery shopping on a set day, meal prepping at the same time each week, exercising regularly—it becomes easier to plan, and less tempting to fill time with unnecessary spending.

Dispose of the Disposable

Disposable products quietly drain your wallet. Swapping them out for reusables—like dishcloths, cloth napkins, reusable water bottles, containers, and even dryer balls—can save you a surprising amount over the course of a year. Plus, it’s a more sustainable way to live.

Keep It Until It Breaks

If something still works, don’t replace it. It’s easy to get swept up in the idea of upgrading, but there’s a lot of value in using things until they’ve truly reached the end of their life. And before tossing anything out, consider trying to repair it—there are countless tutorials online that can help you fix just about anything.

Start From Scratch

Cooking from scratch is a win-win—it saves money and is often healthier. Staple foods like lentils, beans, rice, soups, and pasta can be the base for endless meals. With a little creativity and a few quality spices, you can stretch your food budget impressively far.

Difference Between Want and Need

This mindset shift is huge: just because something’s on sale doesn’t mean it’s a necessity. If I know I need something long-term—like a quality kitchen appliance—I might start with a cheaper version while saving up for the better one. But I always pause and ask, “Do I actually need this right now?”

Choose the Cheaper Route When Possible

Certain everyday items are perfectly fine at the lowest price point. Household basics—like hand soap, glass cleaner, sponges, and even toothpaste—can be picked up at discount stores for a fraction of the cost. These savings may seem small at first but really add up over time.

Don’t Just Buy the Sale

One of the quickest ways to waste money is buying something just because it’s on sale. If it’s not something you regularly use or enjoy, skip it. Stocking up on discounted food you won’t eat clutters your pantry and drains your budget.

Download the Apps

Technology has made frugality easier than ever. There are apps that help you save on gas, groceries, and travel, and even earn cashback or points you can redeem. If you’re not using your phone to help save money, you’re missing out on some serious potential.

Frugal living isn’t about restriction—it’s about making choices that align with your goals. Once you start building these habits, they snowball. Saving money becomes second nature, and the freedom it creates is incredibly empowering.