At some point, frugality crosses a line. Saving money is smart, but let’s be honest, some so-called “money-saving hacks” are a little too extreme.
I’m all for cutting costs, I’m all about frugality, but I’m not drinking the same bathwater as my dog just to save a few cents. Here are ten frugal habits that go way too far—even for me.
1. Baking Your Own Bread
There’s something romantic about homemade bread. But when it comes to basic sandwich bread? Not worth it. A loaf at my local Aldi costs around $1, and we go through it fast. The time, effort, and mess of baking sandwich bread just don’t add up for that small savings.
That said, baking other bread products like pizza dough, sourdough, or biscuits can still be worthwhile and rewarding. But for everyday toast and sandwiches? I’ll stick to store-bought.
2. Getting Cheap Haircuts (As a Woman)
There’s a world of difference between a decent cut at a midrange salon and a quick chop from a discount chain—especially if you only go twice a year. And let’s face it, hair type and style matter. Curly or short hair tends to need more attention than long and straight hair.
I’ve been cutting my own hair ever since a salon disaster in sixth grade and haven’t looked back. If you’re confident and low-maintenance, DIY works. Otherwise, investing in a good haircut now and then can actually save you from needing a fix later.
3. Not Having Pets
Yes, pets are expensive. Vet bills, food, supplies—it all adds up. But for many, the joy and companionship pets bring are more than worth it.
Still, if you can’t afford an emergency vet visit, you shouldn’t have a pet. They’re not a frugal lifestyle accessory; they’re living beings that deserve proper care. Sometimes, being financially responsible means waiting for the right time.
4. Repurposing Stored Water
There’s a fine line between smart conservation and downright inconvenience. Saving water from your shower while it heats up may have noble intentions, but lugging around buckets, storing them, and navigating a bathroom filled with open containers? It’s messy and unsanitary.
I fully support being eco-conscious, but if your bathroom starts looking like a swamp, it might be time to scale back.
5. Driving to a Further Gas Station To Save a Few Cents
The idea of driving 10 extra minutes just to save a few cents per gallon has always baffled me. By the time you factor in the time, extra mileage, and frustration, the savings are gone.
That said, if you’re already at a place like Costco and they’re 20 cents cheaper and you’re getting 5% cash back from your credit card—now that makes sense. Convenience and value can go hand in hand when done right.
6. Hoarding Everything “Just in Case”
Holding onto random junk “in case I need it one day” leads to clutter, chaos, and stress. If something is valuable or hard to replace, sure, keep it. But a broken can opener from 1998? Let it go.
My rule: if I haven’t used it in a reasonable timeframe and it’s not sentimental or valuable, it’s out. Life’s too short to drown in your own storage.
7. Growing Your Own Food
Starting a garden for frugality sounds ideal, but it’s not always practical. Between tools, soil, and trial-and-error learning, the startup costs can be steep.
The key is choosing the right crops. Herbs are a fantastic money-saver since they’re pricey in stores and easy to grow. But cucumbers? They’re cheap to buy and high-maintenance to grow. Gardening is a great hobby, but don’t expect it to slash your grocery bill unless you’re strategic about it.
8. Buying Lower Quality Products To Save Money
There’s a difference between being frugal and being cheap. Buying the lowest-quality item just to save a few bucks can cost more in the long run when it breaks, wears out, or needs constant replacement.
I’d rather own fewer, higher-quality items that last and bring joy. That said, not everything needs to be top-tier. The trick is knowing when to invest—and when it doesn’t matter.
9. Not Viewing Time as a Valuable Resource
There are countless money-saving tricks I won’t even consider, not because they don’t work, but because they take way too much time. Time is the one thing we can’t get back.
Sometimes, the best financial decision is investing in yourself, whether that’s learning new skills, getting a better job, or starting a side hustle. Saving money is great, but increasing your income changes the game entirely.
10. Reusing Ziploc Bags
Reusing Ziploc bags can make sense if they’ve held dry items like nuts or crackers. But if I have to dry them out? No, thank you.
Reusable silicone bags are a more eco-friendly option, but they come with their own price tag and upkeep. Personally, I find meal prep containers to be the best of both worlds because they are durable, reusable, and easy to clean.
Being frugal is smart. But there’s a point where frugality tips over into absurdity or even compromise. Know your limits. Saving money should support your life, not make it feel like a never-ending job.
