5 “Old-School” Frugal Tricks That Still Work Shockingly Well Today

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These old-school frugal tricks might be old-fashioned, but they still work shockingly well today (yes, in 20255).

Saving Plastic Bags

Plastic grocery bags seem to multiply under sinks and inside pantries across the country. Some people save every single one, even though there’s no realistic way to use them all. While keeping a few for reuse makes sense, the tendency to hoard them can quickly spiral out of control. Reusable bags are often a more sustainable solution, but old habits die hard.

Hoarding

For those raised with financial anxiety, the line between being thrifty and hoarding can blur. Growing up with the message “don’t throw it away because it might be useful later” creates a lasting mindset. As adults, letting go of items, no matter how small, can trigger anxiety. Still, some make a conscious effort to declutter, determined not to fall into hoarding behaviors.

Feeling overwhelmed by clutter? Join the 30 Bags in 30 Days Declutter Challenge and take the first step toward a more organized home! This free printable makes it easy to stay on track with one simple goal each day—no stress, just steady progress. Download it now and start clearing space for what truly matters.

Re-Using Aluminum Foil

Frugality learned from depression-era parents or grandparents still lingers. Reusing aluminum foil, rinsing out plastic bags, or adding water to the ketchup bottle to get every last drop are just a few examples. These habits may seem excessive today, but they reflect a mindset built on survival and stretching every resource to its limit.

Saving Wood Scraps From Every Project

It’s not uncommon for people to hang on to every scrap of wood from a project, convinced those odd-shaped pieces might serve a purpose someday. Workshops and garages fill up with bits of lumber, some useful, most not, all saved in the name of avoiding waste. It’s a classic case of “just in case” thinking that’s hard to shake.

Keeping Veggie Scraps and Chicken Bones

Freezer bags full of veggie scraps, onion skins, and chicken bones are common in frugal households. Why throw out ingredients that can make a flavorful, homemade broth? While some might call it “garbage soup,” the result is often far tastier than anything from a box, and it’s practically free.