Sometimes we think that since older people, aka boomers, lived in a very different time, there can’t possibly be anything about their lives that is relevant today.
But believe it or not, there are some frugal habits that the older generation used that still work in 2025!
Cooking From Scratch
There was a day when food had to be made from scratch. And sure, it’s nice to have modern conveniences, like popping something in the microwave or ordering from DoorDash. But this is arguably one of the best ways to save money. Cooking from scratch is always cheaper, and it’s a valuable life skill that you can always lean on to improve your diet and your finances.
Mending Clothes
Dealing with a missing button or a ripped sleeve? Instead of going out and buying new clothes, why not try repairing them first? The older generation all knew how to wield a needle and fix a rip or sew on a button.
All you need are some basic sewing skills, thread, and a needle!
Saving Leftovers
Even the best meal preppers find themselves with too much of something. That’s never a bad thing if you have space in your freezer. Maybe you made a soup that makes 12 servings, but you know there’s no chance you’ll eat it all. Great: pop half of it in the freezer and enjoy it next week.
You can do this with bones and vegetable scraps for making broth, or even with fresh herbs, by putting them in ice cube trays with olive oil to create an easy-to-access puck that adds a punchy flavor to any dish in seconds.
Line Drying Laundry
Clothes were typically dried on clotheslines or racks before the invention of the modern dryer. It’s on its way back in vogue as people become more conscious of their energy consumption and environmental impact.
Air drying your clothes helps you significantly lower your electricity bills while also preserving the quality of your garments. Hang drying can also impart a fresh, natural scent to your laundry. Seriously, it’s like the wind and sun impart a fresh, nostalgic outdoor smell.
So, whether you have a backyard, balcony, or even a small indoor space, incorporating hang drying into your routine can lead to some surprising savings.
Using Cash
Before credit cards were the norm, people managed their budgets with cold, hard cash. This led to a powerful, psychological money hack: the cash envelope system. This system involves a series of envelopes you label for different things, like groceries and rent.
You put whatever money you need in that envelope, and that’s all you get for the month. It’s visual budgeting that still works just as well, and even forces you to be more deliberate and mindful with your purchases.
Sharing Tools With Neighbors
Need a specific tool for a household project that you don’t already own? Check with friends and neighbors to borrow theirs before buying your own.
In the past, people knew their neighbors and helped each other out, especially when it came to borrowing things. The trick is for each neighbor to have one handy item that they can lend out to others.
This way, everyone is pooling resources. It’s a great way to save money and build community.
Keeping a Garden
Gardens enable you to grow fresh fruits and vegetables right in your own backyard. This used to be the norm, especially back in the day. But today, the concept of growing food at home is making a comeback, and for good reason.
A garden can significantly reduce your grocery bills. And the more effort you sow, the more benefits (and delicious produce) you reap. You don’t need a giant backyard to start, either; container gardening or vertical gardening can work wonders in small spaces. Homegrown produce also often tastes better and is free from harmful pesticides, so it’s a healthier option overall.
Fix It, Don’t Replace It
It’s tempting to buy a new item when the old one breaks. But instead of throwing them out, try repairing your small items. They’re often a quick fix, and it’s much cheaper than buying brand new.
Reusing Jars and Containers
Saving and repurposing jars, tubs, and other containers was a common practice in the past. People would find creative ways to reuse containers for storage, organization, and even crafts. This habit is making a resurgence as more individuals seek to reduce waste and save money.
Instead of tossing out empty jars or plastic containers, consider how they can be repurposed. Glass jars can be used to store dry goods and homemade sauces, or even as planters for small herbs. Plastic tubs can serve as organizers for toys, craft supplies, or office materials. By reusing containers, you not only save money on storage solutions but also contribute to a more sustainable lifestyle.
Buy Secondhand Items
Thrifting is not only good for your wallet, but it’s also better for the environment.
You can score great deals on clothes, furniture, kitchenware, electronics, equipment, and more by purchasing them secondhand. And you don’t have to rely on a brick-and-mortar thrift store to have what you need; websites like Poshmark, Facebook Marketplace, and eBay all offer a huge selection of gently used products that cost a fraction of the original price.
Avoid Debt
Another practical way to save money is to avoid or reduce your debt. Prioritizing paying off loans and credit cards will help you save a ton of money in interest rates in the long run. If you are starting out with credit cards or loans, make sure you budget in your full payment every month.
