I consider myself pretty frugal. But then I talk to people, go to Facebook groups and Reddit subs, and realize that there are levels of frugal living that most of us never even consider!
Here are some ways that you can do the same as the most frugal people I know!
Use More of Each Ingredient
Are you throwing away veggie scraps, unused herbs, and chicken bones? You’re throwing money away, plain and simple. Let’s look at rotisserie chicken, which is a meal prep Swiss army knife. You can use the meat in multiple ways: chop some into chicken salad, eat some of the breast meat with roasted vegetables, and then use the bones to make rich broth for free.
Eat Less Meat
Your reliance on meat is driving up grocery prices. Even if you’re not ready to commit to a vegetarian lifestyle, simply making a conscious effort to eat less meat will make your next grocery receipt significantly less shocking. And if you are eating meat, reduce the amount per meal and stretch it with vegetables and healthy grains.
Growing Your Own Food
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.
Making Your Own Household Cleaners
Commercial cleaning products are a relatively new concept. Households relied on simple solutions made from pantry staples. Ingredients like vinegar and lemon juice can be combined to create natural cleaners that are safe for your home and the environment, and better for your wallet. You can also customize your cleaners as you like, whether it’s a few drops of essential oils to give off a specific scent or more or less of ingredients to achieve a particular cleaning strength.
Using and Reusing 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 for storing dry goods, 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.
Drying Clothes Outside or On Racks
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 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.
Heading to the Local Library
Way too many people overlook the value of their local library. They’re often known as a community’s primary source of books, but libraries have evolved to offer a wealth of resources beyond just reading materials.
Today’s libraries provide free access to movies, music, classes, and community activities, making them an excellent source of entertainment and education. You can save money on books and media while also discovering new interests and hobbies, all with the help of your local library!
Collect Your Rainwater
Rainwater is a free natural resource you can use to water your garden. You can go all-out and install an irrigation system (which is more expensive up front, but makes using rainwater easier) or use a rain barrel. Either approach will let you harness the power of Mother Nature to help save money on your utilities. This is especially good for those of you with greener thumbs!
Do a No-Spend Challenge
Who’s up for some friendly competition? If you and your other frugal friends are looking for a different way to save, try seeing who can do it the best. You can go about this in a ton of different ways, like seeing who can last the longest without spending on something they don’t need, or planning an outing with friends at no cost, and voting on who had the best plans.
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