10 Things I Make at Home Instead of Buying To Spend Less

I used to buy everything ready-made because it felt easier, but I was spending more than I realized. I started making a few everyday items myself and saw savings right away. Most of these swaps take only a few minutes and cost far less than store versions.

Homemade Cleaning Spray

Store-bought cleaners are expensive and often filled with harsh chemicals. I mix equal parts vinegar and water with a few drops of lemon essential oil in a reusable spray bottle. It works just as well as brand-name cleaners for countertops, sinks, and glass. One batch costs less than a dollar and lasts for weeks.

DIY Coffee Drinks

I used to spend several dollars a day on coffee shop drinks. Now I make them at home using a milk frother and flavored syrups. I can make a latte or cold brew for under a dollar, and it tastes just as good. It is an easy way to save hundreds of dollars a year.

Salad Dressings

Bottled dressings can be pricey and filled with unnecessary ingredients. I make my own using olive oil, vinegar, mustard, and a little honey. It takes less than a minute and tastes fresher than anything from the store. Plus, I can adjust it to match whatever meal I am making.

Refilled Hand Soap Bottles

Instead of buying new soap bottles every time, I refill glass dispensers with bulk liquid soap or DIY foaming soap made from castile soap and water. It looks better in the bathroom, creates less waste, and saves money each month.

Reusable Snack Packs

Instead of buying prepackaged snacks, I buy large bags and portion them into reusable containers. It keeps snacks fresh and costs far less over time. I also waste less plastic, which feels like a win for both my wallet and the environment.

Homemade Bread

Fresh bread is surprisingly easy to make, especially with a basic bread machine or no-knead recipe. The ingredients cost pennies compared to bakery loaves, and the taste is unbeatable. I freeze extra loaves so we always have some on hand.

DIY Beauty Treatments

Face masks, scrubs, and hair treatments can get expensive fast. I use pantry staples like honey, sugar, and coconut oil to make simple versions that work just as well. They feel indulgent, and I save a small fortune by skipping the store-bought versions.

Homemade Granola

Store-bought granola is often overpriced and loaded with sugar. I make my own with oats, honey, and whatever nuts or dried fruit I have on hand. It bakes in under 30 minutes and keeps for weeks. The cost is about one-third of what I used to pay.

DIY Pizza Night

Ordering pizza adds up fast. Making it at home takes less time than waiting for delivery and costs just a few dollars per pie. I use pre-made dough, fresh toppings, and bake it on a sheet pan. It is become one of our favorite family traditions.

Cleaning Cloths Instead of Paper Towels

I stopped buying paper towels and now use old t-shirts or microfiber cloths instead. They clean better, wash easily, and last for years. It is one of the simplest ways I have cut household costs without feeling like I am giving anything up.

Small Effort, Big Savings

Making everyday products at home takes less time than you might think, and the savings add up quickly. Once you try a few of these swaps, you will see how easy it is to save money, reduce waste, and still enjoy the same quality you get from store-bought products.

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The article 10 Things I make at home instead of buying to spend less first appeared on Cents + Purpose.