Being frugal often gets a bad rap. Some tricks sound too over-the-top until you see how much they actually save. The good news? Most of these ideas are simple to try, and their payoff can be huge. Here are 15 smart, unconventional ways to keep more money in your pocket.
Stop Buying Paper Towels
Reusable cloths are the underrated heroes of cleaning. Instead of tossing paper towels, grab a washable microfiber cloth. One set can last for years when properly cared for, cutting cleaning costs significantly. Sure, it’s an adjustment, but the savings pile up fast. Plus, no more panicking when the paper towel roll runs out.
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Ditch Bottled Beverages
Love coffee, soda, or bottled water? They’re emptying your wallet. A reusable water bottle costs less than a week’s worth of bottled drinks. For coffee, try brewing it at home—it tastes better and costs a fraction of what a café charges. Want soda? SodaStream or store-brand two-liters will save you a small fortune.
Use Public Libraries
Libraries are magical if you’re open to them. Free books, movies, audiobooks, even access to streaming platforms—they’ve got it all. Skip buying $20 books or subscriptions and borrow them instead. Some libraries even lend tools or unusual items like board games. The best part? It’s all free (as long as you return things on time).
Cancel Subscriptions You Barely Use
Got three different streaming platforms but only binge one? Cancel the others. Gym membership but haven’t stepped foot in one? Cancel that, too. Going à la carte saves hundreds a year. If you ever feel the need, you can always re-subscribe.
Master the 48-Hour Rule for Non-Essential Purchases
Impulse buying is budget kryptonite. Before hitting “Buy Now,” wait two days. Most of the time, whatever shiny thing you thought you couldn’t live without? Turns out you can. Redirect what you didn’t spend to savings or debt. It’s simple yet wildly effective.
DIY Your Cleaning Products
Fancy cleaners cost a fortune and are packed with chemicals you don’t need. Make your own—vinegar, baking soda, and dish soap can handle most jobs for pennies. For laundry, homemade detergent is insanely cheap and works just as well. It’s easy, effective, and the cost savings are instant.
Shop Secondhand First
Why pay full price? Thrift stores, consignment shops, and online marketplaces are goldmines for clothes, furniture, appliances, and more. Many items, especially kids’ stuff, are barely used. You can find upscale brands for a fraction of retail prices. Bonus: Buying secondhand is better for the planet, too.
Meal Plan and Batch Cook
Eating out often? It adds up fast. Planning meals and batch cooking keeps food costs low and eliminates all the “what should I eat?” stress. Prep a week’s worth of lunches or dinners and freeze portions. It’s healthier, cheaper, and helps cut down on food waste.
Cut the Cord on Cable
Streaming services are not only more flexible but also cheaper than traditional cable. Pick one or two based on your preferences, and say goodbye to your bloated cable bill. Don’t forget free options like Pluto TV or YouTube for even more savings.
Negotiate Your Bills
Many people don’t realize bills are negotiable. Call your cable, internet, or phone provider and ask for discounts. Mention competitors’ pricing and you’d be surprised how quickly they work something out to keep you. If you’re consistently overpaying, switching providers is always an option.
Try a No-Spend Weekend Challenge
Pick a weekend and spend nothing—no restaurants, no shopping, no entertainment. You’d be amazed at how creative you can get. Explore a free hiking trail, cook at home, or host a game night with things you already own. Even one no-spend weekend a month can save you hundreds per year.
Reuse Gift Wrap
It’s not stingy—it’s smart. Save wrapping paper, gift bags, and tissue paper if they’re still in good shape. Nobody ever remembers what their gift was wrapped in anyway. It costs nothing to reuse these materials, and waste gets a big reduction in the process.
Air-Dry Your Laundry
Dryers are convenient, but they guzzle electricity. Drying clothes on a rack or a line can make a noticeable dent in your energy bill. Sure, it takes a little extra effort, but your clothes will last longer—and so will your dryer.
Cut Back on Heating and Cooling
Heating and cooling suck up a massive portion of household energy. Lower the thermostat a couple of degrees (or raise it in summer) to trim costs. Use a programmable thermostat to avoid heating or cooling an empty home. Layer up in the winter and use fans before blasting the AC all day.
Make Repairs Instead of Replacements
Things break, of course—but they don’t always need to be replaced. Learn to fix small things, like mending clothes or tightening loose chair legs. YouTube is a goldmine for quick repair tutorials. A $5 fix is better than throwing out and buying new.
What Happens When You Try These?
At first, some of these ideas may seem like a hassle. After implementing a few, though, the savings start adding up fast. Plus, you’ll develop habits that leave more money for things that truly matter.
9 Crazy Simple Hacks Frugal People Swear By
Frugality doesn’t mean living a life devoid of pleasure; rather, it’s about making smarter choices and being conscious about where your money goes. By adopting a few simple practices, you can significantly improve your financial situation without feeling deprived. Discovering new ways to save just may become your next favorite hobby. Here are nine simple frugal hacks you can start today. 9 Crazy Simple Hacks Frugal People Swear By
I’m Frugal, But I’m Happy To Spend Money on These 15 Things
When living a frugal lifestyle, spending money wisely is key. It’s easy to assume frugality means avoiding all unnecessary expenses, but that’s not the case. Instead, frugal people are willing to spend money on the things that matter most to them. Here are 15 things I’m happy to spend more money on because they are important to me and align with my values. I’m Frugal, But I’m Happy To Spend Money on These 15 Things