In this video by Backroad Money, you’ll discover five ways to save money around the house. The host shares practical tips on reducing trips to town, making homemade cleaning products, repurposing food scraps, rethinking meals, and taking advantage of deals at grocery stores. By adopting these frugal living strategies, you can not only save more of your hard-earned money, but also reduce waste and simplify your life. So grab a cup of coffee and join the conversation in the kitchen as you learn valuable money-saving techniques that will benefit your personal finances.
Reducing Trips to Town
Saves gas and time
Reducing the number of trips you make to town can help you save money on gas and reduce the amount of time you spend on the road. Whether you live in a rural area or an urban setting, minimizing the number of trips you take can have a positive impact on your finances and daily routine. Even if you live close to town, cutting back on unnecessary trips can still save you time and money in the long run.
Making Homemade Cleaning Products
Saves money on store-bought cleaning products
By making your own cleaning products at home, you can save a significant amount of money that would otherwise be spent on store-bought alternatives. Many Americans spend around $50 per month on cleaning products alone, so making the switch to homemade alternatives can result in substantial savings. Additionally, homemade cleaning products often use natural ingredients, reducing your exposure to harmful chemicals found in commercial cleaners.
Reduces exposure to harmful chemicals
Using homemade cleaning products also helps reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals commonly found in store-bought cleaners. By making your own cleaning solutions, you can control the ingredients and tailor them to your specific needs. For example, a simple spray bottle solution made with water, a little bit of dish soap, and peppermint essential oil can serve as an effective and fragrant all-purpose cleaner with antibacterial properties. Similarly, a mixture of water, rubbing alcohol, and vinegar can be used as a streak-free glass cleaner.
Using Food Scraps Creatively
Using crushed crackers in meatloafs and recipes
Instead of throwing away small bits of crackers that accumulate at the bottom of the box, you can save them and use them creatively in your meals. Crushed crackers can be added to meatloaf recipes to enhance the flavor and texture, making your meals more delicious while reducing food waste.
Using graham cracker crumbs for pie crusts and toppings
Similarly, graham cracker crumbs can be used to make pie crusts or sprinkled over the top of desserts like brownies. By repurposing these food scraps, you not only add extra flavor to your dishes but also avoid wasting perfectly edible food.
Making vegetable broth from scraps
Don’t throw away the ends of onions, carrot peels, or other vegetable scraps. Instead, collect them in a Ziploc bag and use them to make homemade vegetable broth. This not only reduces food waste but also provides you with a flavorful base for soups and stews.
Alternating Between Discount and Expensive Grocery Stores
Taking advantage of rewards cards and digital coupons
By alternating between discount grocery stores and more expensive options, you can take advantage of the benefits each offers. Expensive grocery stores often have rewards cards or loyalty programs that offer discounts and free items. By using these cards and downloading digital coupons, you can save money on groceries and other items.
Finding the best deals at expensive grocery stores
Expensive grocery stores often have the best sales, and by staying updated on their advertisements, you can identify the deals that offer the most value for your money. Take the time to browse the store’s app or website to discover any additional coupons or discounts that may be available.
Stocking up on discounted items for long-term storage
When you come across deeply discounted items, such as clearance or sale items, consider stocking up on them for long-term storage. This practice allows you to take advantage of the low prices and ensure that you have essential items on hand when you need them. Items like canned goods, non-perishable foods, and household necessities can be bought in bulk and stored for future use.
Rethinking Meal Options
Having breakfast for dinner or simple meals
Sometimes, keeping meals simple can be a cost-effective way to save money and reduce food waste. Consider having breakfast for dinner or opting for quick and easy meals like oatmeal with toast and fruit, pancakes with bacon, or a grilled cheese sandwich with fresh fruits or vegetables.
Avoiding overcomplicated meal types
Overcomplicated meal types can lead to higher grocery bills and more time spent in the kitchen. Instead, focus on simple and straightforward meal options that still provide the nourishment you need. By avoiding complex recipes with numerous ingredients, you can streamline your cooking process and save both time and money.
Using Cold Water for Laundry
Saves energy by not using hot water for laundry
One simple and effective way to save money is by washing your laundry in cold water. Using cold water instead of hot or warm water can significantly reduce your energy consumption and, subsequently, your utility bills. Today’s laundry detergents are formulated to clean clothes effectively in cold water, making it an easy switch to make for energy and cost savings.
In conclusion, there are several practical ways to save money around the house by making simple changes to your daily routine. By reducing the number of trips to town, making homemade cleaning products, repurposing food scraps, alternating between discount and expensive grocery stores, rethinking meal options, and using cold water for laundry, you can achieve financial savings while also contributing to a more sustainable lifestyle. Remember, saving money doesn’t have to be complicated; it can be as simple as making a few small changes to your everyday habits.