Love ceiling fans. Love fans I found some fabulous fans at Costco. So Instead of using the AC we used a dehumidifier combined with the fan. Our house was so cool because it's the humidity and that makes you feel yucky.
My husband and I are retired and have a large garden. I buy meat when on sale and we have venison so the freezer is full. I also can most of our vegetables, our soups, beans, potatoes, fruits and meats. When I need a quick meal I go to my pantry and there I find my groceries. I try not to go to the grocery store only when I need my milks, cheeses and fresh fruits. Thank you for your wonderful videos.
I use dry milk which you don't even notice it in a smoothie. I buy lots of beans and lentil's and I always buy sugar ,rice, and Flour in bulk. I do not overuse my laundry detergent. And I also found out that laundry detergent alone does not give you the cleanest clothes. So I use baking soda and for my fabric softener and also to get out of all that excess stuff and smells from our clothing ,I use white vinegar.
I do so many of these things. When we retired, we got 2 acres and built a small senior friendly home. Planned ahead for possible health issues and made handicap friendly. Hubby planted lots of fruit trees and berries, big veggie garden and a work shop for his woodworking hobby. I can up all the goodies he grows. House well built and tight so good for keeping HVAC bills low, ceiling fans, led light bulbs through out. Hot water on demand type heater.
I’m with you on drinking water more instead of sodas, especially if drinking from tap or from gallon size containers or bulk containers of purified water. It eliminates so much waste and recycling and is cheaper.
Instead of using paper towels for clean up ,I cut up old t shirts we don’t like, don’t fit or have rips and stains. I have them in a basket in the laundry room . I hang a plastic bag on the back of my laundry room door for the dirty ones to be washed. It saves lots of money.
Saving water is always good. We run a dehumidifier in the summer. It needs to be emptied twice a day. The water goes in the watering can for the flowers I grow. Like Jennifer says, even the little things mattet!
Last year I decided to cut what I thought was an almost empty tube of cream in half and I was shocked that I got about 2 more weeks of cream out of it for my face. I then just did it with a tube of toothpaste, and same thing, scooped 2 more weeks of toothpaste out of it. Just found you the other day and so enjoying your content. And so many fabulous tips and experiences from others. Thanks ❤
I perform all of the routine maintenance and repair on our vehicles and drive them a long time. I’ve put 430,000 miles on my daily driver and it’s still going strong. I buy unwanted gift cards online for a discounted price. I have hobbies that occupy my time but doesn’t cost anything like bicycling and kayaking. Instead of eating out with family and friends, we have cookouts or covered dish meals.
Our family of five ditched paper towels 2 years ago and haven't gone back! I do keep paper towels on hand for emergencies but everyone knows not to touch them unless it's an emergency plus we take them on our road trips. I love cloth napkins. Ours are pretty stained but we don't have people over often so it's fine!
I cut my own hair and since im a older man who lost his job, this was the last thing i bought was a hair clipper. I also save or try to save my five dollar bills, i brush my teeth without running the water. Also run the air only when it is hot outside n if it is not i dont run it.And since i have a comforter i got, i dont have to run the heat bc im doing well at not running the heat. I also have a total gym so i dont need a gym membership bc the total gym keeps me fit...
I grow herbs, cut my hubby's hair, do my own nails, combine errands, shop utilities and health insurance, stick to a gifts budget, use an air fryer and crockpot to avoid oven use, borrow tools instead of owning them, reduce meat purchases and we are about 90% plant based, try to watch for sale items, go to tag sales for books , etc, and exercise at home.
We use black washcloths as our napkins. I wouldn’t be able to stand looking at them full of stains and I won’t use bleach so any lighter colors were automatically not for me. I wish I would’ve started doing this many years ago! On another note my brother even put a ceiling fan in his laundry room to keep cool. I love videos with everyday savings ideas. Have a great week.
I was looking for napkins with some floral pattern of something, but only find plain ones. Just because I couldn't stand stains neither. Maybe I could make them myself?
We are definitely carnivore, but one of the things I do is save all bones from chicken or steaks we buy and make bone broth which is very rich in collagen and other nutrients snd not as processed or high in sodium as the commercially made kind. We supplement our meals with a comforting mug of this broth every day.
Just turned on the crock pot, dry beans and a ham hock for flavor. Sides will be cornbread, from a mix costing less than 50 cents, and a salad using tomatoes from the garden. Planning on the left overs for tomorrow's dinner. It's a lovely sunny day here , so the sun will be brewing our tea. Have a blessed day Jennifer!
Great tips! For 30 years my husband, four kids and I have been using wash cloths for dinner napkins. I get a pack of 18 at Walmart for about $4. They last for years and are instantly accessible when spills happen at meals.
I never lose a sock as my socks are always pinned together when not on my feet: in the drawer, washer & dryer. Just tuck the safety pin inside the top of your sock while on your feet.
We use the red automotive rags, very cheap too. And we use a pants hanger with a large lingerie bag to collect socks after we wear them and just throw the bag in the wash.
I’ve made several frugal life changes in the recent past. I do my own nails, for a while colored my own hair but eventually stopped, during the lockdown and salons were closed, I styled my hair differently and continued to do that. I discovered via a friend, shopping in thrift stores. I tend to be a minimalist as sorts, so consider seriously about any purchases. I only keep a cellphone and discontinued my land line. All of these things created a big savings. I am retired on a limited income, so every $ counts. I prefer not to carry cash, only using one credit card, check the statement carefully and pay it in full each month. This way I do not pay interest, and am also cognizant of every purchase. I still have lunch with friends occasionally, order water instead of ice tea or soda, in addition we often meet at McDonalds & skip the fries. After all it is the company that is more important than the meal!
Our hot water heater our opposite part of house from our bathroom so in the winter . So running the water to get hot for our baths or sink. I put a bucket it collect the water ,waiting to turn hot . I use that water to water my plants in& out potted plant . Also the water when in steaming our vegetables or pasta or potatoes I let it cool & pour it outside on my plants. With all droughts around I really believe in conserving our water in Texas ! thanks for the idea of napkins & dish towels 💞
My grandmother always said take care of the pennies. And the dollars will take care of themselves. I do a lot of these. Widow on fixed income so each penny counts.
My husband is a very outdoorsy type and I have been the opposite until recently. He built a very inexpensive fire pit with bricks in our yard. We just bought our first home and instead of going out to dinner, we often eat dinner or maybe just a snack outside while enjoying the fire. We have nearly half an acre of land. Once he had the fire pit going, I was inspired to make hot chocolate, coffee or whatever. When the weather dips down a bit I bring out cozy throw blankets and our dog joins us. It has become so much better than going out to dinner, which had been very expensive. I'm hoping to invite another couple over for a very casual campire dinner.
I am an independent beauty consultant and one of the things I do, and tell my clients to do, I’d cut those plastic tubes in half after you’ve squeezed what you can out of them! There is still a lot of product there! I use a binder clip to roll up the tube of toothpaste to get as much as possible out of it, not cutting that gloopy tube in half, YUCK! I also shampoo my hair 2x per week, and do not repeat the process. I learned that one from my beautician! One application of shampoo is sufficient. I, too, was brought up to turn off the lights when leaving a room, close the door behind me (were you raised in a barn?🤣).
We also use napkins. I cut worn bath towels into squares to use as cleaning rags to clean up pet messes, the slop on the floor etc. I have my washer set on "tap" temperature and I hang my clothing to dry. All that lint in the dryer is from wear and tear on your clothing, hanging to dry is better for clothing longevity.
Also, regarding laundry: use half as much detergent, buy detergent packaged in cardboard, wear your clothes several times if not dirty, turn clothing inside out before washing-- washing wears out clothing more than wearing! Limit your wardrobe to clothes you love and fit right now!!
"Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much..." - Luke 16:10 The big choices like how you fund a car and how much house you buy are the most impactful in a budget, but the little things are valuable! I like to cut my kitchen sponges in half, I mix various amounts of water into dish soap to make counter spray and foaming hand soap and I loveeee me some leftovers :) If we get sick of them ill put what I can in the freezer and then pull it all out for lunch or dinner when I need a break. Cheaper and easier than take out!
I bought some little divided plates with lids and when I cook a big batch , I just put in those plates and freeze, I have home made frozen dinners. Just toast up a slice of garlic toast pop the meal in the microwave and viola , all good .
Saludos! Vivo en Puerto Rico, donde todo es más caro. Lo que estoy haciendo en reduciendo la cantidad de todo lo que uso y consumo. Al igual que están reduciendo el tamaño de los productos en las fábricas. Por ejemplo, si antes usaba un vaso de 10onzas para tomar un vaso de leche, ahora lleno el vaso hasta 7 onzas. Si antes usaba tres huesos para un omelet, ahora uso dos. Y así hago con todo. Ahorro un poco en cada cosa y me duran más.
The one thing the pandemic helped me with, was to break my fast food habit. SOOOO much cheaper to eat at home and healthier, lets be honest. I can't believe how much I used to spend. Now don't get me wrong there is still an occasional drive thru run but they are maybe twice a month max! I like to refer to it as intentional spending, can't give up everything. Have a great day everyone.
Good for you! I feel the same. But for us it was a move that helped us. We lived next to our Swedish hamburgare chain and we used to go there around once a month. One year ago we moved from there and now we haven't been there since then, just once (but in another area) when we were going away in the summer time, along the road. It is crazy how much it changed, it was to easy when it was so near and now it feels to far it is easier to just make something at home. There still is pizza and other food delivering services though... 😅 Perfect when you really need it but that is not so much now when I do all the dinner planning 💪
I bought a food saver and vacuum seal cooked meals in portions. Works well for days I don’t want to cook, simply defrost and heat. Works great for soups and stews
Switch to Mint Mobile for cell service. Don’t eat at restaurants. Budget. Cancel subscriptions. Buy only the necessities. That’s everything I have been doing but it is still difficult to save because I am also paying for my son’s college.
I cut the dish towels down as they wear out. The linin ones work great. When it gets a hole, I cut it down for using in place of a paper towel. When they need to get cut down I make layers of a few squares to make pot holders and hot pads. I keep a gallon size zip lock bag in the freezer. I put every scrap of vegetables. Onion peels, cut up stems of broccoli, etc. When full I make a soup broth out of it all by letting it simmer on the stove for a few hours. Great to add to meat juices when it is not quiet enough to make a batch of gravy or to make soup. I make sure my washing machine washes with tap water cold setting. Just cold usually adds a little bit of hot water. Was surprised this washer had it as a setting but it helps with electric. I dry jeans on the radiator and sweaters as they tend to take the longest to dry in a dryer. If you have a cat litter box and use clumping litter, I buy one smaller bag of clay litter and mix it in 1 to 3 and it is helping it last longer and is less money. I have 5 rescue kittens right now so we are going through a lot of litter. This helped.
Leftovers rule! I grew up eating them and still love leftovers to this day. I'm a single person household so when I do cook I make a standard size amount of a dish and I will eat on it for a couple of days or freeze leftover portions for later. As far as convenience foods, yes I do still buy some but I would rather spend $5 on a take and bake pizza from the grocery store then 15 or 20 on a pizza being delivered from a local pizza shop. Is taking bake the best option? No I probably could make it cheaper but it's a good compromise sometimes when you are really wanting a good take out experience or know you will be particularly busy and very tempted to hit a drive-thru. I did just recently purchase cloth napkins to start using as well as a big stack of microfiber cloths that I got very inexpensively. I'm really trying to cut back on paper towel and disposable type item use where I can. I also have some old towels that I use for other kinds of bigger spills and messes and I just keep those in a separate load from my other towels. One big tip regarding laundry is I use a powdered washing soda (Nellie's) that only uses one tablespoon per load and it does work. I've used it for several years now and one tablespoon of the powder really does do a load. The only thing I add is possibly some powdered OxiClean or on occasion bleach if I have a load of whites. Dawn dishwashing liquid is a great stain laundry spotter! I found out by accident and I use the Fawn power wash. It's very convenient to squirt on a stain and it typically will get the stain out. Laundry detergent will put that the container will do "x" number of loads It will if you measure it at the lowest level and to hear washing machine repairman talk one of the biggest problems is people use too much detergent in their laundry so try using the smallest amount for your load. The other thing I do is my newish washing machine has a quick wash function. It does a complete load in 15 minutes. Now granted you wouldn't want to put your work clothes that you've been digging ditches in all day on that cycle or really dirty laundry, but for most of our clothes that we lightly wear and don't get a lot of stains on, it does a perfectly sufficient job with getting the clothes perfectly clean.
Hello from the UK 👋 I ALWAYS pack a lunch when we take our kids out. Just a simple sandwich and fruit etc. The one time I forgot I ended up paying £5 for two slices of bread and a thin piece of cheese. After that I promised myself never again 😂
I know Sam, it's shocking how much prices are. My little boy likes to ask for "ice-cream". That's my downfall as it can cost £2.50 - £3.50 I still need to get better at packing some snack or food for myself. I like the idea of grabbing a bite when I'm out, but the cost is so not worth it.
@@tarat26 I agree, it’s wild how much it can cost when you have children. When the kids ask for ice creams now I always say if you can behave all day you can have one after dinner. I buy the Aldi family box. 15 ice creams for £2.50! They only ever eat half anyway! With the £££ we’re saving we treat the kids to a nice meal out once a month now instead
@@samhemsworth6933 that's a good idea Sam thanks. It all adds up and sometimes he doesn't even eat it, he just wants one as he sees others eating them. I will take a look in Aldi and see what they have. We used to have a choc ice as kids from Icelands when the ice-cream van used to park directly outside our house. I still find it tough saying no but he's still young at the moment.
I use my bike or walk as much as possible instead of using my car. I don´t shower every day - I´m not that dirty. 🤭 (Ok summer time is different.) I always have a list when I go to the store. I always make my coffee at home. I always have water with me. I bring my food to work. I do my own nails. I don´t have any subsrciptions at all. I bake cake from scratch when I have company over. Little things add up quickly! And because 2023 is the year to be extra frugal, I decided to buy nothing that I don´t actually really need! Hugs from Germany ♥
My monthly budgeting practice is I use two types. Variable expenses, things that could cost different depending on what you need ( food, gas, etc) I use the cash method and it helps me stick to my food budget and I'm more mindful of the gas I use, etc. But things like fixed expenses are paid through my account. And I balance my account, both cash and bank every day.
We bought a laundry spinner, we have an old washer and our clothes would come out so wet. The spinner gets out all the extra water and makes for less drying time and better line drying. Totally recommend it for anyone who doesn’t have a high efficiency washer!
I lived through the Jimmy Carter years and waited on long lines for gasoline- but I never remember the economy and inflation being so bad. I am retired so I stay home and try to fill my gas tank once a month. I shop at the dollar store for soups, canned vegetables. Pasta, cleaning supplies, soap, spices, cheap cookies. I eat more cereal-cheaper and filling. I am hawkish about electricity and appliances used in the house. Hoping the economy improves soon because standard of living has deteriorated these past 20 months. It’s going to be a slim Christmas
I do my own nails, eyebrows and cut my family's hair, my husband repairs things around. the house and cars, I generally cook and try and double recipes. I make my own art. Thrift shop and sell on ebay. I stayed home with the kids instead of daycare, preschool, after school. We had no more. than two after school activities a week per kid. We. took modest vacations. i helped the kids get scholarships, inexpensive cars, textbooks etc. Every aspect of consumerism can be examined to determine value.
I also decided to make meatless meals every week and cut back on dairy a few years back so we ate a lot of tofu, edamame, soy milk, nuts, beans. After a few months of that, I lost weight but I just didn't feel well. So at my yearly checkup they did bloodwork and things weren't right. I was sent to an allergist and found out I have a soy, wheat, navy bean, & almond allergy. All the things I was eating on a daily/weekly basis!! After eliminating those foods I started feeing a ton better, anxiety lessened, thyroid went back to normal and I didn't have to use my asthma inhaler anymore. I learned everybody's different and we need to be aware of what we are putting in our bodies, even the foods that are "healthy". We still have meatless meals every week which is good for our health and saves us a ton of money!
I cut my own hair and all of my family’s hair including our pets. Cook at home, reduced paper towel usage, drink coffee or espresso at home, also wash full loads of clothes or dishes- enjoyed your video.
I bought an 18 pack of “barmop towels” at Sam’s Club that we use as napkins. My kids were super surprised when I said they could wipe up chocolate pudding and spaghetti sauce with them. Won’t that stain? they asked. Probably, but they are napkins. Who cares? Lol We keep them in a picnic basket in the dining room so they are always within reach.
I do my own nails - I asked for a UV light and gel polishes for Christmas and it's saved me loads. We are in the UK so I'd say about £27 every 3 weeks! We hang out clothes out to dry and I've recently got a laundry maid (hang clothes on to dry in the house) so when the weather gets wet we can carry on. I only use my dryer for towels and even then I dry then for 30 mins and then take them out to dry fully naturally. Just as soft. I have an eco egg for washing - I do 90% of our washing with it and it saves us buying powder/liquid/tablets for the washer - £12 for 120 washes!! I then use white vinegar with a splash of essential oils for fabric softener. Saved loads!! I make my own waffles! I'm gluten free and 4 waffles were about £2! I got a £10 machine and make them every week for pennies. I buy my eggs at the farm - fresh and cost less than supermarket. I've got us heated under blankets for our beds for the winter to save on having the heating on as much this winter. When I need to drive somewhere I try and make several 'chores' in one run to save on fuel and time. I have my shopping delivered to home. A delivery pass mid week is £35 at Asda for the year. Saves my time and fuel to go there. Also no temptations for chocolates!! I could carry on...I hope these help someone!
I really enjoyed your video! Great tips! I didn't grow up using paper towels or napkins. We used kitchen towels to wipe our hands and faces (i know that's pretty bad but I didn't think anything of it growing up). I recently realized we were spending SO MUCH money on paper towels every month. I wash my hands in the kitchen several dozen times a day so we were going through a roll every other day!! I saw that Target sells hand towels with a strap that you hang on a hook for your bathroom so instead of buying them, I went home and made my own! I put up a 3M hook on the cubbard above the sink where the paper towel holder was, and I also put one on the cabinet door below my sink. So now instead of reaching for a paper towel, i have a kitchen towel by my legs and another next to the paper towel holder. I think we only go through a roll of paper towels every couple weeks now. Also I started opening the blinds and letting sunlight in instead of turning the lights on. I can't WAIT to see how much lower my next electric bill is!! Also I bought some small colored envelopes from amazon and am doing the envelope system with my money. Once the money is gone, I'm done spending til I fill up again the next week. I can't BELIEVE how much money I'm saving just being aware of the dumb spending I used to do.
I actually consider you a true minimalist. You are intentional about what you buy and are aware of what you and your family needs. I don't think minimalism is about possessing for example, 3 forks, 3 towels, etc haha. I think it's about Balance, which is what you have. Your home isn't sterile and in opinion, is minimal ☺️☺️☺️☺️
Yes! I don't understand where the misconseption came from. I follow interior design accounts and they seem to believe minimalism is just about looks. No, when I learnt about minimalism it was about letting what not serves go and only keep what you love (and "sparka joy") 😊
We invested in Yeti , Stanley cups and now carry them everywhere 7 days a week. So one time “investment “ to avoid the $2-$3 drink at the store. 😁 have a great week Jennifer
Heres what I have done: Turned off dishwasher, the clothes dryer, I have two racks dry in bedroom, water heater-only turn it on twice a week, water stays warm for rest of week, boil water on stove for washing dishes. Use ceiling fans, do not turn A/C until early afternoon then off at 7 AM, set at 80 degrees. (We live in Fl.) Unplugged everything that is not in use even lamps we do not use.I open doors/windows in early AM, keep them open for hours. Have grill and making a solar oven. I save bottles to store water, beans, flour, sugar, etc. Also have stocked up on medicines, bandages.
I buy the store brand disinfectant wipes to avoid wiping off the sprays before they've had time to actually work. To stretch the wipes more I'll squeeze out extra liquid before I use them them. At the end of the container I have a ton of disinfectant liquid left and will use a washcloth with the remaining liquid until its all gone
I save a lot of money on electricity. We moved into our home 2 years ago. We noticed our bill was over $200.00 for 2 weeks. It was novel and everything in our home is electric. I looked into it and found that we should shut the water heater after we showered. The water would stay warm for a long time it is just my husband and I. I have my oven and stove top shut off. I bought a double burner and air fryer combo. It bakes, broils, roasts, toast and everything. I use them instead. If we have company and I need the stove and oven I use them and then shut them again. When we go to bed or if we're going out for several hours I unplug the tvs and internet. He air conditioner is on 78 or 79. We purchased a new one and it is cool enough for us anything not on is unplugged. Our electric bill averages $35 to $45 dollars a month. In the winter put the heat on 75 during the day and 70 at night. The bill averaged about $50 to $60 dollars a month. When I do the dishes I put the hot water on. I always washed the clothes in cold water. When grocery shopping I look for sales that we like. When we eat out we see if we can get any specials or coupons. If we can't we still go out. I like to save but also want to enjoy ourselves. I am always looking for ways to save. I will try a few things that you said. Thank you
Cloth napkins are the way to go! I also give myself no spend day challenges, I do my own nails (when I have them), and I used to dye my own hair but I don’t even do that anymore bc I’m ok with the gray! I try to lump all my errands together so that I save gas. I run dishwasher at night when electric rates are lower.
Good to see you Jennifer 😊 I'm working towards reducing meat in my diet with an aim to becoming virtually plant based as much as possible at some point. It's better for the animals, through planet and your bank account 👍😎❤️
I think I rotate six kinds of sugar-free Kool-Aid packages from the dollar store. I guess they're $1.25 now for six sticks. Still way cheaper than most sodas however I do have Coke every day and lately getting caffeine free diet coke has become a scavenger hunt but today I stocked up!! Hooray! And honey, my stack of cotton Dollar store kitchen towels makes yours look miniscule :) pro tip if you're not going to wash them everyday because I don't like to wash the kitchen towels with anything else I use them to chop food and stuff, so I hang them on those plastic multi-clip hangers in my laundry room so that they dry and don't stink. If they start stinking throw them in there with white vinegar. At one point for some reason all those towels and I mean there's probably a 50 of them, I used to buy the $3 thicker ones, they all started smelling kind of mildewy. And I washed them like seven times and let them sit in vinegar overnight determine not to lose all those towels!! 🤣
If there's something I have that is no longer needed for the purpose it was used for originally, I will repurpose it to another purpose. Especially since if/ when I buy something I buy quality, and second hand, so these well built pieces kind of grow with the family needs as time goes by. Example: I bought, second hand, a large, solid wood toy box for when my grandchildren come to visit. It doesn't look like a toy box, just a piece of furniture, so now that they're old enough to not need it for that purpose I'm in the midst of transitioning it as linen and blankets storage and to store some seasonal decor like throw pillows, etc. I'm freshening it up and adding these chunky sofa legs that I kept " just in case" , and creating a whole new piece.
May not be applicable to everyone here certainly, but reusable feminine products are better for the environment and after the initial investment, will save a ton in the long run!! Surprised no one had mentioned it yet so just adding my 2 cents. I also switched to the reusable makeup removing cloths and they do a way better job than the Neutrogena wipes I was using before without the waste! I was literally throwing money away by using disposable products for so many years and not thinking twice about it because it's just the norm we're accustomed to.
Check out a menstrual cup. It’s even less stuff needed and much easier to keep clean and less expensive. Last time I checked Amazon they were selling some for $8-15 but there is more expensive name brand options in the health stores but this is the frugal channel commentary. 😂
You can actually make your own pads with an old towel for a lining, useful for continence issues and comfortable and odour free compared to the disposable ones.
This is what we do. We bought cloth diapers for dusting, cleaning floors, windows, etc. I purchase them at yard sales and thrift stores. We unplug any and all that's not being used phone chargers, small kitchen appliances, radios, tvs, etc. Wash on tap cold, hang to dry. Run dishwasher once a day. Prep meals ahead and use a food saver to keep them fresh. Sun tea. Walk to areas that our close instead of driving. Make my own laundry soap last us a month and I know what's in it. Rotate your food so your not wasting and throwing away expired items. Only do laundry 2x a week. Coupons for anything and everything. Sign up for store discounts where you frequent. Shop clearance year round. Stock up on must haves when you jave coupons, clearance, really good sale. Like toothpaste....why pay for something your washing down the drain. Always take a cooler of drinks, sandwiches, snacks, etc with you when your going somewhere this will keep your expenses at bay for sure...instead of paying convenient store prices. Do as much vehicle maintenance yourself as you can to avoid high prices.
Instead of buying dish towels, check in the bath department. I have found good quality bathroom hand towels on clearance on several occasions and they last longer than the dish towels currently being sold.
We are looking to put a ceiling fan in “the dining room area” as that’s actually our homeschool room 😂😂 but absolutely agree with all of that. Unfortunately the lights I’m constantly on my family about it (not my oldest son who is 26 & out on his own- because I was a single mom to him til he was almost 10 & he knew to turn off the lights by the time he was 3), as hubby is seriously rebellious about it. I LEGITIMATELY HAVE TO GO BEHIND MY HUSBAND AND 9 year old- mainly cuz daddy keeps undoing the teaching about it, don’t get me started - and turn off EVERY SINGLE LIGHT 💡 IN THE HOUSE!!! It’s exhausting!!! Like you are a grown man, for the love of God, can you at least do this ONE THING I’m asking/telling you to do?!!! But everything else you’ve mentioned so far? Yup we do it!!!
I use Swedish dish cloth. Great with mess, air dry it doesnt grow bacteria and pretty. Buy ones made in Sweden or Canada, they sop better. It last 6 months and goes go compost. Being Catholic, we do meatless Fridays, growing up, meat is used for flavoring and not the main dish. Use if for saute, stirfry and sides but not main dish. Helped with wallet and health. I always check out sale corner to get not perfect fruits or veggies as long as veggies can be cooked and fruit skin can be peeled. They’re 50% off priced to sell.
Cook up multiple items (especially proteins) at once. If you're using your oven, run it an extra 30 minutes or so and add another item to cook. That way you're only heating it up once (which can take up to 20 minutes here) and using it multiple times.
I've been using the same cloth napkins for 25-30 years. Some I made by hemming 18" squares and some are an assortment of bandannas. We save a lot of money by using a cash envelope budgeting system. Living on Social Security and have not had to dip into our IRAs.
If I want something but don't want to pay full price, I'll try to see if I can find it at Goodwill or the thrift store first. Because I can usually get it at a fraction of the cost! Yes it might need to be wiped down with disinfectant wipes or spray simply because it's used. Whatever it is that you might want to put in that category. But I know I'm getting it at a fraction of the cost over full retail. Even full retail compared to Walmart.
I get almost all my clothes at thrift (draw the line at underclothes, socks, pjs and shoes. Check thrift or Dollar stores before you buy anything at regular store.👍
In addition to ceiling fans.....we have several box fans that we utilize on really hot days here in Tennessee. We just sit them around in different places and turn them on when the house starts to feel too warm or stuffy. A service tech from a heat/air conditioning company told us that using fans will actually save on the electric bill because the air conditioning unit won't have to work as hard to cool your home. Yes, I saw the movie "Sweet Home Alabama" and I loved it! I love any movie with Reese Witherspoon. I recently saw "The Man in the Moon" which was her film debut when she was 14 years old.
Same with no meat, I haven't eat meat since I was 20 and am like you, mostly vegan/plant based. My friend says she could never because it is more expensive, but I feel the opposite. I feel better and it is so worth it, but I don't think it is expensive at all, I also thought so before.
It is a common misconception. Yes, it can be expensive if you buy all the faux meat with all kinds of additives or pre-made vegan/vegetarian meals. I don't buy those things and so it is not expensive for me. On the other hand I think that those who eat meat can also do so in an expensive way, buy there are a lot of people who can do it very inexpensively. It's just being intentional, I think. Thank you for watching the video!
Storing bottles upside down when they are almost empty to get the last product out. Using stained clothing for rags instead of just tossing. I've started cutting dishwasher pods in half to get twice as many.
I unplug everything electric when not in use as if. Still plugged in you will have ghost energy you are paying for. Laundry I hang all whites and jeans on clothesline but blouse or short, dresses I use dryer so as not to use iron. I round my checkbook up to the next dollar therefore saving extra money which adds up. No more eating out at all, stopped buying sodas, Drink water instead. I am single on disability so when I cook I make enough like I did with a family of 5 and eat the left overs until gone and use microwave to heat up leftovers in less energy, have single ceiling fan but no use 4 fans to circulate air to save a/c, set thermostat on 80 and heat on 64 keep me as couple of small blankets on on couch to keep warm, open windows in spring , summer fall and open curtains in winter to allow sunshine in to help warm my home. With soap, dish wash liquid I mix it with half water half soap dish wash liquid and shampoo also and it will last longer.
I reuse every plastic bag that I have, e.g bread bags, grocery wrappings. I wash and reuse for packed lunches, dirty things, collecting seeds, anything that needs a compact container to save space.
No paper towels, good toilet paper (then we use less), generic 2 liter diet soda, use the same towel for a week of showers, wash your hair when it is dirty rather than daily, wear your pants more than once, hang dry your bra so it lasts longer, use garlic bags as pot scrubbers, go vegan (sooo much cheaper and I feel so much better), learn to cook but keep it simple by making a couple bean or lentil recipes and roasting vegetables in bulk that you can refrigerate and eat for multiple meals, soak your own beans and cook them and freeze in gallon freezer bags 'flat' for later recipes, eat in-season (cheaper and more fresh), stop drinking regular soda as you will lose weight and regular sized clothes cost less, wear out your clothes and buy second-hand, use a library app to borrow audio books free, read library books free, plug everything in your rooms into strip surge protectors and then UNPLUG them every day when no one is home, shorter showers and a quarter-sized amount of shampoo, airdry your hair, go make-up free or minimize your makeup routine, cut off the bottom of almost used up toothpaste container, don't use shopping as entertainment, utilize public parks and museums, attend free concerts and fairs and bring a picnic dinner, borrow/exchange needed tools with friends, have a get-together with friends and everyone bring a part of the meal, use cloth tablecloth or placemats and napkins, celebrate holidays low-key with favorite home traditions rather than travel, buy only used cars,
When we don’t have company , we as a family collect all the water that runs to use for flushing our toilets. I have a bowl or basin for each sink. Trying to baby our septic system as long as we can. In the summer I collect rain water for watering our veggie and flower gardens. We live off grid; so anytime we don’t have to use water that kicks on our water pump is money saved. With Christmas around the corner; I recycle Christmas wrapping paper. I used to think my brother in law was nuts for doing the same. Now , many years later with soon 30 grandchildren it’s reasonable and fun to use the pretty paper again. Another thing I do when out for the day in the frigid winter is travel with my own tea bags. Any convenience store so far has let me have free hot water.
Starting with my very first paycheck in January, I put away $25, biweekly, in my Christmas sinking fund envelope. Then, starting with the first paycheck in July, I increase it to $50 biweekly. The total saved will meet my Christmas budget effortlessly. Great video 👍🏼
@@annkrull9894 I don't go all out but this budget includes food, drinks, some new decorations and lights if needed. It's just a happy time, albeit sad for others, that I like to celebrate 🙂 🎄
@@peace-a I absolutely love it, I always loved the hustle and bustle of Christmas, somehow it is so exciting I just don't get stressed, plus I buy all year , so I end up with a lot of stuff , I love finally going through it all, I forget most of what I put in my Christmas box , everyone has a big Christmas 🎄
There are so many tips, just saving pennies. I have lately started to negotiate prices on things, from my insurances, new refridgerator to the drs. I have a monthly treatment that cost $300 (dry eyes IPL). I asked my eye dr. if there was a discound to be had, since I need multiple treatments, I have already had 6. He debated to and from with himself 😆 and ended up with a discount of $100 each time. That is a lot of money! Dont worry about being embarrassed, the worst thing that can happen, you get a "NO". 😉
Yes, always ask if there is a cash discount. My daughter needed some dental work and I asked if there was a cash discount (cause you know I had an ER fund for medical) and I did get a reduced price.
Hi if we have any herbs that are near on going out of date I chop them up finely and put them in ice cube trays and add bit of water and freeze then add to stews soups stir fry when needed .also I used to buy big tray of mince and use it for my family for one meal but now I half the mince bulk it with cheaper veg or pulses and freeze the other mince for a nother meal it's worked out a lot cheaper for us x
Never owned a dishwasher. It takes minutes to was by hand. Just the two of us. We have our own bath towels. We reuse them many times before washing them.
I unplug my computer, router, TV, my Alexa, my wifi extender, lamps , microwave anything that I won't be using while I'm sleeping. I just plug in to use n unplug when not using. You will be surprise how much ur electric bill will go down.
Always have made pitchers of sun tea!! add lemon and sweetener. I don't buy laundry pods, because even if you have a small load, you are wasting detergent. Liquid detergent can be measured for the size of the load. most washers weigh the load and fill with water accordingly.
Check out Clean People they have dehydrated sheets of detergent so much better for the environment too. No more paying for water and plastic! And all the fuel to transport that too.
I just invested in my own meat slicer. A half a pound of roast beef is 10.00. Now I buy a 3 pound roast for 20.00, or turkey breast and slice it myself. My family members have jobs that have them driving a lot and they prefer sandwiches.
Love ceiling fans. Love fans
I found some fabulous fans at Costco. So Instead of using the AC we used a dehumidifier combined with the fan. Our house was so cool because it's the humidity and that makes you feel yucky.
My husband and I are retired and have a large garden. I buy meat when on sale and we have venison so the freezer is full. I also can most of our vegetables, our soups, beans, potatoes, fruits and meats. When I need a quick meal I go to my pantry and there I find my groceries. I try not to go to the grocery store only when I need my milks, cheeses and fresh fruits. Thank you for your wonderful videos.
Thank you, Judy! 🤗
I use dry milk which you don't even notice it in a smoothie. I buy lots of beans and lentil's and I always buy sugar ,rice, and Flour in bulk. I do not overuse my laundry detergent. And I also found out that laundry detergent alone does not give you the cleanest clothes. So I use baking soda and for my fabric softener and also to get out of all that excess stuff and smells from our clothing ,I use white vinegar.
I do so many of these things. When we retired, we got 2 acres and built a small senior friendly home. Planned ahead for possible health issues and made handicap friendly. Hubby planted lots of fruit trees and berries, big veggie garden and a work shop for his woodworking hobby. I can up all the goodies he grows. House well built and tight so good for keeping HVAC bills low, ceiling fans, led light bulbs through out. Hot water on demand type heater.
That sounds not only smart but very peaceful. You know you are prepared and it also sounds relaxing.
I’m with you on drinking water more instead of sodas, especially if drinking from tap or from gallon size containers or bulk containers of purified water. It eliminates so much waste and recycling and is cheaper.
Lentils, cabbage, potatoes, carrots spinach , onions, rolled oats, rice, dried herbs ,seasonal fruit. Cheap cheap cheap.
Instead of using paper towels for clean up ,I cut up old t shirts we don’t like, don’t fit or have rips and stains. I have them in a basket in the laundry room . I hang a plastic bag on the back of my laundry room door for the dirty ones to be washed. It saves lots of money.
Not really a money saving idea but when I replace my cats water bowl I use the old water for watering my plants.
I think it is a money saving idea!
I have a bowl in my kitchen sink, that catches the water when I am waiting the water to get hot. Also when washing vegetables to water my plants.
Saving water is always good. We run a dehumidifier in the summer. It needs to be emptied twice a day. The water goes in the watering can for the flowers I grow. Like Jennifer says, even the little things mattet!
I do the same thing!!! 🤣
Same page, giving back to the environment and not wasting 👏🏻
Last year I decided to cut what I thought was an almost empty tube of cream in half and I was shocked that I got about 2 more weeks of cream out of it for my face.
I then just did it with a tube of toothpaste, and same thing, scooped 2 more weeks of toothpaste out of it.
Just found you the other day and so enjoying your content.
And so many fabulous tips and experiences from others.
Thanks ❤
Use your library. So much free stuff- books, e resources, movies, music and so much more.
I perform all of the routine maintenance and repair on our vehicles and drive them a long time. I’ve put 430,000 miles on my daily driver and it’s still going strong. I buy unwanted gift cards online for a discounted price. I have hobbies that occupy my time but doesn’t cost anything like bicycling and kayaking. Instead of eating out with family and friends, we have cookouts or covered dish meals.
Eat once a day. Good for health and bank account.
I am doing the OMAD intermittent fasting...I feel better than ever and spend less money
Not really possible for diabetics or those with other health conditions. I know very healthy people who basically graze on whole foods
Wow. Thanks for this
Our family of five ditched paper towels 2 years ago and haven't gone back! I do keep paper towels on hand for emergencies but everyone knows not to touch them unless it's an emergency plus we take them on our road trips. I love cloth napkins. Ours are pretty stained but we don't have people over often so it's fine!
I cut my own hair and since im a older man who lost his job, this was the last thing i bought was a hair clipper. I also save or try to save my five dollar bills, i brush my teeth without running the water. Also run the air only when it is hot outside n if it is not i dont run it.And since i have a comforter i got, i dont have to run the heat bc im doing well at not running the heat. I also have a total gym so i dont need a gym membership bc the total gym keeps me fit...
Excellent tips! We started cutting our hair during Covid and it saves a lot of money!
I grow herbs, cut my hubby's hair, do my own nails, combine errands, shop utilities and health insurance, stick to a gifts budget, use an air fryer and crockpot to avoid oven use, borrow tools instead of owning them, reduce meat purchases and we are about 90% plant based, try to watch for sale items, go to tag sales for books , etc, and exercise at home.
We use black washcloths as our napkins. I wouldn’t be able to stand looking at them full of stains and I won’t use bleach so any lighter colors were automatically not for me. I wish I would’ve started doing this many years ago! On another note my brother even put a ceiling fan in his laundry room to keep cool. I love videos with everyday savings ideas. Have a great week.
Charlene the black wash clothes AND ceiling fan in the laundry room are genius!
I was looking for napkins with some floral pattern of something, but only find plain ones. Just because I couldn't stand stains neither.
Maybe I could make them myself?
We are definitely carnivore, but one of the things I do is save all bones from chicken or steaks we buy and make bone broth which is very rich in collagen and other nutrients snd not as processed or high in sodium as the commercially made kind. We supplement our meals with a comforting mug of this broth every day.
Just turned on the crock pot, dry beans and a ham hock for flavor. Sides will be cornbread, from a mix costing less than 50 cents, and a salad using tomatoes from the garden. Planning on the left overs for tomorrow's dinner. It's a lovely sunny day here , so the sun will be brewing our tea. Have a blessed day Jennifer!
Julia that sounds delicious especially the cornbread...yum!
Love beans and corn bread, just sitting here thinking about dinner.
Had never tried this before but a few weeks back made split peas with ham hock and it was simple but delicious soup.
Great tips! For 30 years my husband, four kids and I have been using wash cloths for dinner napkins. I get a pack of 18 at Walmart for about $4. They last for years and are instantly accessible when spills happen at meals.
Great idea!!!!
I do this too. I hardly ever use paper towels for spills.
I never lose a sock as my socks are always pinned together when not on my feet: in the drawer, washer & dryer. Just tuck the safety pin inside the top of your sock while on your feet.
We use the red automotive rags, very cheap too. And we use a pants hanger with a large lingerie bag to collect socks after we wear them and just throw the bag in the wash.
My husband argues that the cost of laundering them is the same as buying paper napkins and paper towels. What do you think?
I’ve made several frugal life changes in the recent past. I do my own nails, for a while colored my own hair but eventually stopped, during the lockdown and salons were closed, I styled my hair differently and continued to do that. I discovered via a friend, shopping in thrift stores. I tend to be a minimalist as sorts, so consider seriously about any purchases. I only keep a cellphone and discontinued my land line. All of these things created a big savings. I am retired on a limited income, so every $ counts. I prefer not to carry cash, only using one credit card, check the statement carefully and pay it in full each month. This way I do not pay interest, and am also cognizant of every purchase. I still have lunch with friends occasionally, order water instead of ice tea or soda, in addition we often meet at McDonalds & skip the fries. After all it is the company that is more important than the meal!
Our hot water heater our opposite part of house from our bathroom so in the winter . So running the water to get hot for our baths or sink. I put a bucket it collect the water ,waiting to turn hot . I use that water to water my plants in& out potted plant . Also the water when in steaming our vegetables or pasta or potatoes I let it cool & pour it outside on my plants. With all droughts around I really believe in conserving our water in Texas ! thanks for the idea of napkins & dish towels 💞
Wanda that is smart about the water!
Awesome water saving tips!!
My grandmother always said take care of the pennies. And the dollars will take care of themselves. I do a lot of these. Widow on fixed income so each penny counts.
My husband is a very outdoorsy type and I have been the opposite until recently. He built a very inexpensive fire pit with bricks in our yard. We just bought our first home and instead of going out to dinner, we often eat dinner or maybe just a snack outside while enjoying the fire. We have nearly half an acre of land. Once he had the fire pit going, I was inspired to make hot chocolate, coffee or whatever. When the weather dips down a bit I bring out cozy throw blankets and our dog joins us. It has become so much better than going out to dinner, which had been very expensive. I'm hoping to invite another couple over for a very casual campire dinner.
Regina that's sounds wonderful! Thank you for sharing this 🤗
I slow down. Speeding tickets are so high ! I learned this the hard way 😬!
Thanks for the video , Jennifer!
Absolutely! Those heart the wallet!
Thank you for this video. I wash all my laundry in cold water and I hang dry laundry.
🤗
I am an independent beauty consultant and one of the things I do, and tell my clients to do, I’d cut those plastic tubes in half after you’ve squeezed what you can out of them! There is still a lot of product there! I use a binder clip to roll up the tube of toothpaste to get as much as possible out of it, not cutting that gloopy tube in half, YUCK! I also shampoo my hair 2x per week, and do not repeat the process. I learned that one from my beautician! One application of shampoo is sufficient.
I, too, was brought up to turn off the lights when leaving a room, close the door behind me (were you raised in a barn?🤣).
Debbie I love those little clips! I used to say when they were closed they looked like barbie purses 👛
We also use napkins. I cut worn bath towels into squares to use as cleaning rags to clean up pet messes, the slop on the floor etc. I have my washer set on "tap" temperature and I hang my clothing to dry. All that lint in the dryer is from wear and tear on your clothing, hanging to dry is better for clothing longevity.
Kelly that is a good point about the lint!
Also, regarding laundry: use half as much detergent, buy detergent packaged in cardboard, wear your clothes several times if not dirty, turn clothing inside out before washing-- washing wears out clothing more than wearing! Limit your wardrobe to clothes you love and fit right now!!
Use napkin rings so family members can use them multiple times before washing. We use wood clothes pins with our names written on them!
"Whoever can be trusted with very little can also be trusted with much..." - Luke 16:10 The big choices like how you fund a car and how much house you buy are the most impactful in a budget, but the little things are valuable! I like to cut my kitchen sponges in half, I mix various amounts of water into dish soap to make counter spray and foaming hand soap and I loveeee me some leftovers :) If we get sick of them ill put what I can in the freezer and then pull it all out for lunch or dinner when I need a break. Cheaper and easier than take out!
Amen!!!
I bought some little divided plates with lids and when I cook a big batch , I just put in those plates and freeze, I have home made frozen dinners. Just toast up a slice of garlic toast pop the meal in the microwave and viola , all good .
@@feduppatriot7647 that's an excellent idea. I am going to do that. Thanks for the idea 💡
Saludos! Vivo en Puerto Rico, donde todo es más caro. Lo que estoy haciendo en reduciendo la cantidad de todo lo que uso y consumo. Al igual que están reduciendo el tamaño de los productos en las fábricas. Por ejemplo, si antes usaba un vaso de 10onzas para tomar un vaso de leche, ahora lleno el vaso hasta 7 onzas. Si antes usaba tres huesos para un omelet, ahora uso dos. Y así hago con todo. Ahorro un poco en cada cosa y me duran más.
The one thing the pandemic helped me with, was to break my fast food habit. SOOOO much cheaper to eat at home and healthier, lets be honest. I can't believe how much I used to spend. Now don't get me wrong there is still an occasional drive thru run but they are maybe twice a month max! I like to refer to it as intentional spending, can't give up everything. Have a great day everyone.
Kim this is great!
Good for you!
I feel the same. But for us it was a move that helped us. We lived next to our Swedish hamburgare chain and we used to go there around once a month. One year ago we moved from there and now we haven't been there since then, just once (but in another area) when we were going away in the summer time, along the road.
It is crazy how much it changed, it was to easy when it was so near and now it feels to far it is easier to just make something at home.
There still is pizza and other food delivering services though... 😅 Perfect when you really need it but that is not so much now when I do all the dinner planning 💪
I bought a food saver and vacuum seal cooked meals in portions. Works well for days I don’t want to cook, simply defrost and heat. Works great for soups and stews
I water down things. I add water to lotion, conditioner. I add dish soap to water in a spray bottle. saves so much money.
Kasey this is a super smart habit!
Great idea,we do that at times also
Switch to Mint Mobile for cell service. Don’t eat at restaurants. Budget. Cancel subscriptions. Buy only the necessities. That’s everything I have been doing but it is still difficult to save because I am also paying for my son’s college.
I cut the dish towels down as they wear out. The linin ones work great. When it gets a hole, I cut it down for using in place of a paper towel. When they need to get cut down I make layers of a few squares to make pot holders and hot pads.
I keep a gallon size zip lock bag in the freezer. I put every scrap of vegetables. Onion peels, cut up stems of broccoli, etc. When full I make a soup broth out of it all by letting it simmer on the stove for a few hours. Great to add to meat juices when it is not quiet enough to make a batch of gravy or to make soup.
I make sure my washing machine washes with tap water cold setting. Just cold usually adds a little bit of hot water. Was surprised this washer had it as a setting but it helps with electric. I dry jeans on the radiator and sweaters as they tend to take the longest to dry in a dryer.
If you have a cat litter box and use clumping litter, I buy one smaller bag of clay litter and mix it in 1 to 3 and it is helping it last longer and is less money. I have 5 rescue kittens right now so we are going through a lot of litter. This helped.
I love your outfit. Beautiful 😍
Thank you so much Agnes! 🤗
Meal prep totally saves so much money. Also auto deposit of savings acct!! Never see it so act like it doesn’t exist!!
Leftovers rule! I grew up eating them and still love leftovers to this day. I'm a single person household so when I do cook I make a standard size amount of a dish and I will eat on it for a couple of days or freeze leftover portions for later. As far as convenience foods, yes I do still buy some but I would rather spend $5 on a take and bake pizza from the grocery store then 15 or 20 on a pizza being delivered from a local pizza shop. Is taking bake the best option? No I probably could make it cheaper but it's a good compromise sometimes when you are really wanting a good take out experience or know you will be particularly busy and very tempted to hit a drive-thru. I did just recently purchase cloth napkins to start using as well as a big stack of microfiber cloths that I got very inexpensively. I'm really trying to cut back on paper towel and disposable type item use where I can. I also have some old towels that I use for other kinds of bigger spills and messes and I just keep those in a separate load from my other towels. One big tip regarding laundry is I use a powdered washing soda (Nellie's) that only uses one tablespoon per load and it does work. I've used it for several years now and one tablespoon of the powder really does do a load. The only thing I add is possibly some powdered OxiClean or on occasion bleach if I have a load of whites. Dawn dishwashing liquid is a great stain laundry spotter! I found out by accident and I use the Fawn power wash. It's very convenient to squirt on a stain and it typically will get the stain out. Laundry detergent will put that the container will do "x" number of loads
It will if you measure it at the lowest level and to hear washing machine repairman talk one of the biggest problems is people use too much detergent in their laundry so try using the smallest amount for your load. The other thing I do is my newish washing machine has a quick wash function. It does a complete load in 15 minutes. Now granted you wouldn't want to put your work clothes that you've been digging ditches in all day on that cycle or really dirty laundry, but for most of our clothes that we lightly wear and don't get a lot of stains on, it does a perfectly sufficient job with getting the clothes perfectly clean.
15 minute wash that's awesome! Rosemary I hope you are doing well 💗
@@THEJENNIFERCOOK yes it is a great feature! I am doing well. Looking forward to fall!
Hello from the UK 👋 I ALWAYS pack a lunch when we take our kids out. Just a simple sandwich and fruit etc. The one time I forgot I ended up paying £5 for two slices of bread and a thin piece of cheese. After that I promised myself never again 😂
Yes!
I know Sam, it's shocking how much prices are. My little boy likes to ask for "ice-cream". That's my downfall as it can cost £2.50 - £3.50
I still need to get better at packing some snack or food for myself. I like the idea of grabbing a bite when I'm out, but the cost is so not worth it.
@@tarat26 I agree, it’s wild how much it can cost when you have children.
When the kids ask for ice creams now I always say if you can behave all day you can have one after dinner. I buy the Aldi family box. 15 ice creams for £2.50! They only ever eat half anyway!
With the £££ we’re saving we treat the kids to a nice meal out once a month now instead
@@samhemsworth6933 that's a good idea Sam thanks. It all adds up and sometimes he doesn't even eat it, he just wants one as he sees others eating them. I will take a look in Aldi and see what they have. We used to have a choc ice as kids from Icelands when the ice-cream van used to park directly outside our house. I still find it tough saying no but he's still young at the moment.
I use my bike or walk as much as possible instead of using my car. I don´t shower every day - I´m not that dirty. 🤭 (Ok summer time is different.) I always have a list when I go to the store. I always make my coffee at home. I always have water with me. I bring my food to work. I do my own nails. I don´t have any subsrciptions at all. I bake cake from scratch when I have company over. Little things add up quickly! And because 2023 is the year to be extra frugal, I decided to buy nothing that I don´t actually really need! Hugs from Germany ♥
My monthly budgeting practice is I use two types. Variable expenses, things that could cost different depending on what you need ( food, gas, etc) I use the cash method and it helps me stick to my food budget and I'm more mindful of the gas I use, etc. But things like fixed expenses are paid through my account. And I balance my account, both cash and bank every day.
Debbie, that's a great process!
We bought a laundry spinner, we have an old washer and our clothes would come out so wet. The spinner gets out all the extra water and makes for less drying time and better line drying. Totally recommend it for anyone who doesn’t have a high efficiency washer!
Great tip Mary!
I lived through the Jimmy Carter years and waited on long lines for gasoline- but I never remember the economy and inflation being so bad. I am retired so I stay home and try to fill my gas tank once a month. I shop at the dollar store for soups, canned vegetables. Pasta, cleaning supplies, soap, spices, cheap cookies. I eat more cereal-cheaper and filling. I am hawkish about electricity and appliances used in the house. Hoping the economy improves soon because standard of living has deteriorated these past 20 months. It’s going to be a slim Christmas
I do my own nails, eyebrows and cut my family's hair, my husband repairs things around. the house and cars, I generally cook and try and double recipes. I make my own art. Thrift shop and sell on ebay. I stayed home with the kids instead of daycare, preschool, after school. We had no more. than two after school activities a week per kid. We. took modest vacations. i helped the kids get scholarships, inexpensive cars, textbooks etc. Every aspect of consumerism can be examined to determine value.
I make a lot of my own plant based veggie patties from scratch, it is so much cheaper than the ones from the grocery store.
I also decided to make meatless meals every week and cut back on dairy a few years back so we ate a lot of tofu, edamame, soy milk, nuts, beans. After a few months of that, I lost weight but I just didn't feel well. So at my yearly checkup they did bloodwork and things weren't right. I was sent to an allergist and found out I have a soy, wheat, navy bean, & almond allergy. All the things I was eating on a daily/weekly basis!! After eliminating those foods I started feeing a ton better, anxiety lessened, thyroid went back to normal and I didn't have to use my asthma inhaler anymore. I learned everybody's different and we need to be aware of what we are putting in our bodies, even the foods that are "healthy". We still have meatless meals every week which is good for our health and saves us a ton of money!
I cut my own hair and all of my family’s hair including our pets. Cook at home, reduced paper towel usage, drink coffee or espresso at home, also wash full loads of clothes or dishes- enjoyed your video.
Amy I think it's fantastic to be talented enough to cut your own hair! Especially pets hair. I tried that once and I know my dog was embarrassed 🤣🤣🤣
I bought an 18 pack of “barmop towels” at Sam’s Club that we use as napkins. My kids were super surprised when I said they could wipe up chocolate pudding and spaghetti sauce with them. Won’t that stain? they asked. Probably, but they are napkins. Who cares? Lol We keep them in a picnic basket in the dining room so they are always within reach.
Taylor that is a great idea!
I do my own nails - I asked for a UV light and gel polishes for Christmas and it's saved me loads. We are in the UK so I'd say about £27 every 3 weeks! We hang out clothes out to dry and I've recently got a laundry maid (hang clothes on to dry in the house) so when the weather gets wet we can carry on. I only use my dryer for towels and even then I dry then for 30 mins and then take them out to dry fully naturally. Just as soft. I have an eco egg for washing - I do 90% of our washing with it and it saves us buying powder/liquid/tablets for the washer - £12 for 120 washes!! I then use white vinegar with a splash of essential oils for fabric softener. Saved loads!! I make my own waffles! I'm gluten free and 4 waffles were about £2! I got a £10 machine and make them every week for pennies. I buy my eggs at the farm - fresh and cost less than supermarket. I've got us heated under blankets for our beds for the winter to save on having the heating on as much this winter. When I need to drive somewhere I try and make several 'chores' in one run to save on fuel and time. I have my shopping delivered to home. A delivery pass mid week is £35 at Asda for the year. Saves my time and fuel to go there. Also no temptations for chocolates!! I could carry on...I hope these help someone!
These are fantastic! Thank you so much for sharing them with everyone ❤️
I really enjoyed your video! Great tips! I didn't grow up using paper towels or napkins. We used kitchen towels to wipe our hands and faces (i know that's pretty bad but I didn't think anything of it growing up). I recently realized we were spending SO MUCH money on paper towels every month. I wash my hands in the kitchen several dozen times a day so we were going through a roll every other day!! I saw that Target sells hand towels with a strap that you hang on a hook for your bathroom so instead of buying them, I went home and made my own! I put up a 3M hook on the cubbard above the sink where the paper towel holder was, and I also put one on the cabinet door below my sink. So now instead of reaching for a paper towel, i have a kitchen towel by my legs and another next to the paper towel holder. I think we only go through a roll of paper towels every couple weeks now. Also I started opening the blinds and letting sunlight in instead of turning the lights on. I can't WAIT to see how much lower my next electric bill is!! Also I bought some small colored envelopes from amazon and am doing the envelope system with my money. Once the money is gone, I'm done spending til I fill up again the next week. I can't BELIEVE how much money I'm saving just being aware of the dumb spending I used to do.
Somebody clever once said, you don’t need to have the 100.000 $ idea, you just need to have the 1$ idea 100.000 times!
I actually consider you a true minimalist. You are intentional about what you buy and are aware of what you and your family needs. I don't think minimalism is about possessing for example, 3 forks, 3 towels, etc haha. I think it's about Balance, which is what you have. Your home isn't sterile and in opinion, is minimal ☺️☺️☺️☺️
Milica thank you so much 🤗
@@THEJENNIFERCOOK Of course 💞
Yes! I don't understand where the misconseption came from. I follow interior design accounts and they seem to believe minimalism is just about looks.
No, when I learnt about minimalism it was about letting what not serves go and only keep what you love (and "sparka joy") 😊
@@somethingbambi875 I couldn't agree more:) I couldn't have said it better myself!
We invested in Yeti , Stanley cups and now carry them everywhere 7 days a week. So one time “investment “ to avoid the $2-$3 drink at the store. 😁 have a great week Jennifer
Sarahi I love a good Yeti cup! I haven't tried the Stanley cups, but if you say they are good I am going to try them out 🤗
@@THEJENNIFERCOOK my parents have a Stanley thermo from before I was born probably 😂 so they last
I love my Stanley 40oz mug 😂
Heres what I have done: Turned off dishwasher, the clothes dryer, I have two racks dry in bedroom, water heater-only turn it on twice a week, water stays warm for rest of week, boil water on stove for washing dishes. Use ceiling fans, do not turn A/C until early afternoon then off at 7 AM, set at 80 degrees. (We live in Fl.) Unplugged everything that is not in use even lamps we do not use.I open doors/windows in early AM, keep them open for hours. Have grill and making a solar oven. I save bottles to store water, beans, flour, sugar, etc. Also have stocked up on medicines, bandages.
I pee so much I just use a rag to save toilet paper lol. I know I save a roll a week haha
I have eliminated paper towels,prepared foods,Canned and bottled drinks.Cut back drastically on snacks.Leaves more money for real foods.
It is way cheaper to buy a convenient food than eat out. We don’t have a PF Chang’s around here so I do but that frozen when they are on sale
We use scrubbies instead of disposable sponges. My mom makes them.
I buy the store brand disinfectant wipes to avoid wiping off the sprays before they've had time to actually work. To stretch the wipes more I'll squeeze out extra liquid before I use them them. At the end of the container I have a ton of disinfectant liquid left and will use a washcloth with the remaining liquid until its all gone
I save a lot of money on electricity. We moved into our home 2 years ago. We noticed our bill was over $200.00 for 2 weeks. It was novel and everything in our home is electric. I looked into it and found that we should shut the water heater after we showered. The water would stay warm for a long time it is just my husband and I. I have my oven and stove top shut off. I bought a double burner and air fryer combo. It bakes, broils, roasts, toast and everything. I use them instead. If we have company and I need the stove and oven I use them and then shut them again. When we go to bed or if we're going out for several hours I unplug the tvs and internet. He air conditioner is on 78 or 79. We purchased a new one and it is cool enough for us anything not on is unplugged. Our electric bill averages $35 to $45 dollars a month. In the winter put the heat on 75 during the day and 70 at night. The bill averaged about $50 to $60 dollars a month. When I do the dishes I put the hot water on. I always washed the clothes in cold water. When grocery shopping I look for sales that we like. When we eat out we see if we can get any specials or coupons. If we can't we still go out. I like to save but also want to enjoy ourselves. I am always looking for ways to save. I will try a few things that you said. Thank you
Cloth napkins are the way to go! I also give myself no spend day challenges, I do my own nails (when I have them), and I used to dye my own hair but I don’t even do that anymore bc I’m ok with the gray! I try to lump all my errands together so that I save gas. I run dishwasher at night when electric rates are lower.
Good to see you Jennifer 😊 I'm working towards reducing meat in my diet with an aim to becoming virtually plant based as much as possible at some point. It's better for the animals, through planet and your bank account 👍😎❤️
Hi Bex! Yep no meat is a triple whammy!
no good for your body thou :).
@@karenely3830 Yes it is.
I'm working on plant based for my health. I didn't know it will help my bank account too!
@@rachelanderson4509 Vegetables, beans and lentils are so much cheaper than meat, it's just another positive to add to improving your health 🙂
I go to Aldi and Dollar Tree.
I think I rotate six kinds of sugar-free Kool-Aid packages from the dollar store. I guess they're $1.25 now for six sticks. Still way cheaper than most sodas however I do have Coke every day and lately getting caffeine free diet coke has become a scavenger hunt but today I stocked up!! Hooray! And honey, my stack of cotton Dollar store kitchen towels makes yours look miniscule :) pro tip if you're not going to wash them everyday because I don't like to wash the kitchen towels with anything else I use them to chop food and stuff, so I hang them on those plastic multi-clip hangers in my laundry room so that they dry and don't stink. If they start stinking throw them in there with white vinegar. At one point for some reason all those towels and I mean there's probably a 50 of them, I used to buy the $3 thicker ones, they all started smelling kind of mildewy. And I washed them like seven times and let them sit in vinegar overnight determine not to lose all those towels!! 🤣
Try plain tap water even cheaper
If there's something I have that is no longer needed for the purpose it was used for originally, I will repurpose it to another purpose. Especially since if/ when I buy something I buy quality, and second hand, so these well built pieces kind of grow with the family needs as time goes by. Example: I bought, second hand, a large, solid wood toy box for when my grandchildren come to visit. It doesn't look like a toy box, just a piece of furniture, so now that they're old enough to not need it for that purpose I'm in the midst of transitioning it as linen and blankets storage and to store some seasonal decor like throw pillows, etc. I'm freshening it up and adding these chunky sofa legs that I kept " just in case" , and creating a whole new piece.
Debbie, thank you for sharing this! ❤️
Wonderful tips, enjoyed this video.
My brother in-law used to have every light on in their house. Used to drive my mom crazy. I love ceiling fans.
Agnes that makes me think of that country song "every light in the house is on, front porch looks like runway lights" 🤣🤣🤣
I try to not drive my car at all one to two days a week.
Marjie that's a great idea especially right now!
May not be applicable to everyone here certainly, but reusable feminine products are better for the environment and after the initial investment, will save a ton in the long run!! Surprised no one had mentioned it yet so just adding my 2 cents. I also switched to the reusable makeup removing cloths and they do a way better job than the Neutrogena wipes I was using before without the waste! I was literally throwing money away by using disposable products for so many years and not thinking twice about it because it's just the norm we're accustomed to.
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I literally switched to those two products this year and I love them!
Check out a menstrual cup. It’s even less stuff needed and much easier to keep clean and less expensive. Last time I checked Amazon they were selling some for $8-15 but there is more expensive name brand options in the health stores but this is the frugal channel commentary. 😂
You can actually make your own pads with an old towel for a lining, useful for continence issues and comfortable and odour free compared to the disposable ones.
This is what we do. We bought cloth diapers for dusting, cleaning floors, windows, etc. I purchase them at yard sales and thrift stores. We unplug any and all that's not being used phone chargers, small kitchen appliances, radios, tvs, etc. Wash on tap cold, hang to dry. Run dishwasher once a day. Prep meals ahead and use a food saver to keep them fresh. Sun tea. Walk to areas that our close instead of driving. Make my own laundry soap last us a month and I know what's in it. Rotate your food so your not wasting and throwing away expired items. Only do laundry 2x a week. Coupons for anything and everything. Sign up for store discounts where you frequent. Shop clearance year round. Stock up on must haves when you jave coupons, clearance, really good sale. Like toothpaste....why pay for something your washing down the drain. Always take a cooler of drinks, sandwiches, snacks, etc with you when your going somewhere this will keep your expenses at bay for sure...instead of paying convenient store prices. Do as much vehicle maintenance yourself as you can to avoid high prices.
I have an incontinent adult disabled child how I wish I could do laundry twice a week instead of twice a day;)
@@danarzechula3769 I'm so sorry.
Instead of buying dish towels, check in the bath department. I have found good quality bathroom hand towels on clearance on several occasions and they last longer than the dish towels currently being sold.
Katherine your right they definitely should since they are thicker! I will do that when my current ones wear out...thank you!
We are looking to put a ceiling fan in “the dining room area” as that’s actually our homeschool room 😂😂 but absolutely agree with all of that. Unfortunately the lights I’m constantly on my family about it (not my oldest son who is 26 & out on his own- because I was a single mom to him til he was almost 10 & he knew to turn off the lights by the time he was 3), as hubby is seriously rebellious about it. I LEGITIMATELY HAVE TO GO BEHIND MY HUSBAND AND 9 year old- mainly cuz daddy keeps undoing the teaching about it, don’t get me started - and turn off EVERY SINGLE LIGHT 💡 IN THE HOUSE!!! It’s exhausting!!! Like you are a grown man, for the love of God, can you at least do this ONE THING I’m asking/telling you to do?!!! But everything else you’ve mentioned so far? Yup we do it!!!
I use Swedish dish cloth. Great with mess, air dry it doesnt grow bacteria and pretty. Buy ones made in Sweden or Canada, they sop better. It last 6 months and goes go compost. Being Catholic, we do meatless Fridays, growing up, meat is used for flavoring and not the main dish. Use if for saute, stirfry and sides but not main dish. Helped with wallet and health. I always check out sale corner to get not perfect fruits or veggies as long as veggies can be cooked and fruit skin can be peeled. They’re 50% off priced to sell.
Why is Friday meatless for Catholics ?
Cook up multiple items (especially proteins) at once. If you're using your oven, run it an extra 30 minutes or so and add another item to cook. That way you're only heating it up once (which can take up to 20 minutes here) and using it multiple times.
Debby this is a great idea!
I've been using the same cloth napkins for 25-30 years. Some I made by hemming 18" squares and some are an assortment of bandannas. We save a lot of money by using a cash envelope budgeting system. Living on Social Security and have not had to dip into our IRAs.
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Just added cloth napkins and bar mops to my cart.
Gone are the paper towels and napkins. I’m tired of buying them. So much money!!!
Yay! So exciting
If I want something but don't want to pay full price, I'll try to see if I can find it at Goodwill or the thrift store first. Because I can usually get it at a fraction of the cost!
Yes it might need to be wiped down with disinfectant wipes or spray simply because it's used. Whatever it is that you might want to put in that category. But I know I'm getting it at a fraction of the cost over full retail. Even full retail compared to Walmart.
I get almost all my clothes at thrift (draw the line at underclothes, socks, pjs and shoes. Check thrift or Dollar stores before you buy anything at regular store.👍
If I think I want to have sandwiches for lunch that week I'll make a loaf of bead in my bread machine
In addition to ceiling fans.....we have several box fans that we utilize on really hot days here in Tennessee. We just sit them around in different places and turn them on when the house starts to feel too warm or stuffy. A service tech from a heat/air conditioning company told us that using fans will actually save on the electric bill because the air conditioning unit won't have to work as hard to cool your home. Yes, I saw the movie "Sweet Home Alabama" and I loved it! I love any movie with Reese Witherspoon. I recently saw "The Man in the Moon" which was her film debut when she was 14 years old.
Linda I hope you are doing well! ❤️
Bring my lunch and coffee to work!
outstanding thank you!
Make my own soap and save on moisturizer, walk for exercise, make own snacks and buy in bulk,
When I need stuff that is not urgent, I make up a list and run errands only once a week, usually on a day I have to go into town for an appointment.
Claire that is a great tip!
Same with no meat, I haven't eat meat since I was 20 and am like you, mostly vegan/plant based. My friend says she could never because it is more expensive, but I feel the opposite. I feel better and it is so worth it, but I don't think it is expensive at all, I also thought so before.
It is a common misconception. Yes, it can be expensive if you buy all the faux meat with all kinds of additives or pre-made vegan/vegetarian meals. I don't buy those things and so it is not expensive for me. On the other hand I think that those who eat meat can also do so in an expensive way, buy there are a lot of people who can do it very inexpensively. It's just being intentional, I think. Thank you for watching the video!
Storing bottles upside down when they are almost empty to get the last product out. Using stained clothing for rags instead of just tossing. I've started cutting dishwasher pods in half to get twice as many.
I unplug everything electric when not in use as if. Still plugged in you will have ghost energy you are paying for. Laundry I hang all whites and jeans on clothesline but blouse or short, dresses I use dryer so as not to use iron. I round my checkbook up to the next dollar therefore saving extra money which adds up. No more eating out at all, stopped buying sodas, Drink water instead. I am single on disability so when I cook I make enough like I did with a family of 5 and eat the left overs until gone and use microwave to heat up leftovers in less energy, have single ceiling fan but no use 4 fans to circulate air to save a/c, set thermostat on 80 and heat on 64 keep me as couple of small blankets on on couch to keep warm, open windows in spring , summer fall and open curtains in winter to allow sunshine in to help warm my home. With soap, dish wash liquid I mix it with half water half soap dish wash liquid and shampoo also and it will last longer.
I would like to see some meatless recipes, I don’t eat meat either.
Will do!
Serve over rice
I reuse every plastic bag that I have, e.g bread bags, grocery wrappings. I wash and reuse for packed lunches, dirty things, collecting seeds, anything that needs a compact container to save space.
Always love your videos Jennifer. Hadn't seen them for a long time but the algorythms seem to be right that I get them again.
Hi Shirley!
No paper towels, good toilet paper (then we use less), generic 2 liter diet soda, use the same towel for a week of showers, wash your hair when it is dirty rather than daily, wear your pants more than once, hang dry your bra so it lasts longer, use garlic bags as pot scrubbers, go vegan (sooo much cheaper and I feel so much better), learn to cook but keep it simple by making a couple bean or lentil recipes and roasting vegetables in bulk that you can refrigerate and eat for multiple meals, soak your own beans and cook them and freeze in gallon freezer bags 'flat' for later recipes, eat in-season (cheaper and more fresh), stop drinking regular soda as you will lose weight and regular sized clothes cost less, wear out your clothes and buy second-hand, use a library app to borrow audio books free, read library books free, plug everything in your rooms into strip surge protectors and then UNPLUG them every day when no one is home, shorter showers and a quarter-sized amount of shampoo, airdry your hair, go make-up free or minimize your makeup routine, cut off the bottom of almost used up toothpaste container, don't use shopping as entertainment, utilize public parks and museums, attend free concerts and fairs and bring a picnic dinner, borrow/exchange needed tools with friends, have a get-together with friends and everyone bring a part of the meal, use cloth tablecloth or placemats and napkins, celebrate holidays low-key with favorite home traditions rather than travel, buy only used cars,
Wow, Chris this is a fantastic list!
When we don’t have company , we as a family collect all the water that runs to use for flushing our toilets. I have a bowl or basin for each sink. Trying to baby our septic system as long as we can. In the summer I collect rain water for watering our veggie and flower gardens. We live off grid; so anytime we don’t have to use water that kicks on our water pump is money saved. With Christmas around the corner; I recycle Christmas wrapping paper. I used to think my brother in law was nuts for doing the same. Now , many years later with soon 30 grandchildren it’s reasonable and fun to use the pretty paper again. Another thing I do when out for the day in the frigid winter is travel with my own tea bags. Any convenience store so far has let me have free hot water.
Starting with my very first paycheck in January, I put away $25, biweekly, in my Christmas sinking fund envelope. Then, starting with the first paycheck in July, I increase it to $50 biweekly. The total saved will meet my Christmas budget effortlessly. Great video 👍🏼
That is fantastic! Christmas isn't going to sneak up on you this year 🤗
How about just spending less on Christmas a massively commercialized holiday?
@@annkrull9894 I don't go all out but this budget includes food, drinks, some new decorations and lights if needed. It's just a happy time, albeit sad for others, that I like to celebrate 🙂 🎄
@@peace-a I absolutely love it, I always loved the hustle and bustle of Christmas, somehow it is so exciting I just don't get stressed, plus I buy all year , so I end up with a lot of stuff , I love finally going through it all, I forget most of what I put in my Christmas box , everyone has a big Christmas 🎄
I loved all your tips Jennifer , we’re eating more meatless meals and also use cloth napkins .
Thank you so much Beatrice! I hope you have a fantastic weekend ❤️
There are so many tips, just saving pennies. I have lately started to negotiate prices on things, from my insurances, new refridgerator to the drs. I have a monthly treatment that cost $300 (dry eyes IPL). I asked my eye dr. if there was a discound to be had, since I need multiple treatments, I have already had 6. He debated to and from with himself 😆 and ended up with a discount of $100 each time. That is a lot of money! Dont worry about being embarrassed, the worst thing that can happen, you get a "NO". 😉
That is AWESOME!
Yes, always ask if there is a cash discount. My daughter needed some dental work and I asked if there was a cash discount (cause you know I had an ER fund for medical) and I did get a reduced price.
I bought a bunch of cloth napkins at a thrift store a couple of years ago. I think I might have paid .10¢ for them.
Wow that's a deal!
Hi if we have any herbs that are near on going out of date I chop them up finely and put them in ice cube trays and add bit of water and freeze then add to stews soups stir fry when needed .also I used to buy big tray of mince and use it for my family for one meal but now I half the mince bulk it with cheaper veg or pulses and freeze the other mince for a nother meal it's worked out a lot cheaper for us x
Marie that is fantastic! Making meals go the distance!
Never owned a dishwasher. It takes minutes to was by hand. Just the two of us. We have our own bath towels. We reuse them many times before washing them.
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I unplug my computer, router, TV, my Alexa, my wifi extender, lamps , microwave anything that I won't be using while I'm sleeping. I just plug in to use n unplug when not using. You will be surprise how much ur electric bill will go down.
Kate that is smart!
Always have made pitchers of sun tea!! add lemon and sweetener. I don't buy laundry pods, because even if you have a small load, you are wasting detergent. Liquid detergent can be measured for the size of the load. most washers weigh the load and fill with water accordingly.
Check out Clean People they have dehydrated sheets of detergent so much better for the environment too. No more paying for water and plastic! And all the fuel to transport that too.
Cut back on the amount of liquid .....t works with about half as much just as well
I just invested in my own meat slicer. A half a pound of roast beef is 10.00. Now I buy a 3 pound roast for 20.00, or turkey breast and slice it myself. My family members have jobs that have them driving a lot and they prefer sandwiches.
Why buy a slicer when butchers will slice it for free in every major grocery store. Just ask
For about 6 dollars you can buy a toilet bowl water saving flap for savings you can set it on the level of water you feel comfortable with
I am a weaver and weave all my dishtowels and napkins. So I enjoy my hobby and do not fill the landfill with papertowels