I'm sure that like us, many of you have been looking for ways to spend money. Well this isn't another blog about what you should do. This is just a post about what we do, and how we attempt to save any amount of extra cash.
Household
- Make our own coffee
Well Starbucks and coffee bean may have delicious drinks. Sometimes it really breaks the bank when your buying from them daily or even several times a week. Make your coffee at home, it will save you a couple dollars. You can even Google recipes for those iced drinks and try them out at home. But if you just got to have your fix, try using a reusable mug or thermos, not only are you saving the environment, but Starbucks and Coffee Bean offer a discount for using reusable containers. Getting a Grande Hazelnut Cappuccino from Starbucks for $1.75 is possible in this day and age.
- Cut down on utility use
We always have the thermostat set to 78' in our home. And it stays pretty cool, if you keep your blinds or shades shut. Regulating your energy use will save you a good amount of money on those utility bills. Also try using power strips and unpluging all items when they are not in use. Those phone charges and lamps rack up your bill, so unplug everything and you may notice a different in your monthly payment.
- Cleaning products
You don't have to all those expensive cleaning products that are made from harsh chemicals. Using half vinegar and water will do the job just as well. Its better for your health and leaves less impact on the environment. And if you need a little extra help try using baking soda for those hard cleaning jobs.
- Make your own soap
You can buy castile soap in bulk and dilute with water and some baking soda. You can start with a 1:3 ratio of soap to water or whatever consistency will work best for you and adding in a couple tablespoons of baking soda for that extra odor control.
- Bottle your own drinks
Save money and the environment, by bottling your own water. Thousands of dollars get spent on bottled water, but the truth is tapped water and bottle water are the same. If you feel unsure, boil the water before bottling, and use a reusable water bottle. Then instead of just tossing a toxic plastic bottle into a landfill, or sent to a recycler where a good portion of the plastic is lost in the process, you can just wash and reuse the same water bottle.
- Take a lunch
Skip going to lunch at your favorite fast food restaurant, and just pack your own for work or school in a reusable container or lunch bag, including reusable sandwich bags or lunch boxes. No more buying paper bags or plastic baggies. You'll save cash and our planet.
- Corn starch makeup
To control oil and shine, instead o f buying pressed powder use a light layer of corn starch with a reusable brush. For darker toned skins use a lighter layer so your skin does not look too white and ghost like.
- Cook at home
Don't spend $40 dollars on take out for the family. Cook more meals at home, not only will you save money but you'll most likely eat healthier.
- Grow own produce/ composting
If you grow your own tomatoes and strawberries you won't have to buy them. Also you end up eating healthier since you have fresh mostly organic food right there that needs to be eaten. If you compost your food you will end up with free organic rich plant food and won't have to buy plant food or potting soil.
Shopping
- Buy from second hand stores
You can find items of good quality in second hand stores and well your saving money your also helping your local businesses.
- Buy used books
Text books are expensive, so we always buy used, unless we can not find a certain book anywhere. By using used books, we are saving a huge amount of money, and when we no longer need the book, we re sell it, to acquire some extra cash.
- Look for used or free items on craigslist.
Which brings us to our next money saving way. Look for items that you need on craigslist or eBay. Many people sell there used items at reasonable prices, and if you get really lucky, you might even find what you need in the free section.
- Don’t buy name brand
You don't really need those top name brand items, the less expensive generic brands are just the same, and sometimes even better.
- Reuse what you got
If you feel like you need to redecorate or need some new furniture, consider re using what you have at home. I'm sure that table is still in good condition, just sand it down and give it a fresh coat of paint or stain. You'll spend way less making it look nice then on a new piece all together.
Entertainment
- No cable, instead use Netflix's instant streaming
Drop that expensive cable company and settle with Netflix's instant streaming. Im sure you would make better use of their selection, then your 300+ cable channels.
- Go to inexpensive outings
Don't spend all your time in front of the t.v. , have a family day out and head to the park or take a bike ride. You'll get good exercise and spend some good quality time together. But if you really have to see that latest movie, then try a less expensive theater, there are some pretty nice little theaters that show the same movies, and you'll spend $6.00 on a ticket instead of $11.
Transportation
- Preventive Car maintenance
Keeping your fluids up and changed if necessary and tire pressure up where it should be will save you money on possible damages and also money on gas if your car is running more smoothly.
- Ride a Bike or Take the Bus
With gas up to $4.00 a gallon, who isn't looking to save some extra cash. Try a alternative way and ride your bike or take the bus to work or school. Do this if you have to run small errands close to home too. You'll get lots of exercise and make that full tank of gas last a little longer.
- Getting all errands done in one day
Making the rounds and combining trips saves gas. You save gas if the car is already warm and also because going out to the shopping center once a week rather than twice saves the money for that trip.
Pets
- Vaccinations at local humane society
Most counties have a humane society location where discounted vaccinations, spay/neuter services, and veterinarian visits are given. Sometimes it's a matter of getting there on a Saturday morning for an extra savings but it is well worth it.
- Grooming the dog yourself
Having a poodle, although it may be a little 8 pound one, can rack up charges when you take him to a groomer 3 times a year at $50 a visit. Instead, invest in a good shaver which will pay for itself within the year, and keep the maintenance up on that so it lasts a very long time.
- Preventative Pet Care
Vet bills get expensive. A canine tooth cleaning alone can start around $600, and good oral health can lengthen the life of your pet by years. So get your dog used to brushing their teeth or if that is difficult, which it can be, there are gels and wipes that are very effective and inexpensive. There is also proper nail trimmings and ear cleanings which you do not have to visit a vet to do if you just follow the instructions correctly for your pet's needs. These actions will save you money, and give you some more quality time together.
