Frugal living doesn’t mean buying the cheapest items. It’s about being thoughtful, creative, and resourceful to find the most value with each purchase. Nevertheless, there are times when this lifestyle requires looking for cheaper strategies.
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Bought the Cheapest Toilet Paper
Some people have downgraded the quality of their toilet paper to save money. Others have even taken leftover toilet paper rolls from work.
Cut Open a Travel Size Toothpaste Tube
“I recently cut open a travel-size toothpaste to see how much extra was left after I couldn’t squeeze it anymore, and there was enough for six whole days (12 brushings),” says a poster.
Other than toothpaste tubes, many people cut open their lotion bottles to ensure they use up everything.
Switch to Cloth Napkins
Some people have switched to cloth napkins because they are much cheaper and reusable, unlike single-use paper ones.
Calculating Unit Prices
While calculating unit prices is time-consuming, some people happily do it because it helps save money.
Others countercheck the items on their receipt and the prices charged. One says, “Today, I bought a bunch of lean cuisines. The signs said 4 for $10, but I was still charged full price for them. I contacted customer service, and normally, they will put the money into my store account to use for next time.”
Use Mesh Onion Bags to Scrub Dishes
Interestingly, some users find mesh onion bags effective at cleaning dishes, reducing waste, and saving money.
Wash and Reuse Ziploc Bags
Others go frugal by washing and reusing their ziplock bags until they wear out. Some users mention their set of Ziploc bags has lasted for 5+ years.
Repurpose Old Clothes
Many people don’t throw away their old clothes. A poster writes, “When I am done with shirts or clothing, they get turned into slippers, kitchen rags, napkins, etc.”
Regrow Green Onions
Meanwhile, others have saved a few dollars and time and reduced wastage by regrowing green onions, garlic, and celery in their homes.
Use Old Plastic Shopping Bags as Trash Bags
“Why spend money on bags you’re going to throw out in the trash?” asks a poster. Many people now use old plastic shopping bags to discard trash or scooping cat litter.
Use Collected Dehumidifier Water for Plants
One poster collects dehumidifier water from the basement to water their houseplants instead of tap water. Another says their mom used the dehumidifier water for ironing.
Cut Dryer Sheets in Half
Additionally, some users now use half a dryer sheet since it is as effective at preventing static and reducing scents as using a whole sheet.
Use Dawn Soap for Cleaning Almost Anything
Other people have reduced the cost of buying expensive cleaning supplies by using Dawn soap. One commentator says, “My grandmother’s cleaning secret was to fill a small tub with hot water, add 1-2 drops of Dawn dish soap, and a small splash of white vinegar. I use this with a microfiber cloth to clean just about everything.”
Some pet parents even report cleaning their cats and dogs with Dawn dish soap.
Diluting Shampoo
A few users have discovered that shampoo is sold as a concentrate, so they dilute it. One user explains, “My hairdresser suggests diluting shampoo. Less shampoo means less damage on my hair, and I don’t need to wash as often as before.”
Other users dilute dish detergent and shower soap to reduce wastage and save money.
Save Sauce Packets From Takeout
Meanwhile, some people don’t let the sauce packets from takeout go to waste.
Source: Reddit
Featured Photo from Shutterstock
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