A day in the frugal life

photo by krisszphotography

Frugality is a way of life for many people. You might forget all the ways you’re frugal because you’ve been that way for such a long time. While they are common habits for you, there are plenty of people who are new to frugality. What dollar-stretching tactics have you tried lately? Here’s a sampling of regular daily occurrences in a frugalite’s life.

GATHER LOOSE CHANGE: When you have a few minutes, walk around your house and collect loose change. Found money adds up. Look in your laundry room, couch cushions, dresser drawers, in your car, old purses, bags and coats. Place the change in a jar.

REMEMBER SEASONAL SALES: As seasons change, look for clearance items that can help you save money. One reader, Karen from Kansas, shares: “We put an insulated blanket (cover) on the water heater. I found one in the clearance items at Wal-Mart last week ($15 – regularly $24).” But keep in mind, there’s no reason to buy new in situations when you can make do with what you have and borrow, rent, buy used or make it yourself.

HOME SWEET HOME: Simply staying at home is one of the best ways to avoid spending money. Too often you might head out to the store when you’re bored. Try shopping at home. Look around for items you have bought and haven’t enjoyed or put to use. Maybe it’s a book, fitness DVD, craft or home project, appliance, movie or gift that has been ignored or forgotten. Shop from your pantry and refrigerator to use what you have on hand rather than shop for more food. Take time to learn or sharpen a frugal skill such as cooking, sewing, dog grooming, gardening, home repairs or reading or rereading books on frugal living, such as “Living More with Less” by Doris Janzen Longacre (1980, Herald Press).

MAKE SOMETHING: Create something homemade. It can be something as simple as soup, a gift or homemade cleaner. Brainstorm more things you can make yourself. Another reader, Ali from Indiana, shares: “I make homemade deodorant. I have such an awful time with regular deodorant. It makes me itch!” Here’s her recipe:

1/4 cup witch hazel
1/4 cup aloe vera gel
1/4 cup water
1 teaspoon vegetable glycerin
drops of essential oil

Mix in a spray bottle. Spray it on a cloth and wipe on.

WASTE LESS: Look for ways to reduce waste. You can reuse or repurpose an item in your home or be mindful of not throwing away something useful, such as leftover coffee, which can be frozen into ice cube trays and made into ice coffee. Or look for ways to conserve water or energy. Another reader, Carolyn from California, shares: “I got my daughter on to turning the lights off by offering that any money saved goes toward the car fund.” You can use less, too. Strive to use less than your usual amount of some items, such as shampoo, condiments, etc.

MAKE MONEY: Gather up items you no longer use and put them up for sale on eBay or have a garage sale.

Posted by Sara Noel on April 8 2010. Filed under Frugal & simple living.
Sara Noel owns Frugal Village, LLC and is a nationally syndicated columnist with Universal Uclick. Bio, Follow me on Twitter, Join us on Facebook