Frugal Ideas

[FLYNBUG]

I read the thread discussing the tips you are tired of seeing, but I want to know what tips you think are good. I already know not to eat out and to clip coupons. What else do you suggest?

[leezza]

Utilities really seems to be something that you can control somewhat.

For me just staying away from the stores is a big help, (If I don't see it then I will not buy it kinda thing).

Think about purchases and do your research to make sure you are getting the best price possible.

My 2 cents,
leezza

[nvmommyx6]

I run weekly menu's, 4 weeks at a time, this way I know exactly what food I need and dont buy crap I dont need!!
I bake and cook from scratch
run a daily chore list for everyone in the house
have all of my electrical on power strips to turn off when not being used and that makes a big difference in the power bill!
I go grocery shopping only once a month with my Mom and we split the cost of the gas, follow store add's and coupons!
reuse everything I can
make my own soaps, shampoo, cleaners, laundry soap
hang my clothes to dry, even in winter!
changed to all the fancy new energy saving light bulbs....I know there is more to be added, just not with it yet!!!

[LadyCoffee]

have all of my electrical on power strips to turn off when not being used and that makes a big difference in the power bill!

I am three short of having all my things on power strips, will finish this weekend. Good to know it is making a difference.
Thank you for sharing.

[DonnainME]

I agree about unplugging or turning things off at a strip.

REDUCE the amount you use - of EVERYTHING. If you usually use 1/2 cup laundry detergent, try using 1/4. Same for everything. That will make the bottles of things last longer and therefore you won't have to replace as often and save you $.

Use up your leftovers. Eat them for lunch or make them into something else the next meal or day.

[57plymouth]

Close blinds on in the summer to block sunlight from heating the house. Open them in the winter for the opposite effect.

This cut my HVAC operation noticably this summer.

[dcompton]

Consolidate as many errands as possible to cut down on driving.

I agree with just staying out of the stores. Our eyes can have an insatiable appetite for things.

Practice telling yourself "no." (I hate this one, but it's important.)

[Momof3girls]

Going to the store less often, makes me be creative with what we have.

[itsahumanzoo]

Going to the store less often, makes me be creative with what we have.

Yes this is so true for me too! Sometimes I surprise myself at the meals I can make when I'm down to bare bones!

[QM]

Cut your laundry sheets in half!...It makes all the difference! OK! OK! I couldn't resist!

[Spikey1341]

Close drapes at night, not just shades. It helps keep the cold air from windows out of the room. Simple but effective.

[MisaLady]

Spend less than you make.

[rainbowgc]

Check the big things first. Research insurance rates, compare phone plans/cable.
Whatever you pay yearly, research if you can get a better deal.

[momof2joys]

Great tips thanks everyone!!

Here's another: We don't turn on lights in our house until after dark!! Using natural sunlight, has cut our bill way down!

Unplug things when you are done using them, toaster, crockpot, coffee maker (altough if you have a timer, I guess you can't) LOL!!

Turn the temp down at night during the winter season, and up in the summer season!! (of course adjust tolerate)

[Ali Lee]

I think the greatest tip I can give a newcomer is... be proud & have pride in your frugal/green "way of living". Read all that is provided here @ FV and choose what would help you in your journey. And then share your "living" with others to make this a better world to live in. Onward & upward!........