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10 Frugal Living Tips That Border on Too Extreme (But Actually Work)

May 29, 2025 By Teri Monroe Leave a Comment

frugal living tips
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If you want to truly be frugal, you’ll have to make some sacrifices and adjustments to your way of life. It may seem uncomfortable to cut back in this way. While some things may seem extreme, the amount of money you will save will make it worth it. Here are 10 frugal living tips you need to implement into your everyday life. You’ll be glad you did because they work!

1. Recycle and Reuse

If you’re trying to embrace frugal living, don’t let anything go to waste. It may be worth investing in things like reusable toilet paper and cloths instead of paper towels. You’ll also want to skip costly products like paper plates. Anything that is discarded after one use isn’t worth your money!

2. Try Cloth Diapers

If you have kids, you know how expensive diapers can be! One cost-effective alternative is to use cloth diapers. You will have to do more laundry, but in the long run, you’ll save thousands of dollars!

3. Hand Wash and Line Dry Clothes

Constantly using your washer and dryer can be very expensive and not energy efficient. Instead, consider hand washing and line drying your clothes. By doing this, your clothes will also last longer!

4. Use The Bottom of Jars

Do you not know what to do with jars of jam, bottles of ketchup, or salad dressing that just have a little bit left in them? You can use bottom of the jar recipes to save every last drop. A little bit of water will help you make sure nothing is wasted.

5. Cut Your Own Hair

We aren’t saying give yourself bangs. But you can save a lot by trimming your own hair. Additionally, at home hair dye has come a long way. Products like Madison Reed are practically salon-quality at home. This can save you hundreds of dollars a month.

6. Learn Sewing

Mending and hemming your own clothes is a huge cost saver. Plus, it’s easy to learn basic sewing like fixing buttons or patching holes. You’ll get much more life out of your clothes and won’t waste money on a tailor.

7. Cook from Scratch

There’s something to be said about cooking with simple ingredients. Fresh ingredients from farmers’ markets can also be very inexpensive. You might even want to start your own garden to save even more.

8. Preserve Food

Canning is a great option, especially if you have a garden. You’ll eliminate a lot of food waste and start building up your pantry stash. Having a deep pantry is essential when you need to make a meal in a pinch. If you always have things at home, you won’t be tempted to order takeout or go out to dinner.

9. Buy Everything Secondhand

Don’t overpay for clothes and essentials. You don’t have to pay full retail price to find things you like. Utilize the secondhand market on Facebook, Poshmark, and eBay. It’s also fun to visit local thrift stores and vintage stores. You may find that buying secondhand is not only more sustainable but also more your style!

10. Learn How to Fix Your Own Car

Car repairs can get expensive quickly. Most of the cost comes from the labor. If you can learn basic car repairs like changing your own oil, for example, you can save thousands of dollars over time. You’ll probably take better care of your car as well further extending its life.

Making Frugal Living Choices

Sticking to a simpler more frugal way of life can be challenging. But it’s totally doable. You’ll just have to see what works best for you and stick with it to maximize your savings. Over time, you won’t miss the luxuries you used to overspend on.

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Teri Monroe Headshot
Teri Monroe

Teri Monroe started her career in communications working for local government and nonprofits. Today, she is a freelance finance and lifestyle writer and small business owner. In her spare time, she loves golfing with her husband, taking her dog Milo on long walks, and playing pickleball with friends.

Filed Under: Frugality Tagged With: frugal living, frugal living tips, living cheaply

Money Challenges: Can You Live on $50 a Week?

November 15, 2024 By Latrice Perez Leave a Comment

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Living on a tight budget can feel like walking a financial tightrope, but the money challenge of surviving on just $50 a week is taking it to the extreme. It’s a test of discipline, creativity, and the ability to prioritize what truly matters. Whether you’re trying to save for a big goal or just want to reset your spending habits, this challenge can teach you a lot about managing your finances. Here’s how you can make it work and maybe even enjoy the process.

Plan Every Dollar

When you’re faced with a $50 a week money challenge, every dollar counts. Start by creating a simple budget that outlines your absolute essentials, like groceries and transportation. Planning your expenses down to the penny helps you avoid impulse buys and keeps you on track. Knowing exactly where your money is going also gives you a sense of control, which can be empowering even with limited funds.

Get Creative with Groceries

Food is often the biggest expense when tackling a money challenge, so get creative in the kitchen. Plan your meals around affordable staples like rice, beans, and pasta, which can stretch your budget without sacrificing nutrition. Look for sales and discounts, and don’t be afraid to try store-brand products. With a little planning, you can make delicious meals that keep you satisfied without overspending.

Embrace Free Activities

Just because you’re on a tight budget doesn’t mean you can’t have fun. Look for free activities and events in your community, like outdoor concerts, hiking trails, or local library programs. Enjoying these experiences without spending a dime is one of the best parts of taking on a money challenge. It’s a great reminder that some of life’s best moments don’t have a price tag.

Cut Out Unnecessary Spending

The easiest way to succeed in a money challenge is to cut out non-essential expenses. Skip the morning coffee run, avoid takeout, and find free alternatives for entertainment. You might be surprised at how much you save just by eliminating small, everyday purchases. It’s all about embracing a frugal mindset and finding satisfaction in making smart financial choices.

Swap and Barter

If you’re really struggling to make ends meet on $50 a week, consider bartering or swapping with friends and family. Trade items you no longer need or offer a skill in exchange for something you require. This old-school approach can be a fun and practical way to get through the money challenge without spending. It’s also a great way to connect with others and share resources creatively.

Reflect on What You’ve Learned

Completing a money challenge like this isn’t just about surviving; it’s about learning and growing. You’ll gain a deeper understanding of your spending habits and what you truly need versus what you want. Use this experience as a chance to reflect on your financial goals and consider how you might apply these lessons going forward. It’s an exercise in mindfulness that could change the way you handle money for the better.

Latrice Perez

Latrice is a dedicated professional with a rich background in social work, complemented by an Associate Degree in the field. Her journey has been uniquely shaped by the rewarding experience of being a stay-at-home mom to her two children, aged 13 and 5. This role has not only been a testament to her commitment to family but has also provided her with invaluable life lessons and insights.

As a mother, Latrice has embraced the opportunity to educate her children on essential life skills, with a special focus on financial literacy, the nuances of life, and the importance of inner peace.

Filed Under: budget Tagged With: budget challenge, Budgeting Tips, creative saving ideas, financial discipline, frugal lifestyle, frugal living tips, living on a budget, money challenge, saving money

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