Small Steps Can Lead to Big Savings

The is different for everyone; it varies greatly from family to family. Maybe you believe that using coupons is good enough, while others take being frugal more seriously to the point of cutting their own hair.

For some, less is more.

Maybe you have been interested in becoming a bit more frugal, but are concerned about being called cheap or a tightwad. I say, try what you are comfortable with. Take baby steps. There is no right or wrong way to be frugal.

Here are some ideas to get you started:

Used First: Before you make that purchase, first check around and try to find it used. You may pay a small fraction of the retail price for the same gently used item.

Do It Yourself: Don’t hire someone to do that which you can do yourself. Some things are easier to fix than you think and you’ll get the satisfaction of knowing it was done right.

Make Your Own: Try making your own laundry detergent, softener and beauty products. The Internet is loaded with recipes for just about everything you need.

Sun Dry Clothes: Use the sun to dry your clothes. This one has fallen out of style, but is still very effective.

Coffee and Tea: Use your coffee grounds and tea bags more than once. When you are done with the coffee grounds, sprinkle them around the acid-loving plants in your garden. Sprinkle the tea in your rose garden.

Lotion Tubes: When you think you have gotten that last drop of lotion out of the tube, think again. Cut the tube in half to reveal at least one more application.

Dollar Store Shopping: Dollar stores are a great place to buy greeting cards, gift bags and so much more. But beware, not everything is a great deal. Check out Kiplinger.com’s list for some of the best and worst dollar store buys.