Increased jobs losses, gas prices, the current recession, along with other economic factors are making people more aware of personal spending habits. Many consumers are looking for practical ways to become more frugal, get out of debt and build personal savings.
I’m sure that most of you have heard the old adage` “Desperate times call for desperate measures”. I believe many Americans are there! We are rethinking our needs and wants and are willing to make the necessary changes to take control of our frivolous spending habits. The Seven consumer saving tips below are practical way to reduce spending.
1. Make your own Non-toxic Cleaning Kit. This kit compiled by Annie B. Bond includes recipes for:
• Creamy Soft Scrubber
• Window Cleaner
• Oven Cleaner
• All-purpose Spray Cleaner
• Furniture Polish
• Vinegar Deodorizer
• Mold Killers
http://www.care2.com/greenliving/make-your-own-non-toxic-cleaning-kit.html or How to Make a Non-Toxic Cleaning Kit. It’s FREE!
2. Save on laundry by selecting the appropriate setting for your load size. For example, if you are washing a small load select that setting instead of the medium one. Use the cold water temperature versus warm or hot. Read the instructions on the laundry detergent container to determine how much is needed for the different size loads. Most detergents have a measuring cup; use it instead of freely pouring detergent into washer.
3. Shop Dollar and discount stores, drugstores and closeout specials to purchase necessities. Some Thrift stores sell basic household, food , beauty & bath products.
4. Purchase large bottles of water and soft drinks. You will get more for your buck than if you purchased individual bottles, boxes or cans. Create an additionally savings by making your own tea or lemonade. Kool-aid is an inexpensive alternative to soft drinks.
5. Reduce money leaks. Do you real need all of these premium cable channels or 3,000 minutes phone plan and unlimited text messaging? Cancel services or extras that you don’t really need. Sit down and have a talk with your child(ren). How many magazine subscriptions do you have and which ones are you really using? Keep only those that you use. If possible, coordinate your subscriptions with a friend. You all can swap magazines. Think about the savings, $12, $30, $50 or $100 a year! Of course the savings will be based on the number of subscriptions you cancel. Also, you could check out the magazines websites for information or sign up for their newsletter.
6. Stop or reduce the use of overdraft protection. Many banks offer this service, however, it can be quite expensive. Most banks charge $30-$40 per item. This expense can add up quickly if not monitored.
7. Plan family meals for 2 or 3 weeks and rotate the menus. Another idea is to read the ad circulars and plan a week’s menu around what is on sale.
Consumers are reevaluating their needs and wants, finding practical ways to reduce spending and building savings $1 at a time; these changes should help provide consumers not only with a nest egg but a financial peace of mind.
Resources:
http://terismessageboard.thegrocerygame.com/showthread.php?t=128834
http://www.consumerismcommentary.com/2007/11/16/10-easy-ways-to-save-money-without-much-effort/
