The global cost of living crisis has seen many people hit hard and looking for ways to cut back. If you are one of them, then you’ve come to the right place we’ve put together some ideas to help you reduce spending around your home and save dollars where you can. Even if the rising cost of living hasn’t directly affected you yet, it’s always nice to save a little bit of money, so whatever your situation, check out our tips below to run a more economic home and keep your wallet happier.
Go Solar
Solar energy is an incredible way to live more economically and be more eco-friendly. While they do involve some upfront costs to buy and install, once you have them up and running you will be recouping your outlay in no time. Solar energy can hugely minimize your bills in the long run, especially if you live in a sunny state. If you’re worried about the initial outlay, you can check if you’re eligible for the government’s solar tax incentive, a program that helps you offset the setup and install costs on your federal tax payments.
Meal Plan
Before hitting the grocery store, make a clear meal plan for the week and incorporate as many ingredients that you already have in your store cupboard as possible. make sure the plan is cohesive so that you can reuse leftovers properly. For example, if you’re roasting a chicken on a Sunday, then use the leftovers in a pasta bake the next day. Being prepared before you get to the grocery store will save you wasting money on unnecessary items that may be uneaten and thrown in the trash. If you can, buy pantry ingredients and dried goods in bulk so that you can get a better price for items like toilet rolls and canned foods. If you’re not already, become a keen coupon cutter to get great deals and discounts that can save you a ton of money.
Where you can, cook a large meal and then freeze it in batches so you can dip into the freezer for a quick convenience meal rather than dip into your wallet for pricey takeout.
Switch Up Your Providers
As well as solar, there are other ways you can reduce your bills. Shop around with multiple companies using a price comparison site, to see if you can get your services cheaper with another provider. Many supply companies offer sign-on bonuses or offer so that you can get a cost-saving or reduction on your bills. As long as you don’t sign up for a locked-in contract, there is nothing stopping you from doing this annually and reaping the benefits of new offers and deals. If you don’t want to swap, check for offers and contact your current provider to see if they can offer you a better rate to keep you as a customer.
Reduce Your Water Usage
Swap long hot baths for quick showers to reduce your water consumption and make sure you turn off the taps when you’re brushing your teeth. Only use your dishwasher when it’s full as half loads will mean you’re spending the same money on energy and water and only getting half of the result. The same goes for your washing machine, try and do large loads every couple of days rather than wash the odd few items here and there. When do you a wash, make sure to lower the temperature to 30 for a lower-cost clean that will leave your laundry fresh. Using your appliances is a necessity, but make sure you’re getting the most out of them when you do. If you use your machines at night, you’ll likely be in the ‘off-peak’ zone which is when energy companies charge less as fewer people are using energy sources.
Cut Back On Unnecessary Expenses
Check over your last three bank statements and check what you’re spending your money on. Chances are you have several payments that you’re making for things you don’t even use. Apps and subscription services such as Netflix, Audible, Prime, and Spotify are great, so long as you’re using them. If you’re paying for services that you’re not using regularly, then you’re just flushing money right down the pan. If you can’t live without your daily dose of Netflix and chill then ask around friends and family to see who has the same streaming services as you. If there are a couple of you using the same platforms, why not pick one each to pay for and share? You could end up saving a good $20-$50 per month.
DIY Your Cleaning
Ditch the expensive cleaning companies and take matters into your own hands. Set some time aside each week to do a big clean and you can make an even bigger saving by making your own products at home. Mix baking soda and vinegar to shine up surfaces and chrome finishes or cider vinegar with water for an excellent glass cleaner. Stop the splurging on expensive candles and instead mix cinnamon with some orange peel and pop into the oven on a low heat for an hour for a beautifully scented home that costs next to nothing.
Flex Your Green Fingers On A Budget
Rather than spend a load of money at the garden center, source cuttings from friends, family, and neighbors for free. You can pot them and plant them in your yard when the time is right for a beautiful garden on a budget. Perennials such as Yarrows and Delphiniums work best and will make a stunning addition to your outside area.
Buy Pre-loved
There will come a time when you need to buy something new for your home, whether it be furniture or new glassware. Instead of heading to the store to buy things brand new, look for pre-loved items on Facebook marketplace or at Goodwill. Many people sell second-hand items that have barely been used so you’ll get a good deal and be eco-friendly to boot.
Which of these tips will you be using to reduce your household spending? Let us know in the comments!
