How To Save Money When Things Are Tight

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It is possible, very possible to save money even in the toughest of times.

For example have you ever heard someone say they are broke but they are still out shopping and sipping lattes?

There are always ways to save money. There is always a way to get through even the toughest of times.

So how do you save money when every penny is budgeted out and there is no more money to spare?

Simple answer, you stay home. Everyone usually budgets for entertainment and going out or meals out.

So if you agree to stay home, cook some homemade meals and not spend that money you have easily saved a portion of money.

Another real easy way to save money is using Ibotta while you shop. Ibotta is a money saving app that pays you free money for all the regular items you shop for.

No more clipping coupons and no more paper cuts.

How to save money in the kitchen when things are tight.

If you have already done your grocery shopping grab a pen. If you haven’t checkout this meal planning program. It is a proven fact that those who meal plan save money at the grocery store.

Ok, so you have your groceries. Now day by day on your calendar write down your meal plan, even if it is just the dinner portion. See if you can stretch out all the meals till your next paycheck and beyond.

Get creative, there is nothing wrong with a leftover night or a pasta bar with mixed toppings from the week. I challenge you to make it work. Check the pantry, the fridge and the freezer figure out enough meals to get you through even if it is breakfast for dinner.

Why have I challenged you to write down all these meals and take count of all the food you have? First we usually shop for more than we need and we throw out the extras. This way you use it all up – even in soup stock.

Second there is no point in wasting food and having boring meals. I had some extra beans, an open tomato sauce and some ground beef so as I type chili is cooking in the slow cooker and I will probably serve it with a side of toast.

Writing down your meals makes you accountable, it lets you know what’s for dinner so you don’t stress about it. It also helps you spread out your groceries so you can make it through.

If you can fill up all the days till your next check or past your next payday you are winning and you are saving money. You are home cooking and not shopping or hitting drive through!

Other great ways to save money in the kitchen are:

Skip the meat and opt for vegetarian meals. Beans and rice can be stretched a long way when money is tight.

When you are making your grocery list for a few weeks from now make sure to stock up on pantry staples so you have items that will help get your through.

Another great way to save money in the kitchen is to stop using paper products like paper towels and paper napkins. We changed over to cloth napkins and reusable travel mugs and stainless steel lunch containers and have never looked back.

When you clean are you purchasing expensive chemical cleaners to clean your home? Change it up and save some money at the same time. Purchase a spray bottle from the dollar store fill it with a 50/50 mix of vinegar and water add a few drops or your favorite essential oil and shake. Use this to clean all the surfaces in your home.

Another way to save money is to bring leftovers for lunch. Brown bag it and skip the take out. I purchased this oven lunch box for my husband over a year ago now and we love it. I get to send leftover, so no food waste and he gets a piping hot meal on the road. Everyone wins and we save money at the same time.

I find the kitchen is the our main money spending source as it is where we gather, eat and socialize. But there are other places in the home where you can save money too.

Great ways to save money around the house.

The laundry room is the first place that comes to mind. To save money here try washing in cold water and hanging your clothes to dry. Invest in a good detergent or DIY your own.

Remember to separate your colors and delicates so your clothes last longer.

When it comes to clothes and saving money, wear them until they wear out. If you need new clothes while you are trying to save money try the thrift store or rework the clothes in your closet.

Or try a clothes swap with your friends. In our family our son is the oldest cousin and an only child so we hand his clothes down to his younger cousins to ensure the clothes get their full use. Kids grow fast and hand me downs are great.

Now what about electricity and utilities and cable and etc.

How do you save money here when things are tight? Turn it off, unplug it, cancel what you aren’t using and lock up the thermostat.

Cable and utilities can get expensive. But in this age of technology you can find most of your shows online, so cut the cable. Turn off the lights and appliances you aren’t using and find a happy medium with the thermostat.

Doing these things will help cut the utility bill for the end of the month. You can also grab a blanket, cuddle up with a board game or a good book and enjoy electronic free time.

If you are looking for other great ways to save money around the house check out these great posts:

Have an amazing day,

Cynthia
Saving & Simplicity