4 Ways to Save Money Around the House
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It’s no secret that the average family is feeling the pinch in the current economic situation.
Here are four simple tips that can help you save money around your home without making any major changes.
1) Get organized
Getting organised can help you save money in many ways.
For example, if you know exactly what food items you have in your pantry, you are less likely to impulse buy at the grocery store.
Likewise if everything has its place in your home, you won’t end up buying duplicates because you can’t find something. That’s a common occurrence at Chez Green! There is a delicate balance between holding on to items in case they come in useful; but you also need to know exactly where they are, when you need to find them!
Finally, looking after the things you have keeps them in a better state of repair and extends their life. This is true for everything from the actual maintenance of your home to an item of clothing – a stitch in time saves nine – is a great phrase with a lot of common sense!
2) Cut back on your energy consumption
One of the quick wins with escalating fuel prices is to cut back on your energy consumption. There are a number of simple things you can do to lower your energy bills each month. For example, during the winter, make sure to keep your thermostat set at 68 degrees or lower. Also, be sure to open blinds and curtains during the day to let in natural light. This will help you avoid turning on lights as well as reduce your heating costs.
In addition, try to use appliances less often. For example, when possible, wash clothes in cold water and air dry them instead of using the dryer. Also, unplug electronics when they are not in use. You can also save money by changing your network provider to someone who offers free wifi-calling as well as other money-saving features. And when you switch the oven on, try and fill it. I tend to fill the oven with potatoes and use them sliced and sautéed throughout the week, or bake trays of roasted vegetables which can be eaten with rice, salad, pasta or turned into soup.
3) Use less water
With much of the country in drought this year, it’s essential we all lower our water footprint wherever we can. You could take shorter showers, turn the water off when brushing your teeth, and only run the dishwasher when it is full. You can also save money by investing in low-flow fixtures for your shower and sink. These fixtures use less water than traditional ones and can help you save a significant amount of money over time.
In addition, be sure to check for leaks around your home and have them repaired as soon as possible. Even a small leak can waste a lot of water and consider collecting rainwater in a rain barrel too. This water can then be used to water your plants or wash your car.
4) Save on your grocery bill
There are some simple ways to reduce your food bill. We’ve already mentioned keeping an inventory of the foods you have already. You can then use these foods to plan some meals around for the upcoming week. Make sure you make a list before you go shopping. This will help you avoid buying items that you don’t need and stick to your budget. In addition, try to buy in bulk when possible, as this can often lead to significant savings. And one final tip – never shop when hungry; you’ll end up buying more than you need!
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