The plant is back in the building woot! and we’re loving the extra life and greenery it brings to a space. Any greenery really opens the environment up and makes it feel more livable- makes sense, technically there are more living things in the room now! After I jumped on the Fiddle Leaf bandwagon, I’ve been wanting to add a new plant or two to the loft.
Thankfully, I’ve had pretty good luck in the houseplant department thus far miracle! and am happy to report, I haven’t had to bury too many green friends in the plant cemetery. Don’t be fooled, by no means am I a green thumb, but sites like my new favorite, The Sill, certainly help me feel more like an expert. They break down the care of the most popular houseplants they even break down plants by personalities so thatyou can find the perfect plant for your lifestyle! and are my go-to reference for the current or future plant lover.
In order to steer clear of the black thumb club, I make sure I’ve aced my one on one time with the employee at the gardening store before I even dare bring a plant home with me. There is something so depressing about watching the leaves on your plant turn yellow and then a whithered brown and feeling like you have no control over nursing it back to health. Isn’t it the worst feeling, ever?
We’re currently reading up on the care guides of these guys The Sill offers PDF’s that you can download here! because we want to bring some new life into the new office! Here’s a quick breakdown of our top picks:
I vote for something like the Snake Plant which is cool and graphic, but it might be a good idea to have low maintenance guys around like cacti since we’re always running around and are likely to forget to water them! Oops. One thing for sure is that you don’t already, you must buy a Pothos for your home. It’s our go-to plant besides our trusty Fiddle Leaf Fig tree! and according to the plant experts, you can take a sledge hammer to it and it won’t die. We’ll see about that…
image 1 via Ferm Living // 2 via Lotta Agaton // 3 via Daniella Witte // plant images via The Sill
When you’re a renter, it can feel like all the transformative DIY projects are reserved for homeowners. But just because you rent doesn’t mean you can’t spruce up your space.
That’s right: Rental-friendly upgrades exist. And the best part? Many improvements can have a major impact on your space without blowing your budget.
1. Create an Accent Wall
Spicing up your walls doesn’t have to cost a fortune, nor must it require gallons of paint. For just a few bucks a roll, you can buy washi tape and create a custom accent wall that won’t ruin the paint job. Or, if you’re able to spend a few extra dollars, you could also invest in removable wallpaper.
2. Update Light Fixtures
Light fixtures in rentals are notoriously drab and tend to provide uneven lighting. Fortunately, there is no shortage of lighting options to help you brighten up your space. A recessed lighting conversion kit, for instance, is fairly inexpensive, easy to install, and allows you to hang a pendant or other light fixture. Not sure your landlord would approve? You can always buy some decorative lamps or even string lights to help amp up the brightness and style of any room.
3. Install Radiator Shelving
In older units, rusty radiators can be a renter’s nightmare. But luckily, there are some rental upgrades — like installing radiator shelving — that can disguise even the most unattractive units. You can DIY a custom shelving unit to work around your radiator, upgrade some shelving from a local thrift store, or even order one online.
4. Buy Matching Bookshelves
Bookshelves are a simple way to upgrade the decor and add much-needed storage space. Placing tall, matching shelves on either side of a TV, couch, or even a bed could bring some serious style (and space) to a small room, plus allow you to display photos or art without putting holes in the wall.
5. Apply Contact Paper
Do you have older appliances you’d like to freshen up? For just a couple bucks, you can invest in some stainless steel contact paper to make them at least look shiny and new again! Contact paper also comes in a wide variety of colors and styles that you can use to liven up your cabinets and refresh your countertops.
6. Replace Pulls & Knobs
This is another budget-savvy, rental-friendly upgrade that can add some flair to your home. Replace your door handles, kitchen cabinet knobs, and any other pulls with something more your style. Affordable, stylish knobs can be found on sites like Etsy and Amazon, and in stores like Lowe’s and Home Depot. Be sure to hang on to the original knobs so you can swap them back in before you move out.
7. Install a Bike Mount
If you own a bike but are short on storage, install a bike mount or other bike storage solution. Just make sure your landlord is okay with the installation since it may require some drilling.
8. Try Large Floor Mirrors
Sometimes more is more. Exhibit A: an oversized leaning mirror, which can serve double-duty as a luxe decoration and a functional mirror.
9. Invest in Houseplants
Want to add some life to your rental — literally? Look no further than a houseplant. If you don’t have a green thumb, explore hardy varieties, like air plants or even artificial plants.
10. Upgrade Your Showerhead
Installing a new showerhead is a quick, effective way to upgrade your bathroom. You could start reaping the rewards the very first time you turn on the faucet. Make sure to hang on to that original showerhead so you can reinstall it when you move out.
Recommended: How Much Does a Shower Remodel Cost?
11. Set up Room Dividers
Need to carve out space for a home office? Or maybe even make room for a closet? Buying or creating stylish room dividers can provide an instant rental update. And when you need a larger space, simply close the dividers.
12. Use a Pantry Organization System
Help bring order to the busiest spot in your home: the kitchen. Pantry organization systems come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and varieties, so you should be able to find one that works for your home and budget.
13. Update Your Blinds
It can be easy to forget about window coverings. But freshening up your blinds or curtains can add a new visual element to the room, frame a window, or help brighten the space.
14. Install Sticker Flooring
When you’re considering places to upgrade, don’t forget to look down. Changing up the flooring — even temporarily — can make a room feel brand-new. One option to consider if you have a tile floor is removable tile stickers, which come in a variety of styles, sizes, and price points.
15. Create a Kitchen Backsplash
You can also use removable stickers to freshen up a kitchen backsplash, which is a much easier and cheaper option than replacing the tiles. New to this type of project? There are online video tutorials you can watch that will show you how to get the job done.
Recommended: Renovation vs. Remodel: What’s the Difference?
16. Replace Light Switch Covers
Don’t sleep on the small details — sometimes, they can have a major impact. One example of this is swapping out basic light switch covers with ones that match the decor of your rental. Plus, new covers are generally affordable and easy to install.
17. Buy a New Kitchen Faucet
There’s something to be said for upgrading the items in your rental that you use every day, such as the kitchen faucet. Installing a new faucet is a fairly simple DIY project, provided you know how to shut off the water to your sink and use a wrench. If you’re unsure how to do either, though, you can enlist the help of a plumber. Just be sure to put the old faucet in storage so you can swap it back before moving.
18. Find a Stylish Toilet Seat
Let’s be honest: Most rentals come with a basic toilet seat. When yours just won’t do anymore, it may be time to upgrade to something more modern and comfy. You can find a wide variety of options online or in stores.
19. Paint the Molding and Trim
Before selecting color swatches, you may want to double-check with your landlord that painting is allowed. Many landlords welcome you painting your molding and trim, since it’s an easy, affordable way to update a rental.
20. Invest in Good Rugs
Quality rugs can run well into the thousands of dollars. But there are less-expensive options that are also durable and stylish. Besides protecting your flooring, a good rug can also visually anchor a room and help absorb sound.
No matter the price of your rug, you may want to consider purchasing renters insurance to protect it and your other valuables against losses.
The Takeaway
When you’re a renter, you may not be able to rip out walls or change out kitchen cabinets. But there are still simple, effective ways to transform your space without breaking the terms of your lease. While these sorts of jobs tend to be affordable, you can easily rack up quite the bill if you plan on tackling several home improvement projects at once.
That said, if you’re ready to roll up your sleeves and get some renter-friendly updates done, see what SoFi can offer. With a SoFi Home Improvement Loan, you can borrow between $5K to $100K as an unsecured personal loan, meaning you don’t use your home as collateral and no appraisal is required. Our rates are competitive, and the whole process is easy and speedy.
Turn your home into your dream house with a SoFi Home Improvement Loan.
Photo credit: iStock/CreativaStudio
SoFi Loan Products SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
Are you looking to learn new ways to save money? Here are 37 hacks to save more money with real tips from real people.
In today’s article, I asked my readers and some of my personal finance expert friends for their best tips on how to save money.
I love finding out how people are saving money. There are so many creative and resourceful people, and learning how they are saving money can be very motivational.
Whether you want to save money each month because you are saving up for a big purchase, want to retire early, have recently lost your job, or simply realize you are spending too much – there are ideas in this article for everyone.
From getting free houseplants, cutting your own hair, DIYing things around your home, to analyzing your spending and negotiating your expenses, there are many ways that you can save money. Plus, you can see the exact ways that people and households save money, and how it has impacted them. The responses I collected are quite detailed, which I love.
The money saving ideas in this article are strategies that real people use – some seem very simple, while others take a more complex strategy – and you will read about it in their own words. And trust me, you will be surprised by some of the ideas in this round-up.
If you are looking to save money, I recommend looking over this list and finding a couple of ideas on this list that seem realistic to you.
Not every idea on this list is going to help you save thousands of dollars a month, but every little bit helps.
Plus, seeing the difference that one or two of these money-saving ideas makes on your budget may give you the motivation to try more and really change your life for the better. That might mean paying off your debt faster, improving your financial habits, helping you reach your dream sooner, and more.
Like I said, learning how creative others get when it comes to saving money is very motivational. And if you are already creative with how you save money, you’ll be reminded that what you are doing isn’t “weird” at all – finding ways to save money is completely normal.
You are going to love the hacks, rules, tips, tricks, and strategies that are on this list, and I can’t wait to hear how you are saving money each month.
You can read my past article 60+ Extreme Things People Have Done To Save Money for even more ways that people like you and me save money.
Related content:
37 Hacks To Save More Money
Get free houseplants. “There are many ways to get houseplants that don’t require you to spend any money. Get in touch with a local Buy Nothing group on Facebook or join a local Facebook plant community. Both of these types of Facebook groups offer free plants and you get to meet houseplant hobbyists. You can find local plant groups on Facebook by searching ‘your city + houseplants’ and depending on how big your city is, a few groups should pop up. I’ve personally had a lot of success with plant swaps. Local plant groups often throw plant swap events where you can get plants for free. A plant swap is where you bring plants of your own in hopes to trade for plants you’ve been wanting. I recently went to a plant swap and brought 25 cuttings of different plants and traded every single one. I came home with a wagon full of cuttings and even full plants in pots. The best part was I didn’t have to spend any money.” – Alexis
Cut your own hair. “When I was in university, getting my hair done at the beauty salon was very expensive, and I didn’t have the budget to pay over $200 per month to get my hair done. So I decided to take action and started browsing ways to style my hair on YouTube. After countless hours of watching hair tutorials and trial by error, I taught myself how to style my own hair which is thick and curly. Now I can braid and do other complicated styles on my own, which has been a huge saving for me. People saw my hair and loved it and even asked me to style their own hair as well, it even became a small side hustle!” – Jodi Smith
Contribute to your savings regularly. “Have an investment savings plan that you contribute to monthly. This could be a 401k, an IRA, or even just a savings account that you designate for investment purposes. By having this plan in place and contributing to it regularly, you’ll be less likely to spend your money on unnecessary things because you’ll have specific goals in mind for your investments. I invest 40% of my monthly income into my investment accounts, which allows me to save money for retirement, accumulate wealth, and sleep well at night knowing that my future is taken care of.” – Amira Irfan
Invest in a high-quality capsule wardrobe to save money.“I used to be a sucker for buying a lot of clothes, handbags and accessories, which many ended up going to donation with tags on them. When I realized I was wasting thousands of dollars each year, I turned to building a capsule wardrobe with timeless and high-quality items. This helped me downsize my closet to 30-35 pieces that I actually love and wear. By investing in quality and going for neutral colors, I didn’t feel the urge to buy new (or trendy) clothes for 2-3 years unless I needed to replace something. Not only did I save $300 to $500 per month, but I also saved SO much time! I no longer scramble or stress about what to wear because almost every item – from casual and cozy to formal and classy – can be formed into many different outfits with the same piece of clothing. Not to mention, being intentional with your spending on clothes also reduces waste, which is environmentally-friendly!” – Ling
Don’t touch your savings account. “I have a savings account called ‘DON’T TOUCH 100K’ in which I save money every month. With this account, I have two rules. The first rule is not to withdraw cash from this account ever because if I do, I lose interest for the month. However, I’ve had some months where I had to dip into this account. So, I have a second rule that I must DOUBLE the amount I put back with my next paycheck. For example, if I withdraw $300, I have to put the $300 back plus an additional $300 as a ‘punishment.’ And I can honestly say that this has seriously prompted me to NOT touch my savings account.” – Kristin Brause
Wait for electronic devices to break down before buying new models. “It sounds simple enough, but it takes a lot of discipline. Every time a new model of phone, computer, or whatever comes out, there’s always some new must-have feature that has everyone drooling and throwing away good devices that still work fine. But if you can hang on a little longer, eventually, that device will break down somehow. And then, when you buy the new model, the old one is discounted because it’s not the latest hotness anymore. For example, I used a Samsung cellphone for nearly five years; the gadget saw the good and the bad years. I did not buy a new device until the phone battery wouldn’t last more than an hour after a full charge and the phone’s screen started to ink out. That’s how I roll! It’s not a flawless approach, but the savings count. You may only have to wait a few months/years on occasion.” – Olu Ojo
Save money by going to a medical school. “Have kids who need braces? Crooked teeth aren’t just a cosmetic issue. Tooth alignment is actually very important for overall health and long-lasting teeth. We’re saving about $2,000 per child by bringing our teens to an orthodontic school that accepts our dental insurance. After a modest down payment of a few hundred dollars, our monthly expense with the school is only about $50 per month per patient, interest-free. For big savings on other health needs for your family and even your pets, see if your community has schools such as medical schools, chiropractic schools, veterinary schools, homeopathic schools, massage schools, etc. You can even donate your body to science through a medical school which can save from $600 to $3,000 in cremation expenses.” – Eileen Hubler
We buy meat from a local farm and store it in our deep freeze.“Not only do we get better quality meat, but we are able to save money because of buying it in bulk. At our local farm, we are able to get our meat for about 1/2 the price of other grass-fed options we have available at our grocery store. You can even look into purchasing a whole cow or part of a cow for bigger savings.” – Erin Nutter
Start meal prepping. “Meal prepping can be a huge money saver – if you’re someone like me who hates making time to cook during the week, you probably end up spending a lot of money eating out or on pre-made grocery store food. Once I switched to meal prepping for the week (every Sunday), I started saving up to $50 a week on food and got the added bonus of incorporating a much healthier diet into my life.” – Clair
Grocery shop online.“I love online grocery shopping! It has saved our family of 3 so much money since we started. I don’t have to worry about impulse buying because I can take my time and add things to my cart only when I need them. And if I’m ever worried about going over budget, I can always look at my cart and remove items accordingly. I always hated wasting so much time at the store too so online grocery shopping has not only helped save money but has saved us valuable time each week too!” – Mia
Beginning of season sales/shopping. “Many people are aware of end-of-season sales/shopping, but I prefer beginning-of-season shopping. I shop before the season starts because most people are not thinking about that season at that time. I always buy things when they are not needed the most. The rule of when demand is high, prices are high is applied here too. For example, school supplies shopping can be done in early July instead of waiting till August. If you wait till August, you will miss out on the bargain on school supplies. The bargain sale month for school supplies is in July.” – Mina Miller
Make your own homemade cleaners.“Instead of using store-bought cleaners, I like to save money by making my own homemade cleaners. I can easily make my own in minutes and use ingredients I feel comfortable with for my family. For example, my countertop cleaner costs me less than $1 to make versus $5 or more for a countertop cleaner in the store ” – Julie Sellers
Cut unnecessary spending. “One of the things that has helped me save money (especially during those early debt payoff years) was cutting most unnecessary spending from my budget. Instead of telling myself that ‘I can’t afford that’ or ‘I can’t have any fun,’ I told myself ‘not yet.’ I knew that cutting back on restaurants and shopping was temporary, so it didn’t feel restrictive. I had a strong ‘why’ and built in rewards along the way (i.e buying a new outfit or going out to dinner for every $X amount saved). Keeping some fun spending in my budget and understanding why I was doing what I was doing helped me keep a positive mindset around my finances and it was sustainable for the long term. And at the end of the day, I realized that I didn’t really like shopping every weekend or going to the bar every Friday night with people I barely knew! I was able to save money and hone in on the things that are really worth spending on to me!” – Megan
Go to the library and start thrifting.“I actually have two money saving tips. For context, I homeschool my kids, and we read a LOT of books and play a LOT of board games. Tip 1: Use the library! Our library had a little blurb at the bottom of the receipt when we checked out, saying how much we saved by using our library. I think we easily saved $5,000 a year, if not more (I don’t remember exactly, but did enjoy checking out that number each time). Tip 2: Thrifting! Many of our board games I purchased from the thrift store, as well as really good sales (Miniature Market had a sale and I got a giant box of games; most were just $1), good deals on FB marketplace, even our Buy Nothing group. I have no idea how much this saved us, but probably thousands.” – Ashley Wright
Participate in a no-spend challenge. “One of the ways I save money is to regularly get my family to participate in no-spend challenges. Every time I feel we are falling behind, or we have unexpected expenses come up, my family tries to go a set amount of time without spending any money, other than bills and normal expenses. Sometimes it’s a week long, and sometimes it’s a 30 day challenge. This really helps us reset and get caught up.” – Kayla
Save money with your fish tank.” I added snails and shrimp to my 20-gallon fish tank. I used to spend a good amount of money on products to keep my aquarium maintained so that my fish could thrive. After several months, I decided to add a few ghost shrimp and nerite snails. Since these help with algae control, debris removal, and getting rid of dead plant matter, I don’t need to clean my 20-gallon tank nearly as often as I used to. I now only spend half of the money I used to spend on aquarium-cleaning products, since these invertebrates do most of the work. Suffice to say that the community in my aquarium (and my wallet) is quite happy!” – Brett Schiller
Carpool.“My money saving tip is to try and carpool to save gas! I do it all the time with my husband, and it saves me gas. If you can get a group of coworkers in on it, you can save a lot of money! Each of you can take a week of driving and with 4 weeks in a month, you may only have to drive once a month, to the office.” – Rob Flood
Review your spending. “It’s much easier to save your hard earned money if you know where it’s going. About a year ago, I went through my credit card statements and found some charges for automatic payments for apps I wasn’t using. I stopped those payments and deleted the apps. I also started to write down, by hand, all of the transactions that came out of my bank each month. This really helps me see where I’m spending money, going out, household frivolous items, even how much I spend at the grocery store. When you take the time to sit and review your spending, it’s easy to cut back and put money into savings.” – Melody Kenoyer
Plan your meals around what you already have. “Instead of making a grocery list of the food you want each week, plan meals from sales and food that’s in the house. Stock up on your favorites when they’re on sale and at their lowest price. Also, look for additional markdowns on discontinued items or fresh foods like meat, dairy, and vegetables that are about to expire. This grocery savings strategy saves my family over $2,000 a year.” – Jennifer Messineo
Dine out less. “Dining out is insanely expensive and it’s hard not to eat out especially when you work at a demanding 9-5 or 9-9 job. A single meal can easily cost $12 to $20 depending on what you buy. And let’s not forget that when you go out with friends to eat at a decent restaurant, your bill could cost over $50 per person, including drinks, tax and tips. So you can imagine how crazy food costs when you don’t cook at home. Given how busy our lives are, this problem can be solved with meal prepping and building a system. To save money and eat healthier on a busy schedule, I have meal prepped for years to save at least $8,000 annually, which is almost $700 per month! You may think this number is out of the ordinary but I encourage you to go through your credit statements to see how much you’re really spending at restaurants. Those numbers may come out and bite you.” – Rui
Eat cereal and ramen. “Groceries and eating out can add up. When I was in college, I cut grocery costs to the bone by eating cereal for breakfast almost every day. A cereal box and a gallon of milk were only a few dollars each and could last all week. I was just as thrifty for lunch, mainly eating ramen and sandwiches. Bread, cold cuts, and cheese are inexpensive, but ramen is even cheaper. A case of ramen is several bucks and has 12 packages. You can add whatever you want to boost the nutrition and protein content.” – Prakash Kolli
Negotiate your monthly bills.“Most people don’t realize that they can negotiate with the providers of things such as cable, internet and cell service. It takes extra time on the phone, but it pays dividends! Asking to speak with the Customer Retention department at the beginning of the call will help to bypass the people who do not have the authority to give customized discounts, thus reducing the time on the call. I put the call on speaker and do computer work or other productive tasks during hold time. When I get to Customer Retention, I explain that I enjoy their service but will have to switch to another provider or eliminate the service entirely if we can’t negotiate a fee I can afford. Companies will do almost anything to keep a customer. It’s cheaper to keep a current customer than to constantly look for a new one. That’s just common sense. In the past, I have negotiated my bills with DirecTV by half, reminding them that I have been a loyal customer for years. After those two year promotion rates end and the bill goes up, the rates can be negotiated back down. They don’t want to lose the customer to another provider who has a two year reduced rate intro. Every time my new negotiated rate goes up, I call and renegotiate. Setting a reminder on my phone a couple of weeks before my current promotion ends helps me to never see a price hike after the fact. Also, many people qualify for a government credit on their cell phone and internet service when they use their household income to qualify. There are tables to check before going through the application process.” – Jamie Howell
Hide money from yourself.“My best money-saving tip is to hide money from yourself. I’m not talking about digging a hole in your backyard to bury money or anything. However, with technology today, it’s easy to immediately move your money into savings or investment accounts without ever seeing it in your primary account. We do this by setting up a separate bank account and having money from my paycheck deposited directly. This method is called the “pay yourself first” approach to budgeting. Out of sight, out of mind. You’ll be surprised how fast money can add up in a separate bank account when you aren’t tempted to spend it regularly.” – Mark
I buy my skincare and beauty products from private label manufacturers.“I’m also creating my own skincare brand using private label products. I have found that many skincare brands don’t actually formulate or make their own products. They buy white label/private label products from manufacturers and put their own branding and labels on the products. You can go direct to the manufacturer and purchase products for your own personal use. Each manufacturer will have its own minimum quantities, so search for one that will meet your needs. I have saved thousands of dollars by purchasing serums, eye creams, exfoliators, masks, and more, all with cosmeceutical-grade ingredients, from private label manufacturers.” – Kylie
Try housesitting to save money on travel. “There’s no question that one of the biggest expenses when traveling is accommodation. It can really make or break the decision of where you can afford to go – and that’s even if you avoid pricey hotels in the center of town. However, one great option that you may have heard of but not given much thought to is house sitting. It’s a fantastic way to stay somewhere for free that may not necessarily be in the most touristy spot in a city, so it gives you the chance to live like a local and save a ton of money. I tried this myself by staying in a beautiful place in Stavanger, Norway while pet sitting someone’s two cats. As a big cat fan, this hardly seemed like work, and it meant that after a long day of visiting the most spectacular fjords you’ll ever see, I got to go home to my (free!) accommodation and join the cats on the warm couch. There are some downsides to this, such as that you may need to factor in a slightly longer travel time to see the main sights, given that you likely won’t be right in the middle of the city. You also do have to be a bit flexible to match the homeowner’s schedule. However, overall, I would definitely recommend this as a way to see some new corners of the world while massively reducing your travel budget.” – Astrid Thornton
I stopped buying milk. “I stopped buying milk completely. There are a couple of reasons for this. I was having health problems at the time and was surprised to learn that conventional dairy had a lot of problems. Also, I discovered that many people with chronic illnesses or even hormonal problems get much better if they cut out dairy (or at least minimize it). Not all milk is bad, but the healthy kind was unavailable to me. (I basically would have had to raise a cow and milk it myself!) I still buy grass-fed butter to help my kids avoid cavities, but I have saved a lot over the years by not buying milk!” – Kristie
Throw away junk mail. “When retrieving the mail from the mailbox, do NOT walk back into the house with all of those catalogs, ads, and flyers to spend. Walk straight into your garage and proceed directly to your recycling bin and deposit all of the spending LURES into the bin.” – Donna Brophy
Only check out your Amazon cart once per week.“I am so guilty of making MULTIPLE Amazon purchases throughout the week, especially when insomnia hits at 3 am, and I find myself browsing Amazon. I now only check out ONCE per week. I add to my cart throughout the week but pick one day a week to sit down, evaluate my cart, and decide if I really need everything or if I can remove some of the impulse purchases.” – Kelly Anne Smith
Get discounted gift cards.“One of the ways I love to save money is by using my credit card points to triple-dip. Chase often offers discounted gift cards each month in their Ultimate Rewards Store. This allows you to redeem your points for a gift card but it ‘costs’ less points that it normally would. My favorite thing to do is to use my points to get Home Depot or Lowes cards when they’re being promoted for 10% fewer points. Using this strategy, I’m able to get $100 gift cards for $90 worth of credit card points. When my husband and I want to work on a project around our home, we use those gift cards to purchase items that are also on sale at the store to further boost our savings!” – Kristin Stones
I buy ETFs.“Most financial bloggers love ‘index and chill’ investing because it guarantees decent returns. Most fund managers can’t beat the benchmark anyways, so if you can’t beat ’em, join ’em, right? Well, in my taxable brokerage account, I level up my savings even more by making sure that whenever an index fund has an exchange-traded fund (ETF) version and a mutual fund version, I buy the ETF. Why? The short version: ETFs don’t generate as many ‘taxable events’ as mutual funds, so if all else is equal – the funds are built the same way – the ETF version of an index fund will cost me less in taxes than the mutual fund version. And money saved is money earned.” – Riley Adams
Save $200 in a mutual fund every month, no matter what. “We save $100 every two weeks from one paycheck totaling $200 a month. Though it might not seem like much, it is adding up. My husband and I started doing this together ten years ago. If we have more to save, we do. It has been an easy way to accumulate wealth we don’t have to think much about. We have a financial adviser select the best funds based on our level of risk. Pretending like we don’t have the money is an easy way to save money!” – Ashlee Fechino
Start using your credit card smartly.“When I was 25, I was against using credit cards but one day I started reading about the rewards and discounts I can avail on it. Since then, I realised how much you can save with these cards. The only caution – be responsible. I started using credit cards to pay for most things to gather points. I was able to fill a full tank of fuel almost 2-3 times a year which took care of my road trips. Similarly, we’re planning to use the rewards on our next luxury stay at Oberoi. At the points we have collected, we’ll get almost a $100-$120 discount. Besides this, I’ve also used offers on it. For example, we recently watched Top Gun. On a Citibank card, we had a ticket free on purchase of one ticket. This helped us save money and we were able to spend that on food instead.” – Chhavi Agarwal
Purchase discounted gift cards on Raise. “One of my favorite hacks to save money is to buy discounted gift cards from Gift Card Granny or Raise. You can often purchase gift cards for more popular retailers for a few percent discount; however in some specialty stores, you can save 10 percent or more. Additionally, you can stack discounted gift cards with coupon codes and/or cash back apps. With a little bit of strategic planning it’s not uncommon to save 6 percent or more on your purchase. It might not sound like a lot, but dollars are the sons of pennies, small bits add up over time. My son needed a new Xbox controller, so we purchased a digital gift card from Raise at a 6 percent discount which we were able to combine with 5% percent cash back from Rakuten. Combined we saved over ten percent, and with prices constantly rising every little bit helps.” – Michael Dinich
Restrict access to funds.“As someone who tends to spend readily available funds, I have found that keeping money in limited or no-access accounts helps greatly. I have a fixed savings account where the bulk of my savings goes until a predetermined time. I also have a flexible savings account I can fall back on if I run out of disposable funds. Here’s a breakdown of my accounts to facilitate saving: 1) A disposable account for paying bills and miscellaneous spending. 2) Accessible savings account for saving and backup funds. 3) And a fixed savings account with no access to funds. Keeping these three accounts has helped me organize my spending and improve my saving habits. Since it works for me, I’m confident it might work for you too.” – Jude Uchella
Save money while traveling.“My family and I have been able to save hundreds/thousands of pounds (or dollars) since the summer by house and pet sitting. We only say in houses we really like and in areas we want to explore/travel to. These are houses we would have booked as airbnb, but now stay in them for free saving us thousands. We’ve spent the last 5 weeks in luxury homes for free and have more homes scheduled for the rest of the year. With this, there is no need to pay for accommodation when traveling and you can find a house to sit literally all over the world. You can run a quick google search for local house sitting opportunities, or join larger international services like https://www.trustedhousesitters.com/” – Eunice Asante
Earn bonus money on your emergency fund. “I safely earn over $3,000 yearly by strategically signing up for bank bonuses and depositing my emergency funds in that bank. The ROI for only a few minutes of work is high, and my emergency funds are earning 8-10% FDIC insured with no risk. Banks routinely offer a bonus to open new accounts and have attractive promotions such as ‘deposit $5,000 and get $1,500 bonus in 3 months.’ Your local credit unions to larger National banks like Chase, Citi, and Wells Fargo offer these bonuses. You can switch to another bank (to earn the next bonus) as soon as the promo period (3 to 6 months) is over.” – John Dealbreuin
Save money on your wedding.“Seek out alternatives to the standard products and services you’d use for events such as a wedding. Instead of going with a traditional wedding-specific option, if you can find comparable services or products from a more general supplier, you will likely save money! For example, instead of hiring a professional to arrange flowers, you could opt for faux flowers for your wedding bouquets. Doing things yourself is also an option, especially if you have more time than money to spend!” – Jessica Bishop
What do you do to save money? Which of the tips above is your favorite?
Have you rearranged your furniture countless times in an attempt to create a comfortable and inviting living room in a small space? The good news is that, with a bit of ingenuity, you can enjoy the living room of your dreams regardless of size. From bright and eclectic to minimalist and warm, you can incorporate many of today’s design trends into a small living room.
The most important aspect of creating a space you love is ensuring it aligns with your vision and lifestyle. As Billy Baldwin, an icon in interior design, said, “Be faithful to your own taste because nothing you really like is ever out of style.”
Whether using decor tricks to create the illusion of a larger room or designing a cozy space for relaxation and entertainment, these apartment small living room ideas can take you there.
Let’s explore the many ways to make your small space shine!
1. Furniture to fill your space
While it may seem contrary, integrating larger furniture, such as a sectional, can make the room appear more expansive. The key is choosing a color that blends in with the walls and opting for low-level, armless pieces. Another innovative option is selecting a couch with raised legs, creating a sense of space.
From there, carefully consider each piece of furniture, enhancing negative space while ensuring a living room designed for your lifestyle. Do you need a side table? Would nesting tables work as coffee tables and double as side tables when friends are over? Placing furniture in a close, conversational layout creates a cozy atmosphere for entertaining.
2. Cleverly placed mirrors
The strategic use of mirrors is one of the best techniques for making rooms look bigger. Placing a large, beautiful mirror opposite windows brings in more natural light and brightens the entire room. Unless you’re going for a vintage look, simpler frames are generally a better choice when creating a sense of spaciousness.
You can also add dimension and atmosphere by placing a mirror close to a light source, like a table lamp or candle. Even mirrored furniture, such as a side table, reflects light, contributing to the illusion of more space. You can also go big with mirror panels. According to Architectural Digest, mirrored walls are in, yet again.
3. Color to the rescue
Image Source: Rent. / Bahama Bay
You’ve probably heard that painting walls white creates the illusion of a bigger room. Any lighter color, however, such as soft neutrals and pastels, can have the same effect. You can even go bold if you stick to a limited palette.
From natural wood tones to deep greens or blues, rich hues offer a cozy, enveloping feeling, and complementary shades provide a cohesive look that can make a room look bigger.
If your rental agreement doesn’t allow painting, you can still add bursts of color with pillows, throws and artwork. One large painting creates a focal point, drawing the eyes upward while adding intrigue and contrast. Add a sizeable color-coordinated area rug big enough for all your furnishings to sit on, and you have the anchor that ties the room together. Need some inspiration? Check out these popular paint colors and decorating styles that range from art deco to bohemian and Japandi.
4. Lightweight window coverings
Floor-to-ceiling window coverings add height and dimension but can make a room look smaller when made of heavy material. On the other hand, sheer fabrics provide a light and airy feeling while letting natural light infuse the room.
5. Layers of light
While layered lighting is important in every room, this approach is particularly critical in small spaces. It combines ambient, task and accent lighting, drawing your attention to specific features while creating depth and intrigue.
Consider wall sconces, hanging pendant lights and strategically placed lamps. LED strips under shelving provide light from an unseen source, setting the mood by changing colors with one touch of a button.
6. Go vertical
Are you having trouble finding space for your bookcase and much-loved artwork? Consider a shelf at a height you can just reach that encircles the room.
This shelf can appear to float when painted the same color as the walls. Deliberately placed books, plants and artwork offer texture and functionality while drawing the eyes upward and making the room appear larger.
7. Purposeful living
A small living room gives you the opportunity to embrace purposeful living. One way to achieve this is ensuring large pieces provide multi-functionality. An ottoman can double as a coffee table, hidden storage space and a footrest. A bench may offer storage for blankets. There are even bookcases with fold-down tables you can use as a desk.
8. Pay attention to the corners
Image Source: RENT. / THE LINK
Adding houseplants, a beautiful lamp or strategic shelving to a few corners brings attention to every area, making your living room seem bigger. Not only do plants enhance your living space, but several studies show they also improve air quality, boost productivity and even reduce stress.
Some good options for darker corners include peace lilies, Boston ferns, philodendrons and spider plants. With indirect light, lush parlor palms and monstera plants can fill a corner.
9. Clutter-free
Marie Kondo, developer of the KonMari Method for decluttering and star of two Netflix series, suggests that “Life truly begins only after you have put your house in order.” Tidying also creates a minimalist, clutter-free zone that does wonders for increasing a sense of space. Consider a few baskets or decorative boxes to hide remotes and other random items.
10. Bring the outdoors in
Image Source: APARTMENT GUIDE / MAA Gardens
Natural light offers many gifts, including reduced energy usage and improved sleep. It also makes a space feel more expansive and filled with life. Installing a curtain pole extending past the windows allows you to draw curtains fully back, revealing more light and making your windows appear wider.
11. A space for book lovers
Creating a cozy reading nook is often a top priority for book lovers. Fortunately, a window seat or corner chair with a soft blanket and throw pillows is often all it takes. Add a wall sconce or pendant light that saves space, and enjoy.
Are you ready to create a comfortable, more spacious living room where you relax with friends and family? Use these design tips to steer you in the right direction.
Still looking for your own cozy space to decorate? Start here.
When it comes to making a house a home, an often overlooked design secret is house plants! They truly do enliven a space, pun intended! And if there’s anyone who knows a thing or two about plants it’s Urban Jungle blogger extraordinaire, Igor of Happy Interior Blog. Igor has been a breath of fresh air from the moment he came on the design blogging scene. His casual European aesthetic is so inviting. I want to just move right into every space he showcases. Igor has also proven to be quite the savant when it comes to plants. I’ve somehow managed to keep two fiddle leaf figs and now a bevy of snake plants alive for over year, but when we move into the house I’m really going to have to step up my plant-life game. Thankfully Igor is willing to share some of his plant-whispering secrets with us today!
From Igor: Moving into a new place is exciting but it can be a tad scary too. It is like the beginning of an art piece where the artist finds himself in front of a gaping void. The empty canvas – as much as it offers a chance to create something unique and remarkable, it also carries the threat of failure and discontent. However, for us interior design loving peeps, this empty canvas is more of a chance than a threat, right? One easy way to bring life into a room and succeed for sure is by adding plants.
Plants have that unmistakable power to infuse life to any room. The dash of fresh green, the thriving power, the benefits for a healthy environment as well as their decorative abilities make them a popular choice for decorators and people who want to live healthy and stylish.
Choosing plants for a room can be challenging but it can be made much easier by simply considering a few points:
> Is your room well lit or rather shady? Choose your plants accordingly by picking either plants who love full sunlight or plants that thrive in shade or semi-shade like a rubber plant or a calathea.
> Is your room spacious or rather small? Choose either large statement plants or opt for small greens that you can group together. If your space is very limited think of a hanging plant instead.
> Are you easy going with plant care or does it scare you a bit? Here again, choose plants according to your preferences and lifestyle. Opt for low-maintenance plants like cacti, succulents or a philodendron if you do not want to turn into a plant mama. If you like to care for your plants and see them thrive happily ever after, go for any kind of plant that will make you happy.
Find the perfect plant friends for the new/old house is going to be quite fun. I see a ginormous fiddle leaf in my future, but who knows? Maybe I’ll throw a curve ball and do a banana leaf palm instead!
Curious how to care for your fiddle leaf fig tree? CLICK HERE! And the rest of our favorite plant tips are HERE and HERE.
Image 1 via Line Klein // 2 via Cotton and Flax // 3 via Lobster & Swan
Have you rearranged your furniture countless times in an attempt to create a comfortable and inviting living room in a small space? The good news is that, with a bit of ingenuity, you can enjoy the living room of your dreams regardless of size. From bright and eclectic to minimalist and warm, you can incorporate many of today’s design trends into a small living room using our collection of small living room ideas.
The most important aspect of creating a space you love is ensuring it aligns with your vision and lifestyle. As Billy Baldwin, an icon in interior design, said, “Be faithful to your own taste because nothing you really like is ever out of style.”
Whether using decor tricks to create the illusion of a larger room or designing a cozy space for relaxation and entertainment, these apartment small living room ideas can take you there.
Let’s explore the many ways to make your small space shine!
1. Furniture to fill your space
While it may seem contrary, integrating larger furniture, such as a sectional, can make the room appear more expansive. The key is choosing a color that blends in with the walls and opting for low-level, armless pieces. Another innovative option is selecting a couch with raised legs, creating a sense of space.
From there, carefully consider each piece of furniture, enhancing negative space while ensuring a living room designed for your lifestyle. Do you need a side table? Would nesting tables work as coffee tables and double as side tables when friends are over? Placing furniture in a close, conversational layout creates a cozy atmosphere for entertaining.
2. Cleverly placed mirrors
The strategic use of mirrors is one of the best techniques for making rooms look bigger. Placing a large, beautiful mirror opposite windows brings in more natural light and brightens the entire room. Unless you’re going for a vintage look, simpler frames are generally a better choice when creating a sense of spaciousness.
You can also add dimension and atmosphere by placing a mirror close to a light source, like a table lamp or candle. Even mirrored furniture, such as a side table, reflects light, contributing to the illusion of more space. You can also go big with mirror panels. According to Architectural Digest, mirrored walls are in, yet again.
3. Color to the rescue
Image Source: Rent. / Bahama Bay
You’ve probably heard that painting walls white creates the illusion of a bigger room. Any lighter color, however, such as soft neutrals and pastels, can have the same effect. You can even go bold if you stick to a limited palette.
From natural wood tones to deep greens or blues, rich hues offer a cozy, enveloping feeling, and complementary shades provide a cohesive look that can make a room look bigger.
If your rental agreement doesn’t allow painting, you can still add bursts of color with pillows, throws and artwork. One large painting creates a focal point, drawing the eyes upward while adding intrigue and contrast. Add a sizeable color-coordinated area rug big enough for all your furnishings to sit on, and you have the anchor that ties the room together. Need some inspiration? Check out these popular paint colors and decorating styles that range from art deco to bohemian and Japandi.
4. Lightweight window coverings
Floor-to-ceiling window coverings add height and dimension but can make a room look smaller when made of heavy material. On the other hand, sheer fabrics provide a light and airy feeling while letting natural light infuse the room.
5. Layers of light
While layered lighting is important in every room, this approach is particularly critical in small spaces. It combines ambient, task and accent lighting, drawing your attention to specific features while creating depth and intrigue.
Consider wall sconces, hanging pendant lights and strategically placed lamps. LED strips under shelving provide light from an unseen source, setting the mood by changing colors with one touch of a button.
6. Go vertical
Are you having trouble finding space for your bookcase and much-loved artwork? Consider a shelf at a height you can just reach that encircles the room.
This shelf can appear to float when painted the same color as the walls. Deliberately placed books, plants and artwork offer texture and functionality while drawing the eyes upward and making the room appear larger.
7. Purposeful living
A small living room gives you the opportunity to embrace purposeful living. One way to achieve this is ensuring large pieces provide multi-functionality. An ottoman can double as a coffee table, hidden storage space and a footrest. A bench may offer storage for blankets. There are even bookcases with fold-down tables you can use as a desk.
8. Pay attention to the corners
Image Source: Rent. / The Link
Adding houseplants, a beautiful lamp or strategic shelving to a few corners brings attention to every area, making your living room seem bigger. Not only do plants enhance your living space, but several studies show they also improve air quality, boost productivity and even reduce stress.
Some good options for darker corners include peace lilies, Boston ferns, philodendrons and spider plants. With indirect light, lush parlor palms and monstera plants can fill a corner.
9. Clutter-free
Marie Kondo, developer of the KonMari Method for decluttering and star of two Netflix series, suggests that “Life truly begins only after you have put your house in order.” Tidying also creates a minimalist, clutter-free zone that does wonders for increasing a sense of space. Consider a few baskets or decorative boxes to hide remotes and other random items.
10. Bring the outdoors in
Image Source: Apartment Guide / MAA Gardens
Natural light offers many gifts, including reduced energy usage and improved sleep. It also makes a space feel more expansive and filled with life. Installing a curtain pole extending past the windows allows you to draw curtains fully back, revealing more light and making your windows appear wider.
11. A space for book lovers
Creating a cozy reading nook is often a top priority for book lovers. Fortunately, a window seat or corner chair with a soft blanket and throw pillows is often all it takes. Add a wall sconce or pendant light that saves space, and enjoy.
Are you ready to create a comfortable, more spacious living room where you relax with friends and family? Use these design tips to steer you in the right direction.
Still looking for your own cozy space to decorate? Start here.
While a major renovation project can set you back tens of thousands of dollars, there are way more affordable ways to give your home a new look.
See Our List: 100 Most Influential Money Experts Read: How To Build Your Savings From Scratch
Here are some ideas for upgrading your home that will cost just $20 or less.
Invest in New Decor and Accessories
“Whether it’s using books for decor or finding a new art piece, accessories can make a [room] feel totally new,” said Yasmine El Sanyoura, home designer at Opendoor.
You can find affordable home decor at places like Target and HomeGoods.
Know: 5 Brand-New Items at Dollar Tree That Cost Way More at Target Costco’s Best Deals? Employee Reveals 10 Standout Buys for Your Money
Rearrange Your Furniture
Moving around the layout of your furniture can instantly make a room look and feel different, and this is an upgrade you can make at no cost.
Take Our Poll: Are You Planning To Buy or Sell a House This Year?
Change Out Your Throw Pillows
Switching out your throw pillows can give your living room or bedroom a new look.
“Throw pillows are magical,” said Lisa Modica, interior designer and owner of Cherry Tree Interior Design. “Grab some in a few colors and patterns that match your color palette in your room, fluff them on your sofas and chairs, and you’re set.”
DIY Art
If you’re artistically inclined, consider painting a mural on a blank wall or DIYing your own canvas art. You can find plenty of inspiration on places like Pinterest.
Opt for Thrifted Furniture
Thrifted furniture can be pricey, but you can also find gently used furniture that people are giving away for free. Check places like Craigslist and Facebook Marketplace for furniture steals.
“When you’re shopping for used furniture, there are a few things to keep in mind,” said Dan Wiener, founder of Homedude. “First, make sure the furniture is in good condition. Second, make sure the furniture is the right size for your room. Third, make sure the price is right. And fourth, make sure the style of the furniture matches your home décor. Often, gently used furniture can be found at a fraction of the price of new furniture.”
Add a Chic Throw Blanket
Throw blankets instantly add warmth and dimension to a room. You can find affordable throws at Walmart and Target.
Save More: 8 Items To Stop Buying at Grocery Stores If You Want To Save Money
Bring in Some Greenery
“Plants are an inexpensive way to upgrade your living spaces,” said Stefan Bucur, founder of The Rhythm of the Home. “They add fresh greenery and a lively presence.”
You can find small- to medium-sized houseplants at affordable prices at places like Trader Joe’s and Home Depot. Faux greenery is often even cheaper, and you can find small fake plants for $20 or less at Target.
Declutter and Organize
A thorough decluttering session can make a space look refreshed, and it doesn’t cost a thing.
“A cluttered area always looks less impressive than an organized area,” Bucur said.
Restyle Your Bookshelf
Bookshelves can make a statement — or they can just look messy. Consider restyling your bookshelf by arranging books by color, and adding small affordable decorative pieces to tie everything together.
More From GOBankingRates
This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 9 Easy Ways To Update Your Home for $20 or Less
Images of devastation emerged after the Japanese earthquake and tsunami. We watched water sweep away vehicles and houses; we saw stunned men and weeping women in the ruins. But we also heard about survivors whose homes weren’t flattened or inundated, people who subsisted on stockpiled food and water while waiting for help. Living on the “Ring of Fire” means temblors and tidal waves are a fact of life — and so is disaster preparedness.
We need to be prepared, too. The Department of Homeland Security’s Ready America program says we should be able to sustain ourselves for at least three days after an emergency, whether that’s a hundred-year storm or a civil insurrection. How ready are you?
Right now, before anything bad happens, is the time to build your emergency kit — and you can do it on a budget. In fact, you probably already have some (or a lot) of what you need.
The (Sometimes Icky) Basics
During those three days you need to be fed, hydrated and sheltered. You also need a place to poop.
Yeah, that’s gross. You know what else is gross? The idea of everyone in your apartment building or subdivision yelling “Gardyloo!” and flinging slops out the window. Cholera epidemic, anyone?
When I was a kid, predictions of bad weather had us filling bathtub and buckets. That’s because if we lost power we lost our well pump, i.e., no way to flush the toilets. That’s still the first line of short-term defense; if you have any warning, stash yourself some water.
When that’s gone you’ll need at least one large container into which everyone can evacuate. Maybe a repurposed five-gallon detergent, paint or pet-litter bucket? If you don’t have one:
It’s possible to buy a toilet seat that snaps onto a bucket, which makes things easier. Or buy a prefab one (search online for “bucket toilet”) for $20 or less. Decide now where you’ll put your temporary toilet. The garage? The back porch? Maybe even in the actual bathroom? Anywhere but the place where you plan to eat and sleep. Trust me on this.
Ready for an overshare? Here’s how I’d handle disposal if the you-know-what hits the fan here in Seattle:
Use the bucket (in a former life, it held detergent)
Put soiled paper into a garbage bag (and tie it really tightly between uses)
Flush the contents of each, little by little, once the emergency has abated
Please do not do your business in the condo-complex yard, no matter how much fun it is to pee outdoors.
Important: You’ll want a bottle of hand sanitizer close to the bucket. Really close. E. coli is nothing to fool with.
Food and Drink
Ready America recommends one gallon of water per person per day. It’s easy to buy bottled water but much cheaper to fill up two-liter soda bottles, or inexpensive pitchers or jugs. (Don’t drink soda? Surely someone you know does.)
Refill the containers every few months; mark it on the calendar so you don’t forget. Don’t just dump the old water, though. Use it in some way, such as:
Watering houseplants or your garden
Bathing (add hot water unless you like your tub-time tepid)
Cooking
Filling pet dishes
Doing hand laundry
Washing vegetables or fruit
When it comes to emergency rations, you can go as stripped-down or as fancy as you like. But it must be something you’d eat anyway, because you’ll need to rotate and replace your stock. If an earthquake happens six years from now, do you want to be eating 2011 ramen?
Some obvious choices:
Canned beans, stews, soups, fruits, vegetables, meats and/or fish
Protein bars, granola bars, dried fruit
Powdered milk and cereal
Peanut butter or other nut butters
Crackers or pilot bread; I recommend the latter, because it lasts for-freakin’-ever
Note: For more on pilot bread, see this funny video from The Anchorage Daily News.
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Then watch a second, even funnier video from the same source.
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If you’ll have a way to heat water, consider a few instant soups or other dehydrated foods such as hummus or bean dip. Flavored noodle cups/bowls do go on sale; check Asian markets for the best selection. Hot drinks are both warming and soothing, so stock up on bouillon cubes, teabags, instant coffee and hot chocolate mix.
Survival Shopping at Bargain Prices
The camping section of your local sporting-goods stores has quite a selection of dehydrated meals. So do online stores that sell survival/disaster preparedness supplies. But I’m focusing on inexpensive ways to prepare.
So watch for sales and use coupons and/or rebates when possible. A few of my better supermarket deals: envelopes of pre-drained tuna for free, granola bars for a penny each, cocoa mix for 5 cents per serving, a large bag of M&Ms for 50 cents, 12 ounces of peanuts for 69 cents.
Olives, marinated veggies, sun-dried tomatoes and other fancy foodstuffs from the dollar store will liven up your basic grub. After two days of PBJs and canned beans, a few pickled vegetable will taste like manna.
The dollar store has cheap bandages and rubbing alcohol, too. So do places like CVS, Walgreens and Rite Aid; I’ve obtained baby wipes (aka “shower in a pouch”), hand sanitizer, analgesics, energy bars, crackers and batteries free or nearly free thanks to rebate programs at those stores.
About those batteries: Aim for at least one flashlight per room. Hand-cranked flashlights (and radios) don’t need batteries. If you can’t afford one right now, put it on your wish list; maybe Great-Aunt Irene will give you that instead of a cheese log next Christmas.
If you must use candles, select votive-type ones and set them inside wide-mouthed jars, placed in areas where no one can accidentally knock them down. Buy the votives for pennies at post-holiday clearance sales. Those sales are also good for cheap paper plates and bowls — not eco-friendly but really useful if you can’t do dishes for days.
Layering is essential in cool or cold temperatures. Watch for thermal underwear, wool pants and other useful items on Craigslist/Freecycle or at yard sales. I bought polypropylene longhandles and a down vest at a thrift store. Make sure everyone has a stocking cap, too.
Look around your house to see how much of this stuff you already own. Most of us at least have sweaters or sweatshirts. If you’re not in a super-cold area, a comforter might double as a sleeping bag. A hibachi could substitute for a bottled-gas camp stove — but remember you can use these things outdoors only, because carbon monoxide is deadly.
Miscellaneous Tips
You can’t truly be ready for a disaster. It’s always stressful and often terrifying. However, you can at least be prepared. Here are a few more items to keep in mind:
Learn the location of your local/regional emergency shelter, just in case.
Keep a cache of cash — smalls bills and coins — on hand. No power means no debit or credit if you do find a store that’s open.
Put supplies where you can get at them easily, not down in the crawlspace or up in the rafters.
Wheeled garbage cans make great storage: Your items will be protected and movable. Label each one so you can find what you need, fast.
Water left over after making tea? Don’t let it get cold again — pour it into a thermos.
You’ll want basic first-aid supplies, including an anti-diarrheal medication. Many of these items can also be bought cheaply or free with those drugstore rebates.
On maintenance meds? Get in the habit of refilling as soon as you’re allowed, i.e., don’t wait until you take your last pill to call it in.
Choose no-salt canned vegetables. Not only are they healthier, you can use the drained-off liquid to dilute canned soup. Save the syrup from canned fruits, too, to sip for quick energy, settle an upset stomach or sweeten a cup of tea.
Don’t forget pet food and litter. Factor in extra water for Fido and Fluffy, too.
Have some playing cards or small games that everyone can play. I suggest Mad Libs.
Make sure you have a manual can opener. You’ll feel darned stupid asking to borrow a neighbor’s.
How about it, readers: Any ideas for getting ready without breaking the bank?
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Inside: This guide provides tips on frugal home must haves, so you can save money and live responsibly, while also enjoying a healthy environment and good health.
Are you looking for ways to save money and still have a clean and organized home?
If so, you are in the right place. In this blog post, I am going to share with you frugal home must haves that will help you save money.
But before we get started, let me ask you a question:
Do you ever feel like your home is a never-ending cycle of cleaning and organizing? That you use products that are for one use only and know there are better products out there.
If so, you are not alone. Most people feel this way at some point in their lives.
The good news is that there are ways to save money and start to incorporate bits and pieces of a frugal lifestyle into your life.
So, without further ado, here are 19 frugal home must-haves to help you save money:
What is frugality?
Frugality is the practice of being very intentional with your spending, prioritizing the things that matter the most to you, and cutting back on spending in other areas.
It doesn’t necessarily mean sacrificing your favorite brand of cereal, living without napkins, or giving up on adventurous vacations. Instead, frugality is about making smart money choices and learning to live below your means.
It is not the same as being cheap, which involves saving money at the expense of others.
Rather, being frugal means being economical with your money, making it stretch further so you can do more with less.
Frugal living is a journey, not a destination, and it starts with creating a budget that you can live with and looking for ways to save money.
What are the most frugal must-haves for a home?
The most important frugal must haves for you are those that save you money and time.
As such, what you value the most will differ from me. However, there are some basic underlying frugal items that every house needs. So, we will cover those bloew.
More importantly, more individuals are looking to become frugal green to save the environment as well as money.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
best frugal home must-haves for saving money
Home is where the heart is, and we want our homes to be clean, organized, and comfortable without spending a fortune.
However, sometimes it can be tough to keep up with everything – especially on a budget.
Here are 19 frugal home must-haves that will help you save money and make your life easier!
1. Microfiber Cloths
Microfiber cloths are a frugal home must-have for saving money. Yep, I drive my mother-in-law crazy because I do not use paper towels.
They are cost-effective as compared to disposable cleaning supplies and can be used for various cleaning tasks around the house. They are more effective than cotton cloths as they rarely leave smears and dry as they wipe.
Plus, microfiber cloths can be color-coded for different cleaning tasks. To ensure their effectiveness and longevity, microfiber cloths should be washed separately from other laundry and should not be washed with fabric softeners or bleach.
2. Drying Rack
Owning a drying rack can be a smart investment for those looking to save money and energy in the long run. There are many types of drying racks available, from outdoor rotary clotheslines to indoor airers.
Personally, we use our drying rack ALL.THE.TIME!
Plus, using a drying rack is an eco-friendly alternative to using a dryer, which can reduce your carbon footprint and help you live a more sustainable lifestyle.
This is the drying rack we personally own and love.
3. Instant Pot or Crock Pot
Move over crockpot, the Instant Pot is the hottest trend to stay! I’ll admit I was hesitant about owning an instant pot, but have decided it was well worth the investment for our frugal home.
An instant pot is a frugal must-have for any home looking to save money while still enjoying delicious meals. It is perfect for busy people who want to come home to a warm meal without the hassle of cooking.
Instant pots are not just about cooking one meal; they are perfect for batch-cooking frugal meals. This allows you to cook multiple meals in one go, freezing the extra for another day.
You can also use cheaper cuts of meat and tenderize them in the instant pot. Some examples of meals that can be made in a crock pot include soups, stews, chilis, and even whole chicken for homemade stock.
An instant pot is an efficient and cost-effective way to enjoy home-cooked meals without breaking the bank.
Here is the instant pot / air fryer combe we personally own.
4. Reusable Grocery Bags
Many states, including ours, now charge 10 cents per bag when checking out at any store!
By bringing your own bags, you can avoid the extra fees charged for plastic bags at many stores.
Additionally, reusable bags are sturdier and can hold more items, reducing the need for multiple bags.
Switching to reusable bags also helps reduce plastic waste, which is harmful to the environment. So, invest in some reusable bags and make a positive impact on your wallet and the planet.
5. Beeswax Wraps
Beeswax wraps are a fantastic frugal and eco-friendly alternative to plastic wraps.
Made from organic cotton and covered in beeswax, they are versatile and come in various sizes. They can replace both cling film and foil, lasting for a long time as long as they are not washed in hot water or put in the microwave.
These wraps can save money in the long run as they are reusable and can be used for a variety of purposes, from wrapping bread to covering bowls.
To care for them, wash them in cool soapy water and avoid hot water or the microwave. With beeswax wraps, you can be frugal and eco-friendly at the same time!
6. Charging Stations To Reduce Energy
Standby losses refer to the energy consumed by electronic devices even when they are turned off but still plugged in. For instance, a TV on standby mode, a phone charger left plugged in, or a coffee maker are all examples of appliances that contribute to standby losses.
These losses can significantly impact your energy bill and add up over time.
However, there are practical ways to reduce standby losses and save money.
Use an energy-efficient power strip to plug in multiple devices and switch them off in one go.
Invest in a “smart” power strip that automatically turns off devices when they are not in use.
By taking these steps, you can reduce standby losses and save money on your energy bills.
7. Glass Jars
Glass jars are incredibly versatile and can be used for storing everything.
Using glass jars is also cost-effective since they can be reused over and over again.
With their airtight seals, they are perfect for storing food items, and their clear glass makes it easy to see what’s inside. They are also great for organizing small items like pens, hair bands, and cut flowers.
Overall, using glass jars is an easy way to save money while keeping your home clean and organized.
8. Hot Tea Maker Electric Glass Kettle
This is the updated version of the traditional teapot due to its durability, versatility, and cost-effectiveness.
It can be used to make a large amount of tea at once, making it perfect for entertaining guests or for daily use.
Additionally, it is a one-time investment that can last for years, which saves money in the long run.
Also, by using loose tea leaves instead of tea bags, you can also save money and reduce waste.
9. Coffee Pot
If you’re a coffee lover, you know how quickly buying coffee on a daily basis can add up and become a significant expense.
However, there is a simple solution to this problem – investing in a coffee pot you love.
By brewing your coffee at home, you can save several dollars each week, which can add up to a considerable amount over time.
Moreover, if you’re someone who enjoys lattes, there are coffee pots available that can make lattes at home. This means that you don’t have to spend a fortune on lattes from coffee shops or cafes.
With a good coffee maker, you can enjoy the great taste of coffee at home while saving money.
If you invest in a single-use coffee maker, then make sure you are using reusable K-cups.
10. Laundry Bags
Seriously, this was the greatest idea I found out from a baseball mom. Never worry about mixing up clothes between family members again!
By using laundry bags, you prevent clothes from getting lost or mixed up in the wash, and can also help prolong the life of delicate fabrics.
To care for your laundry bags, simply toss them in the washing machine with your laundry and air dry.
11. Baking Soda
Baking soda is a frugal home must-have that can be used for cleaning and organizing your home in many ways.
It is a multipurpose cleaner and deodorizer that can be used to clean surfaces, carpets, laundry, even fruits and vegetables.
By mixing baking soda with water, you can create a paste that can be used to clean almost everything. It can also be used to deodorize your refrigerator, carpets, and shoes. Additionally, you can sprinkle baking soda on your mattress and vacuum it up to remove odors.
Overall, baking soda is a versatile and inexpensive household item that can help you keep your home clean and fresh.
12. Vinegar
Vinegar is an incredibly versatile and cost-effective must-have for any frugal home. It can be used for cleaning and organizing in a variety of ways.
Vinegar is effective in removing stains, cleaning surfaces, and freshening up the home. It is also safe to use around children and pets, making it a great alternative to harsh chemical cleaners.
For cleaning surfaces, vinegar can be mixed with water and used to clean windows, mirrors, and countertops. It can also be used to remove stains from carpets and clothing. In addition, vinegar can be used to freshen up the home by adding a few drops to a diffuser or spraying it in the air.
To incorporate vinegar into daily cleaning routines, it can be added to a spray bottle with water and used to clean surfaces as needed. It can also be used as a natural fabric softener in the laundry by adding a cup to the rinse cycle.
When using vinegar, it should not be used on certain surfaces such as marble or granite as it can cause damage.
13. Reusable Water Bottles
Using reusable water bottles is an important step towards a more frugal and eco-friendly lifestyle.
It can save money by eliminating the need to buy single-use plastic water bottles, and it also helps reduce waste and pollution.
When choosing a reusable water bottle, look for one with a filter to ensure fresh water anytime, anywhere.
Opt for bottles made from durable and non-toxic materials such as stainless steel or glass.
Keeping a reusable water bottle also promotes healthy hydration habits.
14. A Large Freezer
A large freezer in your home is a frugal must-have for many reasons.
Not only does it provide money-saving opportunities by allowing you to stockpile food on a budget and freeze extra portions from batch cooking, but it also helps you take advantage of great deals you find at the store.
With a well-stocked freezer, you can shop your stock first and freeze nearly everything you buy for later use.
Additionally, having a large freezer can help you save on your electricity bill by allowing you to fill it up to two-thirds capacity, which makes it more efficient.
Also, you may want to purchase this freezer lock to make sure it stays closed.
15. Reusable Food Storage Containers
Using reusable food storage containers like BPA-free plastic or glass containers is an effective way to reduce waste and promote eco-friendly living.
BPA-free plastic containers are ideal for those who have limited space for storage and prefer lightweight and durable containers. They are freezer, microwave, and steamer safe, making them perfect for storing and reheating various types of food.
On the other hand, glass containers are an excellent alternative to plastic containers. They are incredibly environmentally friendly and can be reused over and over again, making them an indispensable tool in your quest for simple and frugal home living.
Since they are also reusable, saving you money in the long run. You only need a few of them for your daily use.
16. Reusable Food Bags
Reusable food bags are a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and be more eco-friendly in your daily life. These bags are made from BPA-free materials and are designed to be used over and over again, making them a great alternative to single-use plastic bags.
Here are the benefits of reusable food bags:
Versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes as they are freezer, microwave, and steamer safe, making them perfect for storing, heating, and cooking food.
Perfect for packing lunches and snacks, as they are lightweight and easy to carry.
Durable and long-lasting.
Ability to use them again and again, reducing the amount of waste that you produce.
Unlike plastic bags, which can easily tear or break, these bags are made from sturdy materials that can withstand daily use.
While the initial cost of these bags may be higher than that of plastic bags, they will pay for themselves over time as you won’t have to keep buying new bags. Plus, they are often sold in sets, so you can get multiple bags for a lower price.
17. Basic Toolkit for DIY Projects
A basic toolkit can be a valuable asset for homeowners as it can come in handy for simple home repairs and save money on professional services.
With the right tools and some DIY know-how, you can tackle many basic home repairs and maintenance tasks yourself, without having to hire a professional.
DIY tutorials are available online, and many of them are free. You can also attend community classes or evening courses at local colleges to learn DIY skills.
Also, you can look at sharing tools with neighbors or friends can help you save money and build a sense of community.
18. Storage Organization
Oh my goodness, there is no way I could manage without serious storage organization for our small house.
Thankfully, there are plenty of storage organization options to make sure you use optimal space in every single corner of your house.
Here are some of my favorite storage organization tricks:
19. Rotary Clothes Line
Owning a rotary clothesline is a must-have for frugal homeowners.
Not only is it a one-time cost that lasts for years, but it also helps save money on electricity bills as line drying reduces creases and eliminates the need for a dryer.
Additionally, a rotary clothesline takes up less space than a bulky dryer or indoor drying rack.
By using a rotary clothesline, you can enjoy the benefits of fresh, sun-dried laundry while saving money and space. It’s a win-win situation for both your wallet and your home.
20. Essential Oils
Essential oils can be used in a variety of ways, including for homemade beauty and cleaning products. For example, adding 15 drops of peppermint essential oil to a cup of baking soda can create a refreshing and invigorating scrub.
Essential oils can also be added to homemade shampoo and body wash recipes to provide a pleasant scent and potential therapeutic benefits. Some popular essential oils for these purposes include rosemary, lavender, and peppermint.
In addition to beauty and cleaning products, essential oils can also be used for aromatherapy purposes. Simply adding a few drops of essential oil to a diffuser or inhaling the scent directly can provide benefits such as stress relief and relaxation.
It’s important to note that essential oils should always be used with caution and according to their recommended guidelines, as they can be potent and may cause adverse reactions if not used correctly.
21. Rain Collector
Using a rain collector to water your vegetable garden is a great way to be eco-friendly and frugal at the same time.
This method can help you save money on your water bill and reduce your carbon footprint.
Rain collectors can be purchased for as little as $50 and provide a regular supply of free water throughout the year.
To use a rain collector for your vegetable garden, set it up in a location that is convenient for you to access and close to your garden. When it rains, the water will collect in the butt and be ready for use when you need it. You can use a watering can or attach a hose to the butt for easy watering.
Rainwater is especially good for watering vegetables because it is free of chemicals and additives that may be present in tap water.
22. Countertop Composter
A countertop composter is a great addition to a frugal home. It is a small, portable compost bin that can be kept on your kitchen counter, making it easy to compost food scraps and other organic waste.
By composting your food scraps, you can reduce the amount of waste that goes into landfills, which is not only good for the environment but also saves you money on garbage bags and waste disposal fees.
Countertop composters are available in various sizes and styles, so you can choose one that fits your needs and budget.
Some countertop composters are made of stainless steel or ceramic and have a sleek, modern look that blends in with your kitchen decor.
Others are made of plastic and have a more utilitarian design.
In addition to reducing waste and saving money, composting also produces nutrient-rich soil that can be used to fertilize your garden or houseplants. This can save you money on buying fertilizers and improve the health and productivity of your plants.
23. Knife Set
Having a good knife set is essential in a frugal home because it saves money in the long run. Yes, I have proof of this as I replace my 15-year-old knife under warranty.
Investing in an affordable yet durable set can be achieved by choosing stainless steel or high-carbon steel, which are both rust-resistant and long-lasting.
When choosing a set, consider the number of pieces you need and the type of knives required for your cooking needs.
To make your tools last longer, hand wash and dry them immediately after use, avoid using abrasive cleaners, and store them in a knife block or a drawer with dividers to prevent damage.
But, to be honest, these are the knife set I own and I put them in the dishwasher all the time.
24. Streaming Stick
If you haven’t upgraded to a smart TV yet, I understand you are frugal. Then, you need to invest in a streaming stick.
This simple device can help you lower your costs spent on cable while still streaming your favorite shows on Paramount, Hulu or YouTube.
Nowadays, you can expect to spend less than $50.
25. Soda Maker
This may seem like a splurge, but we, frugal people need a way to treat ourselves.
Having your own soda maker can be a great way to save money in the long run. While it may seem like an expensive investment at first, the cost of making your own soda (or seltzer) at home is significantly lower than constantly purchasing soda (or seltzer) from the store.
In fact, making soda at home can cost as little as 25 cents per liter, compared to the average cost of $1.50 per liter for store-bought soda.
Another cost-saving benefit of having your own soda maker is that you can control the ingredients. You can choose to make your soda with natural sweeteners like honey or stevia, rather than high fructose corn syrup, which is commonly found in store-bought soda. This not only saves you money in the long run, but it can also be a healthier option.
What are some good tips for living frugally?
Living frugally can be a great way to save money and achieve financial goals.
Here are some practical tips for living frugally that you can implement in your daily life:
Meal planning and home cooking can save money on food expenses. Brown bagging or oven lunch boxing your lunch is also a great way to save money. Learn how to be frugal with food.
Wash your laundry in cold water and use natural homemade cleaners to save on household expenses.
Create a budget that you can live with and look for areas where you can cut back on expenses. Pack your own lunch and cut back on entertainment costs.
Travel frugally by traveling during the off-season and cutting down on eating out. Opt for a place with a kitchen so you can make some of your own meals and purchase discounted airline tickets or fares.
Have fun for free by doing activities such as going to the park, having a picnic, or having a bonfire. There are so many things to do with no money.
Try out a few frugal living tips at a time to find out which works best for you and don’t forget to access free courses and worksheets to help with your frugal living journey.
Remember, frugal living doesn’t have to be a sacrifice and can actually help you fully enjoy what you care about in life.
Start taking small steps towards a more frugal lifestyle and see how it can positively impact your finances.
FAQ
There are many frugal home hacks that can help you save money and keep your home clean and organized.
Some practical and actionable tips include meal planning, home cooking, brown bagging your lunch, washing your laundry in cold water, and using natural homemade cleaners.
Before calling a handyman, consult YouTube to learn how to fix a leaky faucet or remodel your bathroom.
Examining your monthly bills for ways to save on electricity, water, cable, and even your cell phone can also help you save money.
By implementing these frugal hacks, you can make every penny and dollar count and stretch your budget further.
I always tell people to shop their own house first. Just because you don’t know where something is doesn’t mean you should go out and buy a new item.
Look around and see how you can reuse items.
Before heading out to the grocery store, look at your own pantry and freezer to see what you can use first.
Give these tips a try and see how much you can save!
Essential appliances and gadgets for a frugal, clean, and organized home include:
Which Frugal Home Ideas Will You Implement?
With a little bit of planning and effort, you can live frugally and still have a beautiful home.
One of the key points of frugality is buying quality items less often.
Too many times, people associate being frugal with cheap.
Being frugal means you are intentional with your spending on household items and prioritizing the things that matter most.
Plus, using frugal methods can be better for the environment and your health.
So what are you waiting for? Go out and buy some of these must-haves today!
Know someone else that needs this, too? Then, please share!!