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Christmas was expensive!
Even though I tried hard to be sensible … even frugal!
I really didn’t splurge.
But Christmas was still a major outlay.
Which means I really need to get thrifty in January.
Once the New Year celebrations are through I really need to focus on saving some money so that Christmas doesn’t become a debt to carry through the year.
Money saving is new to me
To be honest, I was a seriously late starter at this money saving game.
I was the classic spendthrift career girl who chucked money at every problem I hit.
Motherhood has been a money saving master class and a half!
I can’t believe how much money I used to waste on groceries, utilities and by failing to do even the most basic meal plan.
But one of the best ways I’ve learnt to save money quickly is to stop squirting out big dollops of everything without thinking and to just use less.
It sounds too simple to make a difference.
But I have found that by being careful about all the things we use day in, day out, I can save £10-£20 a week.
That means savings getting on for £1,000 a year without a massive effort to totally change our lifestyle!
Plus I found a daily focus on using less really changed my whole mindset.
I now instinctively notice when I’m wasting stuff which makes it easier and easier to save even more money throughout the year.
So if you’re looking for a simple way to kick start your money saving this year do give it a go.
To help you get started, this is my list of household stuff on which you can really save money if you JUST USE LESS!
Ways to save money by using less
- Clothes washing liquid / powder
- Fabric conditioner … everything is much softer if you use just a tiny drop!
- Washing up liquid
- Cleaning sprays
- Shower gel
- Toothpaste
- Meat … cut how much you use in each recipe by 15% no one will notice!
- Fish … as with meat!
- Cooking oil
- Butter
- Cheese
- Ice cream
- Pasta … waistlines really profit from smaller portions!
- Jam / honey etc
- Ketchup
- Fruit juice
- Foundation
- Face cream
- Hair conditioner
- Baby wipes
If these tips helped and you’re looking for more thrifty tips, read my very popular How To Slash Your Grocery Bill and How To Save Money On Family Food
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Luci is the founder of Mums Make Lists. She has written about all aspects of organising family life for ten years. Her main areas of expertise are family finance and budgeting, simplifying housekeeping and family admin and kids’ party planning. Read more.
housewifehowtos
Wednesday 27th of February 2013
Wonderful points you've made here! When it comes to soaps and detergents, we've all been brainwashed by the manufacturers to believe we need more. Well, of course they'd say that -- we have to buy more, then.
If you haven't already, I'd love if you'd come join my How To Tuesday link party, too.
http://housewifehowtos.com/link-party-2/how-to-tuesday-link-party-10/
Betsy Pool
Tuesday 26th of February 2013
Great reminder. Lately, I've because a little more minimalistic minded and trying to put that into practice. Thanks for linking up at Romance on a dime!!
Jessica @ Barefoot by the Sea
Monday 25th of February 2013
Great reminder - I definetely think we could all use less and stretch a bit more. I appreciate this post very much! New follower!www.barefootbysea.blogspot.comJessica
VMG206
Monday 25th of February 2013
Great idea! I'm going to try using less ~ inspiring!~ Megin of VMG206
Heather
Monday 25th of February 2013
This is a great reminder! We have to remember that most companies put the "recommended amount" so that we buy more of it - I think this is especially true of laundry detergent. I now make my own, and only need 2 spoonfuls to clean a full load.