Topic: helpful ideas that work or didn't

Kbug--

I also tried cheap dish liquid.  It was too watery and didn't hold up!

To save on electricity, I stop my dishwasher before the dry cycle.  I crack open the door and let them air dry.  It saves on electricity and actually the dishes dry better.

Lorrie 

I gotta try that one Lorrie, about the dishwasher.

I turn the heat down and pile on the blankets.

We recycle out bottles and other plastic and paper products, saves on garbage bags.

Cheap dishwashing detergent does not save money.

I buy crackers and other food items at walmart when I can, they cost much less there.

If you cook extra food for dinner, you can just reheat the next night and save electricity/gas and time.

Double coupons. I also use Scott toilet paper 1000 sheets. DDs used to complain it wasn't soft enough. BOGO and freeze the second item.

Shampoo & Cond in the same bottle.

I love this thread kbug what a good idea

Thank you we need all the need we can get.

I would use conditioner on legs to shave em. works and legs smooth. Right now have no hair on em.

I use store bags in my small cans.

The first turkey I cooked I left the giblets in it. lol I occasionaly buy turkey during the year when on sale for a nice change.

I hang up some clothes.

I buy the green scrubbies and cut in half.

scrubbies are the ones to scrub pots and pans

If a store runs out of sale item can ask for a rain check

Energy efficient light bulbs.   They cost more at first, but I have  been in this apartment 3 years and 4 months.  Only one bulb has burned out so far.   The bathroom has 3 lights over the mirror, which would be 3 times 100 watt bulbs.   Energy ones are only 15 watts each, so total of only 45 watts.   

I cut dish sponges in half and scrubbies.   Plastic bags from the store for trash.   Vinegar is a good window cleaner and room deodorizer and much cheaper than air fresheners.   Coupons, senior discount, AAA discount also.   Credit cards that give cash back.   One gasoline card gives 5% rebate on gas at its stations, which are the closest and most convenient for me and best price over all also.   Have late lunch at much cheaper prices than dinner cost at many restaurants, get doggie bag and have for dinner.   Farmer's markets - go an hour before they close and they want to get rid of stuff = make a deal = cheaper.   

Dollar store gift bags - almost any size for $1.  plain colors can be used for any event.    

One grocery store runs sales buy one get two free. Yes two free. If something I buy that is on sale like toilet paper or washing powder I go ahead and get.

Plan my menus according to sales. However, if something is on sale that I don't use, I don't get it. I know me well enough to know I'm not likely to use it.

Only go to supermarket once a week since I always buy stuff not on the list. If I'm not there I don't buy it. The only thing I might run out of is milk so send dh if that happens!

Only run the washing machine for full load. Wash in cold water.

Leah

Oh my leaf, I can't tell you how much 'fresh' produce has gone into the garbage because I forgot to use it.  I mostly do frozen now.

I have a habit of keeping a towel till it is so sad then goes in rag bag. I have plenty of towels just want to make sure I use it till rag bag ready.

I hang my clothes in the cellar after washing.  In the winter time when the heat is on, the clothes dry really fast!

I love to shop for clothes at TJ Maxx.  They are much less expensive and I have always had good luck with the quality.  I occasionally visit a consignment shop for furniture.  

I also try to shop once a week and plan a menu for the week.  It keeps me from over-shopping.  I also try to incorporate things in the cupboard that I didn't get use previously.  That way I don't have 5 cans of tuna or 3 cans of the same soup in the cabinet.

I never shop online without getting free shipping.  It's not worth it!

Lorrie