10 Quick Simple Ways to Cut Costs in Everyday Life
We all get in the position where things are a bit tight sometimes. Things aren’t necessarily desperate, but you could just do with trying to cut costs, everything stretching a bit further; and no, I’m not just talking about our jean waistbands after another lockdown!
With that in mind, here are 10 great habits to get into, just to make your monthly money just… Stretch, just that little bit further!
Every Last Drop
No matter what liquid items you have, whether it be sauces, shampoos or Schnapps, make sure you use every last drop. Roll that toothpaste tube, add a touch of water to your hand soap, scrape the bottom of the sauce pot. You’d be amazed how many extra uses you could get out of items if you try hard enough!
Dressing for the Occasion
In the season of ‘Oh my days, how flipping cold is it?!’, make sure you are dressed up to the nines! No, we don’t mean getting your gladrags on (although this is totally an option!), but if it’s cold – layer up. Put your thick socks on, wear that extra jumper, heck – have a duvet day! Keep warm, rather than turning your heating up, and over the next few months you’ll save in the long run.
Home Made Gifts
Presents are not mandatory, but a nice thoughtful gift goes a long way. So why not take it one step further and make your own? A personalised playlist, a cute collage, or a tasty treat; all will be gratefully received, and will cost a fraction of buying a gift from a shop.
Food & Drink
Picking up a meal deal from your local shop may be saving a few pence, but imagine if you made the whole thing from scratch? OK, so it will cost you your time, but making a weeks’ worth of packed lunches, soups or quiches will definitely save money compared to buying daily, and chances are you will be eating healthier too. It’s a win win!
Vouchers
ALWAYS check whether there are any vouchers or discount codes before you buy, whether in store or online. Something as simple as signing up for company newsletter emails, or checking your local papers, could save you a small fortune – and who wants to pay more than necessary for anything?!
Shop Around
I cannot stress this one enough. Always shop around. Whether it’s a loaf of bread, or a brand-new carpet for your front room, always check around in other stores, so you can guarantee you pay the lowest price available.
Cheaper Alternatives
If you have your heart set on something, but really can’t find a price you’re happy with, then why not look about for a cheaper alternative or similar product? Remember, cheaper doesn’t always mean worse quality.
Compliment, not Complaint
Have a look on pretty much any product you buy, they will usually have an 0800 number and email for compliments, complaints and suggestions. Not many people compliment, let me tell you! But, complimenting a company may have a beneficial impact, and who knows – you may be lucky enough to receive a discount code off your next shop as a thank you!
Free Trials
Most services that are on offer these days will offer some sort of incentive to get you to join, and most will offer some sort of free trial. Take it! As long as you cancel before the free trial period is up, why not take advantage of free services offered?!
Bulk Buying
We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again. Bulk buy, people!! As much as you may not want 24 bottles of ketchup or 100 rolls of kitchen roll – it really does (99% of the time at least – always double check!) save you money in the long run. Use your shed/ garage/ spare room to store the surplus, and never pay over the odds on a product again!
