17 Things Frugal People REFUSE to Buy

[@elainealibrandi6364]

One huge expense is buying lunch instead of bringing it from home.

[@bourbongeek]

Absolutely! This will arguably save more money than avoiding the $5 coffee.

[@millhouse313]

Yes, I meal prep for 10 days of work, healthy meals, 80 bucks a months

[@WireWarriorFan]

@@millhouse313Do you mind sharing what your meal prep looks like?

[@georgeszilva1223]

Bring tea bags to work,..the savings on coffee purchases ..abt $1000 per year......a winter getaway in the sun.

[@georgeszilva1223]

@@bourbongeek 5 dollar coffee 3× daily ×5 =300/month...wow!

[@joshuasteele4498]

I like the phrasing: Frugality is saying “no” to spending enough times, so that you can say “yes” when it actually matters.

[@rufust.firefly4890]

👍

[@ireneroy8820]

Bingo!! 🎯

[@spudspuddy]

they smell of poo, i love my toilet rolls

[@D.von.N]

Indeed, avoiding spending on nonsense and having money for important things, without worry about budgeting or debt.

[@lolaadesina5362]

👌

[@Susanhartman.]

Creating wealth entails establishing positive routines, such as consistently setting aside funds at regular intervals for sound investments. Financial management is a vital subject that many avoid, often leading to future regrets.

[@Madison-Huff]

Indeed, currently I'm managing my finances wisely and being frugal. In the last 19 months, my investments grew by 43%, adding over $650K in profits. However, I've had losses in the past month, making me anxious. I'm unsure whether to sell everything or wait.

[@mariaguerrero08]

I agree. I have pulled in more than $435k since 2020 through my advisor. It pays off more in the long run to just pick quality stocks and ride with those stocks.

[@ThomasChai05]

@@mariaguerrero08Mind if I ask you to recommend this particular coach you using their service?

[@mariaguerrero08]

'Gertrude Margaret Quinto' maintains an online presence. Just make a simple search for her name online.

[@mikegarvey17]

Thanks a lot for this recommendation. I just looked her up, and I have sent her an email. I hope she gets back to me soon.

[@maxshiraz3447]

Food delivery services. Who wants to spend on Uber Eats or Doordash that turns a $50 meal into $100

[@terribels]

I made an audit of my cc payments (gasp) and realized that I'm spending a shitton of money (around $500) on just food delivery. I removed my cc on all food delivery apps, online shopping apps--ACTUALLY deleted a lot of these food delivery apps and online shopping apps. My last month's purchases on my cc bill--$80! I'm now 2k away from clearing it off and I"m so excited to get rid of my credit card!

[@kaydublin5164]

If we want delivery we go pick up ourselves 😂

[@SonovaDragon]

Definitely me when I get a car.

[@lisapalmeno4488]

I would never do that. It's cheaper to give a regular delivery person from the pizzeria a $5 tip and pay a delivery charge than to do that, or pick it up yourself. Or better yet, do deli food. It's cheaper, better quality, and you don't have to tip.

[@carolynridlon3988]

I grew up in a single income household in the 60-70's. Money was tight, but mom knew how to stretch the budget & stocked up in the better days of summer for the leaner times of winter. She taught me how to cook, bake, sew / mend and budgeting. I've not had the same things that my classmates had many times, but I survived. After many years of scraping by and saving $, my hubby & I was able to take an early retirement form his company, travel around the USA for 12 years as full-time RVers and resettle in another state where we could pay cash for our final home & still enjoy the ability to have short trips & special meals at home or out at some local restaurant.

[@heathermarie1322]

I tried to live the "no paper towels" lifestyle for a while. I had reusable towels and I have to be honest, some messes are worth the one-time use. Having animals (already a no-no on this list) necessitates single-use mess removers. Also, some grease messes really cannot be removed from fabric towels. So back to paper I went. The key is to use discretion and consider if a sponge might be better suited for the job (stove and countertop cleaning for example). It means a roll lasts longer, but I am not completely without.

[@spankynater4242]

I have paper towels, but I rarely use them. I can go more than 2 years before they run out. And no pets.

[@darcydoll437]

I have paper towels as well, and *gasp* I only use Bounty brand. I know, I know. I have tried so many store brand paper towels. 90+% of the time I ended up using many more paper towels because the thickness and quality just wasn't there. I often do reuse paper towels when I can. The 2nd time use is more often then not wiping the bottom of a frying pan, or wiping up a spill, or something similar. I haven't had a TV since 2011, so definitely no cable bill here. Lol.

[@Ariel_LionofGod]

I mostly use cleaning rags. I boycotted paper towels for a good year or two, mostly because my kids would use them wastefully. I now buy the recycled paper ones and we rarely use them - only for those occasions where it makes more sense to use a paper towel.

[@KingCobbones]

Yes, the first "one-time use" that came to mind is wiping the oil off the dipstick when checking the engine oil level. Even then, it's often with a lightly "used" paper towel.

[@wjb-wi6dt]

Agreed - I have both on hand. One-use paper towels come in hand for messes where I won't want to run my reusables through the wash with whatever substance on them. But a roll of paper towels lasts forever when their use is the exception.

[@kimspangler8755]

I am so grateful for my upbringing. My parents would not buy anything unless they could pay cash. They saved for our education and we didn’t have any student debt. They taught us how to save money, and they told us how to give to charity. All three of us have been able to retire early because of the things they taught us. Thank you mom and dad.

[@letsbereal9455]

Applause! Well done, your Mom and Dad! :)

[@PianoForJesus]

I had such the opposite experience and I’m just now (heading to 40 years old in a few years) understanding these things - thank you KZbin lol

[@jaimhaas5170]

So unlikely these times...kids want it all and do NOT delay gratification.

[@EmeraldHill-vo1cs]

Goodnight Johnboy.

[@jameshigginbottom6512]

That's how I retired at 50.

[@glumberty1]

As a frugal person, I've learned that some things are worth spending extra money on. This is true when it comes to shoes. A couple good pairs of shoes will last decades. That doesn't mean all expensive shoes are good though.

[@gearhead366]

I'm with you on shoes. I had a pair of nice shoes for work, and I eventually wore them out. So I bought two more pair of them. One black pair, and one brown. Now I never wear the same pair two days in a row, which is supposed to drastically extend the life of shoes.

[@lunatik9696]

My ex father in law gave me a pair of good shoes. I have made sure to get quality shoes ever since. My nephew made fun of me for buying 3 pair of tennis shoes 3 years ago. I still have 2 pair in almost new condition.

[@MrMcguire89]

I've had one pair of Brooks running shoes for almost a decade now, butI've heard numerous times that you're supposed to switch out shoes 2x a year lol.

[@KarlsLabReport]

I find one pair of decent work boots like Red Wings outlives several pairs of cheaper ones. Also, cheaper shoes break down faster, which is bad for your feet. I really think cheating out on shoes is false economy.

[@craigplatel813]

I spent a lot of time in the infantry. I always spend well on any kind footwear and replace them very regularly.

[@danholtbk7008]

To each his own, I don’t criticize frugal people BUT you can only do two things with money. Live with it, or die with it.

[@taylor15589]

Eh. Idk, I have always been super frugal. It is completely my mindset and it pisses me off sometimes because I hate spending money so much but I know I need to at times. But unless you’re sitting on millions, you should be saving for emergency’s or even just retirement especially with the world getting more expensive. I really don’t want to work during retirement.. Being frugal isn’t like a god awful way to live either. It’s more like “I don’t want that, for that price” or “it’s not worth that much”. It turns a want into a not for that price. You still live your life like a normal person.. sure I don’t buy everything I want but I didn’t care enough about it to buy whatever I was frugal about.

[@danholtbk7008]

@@taylor15589 I hear you and don’t disagree. I’m not a multimillionaire but I have plenty and zero debt. Zero. But I have several friends that are multimillionaires that my Mom used to say are so tight “they squeak when they walk”. And they cheat themselves out of a lot of the good things in life. Saving nickels has become a religion, if not an illness.

[@l.5832]

I have a pet who I consider a part of my family. He has a kidney condition that requires expensive food but the love I have for my pet and the affection he shows me is priceless. I gladly cut back on other things. And I Use the free book exchange down the street from me. Also, when the thrift store has a 5 for $2 sale I will get some and then donate them to the book exchange.

[@thunt9092]

Right! I am frugal so I can have pets haha

[@OccasionalUser7071]

Same here. My husband and I decided we will only get pets from rescue places and we have been known to spend a lot on medications and making sure they are comfortable. We don't buy pet outfits, pajamas and cute accessories, or expensive treats. Also, we found that local farm store has a mobile vet comes over a few times a month and you can save a fortune on regular vaccinations. But when our dog got glaucoma, we gladly paid $90/month for all the eye meds. Lots of other things to save on.

[@KeraleeMiedan-k5o]

Oxalates (common in the plants used in most dog foods) directly caused kidney disease as well as stones, and no vet will tell you this. Affects humans same ways as animals, nobody is immune to it because it causes mechanical micro damage, like finely ground glass. Sally Norton has excellent vids on the topic. Important to detox from them slowly because else the “dumping” sympt9ms can be severe. Diet is the fix and it’s mainly got to be meat.

[@Sable1837]

For what it’s worth, many items marked “dry clean only” can be hand washed or washed on a gentle cycle. I do it all the time.

[@auntbeth448]

Just don’t throw them in the dryer!

[@CFinch360]

Me too!

[@kaitiscarlett9022]

I've taken the risk a lot of times, too, and I've never ruined a garment.

[@lisapalmeno4488]

Dryell is an over the counter dry cleaning kit that can be purchased for $20 and used many times. I use it for wool coats, which I buy at upscale resale shops for very cheap. I get beautiful high-quality coats that cover my legs.

[@almostawalrus]

As a frugal person with pets; they add so much quality of life. And I am willing to spend a little more on higher quality food for them because I believe that will result in better health long term. My dog is going to be 15 years old in a couple months and I think it has served her well. Also, we buy paper towels for napkins (tear one in half) and for cleaning grease. Most days we only use one sheet.

[@rahulcool7270]

Yeah pets don't count you are giving life to an helpless animal and that can fall into the charity category :)

[@celestegranell8766]

Send Pace $50 a week just on dog food to feed her too large dogs. One was recently sick and the other has eaten up so many things in her home. If I had no kids, then maybe.

[@aaronjennings8385]

Exactly, paper towels are money well spent. A cheap luxury.

[@kerirainock299]

Buy cheap bad food now.. you are going to pay for it that and more later on 😢

[@amysofia5783]

Absolutely! My husband and I are frugal and pets are worth every penny. They bring us so much joy and teach us a lot about love and patience. I dont cheap out on their food, but I do thrift toys when possible and the pets themselves were thrifted 😂 they were all puppies and kittens adopted from the shelter. Spent about $300 on 2 kittens and $150 on the puppy which considering that the shelter spays and neuters them and gets all their medical stuff taken care of before you adopt them, it's basically free. That aside, they are quite pricey but again worth every single penny.

[@lisascoe9563]

In the 80's and 90's when our kids were small, we struggled hard. We had a budget class through the Navy (my husband was a sailor) and one quote I remember from that class was : "Cut your costs, but do not cut the joy from your life." It looks different for everybody, but everyone deserves some kind of small treat once in a while.

[@kelleywyskiel3478]

You’re right

[@MarcIverson]

Yes. But we have unfortunately morphed into a nation of people who believe they deserve everything, from neglecting to discipline their children under the excuse of being kind and sympathetic to them, to unhealthy eating habits that render us obese. Once in a while is indeed the operative term.

[@ragtop326]

Very good presentation. 👍🏼 I use paper towels sparingly and keep a box for the ones that have only been used to dry freely washed hands. I get second and 3rd use out of them, at least. They're also good for wiping out grease or a spill on the floor or checking the oil.

[@FancyRPGCanada]

That’s a really good way to look at it thank you ❤

[@raisan5989]

@@ragtop326 What is wrong with a washable hand towel or waving your hands in the air to dry then, why use paper towels?

[@janetharrah8407]

Libraries are NOT free. They are paid for by taxes. Frugal people use libraries because we know we have ALREADY paid for the services.

[@Mrkevi123]

Other people paid for it

[@marie-clairekeen3023]

My local library is tiny so I buy second hand books on Ebay.

[@BenState]

@@Mrkevi123 If you earn money you paid for it.

[@HomersIlliad]

It's cheaper than the alternatives since our taxes go towards it either way.

[@amymcintyre3781]

Free at point of use.

[@Jzx1103]

Pretty much everything here applies to me except for fancy vacations. I refuse to be frugal on our vacations. We only live once and there's no guarantee you'll still have your health or other factors to enjoy those vacations by the time you retire. I know so many people who saved and were frugal on this while talking about how when they retire they're gonna do this and that trip, but then they either passed away prematurely or had major health issues that restricts them from doing what they originally planned to do once they retired. I say just go live your life and enjoy your vacations wherever you can.

[@elainealibrandi6364]

Absolutely! It's a vacation from being frugal.

[@dm96177]

I grew up in a wealthy family that was excessive with spending. I had to unlearn a lot of bad habits. This video made me realize I am very frugal now because I do everything on this list! Saving money is so much more rewarding than blowing it all on junk.

[@lucialuciferion6720]

I do all, except paper towels. I buy generic paper towels, and use as sparingly as possible. It's nice to use for some cleanup jobs. Also, if I had to use a sheet of paper towel for drying hands , I will throw it in a basket I keep in my kitchen, and use it at later time for cleanups still.

[@kimberlychodur3508]

I buy paper towels, but I have a cleaning business. I buy the cheapest ones and buy in bulk, the big package. They actually work better than the more expensive ones that feel more like cloth because they don’t leave as much lint behind.

[@dm96177]

@@lucialuciferion6720 I buy in bulk too but limit how many I use to try and be more sustainable. I would say 2 bulk package lasts me over a year as I use cloths for most things :)

[@igotstoknow2]

You created good habits which atrophied the bad habits. We can't unlearn habits with a healthy brain's memory system.

[@mrsp2115]

So true about the shoes. I splurged on an expensive pair of Mephisto shoes twenty-one years ago that I still have. Most shoes only last a couple of years.

[@OhhState]

1. I am frugal with most things. I do spend money on books. I love books, the smell, losing myself for a couple days in a story. I save save save, and books is my one luxury. They make me smarter. 2. I don’t buy bottled water 3. I use a phone until it dies (4-6 years) 4. I never buy lottery tickets or visit casinos. 5. I bought a brand new car but paid it off quickly and plan to drive it until the wheels fall off, approaching 100K miles currently. 6.I make my coffee at home, don’t spend on frufru coffee. 7. I have NEVER paid for cable TV. 8. I eat mostly fresh food, brand names isn’t a thing in the lettuce department. 9. I wear the same clothes over and over and have very few items of clothing. 10. I don’t eat out, so beverages at restaurants aren’t a thing. 11. I make six figures and I live in a 900 sq ft mobile home I paid CASH for. 12. I don’t do sugar or junk food. So impulse items don’t appeal to me. 13. I wash my own cars. 14. I belong to two miniature dachshunds. Two dogs, that’s all I can afford. I don’t travel to places they can’t come. 15. I use paper towels sparingly. 16. Never do extended warranties. What a trap. I have enough saved for emergencies. 17. I bought a camper, I vacation in state parks, pretty cheaply compared to a vacation to Hawaii or Mexico.

[@mattyoutube4190]

Will you marry me?

[@spankynater4242]

Then buy used books. They have more character.

[@chriswixtrom6514]

Love this: "I belong to two miniature dachshunds."

[@yeoyeo5629]

Ok i think i just found my love😅

[@pamelaspooner7183]

Borrow from the public. No cleaning, managing, or storing needed. And you can borrow from other libraries using the service libraries provide, InterLibrary Loan. Free books without the hassle.

[@willusher3297]

#18: They fix things that break vs. throwing away and buying new. This often means learning how to fix it yourself, as it can be difficult to find someone to do it for you. I've saved many thousands of $ by fixing things myself.

[@raquels.]

Yes! I'm surprised this wasn't on the list.

[@user-mv9tt4st9k]

Yes! Our 10 year old used washer stopped spinning and our companion dryer started squeaking. We evaluated repair versus buying new and split the difference: My husband bought us a new washer with a ten year warranty on sale (made in the US, win!); and then ordered a $40.00 kit to replace the wheels and belts of the dryer, which he did himself and it works like new. It cost us a little more than replacing both with another used set. When reasonable, we always try to repair before replacing. 😂

[@cmsa3]

We've have the same washer and dryer we bought when we got married 37 years and five kids ago. My husband keeps fixing them and they are so old there are no computer parts to go bad.

[@retirementpirate3665]

KZbin is great as an aid for fixing stuff. Sometimes all I need is the knowledge to take to cover off the washing machine our the technique to replace the timing belt on my car.

[@petermeyer4206]

Yes, and if you ever want a job handy man work pays well.

[@itscalledlogic7]

I could never stop buying books. You can find plenty of library events/shops, garage and estate sales, and thrift stores to buy books for 50 cents to a dollar.

[@estherk5786]

The stock video of the water hose just pumping out water inside the car had me ROLLING! 😂

[@boyscout244]

Something that people often over look is valuing the things you own. Sometimes spending a little more works better if you use it a lot and take care of it yourself.

[@deborahcurtis1385]

So true!! Some people are too cheap and they don't realise they have to buy twice or more often and that's not good budgeting. It's penny-wise dollar-foolish. You can overcome a lot of it buying vintage but also just sometimes it's necessary to cough up to get good quality.@@dkstudioart

[@WildBikerBill]

I am generally shocked by how many people treat their stuff like garbage. So much of what I have is 30 - 40 years old and in good condition.

[@deborahcurtis1385]

@@WildBikerBill Yep, I wash my clothes inside out, hang them inside out, in the shade or in the sun for a very short time. I clean my shoes and polish them, remove pilling from sweaters and hand knits, and wash clothes by hand, leaving them to drip dry. For woollens or hand knits I put in a large colander to drain in the bath or a sink, before squeezing and rolling into a dry towel then hang flat on a rack. It takes just a bit of time and that way your clothes look and feel like new. Therefore I don't need to replace my things very often. It's basic really, plus find a good shoe repairer or even better, a cobbler to keep your shoes in fantastic nick. This is the life!

[@hal-ys5fx]

@@WildBikerBill I can be somewhat restless, so buy homes to live in and repair and then move on. Normally I look for for sale by owners that are estate sales. Family is usually grown and gone and don't want the household belongings and time to sort. So make a low offer and say take what you want and just leave the rest and I'll take care of it. They jump on it and I'm a happy camper. The treasures I've found excluding the guns hidden and ammo, work so well and last forever. Fan of mid century and older. Duplicate items sell on consignment. Just love the quality of older items and the care they took of their belongings, makes me happy as I use them.

[@hal-ys5fx]

@@deborahcurtis1385 Totally agree with you. Vintage clothing was taken care of so well that it still looks great today

[@ViggsPR]

2:23 Books 2:45 Bottled Water 3:00 The latest technology 3:30 Lottery tickets 3:47 Brand-New cars 4:10 $5 coffee 4:50 cable tv 5:10 Brand names when generics are available 5:32 Dry-clean only clothes 5:56 Beverages on restaurants 6:25 Big homes 7:00 Impulse items on checkout lane 7:32 Professional car washes 7:51 Pets 8:30 Paper towels 9:21 Extended warranties 9:50 Fancy vacations

[@KitKat10281]

I'm adding #11...napkins

[@b.c.2836]

If you were to add the savings on these on a per month basis, how much would it add up to?

[@ViggsPR]

@@b.c.2836 Potentially a lot? Some of these seem kind of missing the forest for the trees (if the $5 coffee really is hurting you financially then you probably have an income problem more than a spending problem) but others like the big home can have a much more sizable impact.

[@John3.36]

I agree with everything except bottled water. I don't like to drink chemicals from the city water system.

[@gio.orbit5498]

@@John3.36 filters entered the chat

[@d.schmidt16]

To be realistic, the middle class family needs to be frugal all their life. Home maintenance is surprisingly expensive, surprise medical bills can evaporate $5k or $10k in an instant, car repairs can readily approach $1500+ for even routine repairs. If you are to pay cash for everything, it is a lifetime of frugality and never ending savings. Longterm, cash is cheaper and less stressful and freeing compared to paying never ending interest to the bank, or CC companies, or mortgage holder.

[@keirakirby5201]

This is Truth.

[@dreaarzu157]

That’s why a well funded emergency fund is necessary.

[@FellaHAILIRA]

Grow some greens in your backyard and pots. Micro greens have more nutrients than the normal greens and they are easy to grow and they grow really really fast. That will keep you in shape and healthy and likely to keep you away from the doctor. For cars buy a Toyota or Honda. They never die. Saving money in every way possible gets interesting and there is an immense joy in it.

[@javaskull88]

@@dreaarzu157it’s funny how when you have a good emergency fund, you don’t have as many emergencies. They are now just issues to take care of.

[@JCizzleSoCal]

I use credit cards to pay for nearly everything….medical expenses, utilities, mortgage, gas, groceries, clothing, kid’s tuition, etc. but the trick is I pay off the entire balance each month, my credit score stays around 840 and I get a ton of cash back rewards.

[@davesrvchannel4717]

18. Mini storage units 19. Full coverage auto insurance. Because frugal people drive clunkers 20. Nothing Inside a gas station. Gas stations are for buying gas. Nothing else

[@markmybirds3695]

Gas station coffee is cheaper than Starbucks... sometimes even free

[@vmj255]

Buy a thermos, make your own coffee.

[@driftergrey]

I haven't won at the used car contest yet. They just fail, and then cost in repairs too quickly, too often. Boom! money GONE! 🤣😅😐

[@funinlv32]

Toyota or Honda , 3 years to 7 years is ideal up to about 10 years (ideally around 100k miles, less is ideal, up to about 120k) You can buy older but there is just natural wear that will need to be renewed/ replaced going forward after this point. Buy from owners that kept up w maintenance and keep up with it yourself. Nice looking, used BMWs, Mercedes are available for cheap for a reason.. high maintenance and repair expense.

[@CassyAllen-r1l]

I agree. Guess that’s my one splurge…every 13 years or so. I got zero interest on my first and drove it 13 years. Still have it but it has 300k miles on it. Second purchase was exact same thing only it’s 1.9 percent interest which is dang good this day and time.

[@driftergrey]

@@CassyAllen-r1l 13 years! Wow. Good for you. 😐 I get 4 years average out of the cars I've had. The one I have now, Nissan, pathetic brand. There's a seal leak in the number 3 cylinder so I've had to change that one spark plug 4 times, cause it turns into a 3 cylinder, rattling and shaking down the road. The air bag light started flashing. The blower motor stopped working. Had to replace the abs pump, that was expensive. Yeah the Nissan experience is really terrible.

[@CassyAllen-r1l]

@@driftergrey Mitsubishi..it’s under rated but I had a good experience.

[@driftergrey]

@@CassyAllen-r1l ok thanks 👍

[@lisabromley6824]

My mom and dad were very frugal, but our family of 5 never did without and took unfancy vacations ( cheap motels can get very interesting). When Dad retired, they took fancier vacations traveling all over the US and foreign countries. Now at 95 and 96 they live in a fancy retirement community and have more than enough for the rest of their lives. Their frugality drove me crazy when I was young, but I'm very grateful for the lessons they taught me now that I am older.

[@thebuttermilkyway687]

Same. Very typical of that generation.

[@Cyclalex]

Old folks are the best. :-)

[@rufust.firefly4890]

Sometimes it is worth it to get a nicer place to stay on vacation. I've heard some weird things thru thin walls. The clientele and amenities are usually nicer.

[@ayo_k32]

“Unfancy” 🤣🤣 I can totally relate to that

[@virginialangford6257]

I hit 17 out of 17…830 sq ft house, never use A/C, heat in winter 60, no night lights, out door lights, lights on only if in use…don’t leave a room with a light on, no dryer, only disposable paper is TP…recycle paper bags for gift wrap, $25.00 a week for groceries ( live alone)….oh it goes on..walk when I can leave the car at home, library 100% of books etc…free events for recreation……..super frugal

[@josephupton3601]

I have never made "big money" in my whole life. But by the time I hit my 70's my net worth was around 1 million because I was relatively tight. These 17 items are good money savers. The main thing I've learned is "don't beat yourself up" if you make mistakes and lose money sometimes.

[@nellab8486]

Saving money is a must for all kind of life complications and emergencies of course... but still think about not enjoying the experiences when you're younger just to save money for retirement and hospital bills? Where is the joy of life? It has to be a balance, it's really fun to travel the world when you're 30 not when you're 75!

[@WildBikerBill]

@@nellab8486There's travel, and there is style of travel. I can remember decades ago discussing travel with co-workers. A supervisor mentioned having the luxury rental car, the luxury hotel, the lounge and umbrella on the beach, with a steady stream of pina coladas. I was already known for going to National Parks, staying in a campsite, and doing long day-hikes. I asked the supervisor, "Can you actually afford all that?". Her answer: "No". I ended the conversation by saying, "So the real bottom line is, I am going while you are not".

[@rachelcrossen8136]

I’m impressed I do a little more than half of those. I don’t consider myself frugal, just responsible

[@davidbarrera6054]

Big homes also means “big problems.”

[@kennethroyer9949]

100% Spot On! I knew of a guy who lived in a 18,000 square foot home his electric during the summer time very often hit 2,000 per month. He lost his high flying job during the Great Recession and lost it all and had no choice to file for bankruptcy. For us frugal types who knew this guy we all knew it was just a matter of time before he lost his shirt.

[@annai157]

Years ago, I read some great frugality advice in Woman's Day magazine. It said, in effect, "If you save 50cents by using up a bit of leftovers in the fridge, but it makes you sick and you spend $600. on an Emergency room visit, then you did not save money." Many of these potential "rules" fall into that category. I don't *normally* buy bottled water. But it is far better to spend $4. on an airport water, than to get sick from dehydration or bad water when traveling. I don't usually buy retail books - but it's a lot cheaper to acquire certain books used than to waste time and gas money going to check out a book repeatedly that you could have bought for $5. Moderation and common sense can save the day with these.

[@gardenjoy5223]

"wasting time and gas money going to check out a book repeatedly" ??? If you want to read a specific book, don't you look for it in the library, when you are going there Anyway for your free magazines and books for the kids? Plus you can see online whether the book is there. And even reserve it for 50 cents, so it's still there. And who says you only save 50 cents when eating leftovers from the fridge? And who is dumb enough to eat leftovers, that are too old? You come across as intellectually challenged!

[@malvavisco10]

That seems very alarmist. Your senses are your guide when it comes to food freshness. If it looks or smells weird, toss it. Otherwise, people are way too keen on wasting perfectly good food.

[@annai157]

@@malvavisco10 Botulism toxin causes no change in odor or appearance. I'm not saying you should *never* eat leftovers, only that you should avoid *iffy* leftovers.

[@malvavisco10]

@@annai157 unless you do a lot of home canning or don’t properly cook your food, botulism isn’t much of a worry. Exceedingly rare.

[@JF-qw4bd]

Context (and dare I say common sense) is needed here. Is it 'left overs' cooked a day or two ago, or 'left overs' that are pushed so far back in the fridge that one doesn't even remember cooking? Also, thanks for a bump in advocacy for a publicly funded Universal Health Care System.

[@hughesgong9408]

Frugal people use their what they have until it doesn’t work anymore, rather than buying the latest tech items.

[@MissDuke2012]

Yes! Most things last forever!! I have many higher quality things that have been on my “wish” list that have gone unpurchased because the stop-gap “lower quality” one is still going strong.

[@turtleanton6539]

Yes😮

[@JF-qw4bd]

Yes, but also unfortunately things aren't built to last as they used to be either, and even if they are, companies go to great lengths to make sure they cannot be repaired, forcing people to either spend nearly as much as the original product on repairs, or just by the newest model. 'Right to repair' laws are gaining popularity in some parts of the world...

[@ThinkGenius]

If old devices continue to receive software support from their manufacturers, that's good to go.

[@joysilas4724]

My amazingly frugal husband has the same car he purchased when he came into the Army 15 years ago. He takes really get care of the car. Always up to date with maintenance and keeps it super clean! That’s debt free living for ya 😉!

[@georgewagner7787]

Cars should last that long. American cars don't though. I got a used Toyota with 4kmiles and have had it12 years. I am 62 and will never need another car

[@melvinbarnes6652]

@@georgewagner7787 Bought a used f150 w/140,000 miles in 2011. Drove it until 2021 when it just couldn't' go anymore. They last, you just gotta take care of them.

[@ReturnOfTheJ.D.]

One of my cars has been in my family for 32 years (since 1991 - a 1988 model) and the other since 1999 (1997 Model). While it isn't cheap to restore them, once they get to a certain point they cost the same as any other car to maintain.

[@GazzaDazzle]

Lol 15 years, my old car was 22 yrs

[@supermodestmouse]

My car is almost old enough to drink. She's pushing 300k miles and still going strong. She's def seen some stuff, not mint condition. The paint on the fenders is fading, some of the rubber parts need to be replaced. But I love her. She takes me anywhere I need to go reliably.

[@xlerb2286]

"Being thrifty with money is going to look different to everybody" Yes, that's the key. Frugality is about cutting out things that aren't important to you so you can afford to splurge a bit on the things that are important. And the thing that's important to me may well be the thing you cut out of your life because it doesn't matter to you. We have cats, we foster cats. That means we go through paper towels because it's not fun washing out cloth towels that you've used to clean up cat messes, etc. And after all that a fancy coffee now and then hits the spot. And none of that causes us any financial distress because of all the other areas where we've been saving ;)

[@susangrande8142]

Thank you for fostering the kitties!🙏😍

[@comment8767]

You are in a state of denial and are going down the drain.

[@susangrande8142]

@@comment8767 are you a troll?

[@peteschaub7561]

Good point, it's a whole lot like diet and exercise. Just build good habits so every now and then you can have the cookie or buybthe fancy coffee without guilt. 😊

[@alycewich4472]

@@MrsAngelala - I buy used books that cannot be found in the libraries and also to share with others. I am frugal in other areas of my life.

[@barbaraellis6637]

I refuse to spend money on name brand / designer clothes !

[@annacherry1809]

Hey George! My 8 year old watches your show with me..she said she thinks you should do one on garage sales and how frugal people find bargins.. Keep up the good work!

[@yujin8741]

I hit all the 17 check box, except that my cat was adopted with preexisting conditions, she is a bit on the expensive side because of the vet bills. It hurts my budget, but I don’t regret having her.

[@M_SC]

❤

[@Takar100]

My wife does the paper towel thing, but more to be environmentally friendly, but there are things I feel like we need a paper towel for. Example, wiping some grease off of a pan after you've cooked (and drained the excess into a jar or whatever). You have to wipe it so less goes into your drains.

[@odannio]

Paper towels are a lot cheaper than hiring a plumber or worse a new sewer main.

[@bertblue9683]

Bingo! Exactly what use them for. Even more important as I'm on a septic system.

[@happycook6737]

I keep a "rag bag" from old clothing that is cotton. I wipe the grease off with my rag and then throw my rag away. More importantly, I rarely have a greasy pan because I cook without oil and don't eat animal products. Dietary fat reduces survival rates for people who have/had certain cancers.

[@weed491]

I keep toilet paper in the kitchen to wipe out grease and such off of dishes and pans, way cheaper and works fantastic!

[@mandypdx]

And pet accidents (my puppy is still learning)

[@nathanmartin9308]

I am a frugal person and I approve this message! 🤑

[@grateful.]

If u wanted to see a movie would you wait til Tuesday when it's 5 bucks

[@mrsp2115]

wait until you can find it free@@grateful.

[@alycewich4472]

​@@grateful. At some theaters, the matinee is cheaper, and if you're a senior citizen you can get a discount.

[@WildBikerBill]

I remember a co-worker, in an oblique reference to the old Indian head nickel, saying in my hands the Indian would be riding the buffalo. I didn't reply because my view of him was he spent money like water.

[@UteNagel]

😂

[@michaelevans2798]

I agree with almost all; I do have a cat, low cost. But she throws up a lot. Thus, a need for paper towels…discounted of course :) Great list!

[@kathyharmon2093]

My elderly cat has the same problem, ordered cat probiotics from Amazon ( my veterinarian recommended) very effective

[@djw8888]

Yay for cats - she's worth it. 🙂

[@carlathomas6257]

I'd suggest changing cat food to higher quality .ones without grains n fillers,without food coloring,etc.

[@RuthEvelyn-rc3bg]

It's sad how difficult things have become in the present generation. I was wondering how to utilise some money I had. I used some of it for e-commerce business, but that sank. I'm thinking of how to protect my $300K stock portfolio from decline is my main concern, but I don't really know which way to go.

[@DennisJack-km8ho]

Yeah, things may be hard right now, but I've come to realize both bear and bull market, recessions and economic boom, all provide opportunities to make high gains, I used to call bluff on folks that bragged about making a fortune from such down-markets until I happened to do so myself

[@FrankPatrick-no8zo]

I agree. I've been working with a financial advisor since 2020, and I return up to 15k every month, and I don't even have to lift a finger. Although I also think the reason I make this much is because I started with significant capital.

[@alicegomez7232]

That makes a lot of sense. To be on the safer side and not second guess your market decisions, I’d suggest you reach out to a proper investment adviser for guidance, they’re better equipped at understanding market patterns/movements and adjusting portfolio to match up with these market trends

[@FrankPatrick-no8zo]

There are many independent advisors to choose from. But I work with Monica Shawn Marti and we've been working together for almost four years and she's fantastic. You could pursue her if she meets your requirements. I agree with her.

[@CrystalJoy-32]

Thank you so much for your helpful tip! I was able to verify the person and book a call session with her. She seems very proficient and I'm really grateful for your guidance

[@schnauzersareawesome7209]

Extended warranties just make me shake my head. The very people who are selling you their "high quality" item are also telling you that you need to be ready for the item to break in the future.

[@loganmedia1142]

Well all products generally come with a one year warranty. Sometimes you'll get two, and if you're very lucky three. Whichever it is that is how long they're confident their product will have no problems. So be ready for the item to break in the future.

[@lucasr648]

Lol, number 5. My dad is the most frugal person I know and I’ve only seen him buy new cars. But to be fair, the last car he bought was a 2007 Honda accord that he drove until 2021 when moved. Now he drives my moms 2007 Cr-v… so it’s not like buys expensive cars and replaces them often.

[@customer5032]

Same, I only buy new Toyotas, pay them off asap, and drive them for 20 years/200,000 miles. When they die, I buy a new one. Toyotas are the best cars!

[@diceythings]

A big one not listed is prepackaged foods. My family has always bought 2 (sometimes 3) proteins for the week and planned at least 2 meals from each. Example: whole chicken. Day 1. roasted or baked whole with simple seasoning, served with seasonal vegetables. Day 2. Leftover breast meat becomes enchiladas or pot pie. Day 3. Leftover dark meat becomes tacos, taquitos, or added to a gravy or sauce (like a Chile Verde). Day 4. Any uncooked bones or leftover bits can make a soup. Alternate these days with pork, beef, fish, whatever and you have variety on the cheap while eating well! Also, we use paper towels and two types of towels (food spills and non food spills, white and yellow respectively). We only use paper towels for things that get messy, like ribs.

[@scottcampbell96]

Making homemade chicken soup is a monthly event in our house. I save the bones in the freezer and get a dozen servings of soup out of 3 or four roasters. I’ve even taken the turkey bones from Thanksgiving at my relatives’ to make soup. They usually throw it out.

[@KP-ro8fy]

I am so frugal, but I will always buy books. It is my one true indulgence, and I always make sure that they are either on-sale or used. I say no to my kids when it comes to toys, eating out, or entertainment such as ride, cinemas, and so on, BUT I never say no to sale/used books for them.

[@kittyfarmer9567]

I ask for gift cards to buy books when I have to get the latest favorite author's books.

[@lisapalmeno4488]

Library book sales and Amazon or Thriftbooks?

[@lisapalmeno4488]

What about used toys? There are plenty of those at rummage sales and the Salvation Army.

[@kathyharmon2093]

Still driving the last car I bought brand new, 2003 Chevy Impala, looks a tiny bit rough but runs great, very dependable ( very good mechanic) the heated seats still work as well as the heat and ac , close to 300,000 miles 😁

[@kathyyoung1774]

I paint the hood of my 2003 Toyota each summer.

[@easternacademy]

I do not waste money on greeting cards. Instead, I write personal notes on good quality stationery. It's less expensive and the message it tailored to the occasion.

[@jgwilliams67]

There are decent $1 cards @ the Dollar store. You just have to look for them and if you find one that is worded well buy 2 or 3 to give later.

[@mrsp2115]

Your hand written personal note on quality stationery probably is a keeper for people while the store bought cards eventually get tossed.

[@teleriferchnyfain]

I make all my cards.

[@alycewich4472]

I have found a couple of on-line card companies that have packages of blank note cards with all sorts of fun things on the front. Depending on what's on the front, I can get them on sale for less that 75 cents a card. I can use these for anything and everything. Some I got on sale for less than the price of postage. That's my go to solution.

[@AngelissimaASMR]

I am frugal but could never go without paper towels.... I just added them to my shopping list right before watching but I do always buy in bulk and buy the cheapest brands! I definitely don't think I need a huge house or yard.... Close families are made in small houses 💕We also don't go on fancy vacations but we tag along on my husband's work trips and get to stay in 4 or 5-star hotels with him and visit fun cities that his company already comps. If you build a life you love, you won't need a vacation from it! ✨🥂🎻🥰

[@AncientLemomTree]

My frugal uncle only buys jumbo sized eggs because most of them have a double yolk!!! it’s like getting double the eggs.

[@stoneless_skating]

Yeah my aunt only buys ostrich eggs for that reason

[@BMAN1able]

😂

[@louisecamp5138]

😂

[@louisecamp5138]

​@BMAN1able sorry, this was an accident. 🤷‍♀️

[@selfdo]

As the late Curley Howard might have said, "yolk, yolk, yolk...". Seriously, jumbo eggs can be more economical, depending on how you use them.

[@mamadoom9724]

In my early 20s my husband and I bought a house that we couldn’t afford. It was a small modest home but on top of the mortgage my husband came into the marriage with a bunch of debt. I had an $80 a month grocery budget for the two of us (this was in the early 2000s) I had to watch every single penny and often had to sell my things in order to get gas money to go to work. It really taught me how to be frugal. I’m still living on very little money but I’ve gotten so good at being frugal that I’m able to live comfortably. I sometimes wonder why my parents didn’t help my husband and I out when we were near starvation but now I’m grateful for it because it taught me a lot about budget cooking and living frugally.

[@Petesworkshop2225]

My mother straight told me 'I am not giving you money'. And now I live comfortably on my own.

[@mamadoom9724]

@@Petesworkshop2225 Its so important to let young adults go through that struggle and figure things out.

[@CFinch360]

Read "The Millionaire Next Door" It has a whole chapter on the impact of helping your kids financially 🙂

[@mamadoom9724]

@@CFinch360 thanks for the recommendation. I’ve heard of it but haven’t read it yet.

[@discipleoftruth1985]

Libraries also have book sales at least annually for super cheap prices.

[@Prariegirl2023]

I am frugal and I agreed with most everything. I love books and find ways to not pay retail prices. I also purchase a few paper towels but mostly use cloth for this and save them for certain clean up! My kids thought I was crazy when I switched to cloth napkins too! Thank you for your definition of frugal!!

[@judyjohnson9610]

I'm with you on those. One can be mindful of their use of paper towels. I use them to reheat bread in the microwave, but use the same one at least a couple of times. And wipe out greasy frying pans. Books? Some of us like to follow certain authors and collect a few before starting. My local library has great prices on discarded books and our local thrift stores have some good prices as well. Just be careful and don't do what I did. I found some that I wanted and brought them home. Price was a steal. Guess what happened when I went to put them in my bookcase? You guessed it. Every single one I already had. So I donated them to a free box.

[@heart2listen1]

Ohhh cloth napkins are so great. used to buy beautiful (and formerly cheap) vintage cloth linen table napkins at garage sales. LOVED EM.

[@TheWolfcub01]

People buy those paper napkins? 😂

[@jadakowers590]

Added bonuses of using cloth napkins are that you never run out of them, mealtime is lovelier and and you wind up having better manners.

[@aaronalquiza9680]

9:05 i'm not saying we're the most frugal people but yeah we have cloth towels and we still get a pack of paper towels for $17 which lasts us 3-4 months.

[@JamieM470]

I'm all in with almost everything on this list lol. Only two exceptions for me is pets--unconditional love, companionship, and the furry cure for depression and stress is SO worth it. I also feed hungry strays 🤷‍♀ .....and paper towels. I like to have paper towels around for really yucky cleanups, but for most paper-towel-type jobs I use Swedish dishcloths. They're like a combination sponge & paper towel, & they're machine washable.

[@staroceans8677]

TOTALLY AGREE ❤

[@rufust.firefly4890]

For years I had dogs. I love them. But I just don't want to take of them.

[@EmeraldHill-vo1cs]

Nothing like a purr vibrating through your chest late at night.

[@MrPrimoPR]

The number one reason to save money is independence. Nobody is completely free , but when push gets to shove , specially at work or in business, it helps to have enough to fall back on to tell the other person : thank you, but no thank you , friended as always. Another great reason to have enough saved up is so that you can help others you esteem. Remember nobody dies and leaves a lot , they die and leave it ALL .

[@kendalecheverria8542]

Also loved the small home plug! As a homemaker I simply think it’s more practical but I loved the additional thoughts you shared! Favorite frugal tip: homemake as much as you’re able! Bread, kombucha, really any bread products, etc

[@margie6534]

I highly recommend going to the library and checking out "The Millionaire Next Door". Excellent reading.

[@customer5032]

Agreed! There is a whole series of them now, he wrote more...

[@judybritt6288]

My dad was a salesman who sold big ticket items, appliances, etc. He told me exactly what you said about extended warranties. He said rarely would a person ever come out ahead, and that is precisely the reason why stores and companies like to sell warranties. Extended warranties are considered pure profit because the consumer rarely uses them, and the exclusions can make them practically worthless.

[@johns3106]

When buying my latest car, the salesman was trying to sell me the extended warranty…I told him, “Look…you’re betting that I WON’T need as many covered repairs as this warranty costs…well, I’ll take that bet too and decline your “offer”. He was incredulous and said I was making a terrible mistake, but of course, I was right. The dealerships wouldn’t sell those warranties if they continuously had to pay out more than they brought in!

[@judybritt6288]

@@johns3106 Car salesman also push Gap Insurance, which could be a good thing if you happen to get in an accident following your purchase, total your car, and are still alive to worry about it. Well, that did happen to me, BUT... the total amount I had to pay for the "gap" was only $100 on a 4 yr old car I had just paid off. So, even though, technically, I could have used the gap insurance in that circumstance, I would have paid out way more for the coverage over the 4 years I had the car, than the $100 benefit I would have received. Again, slim odds of that happening. I was way more grateful for having survived the accident, than I was concerned about the details of the state of my car. A good question to ask is "Who benefits most from this purchase?" Obviously, car dealerships are not going to offer something that they are likely to lose money on. Anyone who has ever been a salesman knows the answer to this question, "What are the additional items they push to sell you?" The ones that are easy to sell and are pure profit. As to the extended warranties- I have never had the need for an extended warranty on any of the cars I have owned, nor do I know anyone who has. Again, 99% of the time, it's a pure profit sale.

[@johntracy72]

And they'll use every trick in the book to weasel out of honoring that extended warranty.

[@tatianna3251]

I'm surprised paper plates didn't make that list. I'm astonished at how much people go through paper plates because they're too lazy to wash their dishes. As for paper towels & toilet paper, I go generic every time. Another thing that I'm astonished by is when people buy crappy soda but yet have expensive toilet paper??? Great video 😊

[@MaryKane-qv5vz]

I have a dog and six cats (did have eleven cats at one time) all rescues. Love them all. Animals give total loyalty to owners. Cannot understand those who abandon them.

[@BenState]

middle aged and single?

[@shashankshekhar2611]

@@BenState unnecessary and weak!

[@BenState]

@@shashankshekhar2611 stop projecting.

[@vikker8274]

Be prepared to be chastised by “good Christians!”.

[@vbelbel490]

@@BenState Just like your mama!

[@Jen-qd4qc]

If you can’t give pets a good life you shouldn’t have them apart of your family

[@rachelbomberger7943]

Agreed🙌🏻

[@MB-uy5kh]

Two things I refuse to give up: Bounty Paper Towels and Charmin toilet paper. Purchased only when on sale at Costco. During Covid, I was the only person in my extended family who had a closet full of paper goods. Only person I shared with was my daughter who is an MD and was working 12 hour days, seven days a week for months during the height of Covid.

[@p.sherman3158]

I always stock up when Costco has a sale.

[@thomaskauser8978]

Toilet paper disappeared before the corporate bailout and not COFLU? the surface cleaning products disappeared during COFLU + COFLU didn't live on surfaces !

[@yaroldimanzano2199]

😂 your post is so funny...

[@pughconsulting]

I bought and installed bidets. So much better and cleaner.

[@frequentlycynical642]

That's called "hoarding."

[@f.l.stockman651]

Not only do most libraries have sales of books that they're taking out of circulation (often $1-2), but my wife and I listen to a lot of streamed books through free, easy to use apps that our library teams up with. This is also very environmentally sound, in addition to saving gas on trips to the library to pick up and return books. E-books are also available if you like them better, and you are paying for the library with your property taxes/rent, whether you use it or not.

[@hal-ys5fx]

Always used libraries since 7 yrs old (now 69). There has to be a library in the towns I move to or no move. Love actual books, but utilize ordering on line the books, movies etc I want. They advise when available to p/u. Also they have Hoopla and Library to Go that are on line access to mags, dvds, books, audiobooks etc. Everything your heart can desire. With all of that totally free how can a person lose. This is when I truly appreciate technology. It's great in winter when driving can be rough. Just open the laptop and the world awaits. PS their book sales are so cheap.

[@EmeraldHill-vo1cs]

Why are so many peoples comments getting cut off near ( i think ) their end?

[@777LoveStory]

Look into Half Price Books if it's in your area. You can also sell books to them.

[@DonnaK-w3c]

13:07 ​@@EmeraldHill-vo1cs

[@tracygresham4869]

I gotta relate to the only ordering water at a restaurant. I like the way that the server has a bummed out look when my wife and i say water only.

[@AnEskimoBakes]

I just found your channel. Laughing at the fun way you present information. I’m 75% frugal, 25% snob. Still driving my 1998 Honda, buying and cooking scratch with mostly high quality food products in high quality cookware thrift finds, refusing to buy paper towels or own a clothes dryer while occasionally buying books and good quality linen fabrics for home decor.

[@lyndadunn2777]

I tear paper towels in 1/2 and often lay on dish drainer to dry and reuse if only damp.

[@shawnkelly695]

Reuse lol. A roll of bounty select a size extra strong is like 4 or 5 bucks for a couple hundred sheets. Saving pennies as dollars slip past.

[@CFinch360]

@@shawnkelly695 It's the mindset Shawn. I also reuse my paper towels and therefore can save that 4-5 bucks which others buy freely without ever thinking about it.

[@shawnkelly695]

@@CFinch360 again, save pennies as dollars slip by. I would bet you take your car to the mechanic. Thats 100 min per hour and mechanics are well known to rip people off. I would rather throw the pennies away and save hundreds by fixing my own car. You save pennies waisting time drying used towels. I save thousands doing my own car repairs. Whos ahead? Again saving pennies as dollars fly by. Wanna dry toilet paper to reuse too? Save them pennies as flushing hundred dollar bills. Must be a liberal.

[@shawnkelly695]

@@CFinch360 ways to save much much more then pennies. Drive a older car. Spent 1200 cash on a older car, 200 in parts to get safetied. Repair myself. Insurance is 40 bucks per month. Buy used tires for dirt cheap. Raise my own beef, pork, chicken, eggs, milk and use the cream to make my own butter and cheese. Cook/ bake everything from scratch. Again you saving pennies as those hundred dollar bills slip past. Must be a liberal. I also watch those paper towel saving weirdos going to the coffee shop 5 times per day. Figure they saved 4 sheets of paper towel that now waist 20 bucks on coffee that can be made at home for pennies not dollars. Buy a new car with 600 buck payments and 200 buck insurance. Then drop off at a shop to get hosed 1200 in repairs that could have been done for a hundred bucks. Buy a new fridge and stove every few yrs for thousands instead of a simple repair. Your paper towel saving is just a waist of time and pennies. I bet you broke as shit saving those towels cause hundred dollar bills are drifting away as you watch the pennies.

[@utcomgrad92]

I have always looked at being Frugal as getting the best ‘value’ out of a purchase. Finding the point where price and quality are both optimal. Where as being cheap is getting something at its lowest price without regard for quality.

[@DollarAndAPint]

I agree with everything on this list, and understand why. I even practice most of them. But, I have to say, life would not be a good without my pets. And, yes they do cost money, one had an infection and it cost a fortune to have it dealt with. But, it was worth it to me.

[@hellome8826]

Looking at this list and realizing how I can relate to a bunch of them. Especially books, I love to go to bookstores for book ideas and immediately checking to see if my library has it. Plus with ability to put books on hold at the library there have been numerous times I end up reading multiple books for free.

[@jtc1947]

@hellome8826...Because I live CLOSER to a small town, the only chance to buy NEW paperbacks was either a Winn Dixie or Walmart. WD QUIT selling the paperbacks and a LOT of popular magazines. Got too expensive at WALLY + It's a big store and I have a bad back. Better to go to the local Library! Might be a bit further on the miles but the books are FREE and I can usually find something to take home. LOVE the printed page. BE WELL & SAFE!

[@lm1367]

Oh, and cloth handkerchiefs are way softer on the nose than paper ones, even if you don't iron them!

[@sueallison4841]

I learn as much from the comments as I do the videos. Thank you all.

[@CrazyEmptyNest]

Totally agree! We read Dr. Thomas J. Stanley's research in the "Millionaire Mind" over 20 years ago and wholeheartedly apply all these principles. Haven't bought a new car, our dog was adopted for $30, many of our vacations are charitable work in developing countries or places off the beaten path. One confession, we do drink Folgers! - Jenny and Lance

[@LadyBeeSting2434]

Your edits and commentary are hilarious! I do however have to say, I thought I was so good at being a coffee snob until one day someone served me Folgers coffee. I thought it was so delicious. Turns out it was Folgers in my cup!! I was humbled back to my roots and now buy Folgers. 😂

[@jerrybessetteDIY]

But you are not paying $5 at Starbucks. Even premium coffee is cheap if you make it at home. You are doing good.

[@monke4070]

ever since i became frugal i appreciate my things and take care of them way more.

[@djbarton6126]

George, I really enjoyed your content and love how hysterical you are! You make this frugal thing fun!

[@karivdh]

Being frugal is a life challenge, and I am proud of it! Worthy content here…great job! ✌🏻

[@patriot9455]

Correct wording is "Being Frugal is a lifestyle." but being dead cheap can get expensive in the long term

[@cmsa3]

It's kind of a hobby with me.

[@patriot9455]

@@cmsa3 good hobby, I am so cheap, the moth protective society has condemned my coin purse.

[@beyondsquid]

As far as $ per entertainment hour, books are an incredible buy. I try to buy used as much as possible. Libraries are a hassle, take time and I am hard on the books I read.

[@BrotherhoodWorkshop]

I consider myself frugal (my in-laws tease me for being "cheap" frequently), and I fall in line with all but three: 1. Books. Cause my wife LOVES collecting books (at least she doesn't love collecting jewelry). 2. Paper towels. Cause it's worth $20 every 4 months to not have to wash scum-covered towels. 3. Fancy vacations. Cause Europe is amazing.

[@georgewagner7787]

Get your wife a kindle

[@BrotherhoodWorkshop]

@@georgewagner7787 She hates digital books. Her dream is to have a personal library with thousands of physical books.

[@tymondabrowski12]

​@@georgewagner7787Ebooks can often be nearly just as expensive as physical books.

[@letschatfamilyfinances]

Same!

[@marywebb9127]

​@@tymondabrowski12Yard sales, libraries, thrift stores will have cheap and sometimes free books. There is no reason to do digital!

[@pamwalmsley1865]

NEVER use paper towels! Also besides under garments I buy all my clothes, shoes, boots and purses at the thrift stores.

[@ericaterrones16]

Hilarious! You did great George and I learned and agreed with all this 😂

[@geobloxmodels1186]

Actual books are important because once printed, the words can't be changed to meet some modern narrative. Pets are expensive, but I would rather have dogs and be poorer than die without ever having experience the unconditional love that a dog gives. Also, there are tons of ways to have dogs and be as frugal as possible.

[@87wxdiaz]

also dogs are like living thief deterrents. also yes the loyalty you will never get that unconditional love and loyalty, there is no maintenance to keep it up

[@carolynshull4841]

I hadn't thought of the "once printed, can't be changed" idea.👍 But, books can be burned.

[@italiancapo7]

Grow up. Pets are money pits.

[@racenuke]

Not gonna lie. Every time I buy paper towels in bulk I think “I could just use rags. “ but then I also think “I have three kids and that sounds terrible!”

[@janelleg597]

And more laundry...ya no thanks

[@tymondabrowski12]

Use both, depending on what's going on.

[@TaylerALong]

I figure I cook almost every meal we eat from scratch, so it's ok to make clean up a little easier for myself with some paper towels and paper plates.

[@quixomega]

I only use paper towels for things that would be extremely difficult to clean off such as drying raw meat. For a lot of things reusable towels and cloths are a lot better at cleaning up spills than paper, once to get into the habit you won't want to go back to throwing money away.

[@MW-on1ft]

I do most of these things. Paper towels are kind of a luxury but yet a necessity. I use the select a size ones as I don't always need a full sheet, living on a small boat I use them to soak up anything oily or greasy that doesn't go down the drain but properly disposed of ashore. Also for the galley/kitchen I use a roll of toilet paper for small wipe ups, usually only takes a couple squares minimizing the use of throw away ables. I use rags for many other things and wash them in a bucket. Oh I live a small foot print on my 30' sailboat. I grew up in a family which didn't have a lot of money so we did for ourselves, hunting, fishing, canning , freezing and fabricating things for ourselves. We were repurposing things long before it became the trend.

[@cindybailey465]

I budget for my family of 6 currently (Daddy is deployed) to eat out 2x a month. I do allow special drinks generally because we eat out seldom enough that I really enjoy the treat. We're paying things off left and right and I'm extremely frugal in MANY areas. All 5 of my children are so blessed with hand-me-downs that I rarely need to buy clothes, when I do it's at a thrift store! ❤

[@patriot9455]

when my wifre had young children, she took them out every payday for a hamburger and fries. if they were well behaved, they got a root beer with it. One kid misbehaves all of them lose root beer. her kids always worked for that root beer.

[@MichelleF1320]

Reusable/washable towels can’t be used for draining oil of of something you fried… paper towels is a must.

[@bug8502]

Everyday on my lunchbreak from work I go to the grocery store and buy a lot of the discount meat and produce I find there for dinner that night. It is an anticipated part of each day for me.

[@raquel5401]

Good list. I don't switch cell phones until mine stops accepting updates. I don't care, they still do everything I need. I do all of the other things as well. And it has left us with no car payments for 13 years and a 30 year mortgage that will be paid off in about 18 months, 20 years early.

[@tressalewis7004]

We have learned the hard way, the expensive way, that a little bit of paper towel can save you a lot of Danario. We were not wiping out our cast-iron frying pan with paper towel, which was causing a slow buildup of grease in our pipes. After a bit of expense, we are now diligently using A bit of paper towel to wipe out the cast-iron frying pan after its use,before washing it

[@vlada17544]

Great list. I would add to that: smoking or any tobacco related products, booze (if you drink, drink at home for most of the time), movie tickets, theatre tickets, all kinds of tickets. I don't say we shouldn't go to concerts, but they can drain a lot of cash, public garages, highway tolls (here in Europe), newspapers and magazines, eating out, netflix, Spotify and similar subscriptions, lawn mowers (you can use manual tools), battery run tools, as opposed to plug in electric tools... A never ending list.

[@gravit9]

I checked on 16 out of 17 being that one paper towels. I use reusable towels to dry dishes and do most of the cleaning. However there are a few instances that a higher quality paper towel is the solution. I prefer the higher quality paper towels because I can rinse it and reuse it. While for the same thins a cheap paper towel would require multiple sheets. The cheap one may be 30% cheaper but if I use two or three times as many paper towels it's costing me more. I also buy them in bulk.

[@deciduous_99]

I always appreciate your posts George. Creative, fun, and solid advice.

[@Tylerstrodtman]

I know someone who used to work at a dry cleaner, and I asked her what dry cleaning actually is, and she honestly told me that half of the time they just put it in a regular washing machine and give it back to the customer. Don’t fall for it, it’s a scam.

[@georgewagner7787]

Woolite sells dry cleaning towels for your dryer

[@allisonmodaff5635]

I use Dryel.

[@brandonvillamagna6223]

it’s the ironing that’s worth it for me. dress shirts are a pain

[@MyFocusVaries]

Dry cleaners offer a shirt service for dress shirts and laundry service for regular clothes. I also worked in a dry cleaner. If it's marked Dry Clean Only, it is dry cleaned. But dry cleaning is a terribly toxic process, so not choosing dry clean only clothes is a great idea.

[@jenniferrussell6616]

That was just that dry cleaner. A legitimate dry cleaner used dry cleaner fluid. I worked for one as my first job. Some clothes would be ruined if you use water on them. Having said that, the only thing I’ve had dry cleaned since working there is a winter coat.

[@Ajsweetkilgore]

I would give up 99% of these but my cat. He truly is a key player in my success in life

[@M_SC]

❤

[@ronwilson8759]

Does your kitty wear a tie?

[@canadafree2087]

TIP: If you do buy a pet, research the breeds with the least problems. Some breeds are known to give you a guaranteed big medical bill in the future. Also, have a jar and toss a set amount of cash in it every payday; this will be your pet's medical fund. Really, you should be doing this for any big items in your life.

[@dirtdevil70]

Purebreds tend to have more issues...run of the mill mutts are the best

[@jackb348]

Get pet insurance and honestly you can’t put a price on true love that a pet brings.

[@Romerix11]

and get a small dog!! i "regret" choosing a 60 pounder that gets everything pricier

[@dirtdevil70]

@@Romerix11 I’ve got two hounds…ones 48lbs, the other about 75….. figure $1500-2000/yr for food, vets visits, vaccinations etc.. but I’d pay 2x to have them around. 🥰

[@TheEstevenw]

Most pet insurance is useless, it doesn't cover routine things even a teeth cleaning. It is catastrophic insurance and won't cover most things your pet will need in a lifetime. We had pet insurance for our first dog, didn't cover a thing for his 16 years.

[@RamonaAnne]

My sister often says, "growing up poor gives you mad skills!" It's true, I know how to do a lot of things, I can do repair and maintenance on a lot of things, and I can learn how to do all sorts of stuff by searching youtube. And growing up poor gave me very good shopping skills. It was hard when I was young, but now I'm glad I know these things and I pinch pennies from choice now.

[@DNaupari]

Cloth towels here 🙋🏻‍♀️ Two bins. One for clean one for dirty… I throw’m in the washer with towels and/or linens that get washed anyway Eazy peazy😊

[@Malia504]

So when we first found the baby steps I was looking for ways to reduce what we purchased. I figured out that with a toddler(who would use almost a roll of paper towels when one or two would do) and all the other things that we used towels for we would go through a roll a week at least. So that Christmas I asked for Unpaper towels(fabric cloths that you can treat like paper towels but you can wash) I have been using them for almost 5 years and I still love them. Those towels plus cloth diapers/wipes have helped us stay on a budget even with two surprise babies.

[@darlameeks]

I do buy paper towels, but I haven't bought paper napkins in years. I bought some good cloth napkins 25 years ago, and they're still in great shape with regular use.

[@branned]

My kids thank me for not letting them order soda at restaurants. They never picked up the bad habit.

[@gardenjoy5223]

"Olympic athleticism of frugality" had me in stitches :) It's a FUN sport and you Always WIN, even at entry level. Even if you only manage to score 14 points out of 17.

[@susannastorytime]

"It doesn't make you a bad person" 🤣 Thank You for relieving my guilt! ☺️

[@alinatamashevich3354]

Go into any large home, $2M and up, guess what they all have.....a room dedicated to books, a library! Go into any low income home or apartment, there will be NO books. A 30+ year teacher pointed this out to me, she taught in low income and extreme high income schools.

[@kathyyoung1774]

Amen. Former teacher. I have a library in a 1200 sq ft home (and bookcases in4 other rooms, too).

[@gardenjoy5223]

Perhaps there is a correlation between having books and being able to afford a 2M home, and not having books and living low income. Not always, but I guess in many occasions. Smart people love to read and learn. Then again, this changes somewhat in this digital time with knowledge in the internet everywhere. Plus: reading a good book is a whole lot cheaper than squandering your money on going out in the weekends to drink and piss your live away.

[@alinatamashevich3354]

@@gardenjoy5223 UM, Tik-Toc does count as digital age learning, nor does the song FUTC