30 Things Frugal People Buy to Save Money

[@ellendunn559]

Totally agree about shoes. My husband’s family was on a tight budget and was very frugal about shoes as his feet were growing. He ended up with bone spurs on his heels and problems with his toes, and when our kids were little, he told me, “Spend the money on good shoes for them! I don’t care how much it costs!” Well worth the expense.

[@Savannah-ed4rv]

A tough lesson 😢

[@jimmiepatrum]

Yes, wearing shoes which fit is vital. When my brother and I were little, my dad always took us shoe shopping. Mom shopped for everythine else, but shoes were Dad's responsibility. Thanks for the memories. Diane

[@barbaracampbell7747]

My mom had the same problem since she was raised in the Great Depression

[@christensmith6814]

You always spend money on the things you put between you and the ground - shoes, cars, and mattresses. You can sit on the floor if your chair sucks, but you can't sit if you've got a back bad from a bad mattress. You can't out-walk bad shoes.

[@lynclarke6184]

Good leather shoes a must and worth every penny.

[@NoMoreTears64]

I live in an apartment that has a community washer and dryer. It costs 2.50 for every wash load and 2.00 to dry. My apartment includes the cost of water in my rent, so I hand wash most of my clothing and towels. I bought a spin dryer on Amazon. I spin dry the clothes for 1-3 minutes and then hang them up to dry. This saves me 18.00 - 20.00 a month in laundry costs. The spin dryer has already paid for itself and I dont get the white residue crap on my clothes that the community washers leave on them. Its a WIN!

[@kjmav10135]

Our local GoodWill jacked up their prices awhile back, and now it’s maybe 50 cents to a dollar less than going down the street and buying the item new at Target. I’ve even found items at Target that are less expensive than they are at GoodWill. Why spend $5 for a used tee shirt that originally came from Target when I can get a brand new tee from Target for the same price or a dollar more.

[@ashleym.9682]

This happened where I'm at. $6 for a used tee shirt? No thanks. I'll wait for the store to clearance them cheaper.

[@breezyveezy1]

Our Goodwill did the same thing and I looked at the prices and thought “who is pricing this stuff!”.

[@tf4606]

Reasons to buy used in this case is to reduce the environmental impact and reduce demand.

[@israelrivers8280]

I noticed this a few years back, all electronics and stereo equipment basically gone overnight. Then I found out why, thrift stores caught on to what their customers were doing, find deals and reselling on ebay and Craigslist. So now, all thrift stores sort donations, Google what these used goods go for and sell themselves to eBay, Craigslist and other second hand sites. So, no the days of finding a great guitar or stereo or used furniture is over. Better to understand what's happening and spend your time on saving $ other ways. And they are probably doing this with clothes also, at least better pieces like leather jackets etc. Not only is it kind of sad the days of finding a bargain this way are over, but those truly in need of donations are denied the opportunity also. Just the way it is now. But luckily now we have channels like this where we can get lots of good $ ideas in just minutes. ❤ 😊

[@pamelahenry2288]

I have seen Goodwill prices go crazy too. The items that I tend to be more attracted to in those stores anymore are housewares, electronics, and possibly small furniture/bookshelves. I don't even look at clothes at Goodwill anymore. But keep in mind that there's lots of thrift stores usually most places. Goodwill is not the only option. Check out other local thrift stores and see what their prices are like. Many have colored tag sales daily and other things like that to make clothes more affordable and always look over the clothes very well for defects like holes, rips, and stains because if the clothes are very cheap it still may not be a good deal if you're not going to wear it due to damage you didn't notice in the store. Also, make sure if the store has a return policy and whether you can try it on before you buy it. It makes a difference what it looks like on a hanger vs on your body.

[@southerngirlyall6497]

The problem with new appliances is they don't last as long and tend to need more repairs.

[@EMILYHERRERA]

I've been able to find used appliances that still work well (and are easier to repair) for super low prices on social media. Sometimes people are just giving away a perfectly good washer/drier/refrigerator/etc. because they're "old". So many new washers & refrigerators are electrical nightmares $$$.

[@LauraMacMillan-el2kc]

Garage sales and estate sales are often a good source for slightly older, (and much sturdier!) small appliances for a fraction of the price. Remember during the worst of Covid when there wasn’t a bread machine (for example) to be found anywhere? People can’t get rid of them fast enough these days. And for really cheap!

[@W3ndyPearc3]

We're I live in rural Australia, we have a thing called Boomerang Bags. These are made by folks in the community and hung outside the food store. They're usually free as you use the bags and return them on your next visit, thus the boomerang effect.

[@monicaluketich6913]

I love your idea and the name!

[@krisqueen5939]

Nice

[@Savannah-ed4rv]

Very cool!

[@jimmiepatrum]

What a great idea. Diane

[@jat6547]

Whats the purpose of ?

[@GlammyBee]

Years ago, my dad was out jogging in the swanky area near where my parents lived, when he found a Henredon end table out with the trash. Lol, he said he couldn't get home fast enough to get back there with the car. Someone had taken a hammer to the top, but otherwise it was in excellent shape. Woodworking was his hobby, and he was able to restore it. Since losing my parents, I now have the end table in my home. It's beautiful, but I cherish it not because of the item itself, but the memory of my dad telling me the story, which makes me chuckle. 😊

[@UndertheMedian]

Great story!

[@americafirst9144]

When you check a book out of the library, you can often renew it to get more time to read it.

[@kenyonbissett3512]

Ours let’s us renew 2 time for a total of 9 weeks unless there is a waiting list for the book. But I’ve returned a book after 9 weeks and waited one day and then started the 9 weeks over again. I’ve done it rarely over the last 58 yrs (🎉), but I have done it.

[@kelleyspears1218]

Ours does an automatic renewal up to three times if no one is waiting for it

[@michellejennings3232]

Good mattresses are very important- even for children. Backaches are not worth saving the dollars for cheap mattresses or used mattresses. Cut corners elsewhere, but take good care of those backs.

[@pnwflipper2089]

We have a terrible mattress! What mattress do you recommend for good quality?

[@lizeta8404]

We bought a dream cloud mattress on Fb Market place. They have brand name mattress’ resellers. People often try these mattress but the company has a return policy and if somebody didn’t like it can return. The company disinfects them, repackages it and sells to sellers for les than half the original price. My reseller had several good brands. I was able to test several ones on the spot and they ended with a dream cloud. Best purchase ever!

[@nancygreen8186]

I am far from being poor yet I know value. I buy from the rich. I bought a $2,500 Bradington Young chair for $150. It looks new and today it still looks new as i have had it for a few years . The leather is beautiful . I shop wisely and even go for buy one get one free. I buy expensive vehicles that are usually 2 years old and get it about half of what it originally sold for. I bought two vehicles with only 16,000 miles. They were perfectly taken care off. I am debt free. Shop wisely.

[@NatachaKemp]

I'm definitely cooking more plant based meals these days. I save lots of money.

[@sharonsalyer4912]

You can often find crockpots in thrift stores. And during garage sale season you can often find them very cheap 😊

[@deborasmith5191]

We saw some items at Goodwill that was not much different than buying new. I think we were looking at juicers back then.

[@wandacarr668]

Growing up in the 1970's, our local grocer would put our groceries in the cardboard boxes he received from shipments to his store. They carried our groceries out to our car. They had brown paper sacks, too. No plastic.

[@pnwflipper2089]

Costco puts things in boxes-I wish more stores would offer the boxes. I wonder if they are selling the cardboard for $$ instead?? Sometimes if I forget my bags I’ll snag any random empty box I find on the shelves 😂

[@jayalexander3356]

I think the reason people think bar soap lasts longer is because they use way too much body wash. A bottle of body wash can last me 6 months. No bar soap lasts that long.

[@kathyharmon2093]

I use both, antibacterial bar soap kills the bacteria that causes odors, body wash doesn’t do that but it smells good

[@pnwflipper2089]

I think you are right-a lot of products with pump dispensers dispense more than you need for 1 use!

[@bmarieluvstheearth3879]

I have had bar soaps last for months. I also put pieces in a soap sock and use in the shower

[@julieburkhardt61]

I'm back to bar soap--no stupid plastic bottles to dispose of. we all need to rebel against all the plastic being forced on us.

[@vibekeangelo6623]

Here in Denmark, plastic bags in grocery stores - the only possibility, if you want to buy a bag - went up in price dramatically a few years ago. The result: Most of us, including myself, bring our own bags to the store or supermarket. Or even a whole bunch of them! I love when saving money and doing something good for our environment goes hand in hand.

[@rochellethundercloud346]

I always have tote bags in my backpack,just in case.saves time, and money

[@ArthursHD]

In terms of CO2 and water use it is hardly better for the environment.

[@homeschoolingcuriously]

Hawai'i laws prohibits the use of plastic bags in their stores and some islands dont even use paper bags. Also Styrofoam plates/storage containers are also prohibited in the state from restaurants and stores.

[@katehorrell8732]

I never buy cell phones my son always gives me their old one when they upgrade, plus I'm on his phone plan so I don't pay for a phone bill. Being on a disability income of $1100 a month anything I can do to save money I will do. When my kids were little I nursed both of them , made their baby food, used cloth diapers, and made all their clothes.

[@debrabyrd592]

Take bar soap shave some off. Place in a pan of boiling water I boil water in microwave stir till soap is dissolved. Let cool place in a soap pump or bottle if you prefer liquid soap. Makes a lot and still has fragrance and moisture content.

[@deborasmith5191]

That is what I need to do with all of the leftover soap pieces we have.

[@deborasmith5191]

Thanks for the tip and reminder to do that

[@gigirox2103]

A large bottle of body wash soap. A few squirts into soap pump bottle. Fill slowly wit water( to prevent too much foaming over) replace pump, shake to mix. Voila!! Lasts a long long time.

[@silvesan9162]

I put the soap pieces/remnants in a glass bowl, cover with water and let it about a day, then stir to ensure it is smooth. Funnel unto pump soap dispenser.

[@elizaC3024]

In Michigan you get an option to buy an annual state park pass with your license plate tab. It is $12 annually and gets you into all state parks fora year.

[@allisonmarcelle8627]

That’s a great deal!

[@ksewald91]

My stepdad was a DNR Officer. He always got one of those for the car. Lots of fun times! Family reunions and picnics.

[@tamekaosabutey-aguedje7532]

Pure Michigan! So miss our state parks and dunes.

[@christym6128]

I'm so glad to find like-minded people!

[@EvangSuz]

Patch clothing with iron on patches, hem myself.found store with teduced items.Using beans in dishes, no meat.kept my parents mahogany furniture.❤

[@sarahfarnham9520]

Y’all are great, like a mom and dad giving the advice that many of us didn’t get to have ☺️

[@guykenniker9498]

I buy a cheap pack of washcloths for napkins or for cleanups

[@JaeMing-tn1kq]

I use worn-out clothes as rags, but I can't believe I used to buy micro- cloths

[@lizwiedenhofer2514]

In Rhode Island, it’s not entirely mandatory that you bring your own grocery bags but there is a law that stores can not give out plastic bags anymore, only paper. Also, some stores make you pay for the paper bags so it does drive you to bring reusable bags. Thank you for your show Larry and Hope!

[@deborasmith5191]

That is the way it is in Maine too. We were given reusable bags, so I take those with me when I go grocery shopping. I tend to forget at other stores or go without a bag if I am only buying a few items.

[@gurkamalkaur3207]

Made a shopping bag out of a pair of my nieces plus sized jeans. Had a couple holes near the pockets. Cut hearts from the leg scraps and put over holes, along with cut lavender fabric heart. So many compliments from young people I now use it to carry my Bamboo Miracle pillow. Bag is so strong, it can carry more weight than I can.

[@Mariannejadlowski]

Just bought this new laptop yesterday. It was an open box item at a retailer I really trust and the only reason it had been opened was to put it on display for their Customer Appreciation sale. Got there an hour after it was displayed so it hadn't been used and it was nearly half price. Score!

[@100nanay]

I love you two!! I’ve been frugal for quite sometime but after my X decided to divorce me and I got less than 10%of his gross income for alimony (research your lawyer thoroughly before paying your retainer. Mine was worthless and his was like a rabid pit bull). Another benefit of well made shoes is that they’ll be better for your feet!!

[@Jayee9999]

If you shop on clearance, you can get new clothes for the same price that you pay for clothes at thrift stores. Also, clothes at thrift stores are often washed out and outdated. You can stay simply in style by shopping the clearance rack. Also, if you’ve spend a little more money on quality on clothing and get pieces that are not going to go out of style too soon/classics and solid colored pieces, you don’t need to shop at a thrift store to get clothes.

[@danandautumn]

I had a friend get a couch from a thrift store and it had bed bugs.

[@pnwflipper2089]

Yikes! Not worth it!

[@lisapalmeno4488]

That's why I stopped buying used furniture, mostly. It's an unsaid epidemic in the US, these pests.

[@pennyheinrich5552]

At my local library, you can check out (free!!!!) park passes. You can also check out a sewing machine, rototiller and other items.

[@hollynauss6359]

Larry & Hope, how about a video on how to save $$ on insurances? Car, home, life, health ins total a big chunk of our WAY "under the median" budget. And, boy, have the costs increased this year! Car ins alone has nearly doubled!

[@hartleyfamily5451]

Yes, PLEASE! We are considering going from 2 vehicle to 1 because the price increase.

[@judytackitt]

Ppl😊 15:44 ​@@hartleyfamily5451

[@silvesan9162]

My parents use AARP and take AARP'S annual senior driver's course. They get a very good discount on auto. If you live in California or Oregon and have a good driving record, try Wawanesa Insurance. I've never found less expensive auto ir homeowners insurance. Also, raising your deductible lowers the premium. Some auto insurance companies offer towing, etc., comparable to AAA at a fraction of the cost as compared AAA.

[@gurkamalkaur3207]

Costco just started the Kirkland brand of rolled oats. Three dollars less than Quaker for a 10 pound bag.

[@happycook6737]

My 86 year old dad says Costco brand oats tastes the same as the big name brand. A win because in the past he refused to eat store brand oats saying the texture/flavor wasn't the same as name brand.

[@bet3lyn3G3]

I just got a new stove fridge and microwave after about 20 years, they’re energy efficient

[@makulewahine]

I have a senior national park pass that lasts for the rest of my life. I bought it before the price jumped but I live close to two national parks and a number of other types of national reserves etc. It is worth it.

[@arletbode4847]

I don’t agree on bulk spices. They will lose flavor over time.

[@kamicrum4408]

Spuces I yse a lot of, buy those in bulk cause I know ill use it up before it goes yuck.

[@terryhenderson424]

The local Winco goes through thier spices quickly enough that they are not particularly old when they are brought home. At Winco, and a couple of other places in the greater area, the customer fills a small plastic bag from a bulk container which pours. With this type of bulk spice, you can get small or large quantities.

[@arletbode4847]

Yes that’s true I love getting spices at winco. Winco is my favorite store. When I heard bulk for some reason I assumed a large amount.

[@arletbode4847]

That’s good, I could prob do that with oregano, cumin and paprika

[@shirleydenton4747]

I guess it depends on what spices you use a lot for cooking. Ineed to start buying garlic powder, onion powder, and chili powder in bulk because I cook a lot of chili, tacos, enchiladas, and have even found these spices add a great taste to soups, meatloaf, and meatballs. Otherwise, some of the others, the regular size is too much.

[@elizaC3024]

For those of us who can't get mint mobile in our area, consumer cellular gave us 2 unlimited lines for $65 with an AARP discount. We live too rurally for mint.

[@canonrebel626]

I have a consumer cellular flip phone and it’s perfect for our needs!

[@ceciliaabdalla4954]

Visible is owned by Verizon and uses their towers $25 for unlimited talk, text data.

[@coston1986]

We also live in a rural area and couldn’t use Mint Mobile. US Mobile offers Verizon, T-Mobile, and soon AT&T as well. They are awesome! We have the share plan and have 3 lines for $41 per month for 12GB of data to share and unlimited talk and text. We also pay for our phones upfront and can take them to whatever carrier we want. We love US Mobile prepaid though.

[@lindadorman2869]

I look for the cotton or nylon cloth reusable shopping bags because they're washable. I have some that I bought in Europe more than 10 years ago and they're still in great shape!

[@rochellethundercloud346]

The plastic coated ones,are washable,too. I keep tote bags in my backpack at all times

[@rhondashephard-z7p]

I have a cloth bag in my luggage to take on vacation. But in defense of plastic bags. I use mine instead of small trash can liners. I sell online and use the plastic grocery bags to wrap for packing the item for cushioning instead of expensive packing wrap and bubble wrap from orders.if you want padded hangers I wrap hanger in plastic bags tightly and pad the hanger . The n wrap to finish with left over yarn, needlepoint floss, or crochet yarn.

[@SD-ki4fe]

Been on Mint for a few years now and it's perfect! We have had zero problems, pay less in one year than we used to pay in one to two months for the exact same data, phone and text.

[@sharenread8677]

L.E.D. lightbulbs are cheaper,last longer and give off more brightness. I still have my second lightbulb in my Coke lamp that I put inside 5 years ago. That’s quality purchase right there. Sharen

[@marthamette3018]

National Parks Senior Pass is 62 years or older (not 55+)

[@greeneyedredhead61]

I live in California. No it isn't mandatory to bring your own bags. But if you want a bag from the store, they will charge you 10 cents for each bag. I have reusable bags too but often forget to take them. But if I buy I bag, I will save them and reuse them 9ver and over or I use them as trash bags in small trash cans. A money saving tip I have that I never hear anyone talk about is: I never cook, clean and often I don't eat or drink in nice clothes. Especially cooking. I will put on older worn out clothes so when that grease splatter hits, it's no big deal and nothing nice is ruined.

[@Tambryl]

I use aprons over my clothes to protect them.

[@mamasdooman]

When I was working I dressed as nicely as I could afford and took my clothes off when I got home...and put on my "comfy outfit to cook." Even though I am now retired, I still do this even though I dress more casually to go out of the house. My clothes stay nicer and last a lot longer. Thanks for adding this to the list....

[@Erica-en2qz]

​@@mamasdoomanMy mom used to have us do this when we came home from school each day. 😊 I got back into doing that a couple of years ago. It's nice to have some comfy cozy clothes to lounge in (or take a walk in) when I get home from work!

[@wandacarr668]

I do the same thing when cooking. I call it my apron shirt.

[@wandacarr668]

When I was a kid we had school clothes and everyday clothes. I brought that habit with me into adulthood.

[@FoxDenAcademy]

I love so many tips but especially the one on shoes! I am very frugal and the shoe comment hit so close to home! I usually have 1 pair of tennis shoes and 1 pair of flip flops (I live in FL so no winter shoes needed). So we buy good strong shoes and use them for many years. I just bought a new pair when my last pair developed a hole in the ball of the foot. They lasted over 5 years! Another great tip is to buy older model of some things when you can. Manufacturers make things so that they break quickly so you’ll become a repeat customer. It wasn’t like that in the older days. For example, I was looking for a salad spinner and Amazon wanted $20 for them. I kept my eye on Facebook marketplace and found one that an older lady had for many, many years. I paid $3 for it and it is a workhorse! It is so sturdy that it’s heavy to pick up! Haha. My grandkids won’t be able to break this thing! Use older models of things when you can. It’s important to not use anything painted due to lead paint or that looks dilapidated, but if it’s in good working condition, I always choose the older models of things!

[@katherinerichardson1767]

Thank you for sharing---I needed a desk, and I bought mine at a use furniture store. Not only did I save money but it complimented my other furnishings.

[@yvetteschroed741]

Could you do a frugal plant based crockpot meal video??? I would love to find some vegetarian crockpot meals that can cook all day. Thank you for all you do!

[@UndertheMedian]

We were going to do a collab with Kate Kaden this month featuring crockpot meal ideas. But, because of Larry's accident we put the collab on hold.

[@beverlyfrancis8433]

Thank you. I would agree with 1) generic brands. 2) bring my own food to work. 3)second hand furniture 4)second hand books 5) cloth napkins 6)DIY cleaning products/ multipurpose 7) buy in bulk***** 8)reusabe grocery bags

[@LaundryFaerie]

I live in western Washington and there's a bag tax here, so I keep reusable bags in the trunk of my car and bring them into the store with me. I have some commercially-made bags, but I'm also handy with a sewing machine and there are several free reusable bag patterns online. I've used canvas to make heavy paper-style bags and cotton fabric to make singlet-plastic-style bags that fold up very small when not in use (and they're strong enough to hold two gallon jugs of milk without breaking!). Even if your area doesn't have a bag tax, they're probably on the way. Plus having a reusable bag on hand means that if you come across a great deal at a garage sale or a huge patch of wild berries, you've already got a container!

[@tamara1565]

My parents always bought used and I was so excited to buy new as an adult... but it didn't last. I know the savings so I will always buy 2nd hand. We got free led bulbs from the utility company a few years in a row at a local festival so we haven't bought light bulbs in years. Colorado charges .10 for the plastic bags so we use the reusable.

[@kamicrum4408]

Phones, tv ect. If it aint broke,I do not replace! In 2020 hadvto get a new phone inly got the iphoneSE still going strong 2,5 years later!😊

[@gwenroireau6203]

Yes in Connecticut we need to use reusable bags. Buying paper for up to .50¢ can really add up!

[@deserehoward8555]

Amazon sells these wash rags that are pink and other pastel colors and they are the same size as 1/2 size paper towel. They are about $25 for 200 and they are amazing! I have them in all of my Airbnb rentals for guests to use instead of paper towels in the kitchen and bathroom and they are a HUGE success!

[@deserehoward8555]

They are also great as diaper wipes and they fit perfectly in those containers.

[@janallen541]

@deserehoward8555 can you do a link for these? Thanks!

[@brianajones8553]

yes i bought some. love them. i have different colors for certain things

[@dianes9416]

Amazon too expensive!!!!

[@cathyeller5722]

Since we keep our electric bill to the minimum, I can tell when I use my crockpot. The amount of electricity will spike up, I seldom use it anymore. Gas is cheaper here than electricity and since the only thing gas we run is our hot water heater and our stove the bill runs 35.00 a month. Where as our electric can be 50 to 90 depending on how many fans and if I have used the crockpot. We have set rules about one fan on per room per day now. Our water bill went up to 75.00 this summer with watering the garden and the amount of produce did not justify having the garden. Next year we are limiting what we are growing and putting totes under the spouts from the house to collect water. I don't understand how the government can say the economy is fine when so many people are struggling just to get by. We have limited to the extreme of what we are buying now, all we can do is try to come up with new cash flow and reducing our bills even more.

[@Joce123]

I agree with your well said comments. I just completed a landscape redo. Using weedcontrol cloth, covered with pine needles that have natural turpentine I covered my entire boulevard. That is in preparation for the free mulch our city gives out in the spring. I will space drought resistant plants every 2 ft for an attractive accent

[@rg-mi5hh]

To save on water for the garden, we used to catch downspout water in tubs and put lids in them when it was done raining. It really helps.

[@countrymommaxoxo2020]

We have a pond across from our garden we throw a old pump into and water the garden with and use black plastic it doesn’t dry out as fast and helps with weed control and last for years

[@KJOrewiler]

My husband set up two 50-gallon drums to collect rainwater from the gutters from the back of our house. He installed a spigot at the bottom of each one, positioned them laterally, connecting them. We use this water to water all our plants and veggie garden during the growing season (March thru October). It has saved us tons of money!

[@lisapitts9518]

Absolutely shoes have to be good quality, we wear New Balance brand. We recently were to get 2 pairs for less than $150. We are frugal in other areas such as our cell phones and we drive older cars that are paid for! It is all about being careful.

[@kelleyspears1218]

I refuse to pay for exercise classes. I have friends that go to one or two a day, and they are $5 each (not a membership). I have a treadmill, strength bands, a medicine ball, stretching mat, yoga mat, walking poles and hand weights. KZbin videos are great for working out once you have the equipment, which you can get almost all of it at the goodwill. If I was a senior I would try to get the Silver Sneakers membership for really cheap that gets you access to a fitness facility with a pool and walking track for indoors in bad weather. But since I work, it’s much more convenient to exercise at home.

[@caroldolan1485]

In our area the electric company will come out and do an energy audit along with replacing all our lightbulbs with LEDs!!! My electric bill dropped!🎉

[@henriettearea9782]

Yes to quality shoes! I am still wearing regularly a few pairs of Dexter loafers which--at the time--were made in the US.

[@janhardginski990]

Thrift books is a great place to get books from!

[@Larissa-iw5wy]

I live in BC Canada and our town has required us to use our own grocery bags for at least a couple of years now. If you buy paper bags at the grocery store, they are very expensive. Plastic bags are not an option in my community.

[@Larissa-iw5wy]

Our local Rotary club holds a book sale every fall. They’ve done it for decades. The community donates year round. It is so popular that they’ve increased to 2 each year. I love supporting their fundraising efforts and coming home with 10-20 nee to me books for about $20-30 dollars.

[@markrice4808]

There is another resource in addition to the great buys from used book sales to satisfy your love of reading. Take advantage of inter-library loans offered by local libraries. Many are accesible online with a queue system to reserve and hold popular or new titles.

[@jonnaborosky8836]

I agree about vintage table linens, but I don't have to buy them. I bought them already when they were in style! I go to the drawers of the buffet cabinet and get them out! I've almost always used tablecloths and cloth napkins since I first left home I the early '70's. Still have them and still use them. When it comes to shoes, as a nurse, I "invested" in good shoes. When I first started working, my feet hurt. My doctor had me get fitted for custom orthotics. You had to go to the store that made them to pick them up. I found a world of shoes I didn't know existed! I couldn't believe how well made, strong and comfortable their shoes were... but they cost a fortune!! Little by little, I got a pair of black shoes, then brown shoes and a pair of tan sandals, and got rid of all the cheap shoes I'd ever worn. When I tried on the sandals, it was like someone cut a piece of heaven out in the exact size and shape of my feet. Those were made by a company called Finn Comfort (oddly, made in Germany). I didn't use credit most of my life... until I needed a FICO score to buy a house and a car. Most of my cars I bought for cash. Because I didn't have credit, I had to save up for a pair of work shoes from that company. We're talking $500 back in the '90's. The others weren't quite that high, but still expensive, like $150-$250. That was a lot more money back then. They were so well made that I still have some. I took good care of them, and new insoles can be bought. Little by little, I bought a couple more pairs, like brown sandals, black dress shoes, etc. I wore the brown casual shoes till they literally broke in half (took years). 10 years ago, I needed black sandals, and bought a new pair of Finn Comfort ones. I noticed that the quality of the leather had gone down a bit, but the shoes are still the most comfortable I've ever worn. They're still what I wear almost every day for 3/4 of the year. They still seem new to me. I love you guys!!❤

[@UnStrungHero]

My mom was a nurse and shoes were always a challenge to keep good ones. Also when the uniforms changed to scrubs that was a help because those dresses style were a pain, and expensive, as I'm sure you know.

[@shirleydenton4747]

Hair and grey sweater looks good on you, Miss Hope.

[@UndertheMedian]

Thank you so much

[@pnwflipper2089]

I found myself nodding along with agreement for much of this video. When we had kids I went part-time so I could spend more time with them. Cloth diapers and cloth wipes ( and breastfeeding) as well as not buying very much baby gear or baby clothes really helped make the loss of half of my income less devastating to our finances. And if you are going to be laundering cloth diapers, you may as well do the cloth wipes since you are running the loads of laundry anyway. I made mine from a set of flannel sheets that had a big hole in them and random thread that I had on hand so they cost nothing. Kids often potty train earlier with cloth too ( because they can feel they are wet) so that was a bonus!

[@lisapalmeno4488]

And isn't baby food a rip off? I think you can buy apple sauce and boil carrots, peas, potatoes and later ground beef to make the same meals.

[@christym6128]

Look up Wonderbag. It's a pillow bag that you can finish cooking food in. It will keep foods over 175 deg for hours. (Thermal cooker). Start food on stove, then slow finish in the wnderbag.

[@happycook6737]

Or make a diy hay box. I put used newspaper as my filling instead of hay

[@Godblessed2]

Excellent video and inspiring ideas. One I’d like to share that I’ve done for years even before the toilet paper shortage of 2020. I bought large packs of white washcloths. I’m home 24 seven and probably use more toilet paper than other family members. I decided to use washcloths just for number one. Then I can wash them and bleach them. The washcloths are large enough that I can flip them over and keep using until they can’t be used anymore. This is saved me hundreds of dollars in toilet paper. A lot of people would turn their nose up at the idea. However, it’s also way softer than toilet paper. It’s no different than cloth diapers. I keep them in a cupboard. And the one I’m reusing is either draped over the trashcan or something else in the bathroom where no one else would access it. And there was no panic buying of toilet paper and never will be.

[@writercard4]

Love the instapot!

[@debrabyrd592]

Cutting down table cloths into napkins and dishcloths and towels depending on type texture of tablecloth material as to what you make. Lots of fabric little money many can be no sew

[@lisapoulsen5452]

Here, in Ontario, Canada plastic bags are gone from our stores…I’ve been bringing my own bags from way before the rule started but it’s been at least 5 years now. Bittersweet because a lot of people used them as garbage bags…and now we have to purchase plastic bags!? I’ve had enough plastic bags stored away that I haven’t had to purchase any yet…but it will happen eventually😩. Great video🥰

[@pnwflipper2089]

Plastic grocery bags are banned in my state too, but we still don’t buy trash bags. We just sort all clean/dry trash into a waste paper basket ( no trash bag necessary) and any gross/wet trash goes into bread sacks or produce bags etc & tied shut before going in the trash can.

[@MarcusPadulchick]

Here in New Jersey reusable bags are required over the past few years. I had little issue with the mandatory change since I have used them for years prior. Using an instapot & LED lights have significantly reduced electric use in our home.

[@virginiadugan7852]

Love your channel! You two are so relatable. You’re very genuine and give life tested advice. Lots of great tips!

[@graceerhart5796]

I have been taking my late night meal with me once a week. I go to fighter practice, and home is the opposite direction from work and fighter practice. So I take my late night meal to work with me , leave work, go to the park, and spend the early time with a relaxing walk on the boardwalk through the woods to a lake overlook, a walk in the park, and some napping in the car in the shade. I get off at 2:30, and practice is not till 7. I eat my late meal (sparse) before fighter practice. If I need something more when I get home, I have fresh veggies and salad dressing for dip

[@KMusicStudios]

Found name brand jeans and sweaters with the tags still on them at the thrift shop. A complete outfit, including shoes, for under $15

[@sandraparry8653]

Hi, Larry&Hope. I'm in North Wales Britain. You both make me smile and I feel a sense of joy inside when I watch you both. I can see you have a wonderful loving and close relationship. Its really nice to see. I've got a lot of the Money saving stuff, like water butt's 6 of them intact.this water I use for lots of different things. Plants, windows, pouring down my toilet I can even wash my smalls with it. I have a slow cooker, great. And LED lights, hot water bottle when it's cold. I have 7 solar panels, no battery, to expensive at the moment, but I will get one in the future. I charge solar lights in the day as much as possible and use them evenings. I go by bus , no car. I have an OAP pass let's me go free, wonderful 😊😊 I cook in the middle of the day while the best light is with me. I shop at Aldi. Anyway I love your videos , they're a happy place for me . Thanks again ❤.

[@gaelenoconnell-bidabadi]

HI Hope and Larry, Thank you for shouting out the Buy Nothing groups!!! I'm a moderator for my local group and it's just amazing how kind and generous neighbors are, and how you can help others by gifting out your unwanted items. Helps finances and the environment too! And happy to hear Hope got something useful that she needed. Cheers :)

[@cathiruh1979]

Also, admission to all National Parks is FREE for veterans and gold star immediate family

[@jimmiepatrum]

Well deserved.

[@kimburkhead8509]

And disabled get free for life

[@tanjacavlovic8053]

We have the longest hottest summer and I realised, just refilling water bottles and keeping them in the fridge and grabbing them before heading out anywhere, saves a lot. In June, when the heat began, I was stil buying drinks occassionally but then I developed that water habit. I also keep giving them to the delivery gentlemen. I am always embarrassed a little, explain how well I rinsed them before refilling, but one guy few days ago was perished and super thankful. He didn't have to buy one either. He had a long day. 😇

[@karenfromnj3104]

I also love old table cloths table runners and cloth napkins. Love love love !

[@pnwflipper2089]

I have a set of cloth napkins that belonged to my great grandparents. They are the thickest, most durable cotton and never show stains. They are amazing. We have been using them daily for 12 years. I don’t think my great grandparents used them much-I think maybe they were saving them “for good”. They just don’t make things the way they used to.

[@dmt1914]

The only problem I have with secondhand furniture, (especially from the side of the road) would be bedbugs. Once they get in your house, it is a nightmare! My daughter lived for a time in an apartment in downtown Chicago. The whole building became infested. She had to "cook" her belongings to kill the bugs, so they didn't travel with her to her new place. It was a nightmare. (Cook by leaving her things boxed for a couple weeks in a HOT storage unit. Heat is the only thing that is sure to kill bedbugs)

[@ajuma55]

In New York, (and possibly other states), you can borrow a pass for state parks and for some museums from your local library. There are different rules for different parks, (days/time they can be used), but it's worth checking out!

[@DeniseDalton-vw4cq]

Where can I get horse, to carry that water bottle?😂

[@carolynm9798]

😂

[@jancyking582]

Love my crockpot too! I have one very large one because I love to make multi-meals and freeze for my husband and myself. It’s great for many reasons. After all, I don’t feel like cooking every day

[@albionicamerican8806]

The Costco store in Phoenix I shop at has good deals on clothing when they go on clearance. I've bought jeans and shirts for around $7-$8 apiece that way.

[@judytieger8976]

I buy a lot of my and my husbands clothes at Costco. Great quality and good deals.

[@NOVAFrugalFamily]

The national parks offer free passes to 4 th grade students so it is great if you have a student make sure you take advantage.

[@robertbokke]

I usually keep my cell phone for as long as possible until it breaks.

[@victorwadsworth821]

I have a large bowl I pour bathwater over myself in the tub, I think it has built my arm muscles which has lost strength in recent years.

[@Pajali]

I spend money on tools (and lessons, if Google and KZbin fail me) for basic DIY maintenance, repairs, and adjustments. I can’t tell you how much money I’ve saved just by hemming my own pants (I’m short, so nothing comes my length 😭) and taking in dresses (because my torso is apparently a different size than my hips). Almost nothing fits the way I like off the rack, so when I actually buy clothes, I can make them something I really love wearing. You also rarely need to replace the tools (unless you’re using them constantly, or they get lost to a move or to a forgetful neighbor), so it’s worth spending a little more for quality.

[@EMILYHERRERA]

I'm in Western Washington, and you have to bring your own bags to grocery shop. I've been doing this for a decade, and I still have many of the same bags, year after year. I see stores sell some cheap looking bags, and it reminds me how grateful I am to have mine (I hope they live forever!)

[@renel7303]

I have some from the 80s. Washed to bits.

[@juliestafne5746]

Hope-your hair is adorable in this video!!

[@nanchesca3950]

And you can always find crock pots at the thrift stores!

[@Ninjanimegamer]

Our furniture is passed down from the family. We only buy accent pieces and inherit or are given the rest. All of the furniture is wood and in good condition. Also build your own computer. Its cheaper and can be custom to your needs.

[@tamihill4229]

Love my crocketpot

[@donnavee3943]

Bringing your own shopping bags is not mandatory in most stores here in California but they do charge $.10 a bag if they supply them for you. Reason enough to bring your own or reuse any that you were charged for 😊

[@deborasmith5191]

They charge us five cents here in Maine for paper bags. Target has reusable bags too for 5cents. Every so often I forget my bags and kick myself.

[@gwyndyr32]

Our water bill plummeted when we got a Rachio watering system installed vs hand watering outside (and it saves me time as well). It is a smart device that looks at season, weather, soil type, plant type etc. It adjusts how much water to use and watering frequency automatically and it has seriously saved us money (cut our water bill nearly in half). You can pay someone to instal it but it's not terribly difficult to DIY. We have 4 watering zones set up right now. Different areas and plant types.

[@adoptedscot]

In the UK we’ve been bringing our own bags to all stores for at least 5 years if not more. If you don’t have your own bag there is a charge depending on size. We’ve all just got used to carrying a spare bag around.

[@lorisweat7082]

Roadside treasures are the best!!!❤

[@KS-jf2jf]

Instantpot 💪 I use it on Sundays and batch cook beans, chilli etc.

[@sharenread8677]

Our library gives our workshop their used books that say Discard on them. Most of them are ripped up and sent to Edmonton for recycling,or a staff would have a reading session with some of us,and we take turns. Or they would use books to teach a class. We have disabilities. Sharen

[@sorayaassar1602]

I never or very rarely buy any books because there’s a place where there are people whose entire job is to buy and manage books and all I have to do is walk in. It’s called a library

[@caroldolan1485]

Gotta bring our bags in jersey! Trick is remembering to bring them into the store😅

[@lj2070]

Yep found a $3 breadmaker at the local thrift store

[@dorismahoney1440]

Is it less w the cost of hydro n ingredients?

[@YankeeinTexas812]

You just inspired me to use my instant pot more often.. love your ideas. French press coffee makers r awesome too it has a built in coffee filter that u just rinse, it makes delicious coffee..😀

[@Ursi8744]

New subscriber, I discover your channel watching other frugal channels and I´m SOOO happy with your content; it is helpful and give me hope that I can get rid of all my debt with your tips, hacks, and guidance. thank you for share knowledge.

[@sharenread8677]

Years ago when we had a Sears,my mom bought a three in one Kenmore Vacuum machine and it came with it’s own dust buster. Great for car and steps. Sharen