CLEVER HINTS & IDEAS TO SAVE MONEY! FRUGAL LIVING!

[@53islandgirl]

I used to give my Dachshund greens beans for treats per my vet. It was nice to not have a fat little dog!

[@jenaa110]

Watermelon juice with cucumber and fresh mint from the garden frozen in an ice cube tray...add to water drinking water.

[@suzettewolfe6506]

I find Frugal Money Saver inspiring ❤

[@robinlacey9273]

We barter with our 79 yr old single neighbor. I share a meal with her each week. She lets us use her garbage can for trash pick up.

[@susanstacy2493]

The late Erma Bombeck said something to the effect that if she had it to do over again (I think this was after she became ill) that she would have used the good china, burned the pink candle, etc. We are all guilty of doing it, but really, what are we saving the good stuff for if not to use it and enjoy it during our lives? We should celebrate life every single day since tomorrow is not guaranteed for anybody and use and enjoy what we have no matter how humble or how fancy.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Exactly! Love that Susan! Thank you!

[@sherlynpatterson506]

Charity: Most people don't know that meals on wheels is not free in most areas. They charge about twenty dollars a week for five meals and few pieces of fruit. Maybe be an Angel Giver and help pay a week a month for someone who have to rely on meals on wheels.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That's a nice idea!

[@jennifercope4577]

I knew a lady that lived by herself. She would buy frozen pizzas and cut them into fourths while still frozen. Then she would package them separately so she had 4 meals for herself and just baked enough for her.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Very smart!

[@leeannwicker937]

Back when most farms were small and had cows and chickens, the housewives would take eggs, cream and butter to the grocery store to trade for groceries. Definitely a win/win.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh yes!!

[@janetstonerook4552]

The snowball bush in our yard is over100 years old. Branches grow up as old ones die. I have a picture of my mother standing in front of it with her first baby in her arms which would have been in 1928 and it's in full bloom then.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh how amazing Janet! Ours goes back to the 1940's!

[@maryburk4238]

I just bartered with my neighbor.. I made them a stained glass transom for their home and they in return gave us barn wood to repurpose for a glass studio we are building. It worked out perfectly!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh how wonderful!!

[@maryfail2393]

I look forward to your videos for new ideas for frugality but I also look forward to the positivity from you and Paul- that means just as much❤️❤️

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

YAY! We love to hear that! Thanks so much for the kind words Mary!

[@carolynm9798]

I have been watching many frugalistas and we have started some recent changes to deal with utilities… 1) We turn off our electric heater and turn it on for half an hour to get 2 showers and dishwashing done 2). We turn off heat pump (which we have graduated to 80 in the day) at night when temps go into the 70s and open windows and use a fan. By 9 in the morning, as the outdoor temp reaches 80, we turn on the heat pump-- so it doesn’t work too hard or as hard if we waited till the afternoon. 3) We cook every other day and only in crockpot and heat up in a microwave on the other days. 4). From Frugal Queen in France, we learned to use a bucket in shower to capture water until temperature is hot. Then we use that for a couple flushes in the toilet. I have also kept a bowl in the sink, again tossing water in the bucket for flushes. 5) Just for fun, I washed the car with soapy water and a scrubbie (I made) in between rain showers! I am taking pictures to see how it works. I told hubby “free water!” LOL

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Great ideas Carolyn!

[@grannyprepper1181]

With people wanting donations for something my answer is simply “no thank you”. Just that simple, “no” is a complete sentence.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

It really is!

[@sheila1435]

My new frugal habit is not turning on any lights when I get up in the morning. I prep my coffee by candle light and by the time I drink it, daylight is well on the way.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing!

[@lavieestduresansconfiture4939]

Good morning from Tuscany! We use granny's crystal glasses, the silver cutlery and the "good" plates daily. So I'm enjoying it every day and not only when I'm opening the boxes in the cantina. Never used paper napkins and I'm ironing nothing but the tablecloths and napkins. 😉 I love mending and because I'm very good in it I started to mend with contrasting colours. Now it looks more than a ornament and I'm stitching a lot more than only the holes. 😂

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh I love that! Good for you! Thanks for sharing!

[@deannab9511]

Dixie says she wants to try kale instead of lettuce, she heard it's all the rage! 😀🐕 Loved the video 💐❤

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

LOL!! I definately could see her saying that LOL!

[@baus7]

Too bad society cannot be content with playing cards, board games or putting a puzzle together as a family anymore. Our family is trying to do better with this seeing how last week we went to the local arcade and blew $100 in less than 30 mins. I love the simple, minimal, frugal life. I enjoy your channel, thank you both

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks so very much for watching!

[@richardschmidt2430]

I'm with you on the cloth shower liners! The best! Wash & wear??? no, wash & hang...your channel is still my favorite. Be encouraged! Keep going! You guys are just awesome! We just love you and wish you blessings from Minnesota! :) Dawn @ Rich & Dawn in MN :)

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks so much Dawn! Blessings right back to you and yours!

[@beckybrace4282]

I grow my own sprouts! Easy and much cheaper than buying at the store! I have a jar with mesh lid for growing them. Rinse seeds twice a day for 4-5 days, gently drain, then put in sunny window for a day to develop chlorophyll. Then refrigerate with a dry paper towel in a bag or container. Great on sandwiches!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing!

[@shawna620]

I was laughing at the divided picnic plates -- I used those for years with my son, he didn't like his food "touching" each other!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Smart Shawna!

[@jc10907Sealy]

Here’s my hint - I got a second job on weekends at a BBQ restaurant for socializing and exercise and a tiny bit extra cash. I get a wonderful free meal with every work shift, that’s my total weekend food need. Saves me money from eating out with my money.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

What a great job! Sounds perfect!

[@paulahastings7865]

I've just started making "Roosevelt " coffee. If i make 2 cups. Then want more. Pour one cup over used grounds.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Great tip!

[@jenniferschmitt7938]

When we have a meatless meal it is usually something like homemade cream of mushroom soup, and salad

[@Loristhriftykitchenpantyr]

Hi Emmy. I used to barter with my neighbor up north. My mom and I had 12 acres. Whenever it snowed, our neighbor would come and plow both driveways and the sidewalk for us. All he wanted in return was chocolate chip cookies because that was his favorite and his wife hardly ever made them. Anytime I knew we were going to get hit with snow, I would get his cookies baked. Sometimes when we had winters that there was not much snow, I made him his cookies anyway :)

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Absolutely love that Lori! Thanks for sharing!

[@sheilakeeler2178]

Yes, definitely, use the good stuff! For years I had beautiful crystal glassware, still in the boxes. When we moved I decided to donate all the mismatched Carrols glasses, plastic cups, etc. and are now using the crystal for our everyday glasses. If one breaks, it breaks, big deal…..not the end of the world. When the neighborhood kids come selling popcorn or wrapping paper or whatever for scouts, gymnastic team..instead of buying more stuff that I don’t need or want, I make a small donation.This way 100% of what I give goes to the organization and not a pitiful percentage of the sales price.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Brilliant!!! What a great tip!

[@sheryldougherty282]

I’ve gone back and forth for a couple of years about new kitchen flooring. I dropped a heavy pan on my floor and it chipped the tile. I saw what was underneath it’s not my color but it is is good shape. So I got down and pulled up 6 tiles. Then I was left with the glue. I researched products to remove the glue. Too expensive too toxic with my cat. Found out vinegar would loosen it up. So that is what I’m using . Cheaper than anything else plus I can get 2 gallon jugs at Sams club. Working great. It’s slow but I’m retired and now something useful to do. My summer job.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh that is so creative Sheryl!

[@susanmcq923]

My Shop Rite has their fresh (bake your own) pizzas - 16" pizzas on sale on Fridays at 2 for $10. I put them in the freezer and when we need a quick meal I pull it out and put additional toppings and bake. It is better than any frozen pizza I have had. Add a nice salad or bowl of soup and you have a very cheap dinner.

[@rosemarydoran9907]

Great way to make your own take out! You get the niceness of having a prepared meal without the big Price tag! Plus adding your own toppings you can make it to your family's liking.

[@reginafisher9919]

I love the Little Caesars hot and ready for 6 bucks.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh I am going to have to look into that at my Shoprite! Great price!

[@colleenwood8220]

When we use our boat, we have a small garbage can with a plastic bag in it. Any and all garbage go into it, including the plastic plates and utensils that we use. When we get home, we put all the plastic into the sink to be washed, the garbage into the garbage and then we recycle the bag.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That's is so great!!

[@cltinturkey]

Other great dog treats are apple slices and sweet potato treats. Scrub a fresh sweet potato and slice it in 1/4" thick slices. Put those on a baking mat and bake for about 30 minutes on each side in a low temp oven--like 200 or 250 degrees. Don't use any oil or spices. Let them cool and cut if needed. Your dog (and you too) will love the concentrated sweetness of the sweet potato. Healthy treat! My vet gave me this tip.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Great idea! Thank you!

[@witsonsmom729]

This year I started growing more flowers in my yard from seed rather than transplants. Also, I'm proud of my Cousin John who has recently taken the plunge into thrifting with me and is now comfortable to buy himself thrift clothes after seeing how nice it all was.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

So wonderful!

[@juliatepe5760]

Yes, we bought more vegetable seeds this year, and cut back on plants that get more costly every year. Have already enjoyed yellow and zucchini squash!

[@kamicrum4408]

Yah, my EX had his nose up in the Air over me buying baby used clothes, one sat. Afternoon,I drug him out to the chikdrens consignment shop where he saw brand new clothes with the tags still on, 20 some yesrs Later he shops for him self at consignment stores slowbkesrner? Whi cares he fibally fuguredbit out hirray!😊

[@wendygilbert416]

Great tips. I make napkins all the time. It is amazing how often you can find really inexpensive and pretty fabric on sale or even free. I can make 4 napkins per yard/ 2 placemats per yard. If you buy a few yards of fabrics that go well with your dishes or the season, it is a beautiful way to set your table. The napkins get softer and nicer with each washing. Some rudimentary sewing skills have saved me money too. I just started sewing a bit a few years ago, but it is wonderful to be able to easily repair an item as well as make something new. And if you just let folks know you are looking for fabric ... it will find a way to you!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Love that Wendy! Sewing is such a great talent to have!

[@mysticmom616]

I wanted to make zucchini boats. The recipe called for ground beef. I went to the butcher counter in the meat department and got 1/4 # of ground round. It was around $1.80. It was the perfect amount. The recipe called for 1 pound but adding extra veggies to replace the meat was just as tasty and more economical

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

So very smart!!

[@julieschaefer9964]

So glad you mentioned the tortilla pizza. A few years ago I started making pizza quesadillas because I only had mozzarella cheese in the fridge one night. I added it to the tortilla with some Italian spices , heated it up in a pan, then dipped it in leftover spaghetti sauce. Delicious! My grandchildren love it and sometimes I add pepperoni when on sale! I absolutely love the healthy dog treats!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing and watching Julie!

[@julieschaefer9964]

@@FrugalMoneySaver Thank you for the wonderful videos! God bless you!

[@lesliekanengiser8482]

It's a bit different than bartering, but my friend and I exchange the bounty from our gardens all the time. I canned some apple butter and gave her some so she didn't waste time trying to make it and not like it. She gave me some pear spread she had canned as well. It works out well and we are helping each other out at the same time. For free. Next up? I have 65 lb of tomatoes that we are going to can together.

[@auntiali9344]

Don't feel bad about not ironing the napkins. I never do that.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

OH that is so wonderful Leslie!

[@tugboatgirl1296]

👋Yes....Again another fun video for upcoming new OR ongoing old frugal peeps. I personally have been on ALL levels of frugality thru my 65 yrs of life.....things always changing with our life changes... Overall frugality has resulted in a great retirement life. People need to know frugality goes hand in hand with good decisions on investments, saving, spending etc...Do your homework! Bartering is fun but mine is really "Giving without expecting anything in return" which 😀then usually turns into trading because most people love to give " something" in return. I have 2 nieces the are into the Anti Disposable things like paper and plastic products. They use fabric napkins, paper towels and even toilet paper( not for guests) though one of them chooses to drive gas guzzling vehicles, boat and RV....ha ha. Pick and choose...trying to give no judgement. We do give them a bad time. Anyway my next project is to sew a bunch of bags from old clothing, fabric,sheets that can be used for gift bags or misc......that is what I'll give their kids and them gifts in instead of wrapping though I do love to recycle gift bags. I used to like wrapping in comics but don't buy the newspapers anymore

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Some great tips Sheryl! Thank you!

[@stevehartman1730]

Instead of planting perennial flowers plant either perennial vegetables or mix in perennial vegs with perennial flowers to hide the vegs.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks!

[@susanrobinson408]

Emmy, I use a plastic shower liner, but I wash it in the machine and put it in the dryer for just a few minutes! It comes out so nice and last forever!! And great point about dog treats. I nearly killed our Golden Retrieve by giving her the last bite of my sandwich that had avocado on it!! She was so sick!! And I never knew that avocado is poisonous to dogs!!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Yes! So many human foods are so poisonous to dogs! Glad the pup was okay!

[@auntiali9344]

I love the new napkins. I've had my plastic shower liner for years. I just take it down, wash it with the towels on hot water and then hang it right back up in the shower. We've been making our own pizzas now for about a month. So much better than the pizza place. I got almost 3 lbs of 20/80 ground beef last week and split it up into small sizes for spaghetti and larger sizes for burgers. I got 7 meals out of it. Of course, I don't eat ground beef anymore due to my weight loss surgery. We got chicken thighs for $1.29/lb and split them up into meals also. I use a tablespoon of detergent in my HE front loader washer and tear the dryer sheets in half. Then I use them twice. Now that I've lost 98 lbs I'm going to splurge and have the dentist whiten my teeth. I figured I can afford it cause off all the food I can't eat any more and how much I'm saving because of that.

[@auntiali9344]

The beef was $2.49/lb with coupon at Shop Rite.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That is so wonderful! Thanks for watching and sharing!

[@teresam2060]

I loved this video! I save rain water to water my indoor and outdoor plants.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That is awesome!

[@r.p.9829]

Used to barter with my neighbor before she passed..I would take her to the grocery store, help her with the bags into her house and she would let me have pears off her trees...made many pear preserves and pear butter that way...

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh that was a win win!

[@cathyl4622]

I had plenty of toilet paper during the pandemic so I told my friend from church she could have some. She gave me fresh chicken eggs in exchange. My husband barters all the time. He does his accountants computer work and we get our taxes done for free. They do generate bills and negotiate the exchange rate usually by the hours spent.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

So smart! Thank you!

[@crystinanna7829]

What a great last tip. We always feel like fun should be luxurious or super unique experiences for just...ourselves or out family. What a great reminder that volunteering is FREE and so fun!! Serving is so joy filled and also so beneficial for those u r serving. Great reminder!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks so very much Crystin!

[@jillhogan2611]

She is so cute and they are healthy treats!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

YAY Dixie lol!

[@tuxphinsmom1150]

My newest frugal tip arrived today from Walmart. It was my gift to myself (and it arrived on my birthday too). I bought a dehydrator and my plan is to dehydrate fruits and vegetables when they are in season and use them all year. It was between 40 and 50 dollars and I know it will pay for itself by the end of the year easy. Hope you guys have a great weekend.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That is awesome! You have a great weekend as well! Thank you!

[@garygnagey3569]

Used my dehydrator to make zucchini chips today! I thinly sliced them then put circles on rack, brushed very, very lightly with oil then lightly salted. I started mine in the morning and set it to 135’ . In the afternoon, I turned them over! By later in the day they were dry and crisp! Yum!

[@amyn8272]

My garden produce is coming in quite nice. When I wash stuff off, or blanch stuff to freeze I save the run off water to water plants outside. We also have a 55 gallon rain barrel.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

So smart Amy! L ove it!

[@meganhartten8291]

I am always inspired after watching your videos... thank you Emmy and Paul! A few months ago, we switched to dryer balls rather than using dryer sheets. Six months in and they are holding up great. No more need to buy dryer sheets and we've eliminated more chemicals from our home!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Yes! Wonderful Megan!

[@ramonarice3115]

Megan any tips for keeping the dryer balls in the living room. I switched too but they’ve disappeared into the teens bedrooms.

[@janetstonerook4552]

According to the fellow who installed my new dryer a couple of years ago, fabric softener is very bad for both you washer and dryer and shortens their life spans. It gums up parts and they wear out faster. I haven't used it for years and have very little static cling in my clothes because I use home made laundry powders. Much cheaper and cleaner all the way around and easier on my laundry equipment.

[@maryglidden2943]

I got out my cloth napkins a few weeks ago and started using them again( I always ironed mine so it got to be a pain --decided there's no sin in having a few wrinkles in them now! ) The grocery Store has had butter on sale. I didn't have enough room in my freezer so took 5 pounds of butter and made ghee for the first time and stored in glass jars. Shelf stable and it has a higher burn point so makes a great frying oil. Was much easier than I thought it would be!

[@auntiali9344]

Oops Wrong place I replied. Don't worry about ironing the napkins as I don't iron mine either.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Wonderful! Good for you Mary!

[@sheilakeeler2178]

Wrinkled napkins are more absorbent 😂 and softer too.

[@AEvans36963]

I love Starbucks Frappuccinos, but of course they're very pricey(even before the pandemic). I say buy a bag of SB ground coffee( or whatever brand you like), brew up a pot of coffee and let it cool off. Then pour coffee into leftover bottles, "season" the coffee the way you like it (or not), then pour milk into the bottles. Shake them up and there you have it. Just one bag of ground coffee can probably generate several bottles of coffee milk, which is basically what the Frappuccinos are. Save yourself some money.

[@tikacalifornia7876]

Hmmmm... What has leapt off the page at me recently, is that only in America is the expensive protein the main part of the meal. In nearly every other culture that I have researched, the expensive protein is only a small part of the entire calorie component of the food. So, I have resized the portions of meat, chicken or fish... etc and have made the most calories of the meal the pulses and grains. Previously, I would serve an 8 oz portion of beef/fish/chicken etc per person. I have cut this back to 3 oz and included more vegetables and grains. This not only saves me much money, but complimentary grains and beans have assured that our protein needs are met with far less cost. So far, there have been no complaints about this shift, largely because of the creativity of the recipes. This is not hard to do, and I will gladly share recipes.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Tina you are correct! That is a very smart way to proportion meals!

[@MsDoglover02]

My Bella loves carrots & apples. Both love frozen bananas. 1/2 slice of inexpensive wrapper cheese is their treat when I leave for work. It's been a few months but I'm saving a lot and feeding my dogs healthy meals of food I'd eat - rice, potatoes, carrots, vegetable on sale or mark down section (eggplant, zucchini, etc) and chicken I'm buying on sale at .59 or less per pound, cooking & deboning.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh, they must be very happy pups!

[@ShannonReed730]

To save money, we started practicing no spend/no drive days several times per week. Essentially, just being very intentional about when/how we choose to shop and drive since the cost of gas and everything else is so high.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Yes, now more than ever we need to be intentional!

[@kristinaclark8307]

Excellent video! I am a frugal kindred spirt...it make me chuckle when you said you could use a certain tablecloth if you put plastic over it...I love it! I am part Italian and grew up with plastic on the good furniture and holding back the good "stuff" I have forced myself to use it all whenever..it was hard! I love China and dishes! Thank you for great content!!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Kristina yes! LOL!

[@kimsmith5471]

I've always been frugal. Was raised that way. I think I've gotten more into food preservation more than I ever have. Which is fine. It's harder to find the energy at 60. I just keep plugging along. Making pickles , dehydrating etc.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That's so inspiring! Thank you!

[@kathrinekerns8398]

Some flowers I love are annuals. Marigolds, Zinnias, Bachelor Buttons. I have some perennials too, but I love these. You can buy seeds at the dollar tree 4 pkts for $1.00. I also plant vegetable garden, beans, peas, carrots, egg plants, basil, parsley, tomatoes etc. My return on investment from my garden far exceeds the money I spend on seeds. I do canning and dehydrating and have a good time while I am in the garden. I call it my sanctuary. Very peaceful and beautiful. 🌷🌸🌻👍✌✌

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Love that! So smart!

[@nevermind7253]

My dog loved fresh green beans

[@cpandfamily1]

I have a cloth shower curtain liner from bed bath and beyond it was hotel quality it’s still doing great 17 years later!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

YES! That's great!

[@tanyagibbons7987]

The pockets they use for sandwiches stuffed with your favorites....the pita pockets make an awesome pizza crust also

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Great idea!

[@countrygal3688]

I found a brand new twin sheet, a very pretty yellow to match my bathroom. I noticed my 10 years old curtains were needing replaced. The sheet, for $1 was much cheaper than buying fabric. I am using the hem, so they will be already half finished. The opposite end I will make an extra pillow case or two.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

So very creative Country Gal!

[@creativelauri]

Thank you for mentioning my empty mayo, mustard & ketchup bottle idea. I save so much doing this. I learned a lot today as well! Blessings to all. 🤗

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

It's such a great tip!! Thank you!

[@pixiegardner8094]

We recently ran out of celery when making a stew so instead we used pak choi stems and added celery seeds/salt for the flavour. No one would know the difference.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Perfect!!

[@melaniegraham1413]

I love that frugal practices are almost always great for the environment as well. Win Win!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Yes Melanie I agree!

[@heatheradams3677]

I just started washing my own car this summer. I spent a few dollars on a soap that is appropriate for cars. The whole family goes out to the driveway with a basket of rags and cloths and we have fun cooling off with the hose and scrubbing down the car. It was costing me anywhere from $6-10 to run it through an automatic car wash. Now it’s free!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

You also made it fun which is a total win win!

[@memorysmaid9551]

My take-away tips? The mesh bag storage for potatoes, and the colander for watermelon to capture the juice.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

YAY! That's great!

[@jenniferwang3489]

Such good tips! We are working to organize our kitchen on the cheap. I needed some wire racks to utilize upper cabinet space, basically shelves within shelves. I found some on FB marketplace, $3 each or 3/$7 which is a great price. Started talking with seller and he not only lives in our complex but he lives right in the building behind us. Based on his name, he is Asian so I sent my husband over (he’s Chinese) and now we have what we need to deal with the cabinets and we’ve made new friends!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh how wonderful Jennifer! That's so great!

[@catherinemurray1618]

Hi Guys, my husband and I moved from a one bedroom apartment to a three bedroom townhouse with a courtyard. We had to purchase lots of furniture to make it a home. So far we have bought everything from op shops and it all looks so cosy and homey. Everyone that visits tell us how lovely our home looks. This has to be my best money saving idea! You'll have to be patient and be prepared to look each week, though it certainly pays off.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

So true! You save a lot of money doing it that way!

[@socorro6476]

Buy milk when it’s on sale and freeZe them. Make your home sun tea. Walk daily if possible instead of gym.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Great ideas!

[@bex438]

I loved seeing Dixie with her healthy treats, I wish I could get this excited over salad 😉 My frugal thing is not one that I'm doing at the moment but one that I'm planning on doing very soon, it's to find some affordable cloth napkins and stop using paper towels as this has been really frustrating me, it'll cut down on the cost and more importantly to me will reduce the amount of paper ending up in the landfill - Hope you both & Dixie have a lovely weekend ❤️

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

You have a lovely weekend as well! Thanks Bex!

[@stephanieschwartz6212]

I’ve gotten most of my cloth napkins at Estate/yard sales...usually 4/$1.00 😊

[@shess1640]

I did that some years ago. I stopped buying paper napkins and used tea towels until I found cloth napkins I liked. It stops some of the hemorrhaging. I use old cut up towels, washcloths, etc for “paper” towels. The only paper product I buy on a regular basis is toilet paper. Now that I’ve made the change, I’m kinda horrified when I go to friends’ homes and see how many paper towels they use, and even sometimes paper plates(what is that about?).

[@rosaliamartinez8956]

Years ago I worked for the Marriott hotel and at the Italian high end restaurant in New Port beach the used small dish towels insted of cloth napkins . They used 2 color different colors for each season. Most quest thought it a clever idea. They look butifull when placed among the butifull table setting.

[@PRTTYBTTRFLY1]

I enjoy your videos and when my kids was small I’d put carrots into the Mac n cheese just cut up into shreds and mince it small or tiny and add to your Mac n cheese and it tastes delicious and filling.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Great idea!!

[@ThatSimpleLife61]

I use a terrycloth kitchen towel in a darker pattern for drying my produce as I make salads or fix fruit. I'm saving about 2-3 half paper towels a day by doing this.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

So smart!

[@marionlisle8145]

Love your enthusiasm for thrifty living. It is contagious 😊. Thank you xx

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

😊 thank you so much!

[@RN-mn3jn]

We have bartered for oak firewood by cutting a tree down in a neighbors yard for the wood. He got the damaged tree down/ out of his yard and we received wood for the winter.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

So smart!

[@lisaturner2665]

I look forward to your videos each week and all the useful tips from your subscribers. What I started doing recently is making sun tea. Just put water and a tea bag in a mason jar and stick it in a sunny spot. I started using our clothes line every week too. I'm also investing in a portable drying rack for rainy days. I was trying a new recipe a few days ago and was missing an ingredient. I thought, "what would Emmy do?" and made a substitution. Turned out great and saved a trip to the store.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

YAY! I love when people tell me they do that!! So happy our videos are helpful!

[@marilyngandhi8571]

Hi Emmy, With your help I am hoping to change my present habits of menu planning. I am so glad that you are very consistent with your basic ways of food storage and preparation. My ways are a bit haphazard, but I’m hoping to improve. Fortunately I do live within my budget. ❤Thanks for your great suggestions.❤

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

You are so welcome! Thank you for being part of our channel!

[@sharenp3839]

My dogs love carrots and lettuce, even ice cubes too. They go to the garden and also eat raspberries and cherry tomatoes lol. You could also look for cute flat sheets at the tag sales and cut into squares and make your our own napkins. I got old school cafeteria style plastic trays, they also have metal for cheap at the second hand store. Another idea to store hanging items is to use pantyhose. Also a lot of times at least here people post free plants, usually perennials for free on marketplace. Good video.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing Sharen!

[@shess1640]

In San Francisco, a small pizza at a nice Italian place will be $20-25. I buy small frozen pizzas and when I bake them, I add my favorite topping(s).

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Yes! That's the way to do it!

[@laurie5098]

I live in the deep south. I find that most annuals come back each year. So I don't hesitate to buy an annual. We just do not buy anything now unless it is necessary. We just don't need anything but maybe some new clothes every once in a while. Great video!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That's great Laurie! Our winters are so severe annuals die by October and never return lol!

[@kadi_o]

Great finds! Target sells plastic plates, bowls, and cups (26oz) for .75 each (Room Essentials brand). But right now they are on sale for .50 each. They come in different colors too. I bought the plates and love them. Plus, they are dishwasher safe. So, if you are looking for bowls and cups to add to your "outside" dinnerware set, you might check your local Target store or check it out online. 🙂

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh thanks so much Kadi!

[@sillybeeful]

I cut up some old shabby cotton tote bags to use as dusters and cloths

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Great idea!

[@ShannonReed730]

Awwww, loved seeing Dixie enjoy her healthy treats. What a little sweetie. ❤️ I wish carrots and lettuce did it for me. 😂

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

LOL!! Me too Shannon!

[@clarelawton4653]

I use my best china that was my grandmother’s daily, every day is a special occasion 💕 just use it!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

I so agree!

[@hobocamp1072]

My kids use ketchup on just about anything- so we end up with a few half empty ketchup containers floating around the fridge- I add water and use the leftover ketchup for BBQ sauce. I also started adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to my mac & cheese and the kids- LOVE IT! Thank you for the mac & cheese bite recipe! We also will stock up on freezer pizzas and Asian food at Trader Joe's for the days we get that itch for takeout- much cheaper! LOVE the napkins!!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Some great tips! Thanks for sharing!

[@jodystackhouse9079]

Emmy I loved it. Cute napkins,Great plates.You are adorable. Jody......

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thank you so much Jody 😀

[@ramonarice3115]

Auntie Emmy and Uncle Paul - great video as always. One of the things that I’ve been doing lately is either making less food or purposely making more food and freezer the extra. The other day I made sloppy joes and decided to double the batch - I also added finely chopped zucchini I grew in my garden to bulk up the meat and provide more nutrition for my teens. I took half of it and froze it using my food saver for another supper later this month or next. I’m hopefully starting a full time job which will triple what I’m making in my current part time role. But that means I won’t be home to make dinner. Now I’m stocking my freezer with freezer meals. Also, the big raise we’re not going to live on at all. We’re going to quickly pay down debt and then create a year long savings - right now we only have three months. Once that is done we’re going to look into redoing our deck for safety. But frugality will be the feature focus even when I’m making big bucks.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Congratulations!! How wonderful! Love that you intend to stay frugal!!

[@sheilakeeler2178]

Congratulations and good luck. Sounds like a very practical and prudent plan!👍

[@katherinerichardson1767]

Great tip about adding oils and seasonings to jars with a small about of ingredients in them so you now have homemade dressings. Never heard of mac & cheese balls. I am going to try this. Using the flour tortillas is a real money saver for pizza. Watermelon juice is great to add to a smoothie, too. Thanks for the tips. I love hearing what other viewers tips. Please keep this up.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

We sure will! Thank you!

[@tamarasmith288]

Thank you Emmy and Paul, for helping make frugality fun:):)

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Our pleasure! Thanks for watching Tamara!

[@CourtneyTaylor10001]

I make meals for people in need and do a ton of ministry work. I love it.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Such a blessing!

[@lovelifebudget3681]

We have a bartering app in Toronto and it's so awesome! Especially for items that you can't really sell or donate, it's a good way to give it a new life, have someone enjoy your items and get something in return.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Love that!

[@vickig2907]

Our neighbor has chickens and an abundance of eggs. Every other week she comes over with a couple dozen eggs. In return we give them a couple loaves of homemade Dutch oven bread, and make them something sweet. Last time I made them fudge. This week it will be zucchini banana bread and I used 2 of their eggs. Also when our children were little our friends and us would take turns watching each others children so we could have date nights.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That is awesome! Exactly what I was talking about!

[@uwgirl65]

Here’s what I do for frugal cat treats. I get my cats Purina Indoors for their everyday food since it’s a little lower in calories and they’re a little overweight. I buy that in bulk. They love the regular Purina cat food and they love catnip treats which can be a little pricey. I get a little bag of regular Purina, put it in a jar and sprinkle it with a little catnip and shake it up. They love it and it’s cheap.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That's a great idea!

[@rharvey2124]

There have been bartering organizations or groups set up in the past.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

That would be so great!

[@chrislear6676]

My neighbor does wood working. I have a couple sources for wood pieces. I get them for my neighbor and he keeps my lawn and hedges under control.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Great win win!

[@heathermoses6183]

I absolutely love bartering, I wish I could do it more! I gave a neighbor that raises high quality grass fed meat, we would barter a pound of meat for 2 dozen eggs. She didn't have enough eggs and I had an abundance. I would encourage people to grow food as well, if you grow flowers just plant some kale or peas with them. They are beautiful, you don't have to have a separate area for food but I would certainly encourage that as well. Love the tip about the watermelon juice, love utilizing all of the plant whenever possible. I also save the rind of the watermelon and pickle it, delicious on a cheese tray! Carrot tops are edible, beet greens, stalks of broccoli, sweet potato leaves if you grow them, so many things! We also forage, there are so many plants considered weeds that are actually wild edibles. Start with the easy ones that have no deadly lookalikes and are unmistakable to identify and you'll be eating highly nutritious, free food, in season! Chickweed and hairy bittercress are some of the first things to pop up and are delicious! Blessings to you Emmy and Paul!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for sharing Heather! Please though if people do forage they must be absolutely certain that what they are picking is not poisonous!

[@kimberlyroberts2415]

I bought her with an elderly gentleman who doesn't really cook much for himself. With him being my handyman he helps me around the house for food it works out great for me. I love all your ideas, keep them coming I really love the watermelon idea so many times my watermelon has gone bad little did I know I should be straining it. When you buy it already cut up at the store it costs so much money but they're all sitting in their own water so they spoil quicker. Thank you for all your tips you are the best thank you again

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks for watching Kimberly!

[@reneejohnson5787]

I love foxgloves, but I don't have success with them. Here in Minnesota, they are more like a biennial. I do love the idea of bartering! Great video guys! I use my Mom's vintage Pyrex bowls. They always make me smile.🙂 I bought some glass foaming soap holders with pumps, and I use Bronners Castile soap, I add 1 tsp and fill the rest with distilled water. It lasts at least 1 month before I refill it. I sure appreciate you all! Have a great weekend!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Thanks so very much for sharing! Being I mentioned Foxglove I am just reiterating that it is a poisonous plant.

[@FullCircleLife]

I love your soap idea, I will have to give it a try! I already have the castile soap and an old foam soap dispenser in my storage of “just in case” containers lol

[@reneejohnson5787]

@@FullCircleLife , In the winter time, I also add tea tree oil to it for extra germ fighting power. I will add like 10 drops.

[@reneejohnson5787]

@@FrugalMoneySaver , Thank you for all that you do.❤️

[@rena4220]

I just started doing this. I was given a bottle of Bath & Body works foaming hand soap as a gift And after it was empty, I just added a tiny amount of liquid soap and then filled the rest with water. And to make it even more frugal, I used shower gel that I can't use any more because it's too drying for my skin. Otherwise I use bar soap.

[@debragoodrich4569]

I just love your videos. We have 2 small dogs and we have always fed them carrots for their treat. I also just started my sourdough journey and am making our bread now instead of buying it. Thank you for your encouragement.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

I really need to try to make starter!

[@debragoodrich4569]

@@FrugalMoneySaver I watched several videos on KZbin on how to start your starter and baking. It took me and my starter about 4 weeks to get it going and for me to feel like I know what I'm doing.

[@reginafisher9919]

We very rarely turn on a light and if we do it is on no longer than 30 minutes. We go to bed when it gets dark and we only have to turn the lights on before we go to work 4 days a week for only 30 minutes a day for 4 days. Other than that no lights go on, the window drapes and blinds stay open for natural sunlight.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh my goodness that is amazing! Here in the mountains in the winter we would be in bed by 4:30 it gets dark so quickly!

[@jerimosher8849]

Perennials can also be started by seeds cheaply...

[@trinadoreen2899]

We just recently started to barter with a friend who has a small lumber mill. He has made several large posts for our barn in exchange for some electrical work my husband did for them. So that has saved us hundreds if not thousands! Also I also started to save and freeze the bits of fruit salad and the juice for smoothies.

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Oh that's wonderful Trina!

[@shawna620]

Yes, in some stores they want to guilt you out of your change for their charity -- I say about the same thing you suggested, "Not at this time, I have my own charities."

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

Yes, that's what we do now too!

[@nancyesposito1020]

Another great video! It's because of you that I stopped buying paper towels and paper napkins. I felt so foolish because we were decluttering and I found, and I'm not making this up at least 10 packages of linen and cotton napkins. All sets of eight! They must have been given to us when we first moved into her home or when we got married 25 years ago!! and they were packed away and we never use them. How did that happen!?? I never buying paper napkins again ever! We have enough cloth napkins for the rest of our lives!

[@FrugalMoneySaver]

YAY! Way to go Nancy!!