Top 10 EXTREME Frugal Things We've Done To Save Money While Getting Out Of Debt

Getting out of debt can require extreme frugality. In this video I share my top 10 things we've done to save money while getting out of debt. If you're trying to cut expenses to reach a financial goal, get out of debt, or save money some of these frugal ideas may help you. What extreme frugal ideas do you have?
#DebtFreeDana #FrugalLiving
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Hey there! I'm Dana. I'm a wife and Mother to 4 kids, including twin boys and two girls. I work full time outside the home in finance as a Corporate Accountant, but enjoy sharing my personal and parenting journey online. We live in the Philadelphia area.
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*Please be advised that some of the links above are affiliate links and I do receive a very small commission if you make a purchase using those links. I appreciate your support if you do, and if you don’t - no worries. We’re still buds. HUGS!
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[@donnaleeclubb119]

One thing frugal I do is with laundry detergent. I use one-third cup laundry detergent and one-third cup Baking Soda. My clothes come out fresh and white and my laundry detergent lasts at least twice as long.

[@MrsSMH1998]

I drive an older vehicle. But I feel that having a car that is safe, especially if you are transporting kids is worth spending a bit of money for.

[@stoverboo]

Wow. I didn't realize I was into extreme frugality. All these things seem completely ordinary, to me.

[@luzheaney8545]

One thing I stopped doing to get out of debt was that I stopped eating out for breakfast and lunch 5 days a week. That saved me $50 a week, around $2,400 a year. 💰💰💰 not only did I save money but I also lost a lot of weight, close to 20 lbs. 😆

[@ella_encantada]

What were you burying that only cost $50 a week for 10 meals?

[@Suz9006]

An easy one that is a huge saver is to never buy new when you can buy second hand. Pretty much everything you need for your household can be purchased at a thrift store for a fraction of the price. When I am looking for something in particular it might take a few months to find one but I wait it out. When my sewing machine broke last winter, I got a newer, better Singer in perfect condition within two weeks for $15.

[@shaylap6091]

My best friend and I shared a bed for three years so we could rent out her room and save on money for our new business. Somehow we didn't kill each other and most nights it was just like a sleepover party :-)

[@lynnbrannan39]

Shayla P My best friend and I did the same thing in college so we could have another renter to help keep our bills down. We had a blast and yes it was like a sleepover party.

[@cherylT321]

Shayla P. Great thinking out of the box and I’m glad it worked out for you all!

[@mofly1860]

Share do room with my friend in college so we could split the room rent. Such a good savings and we worked opposite shifts so it was no biggie

[@RaisingRaburns]

I had to LOL at some of these mama! Very grateful my husband is a maintenance man by trade. The dishwasher would have been a quick fix for him. He's saved us SO MUCH MONEY!

[@lifebeyondthesalary2458]

Oh yeah!!! Mine too!!! So many things that my hubby has fixed & we didn’t have to replace (both of our refrigerators, our washer, our dishwasher- those are all just this year!!! & he built our raised garden beds this past spring!!!)!! So love that he is able to fix rather than replacing items!!!

[@debrawilliams7983]

I used cloth Diapers sometimes when my son was a baby. They came in handy when money was tight

[@madelineh5480]

I've been driving an old car with no AC in Phoenix, AZ for almost two years. My in-laws recently got a newer car and told us we could have their old one, for just the cost of the repairs it needs (a few hundred bucks). But it has AC and less miles, so we paused our baby step 2 for a couple of weeks. Totally worth it.

[@rocandhype2597]

1. Cloth diapering 2. Cloth feminine hygiene products 3. Plant based dietary 4. Packing lunches every day 5. Camping for leisure/vacations 6. Drove car until wheels fell off 7. Didn't pay for repair on broken dishwasher, used a broom handle to keep it going 8. Didn't repair broken tub faucet, used shower to run baths 9. Sold furniture and strollers on eBay 10. Became a KZbinr as a side hustle

[@trinaallen4248]

Thanks!

[@jandrake6628]

That is the reason I will never buy a used washer or use a laundromat 🤢👎

[@TheLydiaM]

Roc And Hype Not all hero’s wear capes!!

[@LilA-zl6tf]

@@jandrake6628 Last washing machine I bought new, the previous was an used one from a friend, it lasted almost 20 years with my usage.

[@Llamaloverr_]

Not all heroes wear capes lol

[@theprofitdare5387]

So refreshing to hear you speak about plant-based eating being cost effective. The idea that healthy eating is expensive is a myth that needs to be demolished. Thanks for contributing truth!

[@theprofitdare5387]

@Poppy W. totally agree on the allergy issue. I'm commenting specifically that beans, rice, bananas, potatoes and other similar fruits and vegetables are not as expensive (per pound) as people might think.

[@val6937]

The Profit Dare It also depends on where you live

[@theprofitdare5387]

@@val6937 for example?

[@Prancer1231]

@@theprofitdare5387 I ate a vegan diet for years for $3-$5 a day and I still do. Beans, rice, lentils, potatoes, carrots, peanut butter, frozen vegs, onions, corn bread, produce in season, etc.

[@kevinjoseph517]

I spend $100 a week or 75...how can I save? and Im nearly vegan.

[@lynnbrannan39]

I do not get why adults do not pack their own lunch for work....lazy I guess.

[@Prancer1231]

Really, it just takes a few minutes to make a sandwich and put an apple in a bag.

[@annehoyle3581]

I usually take left overs. I purposely make enough to take the next day and even like to freeze lunch size portions.

[@debrawilliams7983]

lynn I take my own snacks to work

[@charlottejerome5196]

I take my lunch but I also recently moved 1/2 mile from my office. So I also come home for lunch( do a couple of chores and put dinner in crockpot-so we don’t go out for dinner).

[@sharonerin2004]

there are so many of these suggestions that just sound like life would be miserable. Driving with no heat and the car falling apart sounds scary

[@janinedekoker9405]

My husband and I have no car and moved back home to live with my Dad and save on rent. I try to buy ingredients that I can use to make multiple toiletry items with suitable for the whole family. I look at my budget daily and try to find ways to free up more money for debt. No success with the side hustle, but I keep looking. Thanks for the video.

[@KristinaArntz]

hmmmm.....I was with you about being frugal until you started talking about all the things you could've spent money to fix but didn't - especially the car.

[@sunshineandstardustresale]

Great tips! We’ve always been lunch packers too. My tip is making lists so you don’t forget anything at the store. I also do all my errands in one trip to save gas. I try to go in stores as little as possible so I don’t pick up random items while “browsing “. I’m working for the first time in 13 years after being a stay at home mom. My financial goal is to pay off a little bit of credit card debt I acquired after buying our first house this summer. Then building back up our savings.

[@carissastone280]

I would love it if you did a video of what you and your kids bring for your meatless lunches!

[@motherofone6533]

I wish that I would have written down some of our frugal habits, also. It’s become so ingrained in me that I still practice frugality no matter what our money situation may be. Loved this video. ❤️

[@elainegoad2111]

Not maintaining your vehicle cable dangerous and life threatening for driver and passengers as well as other vehicles and passengers around you. When I was young, tampons had carboard applicators, not plastic. We used to return glass bottles for a few cents each going toward our next purchase and the store returned the bottles when they got their next delivery. the driver picked up the used bottles and the manufacturer sterilized the bottles (milk, soda, beer, wine, etc...) and reused them. We didn't have plastic containers or food being sold in plastic containers or bags and we only had paper bags. We put our garbage in our paper grocery bags and into a closed trash can ( "steel"metal-lasts forever) and had trash pick-up once a week. Now everything is throw away and doesn't degrade in the land fill. There is so much we used to do and had products that seemingly lasted forever but now everything is junk and NOT made in America by American workers. It's excellent that you've started your kids with a frugal and healthy mindset at a young age and have so much family togetherness. Many kids and families don't have what you are teaching and living.

[@xDancingMonkeysx]

I got a diva cup about 6 months ago and the savings have already paid for it! I added up the average a woman spends on feminine products in a life time and it's outrageous! Definitely love the cup!

[@leesa9673]

I used to get SO irritated or infected by the bleached cotton and latex ingredients in pads/ tampons. I'm sure many women suffer and don't know about the numerous chemicals used to make these products.

[@elenacristinatrascan7636]

I've had my FleurCup for 6years! It had a problem and I had to buy another one! But the cost of it was 10€(aprox.11$)!

[@VelvetyMoon]

I wonder if it's really healthy to have silicone inside of your body for 1 week a month give or take..

[@thebestwillow]

Loved hearing the tale of you driving your car until the wheel fell off. I'm all for using things until they die dead, but I'm thinking given how close you got to having a major incident, perhaps I wouldn't use a car until it was quite so dead.

[@pilotswife06]

You were one of the very first diaper youtubers I ever watched and subscribed to!! I’ve loved you since day one!

[@msdanaryan]

Wow, thanks!! ❤️ My cloth diaper series feels like a lifetime ago. I appreciate you sticking with me. Happy New Year! 🎊

[@tonifrancis6945]

I’m from the generation where most parents used cloth nappies (< I’m an Aussie...we call them nappies) for their babies, so it’s not extreme for me at all!

[@halloweenyunkie]

Lol those plastic covers are out now thankfully

[@isabelkassan5244]

I am an older australian too! I couldn’t keep up with the so called extreme things! We didn’t have cars, phones, washing machines, etc. etc. we didn’t have credit cards cheque books or debt! My mum bought our first car crocheting bed jackets! Thing seem to improve and get worse at the same time! I suppose I was poor but I have never felt poor! Being careful, frugal was our way of life and not a problem just a challenge as all life is!

[@n0tgunshy]

You're so insightful! So true that our identities and emotions are wrapped up in our things. I never thought of it that way. Thank you for your insights!

[@kimberly-mo5cp]

Brilliant tips, thanks Dana

[@LauraCastillejos]

I love it when you talk about being plant based. People think its so expensive, but that's only if you're eating lots of processed junk foods. Oats, potatoes, rice and beans are so inexpensive! Have you watched The Game Changers yet?

[@lynnbrannan39]

Laura Castillejos what is the "Game Changers"...a documentary?

[@vicky4u21]

@@lynnbrannan39 yes, u can watch it on Netflix.

[@tamimg83]

I just learned about a month ago that is actually less expensive. That is a BIG misconception on plant based eating. Slowly changing.

[@JustFrugalMe]

Hi! Thanks for sharing these tips!

[@moniquel7889]

Thank you for talking about being plant based! I've been plant based for forty odd years. Can't imagine any other way now! Must have saved a small fortune too after all these years. Love your videos.

[@wendycrew1177]

I can relate to the dishwasher story as I have done so many similar things. Also, I drove a car that didn't have heat for 1 1/2 winters. You are right, no defrost is dangerous and i don't recommend it. Thanks for your videos as they inspire me to keep going on our debt free journey.

[@countingchange8677]

Your such a inspiration to a hard working mom like myself with student loans trying to get out of debt.

[@hannahjames3398]

I love my diva cup! I can’t believe I was paying for tampons and pads for so long!

[@judymcpheron5955]

Good food for thought! Thanks Dana.

[@k.l.8804]

Sounds great, only try diy your own repairs? 😁 Instead of risking your health/lives (car accident) or your home (water leak if dishsasher door opened up) wich could end up REALLY costly if it means expensive hospital bills or home repairs 😏 Also, it costs a lot of money on water bills to fill up a tub of water.. (quick showers requires less water). Cheaper probably to get that fausset fixed by buying one second hand or reciving for free from some one doing home renovations? And youtube how to change it? Ignoring that stuff can really end up costing a ton more than you save.

[@PassiveIncomeTom]

These are a lot of great tips Dana, many I never heard of.🤔

[@marthahubbard9463]

To get out of debt you must make sacrifices. However I wouldn’t recommend driving a car till the wheels literally fall off or driving a vehicle without heat or the ability to defrost during the winter months. Dangerous.

[@1818dedee]

It would not work in canada when it goes down to -40 degree celsius. You would get dangerous frost bites or accidents. That is the only things I won’ t do it’s risking an accident or a flood. My sink was leaking into my downstairs neigbor, so it cost us 220$ but saved me thousands on insuranxe and repairs if it would leak completely into the floor and his appartment. My dishwasher is leaking through the same person so I stopped using it.

[@teresaminick1169]

I have many frugal ways but am now humbled. :) You give me new goals I want to reach!

[@tooblessedtobestressed9715]

We haven't paid for cable or internet in years because it was included in our rent (until recently where we moved to a place that didn't include internet). I've been a thrift store shopper for years - even more so since I have to basically replace my entire wardrobe every few months because my weight keeps shifting after gastric bypass. I could never have afforded to replace my entire wardrobe 5 or 6 times with retail purchases. Thrifting allows me "new" stuff all the time and I always have unique items that no one else does. I wear scrubs for work and I'm one of the snappiest dressers because I get close to $200 a year in "uniform allowance" but I haven't spent that yet in the few years I've worked there (and never have to wear the same thing in two weeks.. maybe a month LOL). When both hubby and I were min wage workers - we lived by the rule make do or do without. KZbin and google helped me to be the "fix-it" person and we got by without spending much. Once we got jobs that gave us both $5/hr raises, we invested in our own laundry equipment because the laundromats around here are soooooooo pricey and inconvenient. I have brown-bagged lunch for years and now that hubby isn't working at a job where they feed him - he joined with me and we're both eating much healthier now for the win! We decorate with eclectic style (partly because I'm not an interior decorator & partly because we're rarely home to have time to work on those kinds of projects.) My best advice to help you get out of debt is to work a lot if you are able to do that. Not only does it put more money in your pocket but it keeps you out of the mall or anywhere else you're tempted to spend money. The other best tip is learning to cook/meal prep. It's infinitely cheaper to make your own food and take it than it is to drop a bunch of money on one dinner out. We worked fast food so we're food snobs and prefer to eat in sit-down restaurants when we do go out. That can get expensive so if you can learn to like your own cooking - all the better for you! We're not quite out of debt but we're making great strides towards that! Heather xo

[@nadinefrandsen6087]

Love, love your videos! I am trying to glean as much knowledge as I can to tackle our debt and save for retirement. It seems to be sneaking up on us.

[@AFrugalLifeTheChannel]

Love this video! I just shared on my Facebook Page, Group,Twitter, blog and Pinterest!

[@rainbowphoenix8168]

Happy Tuesday Dana!

[@thebestwillow]

So glad you remembered to mention your RUMPs this time. It was the first thing I thought of when I saw the title of this video!

[@bargerver8796]

Dana, you're a girl of ACTION! You totally rock! 😘

[@DiscipleSteven]

The camping idea is a great one. We did an actual "camping trip" but stayed one night in a bed and breakfast, 3 nights camping, and 2 nights in a hotel at the end. Saved a lot of money going camping a few nights while being able to visit the places we wanted to see.

[@terigroce919]

I heard you say that reusable cloth pad idea on another video, I started doing that and I have saved about 30.00 so far including the cost of the pads. i did not know they existed. Really cost effective and providing so much savings. I just started this about two months ago, One of the best frugal things i have ever done. Thanks Dana!! Car maintenance, I get regular car maintenance. yes I will drive it until it dies, but I get regular inspections and maintenance on my vehicles. I would sooner pay the 30.00 for the oil change and check up then have my wheels fall off. it is a lot cheaper than a tow truck and all that embarrassment and stress of waiting on a ride. I think it is more frugal to have the maintenance completed routinely.

[@cherylT321]

Teri Groce. I regularly have my car inspected because one of my worst fears is breaking down somewhere and being stranded. So, I make sure that everything is always running smoothly. Plus, when you don’t properly maintain your vehicle, you usually end up paying far more money to get everything fixed than if you were making the effort to maintain it along the way!

[@terigroce919]

@@cherylT321 I totally agree! I think it is more frugal to take care of and maintain the vehicle so you end up getting more bang for your buck - especially if you purchase a used vehicle! I bought a 2005 ford pickup, so already15years old, I want it to last quite a while so I firmly believe that if you spend it up front it will save you in the long haul!

[@Edbeatty91]

WOW- had an ad for you in middle of the video! So cool! 😊

[@biblewithbecca6685]

Great job :)

[@butterflyqueen9260]

My daughter is 14 and will be driving at 16. I'm trying to find ways to buy the next car straight cash!

[@rickier8291]

Have her start saving for it. Imagine how proud she will be if she pays for her own car. She will also appreciate the car more and take better care of it.

[@genal5808]

Great video. Do many of these things also. There are so many ways to save money when you start looking at things. Once you see the savings, it is great to keep going!

[@annehoyle3581]

I am on a fixed income now that my husband has passed away. I am very thankful that I never started dying my hair. I can't believe how much all my friends spend to do it. Within the last year I quit drinking diet drinks that have aspartame in them( that stuff is horrible for our bodies) and I can't believe how much money I am saving. Actually I only drink tea and water now! Another way to save is to cut down on clothing. I now basically only wear black and blue colors!

[@catlady3396]

I’m new to your channel and surely enjoy watching you. I live in Fl and having a generator is an insurance policy to have just in case. Also I keep my pantry full just in case a hurricane comes through. Thank you for your information.

[@rebeccahuber3454]

I have to say I switched to the diva cup and it has been life changing. Not only is it cheaper but it's way better, more comfortable and healthier for the body.

[@TerryElisabeth]

I love hearing the sacrifices your family made together to save :) We just moved to the tiniest place we've ever lived. I wasn't able to work for a while, so I'm making up for lost time, I guess you could say. It's totally worth it to me ... fun adventure for the next few years while I save up for bigger goals. I've been subscribed for a while but I think this is the first time I've commented. Love your channel :)

[@carolc2574]

Terry Elisabeth Organizing & Finances we bought a 350sqm apartment! Paid in cash, it was a once in a lifetime offer. Luckily it includes a storage room, otherwise we could never fit all of our things in the apartment!

[@joytotheworld2100]

Great ideas. I really enjoy your channel for tips. The reusable diapers are not only good for your budget, but great for the environment. More than ever we need to tighten our belts. Keep up the good work.

[@lomarie2324]

I did some extreme things to get out of debt, and our friends thought we were nuts ),:

[@JSath]

Please share them as well

[@lomarie2324]

@@JSath well no paper towel buying, paper napkin buying. We got our kid a flip phone and we were judged pretty harshly for that. But she was only in middle school. Stopped clothes shopping as a way of entertainment. So my husband got made fun of for wearing the same shirt for years. Only get what we need in groceries for the week. We found out they made fun of us and said we staved our kids. I can assure you we don’t lol. I got my hair cut and nails done at our local community college by students. I did document out journal on lomariepg.blogspot.com to which my friends also hated lol. I told them we planned to get out of debt, but never told them when it happened because I could feel us losing our friendships over our life changes. But they ended up ghosting me anyway. ),: So I stopped writing and got super depressed. And maybe these actions were not extreme but extreme to others as we weren’t “normal” anymore.

[@gathercreatelivewithleslie8340]

@@lomarie2324 To say these people weren't your friends is an understatement. Look online for groups or meet ups in your area for frugal friendships. Don't ever let anyone make fun of you for being money conscience. I have in laws that live off a trust fund and want to spend like crazy, I just explain to them that's not for us. When I look at most people's extreme living ideas I think to myself that is everyday for us. You'll be the ones that get to retire early and enjoy yourself more. My son is also in middle school and doesn't have a cell so don't be concerned. I have explained to him from the beginning it's for his safety and well being to not be caught up in all that. He is one of the happiest kids I know and barely uses technology compared to most kids. I thrift shop for almost everything besides groceries, lol and love the treasure hunt. I've found a 1900's gold women's pocket watch necklace and sterling silver flatware. Teach your kids responsible money habits and bless them. Find groups like foraging or crocheting whatever you like and make friendships there and learn a skill. It may take a little time to find your tribe, but we're out there. People used to think living tiny was crazy and now it's all the rage.

[@lomarie2324]

@@gathercreatelivewithleslie8340 thank you for the kind words! And thrifting is awesome!

[@theresabeauchamp4470]

I have recycled my ziploc bags when it is used for dry items. re-purpose boxes for other uses. i have cleaned paper plates when not wet.

[@tanchinkoon]

yes cloth diaper can be reusable,mean just clean it n use again.so easy n cheap

[@mmarple1365]

This video is spot on. Cloth nappy/ diapers is so much better for the plant aswell as the bank balance. Same for menstrual cups definitely more comfortable too! I only eat plant based food and it's cheaper and I'm healthier!. Good video. Thanks Dana.

[@kellylakeman3859]

I did the same with the oven using a broom to keep the door closed for about a year before we got a new one - some things too a bit longer to cook but I was the only one using it so it was alright!

[@cltinturkey]

You've heard a stitch in time saves nine. Basic sewing and handyman repairs will REALLY save you money. You can get a Complete DIY or Handyman Manual from Reader's Digest or Home Depot (buy book at a library or yard sale). Get or borrow a set of basic tools and read or watch KZbin videos on how to repair problems that crop up. Family Handyman has a good blog, newsletters, and magazine that detail how to do home repairs. You can do it and it's SO satisfying and cost effective. I don't mess with electricity but will attempt most other repairs. Search out monthly/annual lists of things to check around car and home and be proactive addressing problems. Winterize your home with caulk, weatherstripping and other methods. Libraries are overflowing with ideas. At mine you can even check out (for free) a heat analyzer device that detects leaks around your doors and windows. Walking inside around all windows and door frames with a lit candle on a windy day and the flickering flame can show areas that need to be sealed. Again, you CAN do these things!

[@emilycurtis4398]

I'm liking this. I'm trying to declutter more over this last year and a half and reducing the stuff in my house. Our only debt with my husband and I would be our mortgage and trying to estimate for future home repairs. This year I will likely need a new car, I have just over 100k miles on mine and want a more winter friendly used car.

[@nahuigonzalez6322]

I'd love a video on books you'd reccommend to get out of a financial rut

[@caitlinbc4327]

I would also suggest shopping at Aldis and Dollar Tree. Those two stores are great for getting groceries, paper products, cleaning products, and so on for a lot less money than regular grocery stores.

[@christinagardener1889]

Diva cup and cloth pads save LOTS of money. Also much more comfortable and convenient!

[@Jlk6532]

I’ll all about most these things EXCEPT not safely maintaining your vehicle 😬

[@heather8311984]

Just Mom Living I feel the same way. I have no desire to gamble with getting stranded somewhere with my four children.

[@momof2633]

This is one thing we do as well.

[@lynnbrannan39]

Just Mom Living. I do not believe in driving a vehicle until the wheels fall off because I did that. It got to the point that I was spending the money I was saving up for a newer vehicle on constant breakdowns for the old vehicle. When I finally got rid of my truck I had 3 issues in 1 week I had to spend on repairs. If you do not personally know a mechanic it is usually not cheap! I always carry AAA for myself and my kids so that helped as far as tows, flat tires, etc..but being late for work or spending half the day waiting for a tow truck is just not worth it.

[@busymama6714]

I love these types of videos and was so grateful that they were ones I never heard of before!! If one more you tuber tells us not to use paper towels😆..... I didn’t do the clothes diapers but I nursed my boys and that saved a lot on formula from what I hear!! I did the camping thing in my twenties and I agree with your husband that I am too old for that now. We rent a condo so we can eat our meals in and we don’t go every year on vacation. I have my children wear T-shirt’s under their sweatshirts so the sweatshirt is not touching their skin and I don’t have to wash them as frequently. T-shirt’s take up a lot less room in the washer and dryer😉. My boys are teenagers now and now when the youngest outgrows something I can usually wear it!! Not sure if there is a term for this......”hand me ups”???

[@msdanaryan]

LOL! Oh yeah I nursed all our babies too. Great tip on the tshirts!!

[@oliviafox3310]

Other ways to save. Foraging. Making your own cleaning and personal care items. Getting furniture and household hard goods from freecycle, trash picking, free items on Craigslist. Reusing ziplock bags. Fixing things yourself. Finding cheaper sources for often used foods and goods then buying multiples when the prices are the lowest. Using stuff up. Buying fewer clothes at the thrifts/yard sales and mix them. Bartering. Raised bed gardening.

[@jo-annmacneill6454]

I add water to my Tide and Downey. It makes it last longer and the clothes come out just as clean. I also do it with the Bleach too...My tea cups I bleach they come out beautiful I do 50/50 on the bleach. And 60/40 for the Tide and Downey. Those are my tips.

[@heathers6675]

I use little reusable fabric squares for toilet paper no, 1 only. Don't use paper towels napkins or tissues either

[@sandyseibelhager7131]

There are MANY menstrual cups out there. Diva didn't work for me and I gave up on the idea for years. Then I revisited the idea mainly due to the KZbin channel Precious Stars. Her videos can help you choose the right cup for you. Total game changer. Love the cup.

[@gathercreatelivewithleslie8340]

Yes and pixie cup will also donate a cup to a third world girl when you buy one.

[@thaomeexiong1420]

We are going into our 11th money of paying down our debt. To save money we pack our lunches, do our own small car maintenance at home, coupon for diapers, and we are also renting out two rooms in our house.

[@Lalalu74]

I've been using the public trasportation for the last two weeks to get to work wich is 15 mnts from my house and the bus stop is across the street from my house, i will save up to buy my car cash no more car payments for me.

[@momof2633]

I use cloth pads as well. I have an incontinence issue, an was spending 30 a week for pads as I'm always wearing one. This led to me looking into something more comfortable, and found cloth pads. Most of my family thinks its disgusting, but I don't care lol.

[@cherilewis2899]

Those regular pad's are irritating, cloth is much gentler

[@sarahk6254]

Regular pads are way more disgusting!

[@jager896]

What I found doing pelvic exercise helps makes it less of a problem

[@TheAustralianHealthShow]

cutie is back ♡♡♡

[@josephin521]

It's funny, but we are in the same situation with our bathtub tap; the flip thingie doesn't work so we can only shower but so what, we're clean. And we have no intention of ever fixing that tap. And the same thing happened with one of our cars, the wheel literally fell off as my husband was turning into the driveway. The car stopped but the wheel just kept rolling right into the driveway. That was a sight to see that made me smile since no on was hurt. So, been there, done that. I totally understand the broom handle and dishwasher situation, I would have done the same thing.

[@marianneward1704]

Using reusable is also great for the planet.

[@betterlivingonabudget]

I used the classic old-school white cloth diapers on my first-born, back in 1985. I was on a very tight budget at the time, but mostly made that decision for his health. You can't leave a soaking wet baby sitting in a cloth diaper like people do with a Huggies diaper. He never had a single diaper rash because cloth diapers 'breathe' better, even with plastic pants over them. The only catch is finding a daycare provider that is willing to deal with cloth diapers vs disposable.

[@petravirag7729]

Hey Dana, Hope you're okay!

[@blackjag121]

Cut back the expensive food, switched phone bill, bought a Keurig so I wouldn’t buy coffee at the store, no cable bill, unplug all my appliances when not needed

[@butterflyqueen9260]

Unplugging saved so much money!!!!!!

[@donnajones9006]

Buy a regular coffee pot, get rid of those expensive coffee pods and you will really save!

[@blackjag121]

Donna Jones Reusable pod are not bad

[@mzabs1871]

Pods are way more expensive and bad for the environment. A reusable pod is a good investment.

[@Prancer1231]

@@donnajones9006 I drink the cheapest generic instant coffee and put homemade oat milk in it. It's pennies.

[@lisapitts9518]

Some of these I can agree with, however I live in Florida and I am going to have ac in my car. I can't imagine using Cloth feminine products either, but to each their own. We are in an Apartment so repairs are done at no cost. How much did she pay to ship items on Ebay?

[@susanrobinson408]

So scary about your tire!! My father took his van to the shop for new tires. When he left and starting driving on the interstate and a tire FELL OFF! Evidently, the guy at the tire store forgot to put the lug nuts on or else didn't tighten them! He could have been killed! So sorry you had this happen, but glad you were all safe.

[@msdanaryan]

Oh my gosh!!! Yes I was fortunate and luckily I drive pretty slow and don’t take any interstate highways to work and back. Still scary though!

[@jeweldenile8995]

Susan Robinson Good grief this happens way too much. They finger tighten them loosely but forget to tighten them completely later.

[@lynnbrannan39]

Okay I do disagree with u about driving a cheap older car because I did it too. I swear I was in the repair shop at the end every other week. I was late for work or on days off waiting for AAA. I repaired it constantly. After 250,000 I traded in for a newer used car 2 years old and paid cash. Bought myself a quality slightly luxury vehicle. couldn't be happier will not drive a car into the ground again knowing how much I spent in repairs.

[@kevinjoseph517]

what about growing vegis n chickens in yard?

[@bristlewtf4568]

Hi Dana! is it cheaper to use candles instead of electricity?

[@ehbokarin]

I would like to know a little more about how you do that with no longer buying a sanitary napkin. What kind of canvas do you use for that? And is that also suitable for when you bleed heavily? Can you also do that with the hydrophilic cloths that your babies use to dry?

[@sarahf641]

Karin Ferdinandus I just had a baby so I can say yes reusable sanitary napkins work. I bought mine off Amazon.

[@christinagardener1889]

Switching to cloth makes you bleed less and may also reduce cramps as the body isn't exposed to the chemicals.

[@FlamingoRocket641]

The handle on my dryer broke off years ago. I haven't tried to replace it, so I've been opening it up with either a pair of scissors or a screw driver. It probably wouldn't cost much to fix it. I'm just kind of lazy. It's not like it was old either. Anyway, i think some might think it extreme.

[@karenjohnson9240]

Hi debt free Dana! What does a cloth femine pad look like?

[@stevehartman1730]

Three pure springs within 3 miles. I had city water shut off n from Lowes got for $50 a battery powered water pump and a hose nozzle w 7 settings for $_ and Walmart a 50 foot white rv hose for $22 total $78. I have 4 10 gal water jogs I fill .at spring 2 at a time. Put 2 jugs n trunk n fill using pump n hose. Then when at my house I pump water from trunk jugs to two jugs n house. I have 1 jug by kitchen sink and a jug by woodburner to get warm. I run hose from warm water to take shower in bathtub from stove side It works. I save $62 month by not buying city water. I have a water filter thats 99.99999 % pure to drink.thats $700 year that I'm able to put to principle of mortgage..

[@TheChoiceofMotherhood]

Cloth everything (I don't pay for water so really doesn't matter), reusable everything, no cable, no Netflix (so many free things to watch online), use the library for as much as possible, plant based and I try to use bulk dry goods like beans, rice, lentils. I limit my driving a lot right now so one tank of gas lasts me almost three months.

[@susanlee7824]

in asia we have to pay expensive for water. So cloth everything is not our ways to save money though

[@cherylT321]

Finding My Star. That’s awesome! I realized recently that l’m not really driving as much as l used to. I normally set aside 30 dollars for gas which usually lasts me two weeks. Now, I’m finding that periodically, 20 dollars fills up my gas tank, allowing me to pocket the other 10!

[@pollyevans529]

Please do a video on vegan food on a budget, Desperate to find cheaper alternatives

[@JustClaireGrace]

I've tried using the menstrual cup but just cant seem to get on with it. But i'm considering cloth pads. Do you just put them in the washer on a hot cycle? Does everything come out?

[@rc0334]

Where are you Dana? Would love to see new videos.

[@isabelkassan5244]

Everyone cloth diapered their babies when I was young! All women used old cloth for menstruation and rewashed! It was called being on the rag! We all had vegetable gardens and grew fruit trees!

[@kellye2328]

I'm seriously considering switching to cloth pads. My concern is how to properly care for and wash them when utilizing coin operated washers and dryers. I don't want to have to wash them separately and end up spending more money on laundry then I do on disposables. Any advice/suggestions?

[@mrumlor]

I do this! It's not a problem. When dirty you rinse the pads under a cold tap till the water runs clear (a little gross the first few times but you get used to it). Then put it on a bucket of gentle detergent/soaker. Do this with all the pads and change water daily. At the end of the cycle i put them into delicates bags and wash it all with a load of towels (don't use fabric softener, tho, it can impede absorption after awhile). And then hang them to dry! Easy. Really once they're rinsed and soaked they're pretty clean.

[@kellye2328]

@@mrumlor thank you so much! I will give it a try 😊

[@annafe9920]

I just throw mine in with the rest of my laundry and it's fine. You can rinse them with cold water right after you've used them if you want to give them an extra wash as this gets a lot of the blood out. I do this sometimes, but it's definitely an optional extra step.

[@jeweldenile8995]

Just wanted to add that I know she lives in Pennsylvania and we have to get the car inspected yearly. I’m thinking the tire wasn’t a maintenance issue. Truthfully PA salts their roads and this leads to huge potholes every year ( no lie, we have a hotline to report them). Just thinking a pothole or a dozen could’ve vibrated them loose.

[@kamicrum4408]

Yes!100% why fix it ,if you can make due with out!

[@DrgnMage2536]

I don't understand why you used a dishwasher if you were trying to save money. Washing dishes by hand would be more economical and you would conserve water and electricity.

[@Suz9006]

A vacuum sealer can save you hundreds of dollars a year because even small families can buy family pack meats and break them down into smaller meal size vacuum packages. You also save and if you grind your own hamburger from chuck roasts that you buy on sale.

[@RecoveryTidbits]

Dana? You might link to the cloth products you like. All are definitely not created equal. I personally wouldn’t care if it was an affiliate link 😊

[@johannagrossman2758]

How long did it take you to get out of debt?

[@carolyndavis6657]

I love your channel but wanted your advice on a couple of things. I keep having to hit my savings every month. There are no ends to emergencies the latest is my hvac which I just repaired in August. I have no heat and may have to replace the unit. How should I pay for it? I'm looking at $7000. How to I stop using my savings? Tired of these problems.

[@AGarnier]

c Davis a lot of people may disagree but get a new credit card with a cash sign up bonus and 18 months no interest and put the repair on that. Keep saving, pay yourself first. If you up your savings, you will find a way to pay everything else. Create a budget. Eventually you will get to a point where you don’t have to reach into your savings because you will have extra money in your account. Cut your expenses. If you pay everything and after you make your contributions to your savings, if you have no money left after that, you are living above your means. So that means you need to lower your expenses or/ and up your income.

[@HangNguyen-ih8rf]

I eat the same soup 3x a day for 2-3 day straight until it’s all gone. Luckily all my meals whatever it is are delicious and I enjoy it till the last bowl...I know some people force themselves to eat boring/non tasty foods to save money. I also wear the same outfit (clean one of course) 7 days a week. This is a lifestyle/eating/living habits not doing this to save $$$ but it’s great to save $$$ this way! Ironically I’m a big spender in other areas of life: giving/donating, lotions/potion, buying only higgest quality of everything (garments, household items, shoes, foods etc) so I don’t have that much saving. I hope this pandemic teach me a good lesson....I need to be more financially prepare.