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| Photo credit: NattyMichelle - All rights reserved |
My son had a cardboard kitchen that he loved and played with for hours.
One day, he wanted to take it outside, so his friends could play with it too.
His friends decided it was more fun to smash it - I don't understand children sometimes...
But here is a great idea - and it will last much longer too!
If you ever see an old TV Entertainment unit tossed out to the garbage, grab it!
Or do you have one collecting dust in your basement?
With just a bit of paint and hardware, it will make a wonderful kitchenette for the little one(s) in your life!
Read: 20 coolest DIY play kitchen tutorials
Check out these Play Kitchenettes on Amazon.
🗣 Spill It Sunday: The Weirdest Money-Saving Tricks That Actually Work
Some of the best savings habits come from the strangest ideas — the ones that make you laugh at first but secretly work like magic. Today’s list is packed with weird, wonderful, and wallet-friendly tricks that really do save money.
All five are in the comments — and I dare you to try one this week 👇
💬 Comment 1: Tip #1
Pretend you’re allergic to impulse shopping.
Every time you feel tempted to buy something unnecessary, say out loud, “No thanks, I’m allergic to overspending.” It sounds silly, but that little phrase helps you snap out of emotional spending mode. Humor is a surprisingly powerful tool for rewiring your shopping habits.
💬 Comment 2: Tip #2
Do a “no-light challenge” night once a week.
Pick one night to turn off your lights, skip the electronics, and have fun by candlelight or flashlight. You’ll save on your power bill, get a peaceful break from screens, and maybe even start a new cozy tradition. Plus, it’s surprisingly relaxing — like a free mini vacation at home.
💬 Comment 3: Tip #3
Rename your bank accounts to match your goals.
Instead of “Checking” or “Savings,” rename them things like “Vacation Fund,” “Emergency Cushion,” or “Debt-Free Countdown.” Seeing those goal names every time you log in can change how you think about money — and make it more exciting to save.
💬 Comment 4: Tip #4
Treat every receipt like a scratch ticket.
Some stores print survey codes or cashback offers at the bottom of receipts, but people toss them out without looking. Take 10 seconds to scan every one — I’ve earned gift cards, coupons, and even a few free meals this way. Weird? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely.
💬 Comment 5: Tip #5
Always check Frugal Freebies before you buy.
I share coupon codes, flash sales, and freebies every single day — so before spending, do a quick scroll. You might find that thing you were about to buy for full price already waiting here at a discount.
💬 Tip #6
Want to help more people save smarter? Share this post with your friends so they can try these weird but wonderful money-saving tricks too. Saving is more powerful when we do it together — and one shared idea might be exactly what someone else needs to finally start building their savings.
💬 Extra Tip
Want instant access to the hottest deals before anyone else sees them? I still have a few spots open in our Today’s Best Deals chat. Join here to get notified the moment I post the top daily deals, the recap, and all the newest freebies: https://m.me/ch/AbbK1yH2gw-tnR8M/
Join us on Facebook for even more great deals, plus freebies, games, and frugal tips!
💸 Savings Saturday: The Weirdest Money-Saving Tricks That Actually Work
Not every great money-saving tip is traditional — in fact, some of the weirdest ones are the most effective! From unexpected habits to small mindset shifts, these tricks might sound strange, but they work.
All five tips are in the comments — and I’d love to know which one you’ve tried or are brave enough to test this weekend 👇
💬 Comment 1: Tip #1
Rename your Wi-Fi to something like “Stop Shopping Online.”
It sounds ridiculous, but this little psychological trick works. Every time you open your laptop or phone, you’ll see that reminder before you start browsing. It’s a small interruption that helps break the habit of shopping out of boredom.
💬 Comment 2: Tip #2
Keep your change in a “no-touch” jar.
Go old school with this one — toss in loose coins, small bills, or even $1 bills every day. The rule? You can’t touch it until it’s full. It feels like a game, but you’ll be surprised at how quickly those small amounts turn into a nice chunk of savings.
💬 Comment 3: Tip #3
Set up “fake bills” in your budget.
Add a small, fake expense category — like $25 a week labeled “Mystery Bill” — and pretend it’s a real one. Move that money into savings instead. By treating it as a non-negotiable, you trick yourself into saving more without feeling the pinch.
💬 Comment 4: Tip #4
Shop with cash in weird denominations.
Try bringing $2 bills, coins, or odd amounts of cash when shopping. Having to count it out slowly at checkout often makes you think twice before spending. It’s a fun, quirky way to make your brain second-guess impulse buys.
💬 Comment 5: Tip #5
Always check Frugal Freebies before buying anything.
I post coupon codes, lightning deals, and freebies every single day. Spending just one minute scrolling here can help you find hidden savings and avoid paying full price.
💬 Tip #6
Want to help more people save smarter? Share this post with your friends so they can try these weird but wonderful money-saving tricks too. Saving is more powerful when we do it together — and one shared idea might be exactly what someone else needs to finally start building their savings.
💬 Extra Tip
Want instant access to the hottest deals before anyone else sees them? I still have a few spots open in our Today’s Best Deals chat. Join here to get notified the moment I post the top daily deals, the recap, and all the newest freebies: https://m.me/ch/AbbK1yH2gw-tnR8M/
Join us on Facebook for even more great deals, plus freebies, games, and frugal tips!
🎉 5 Strange Ways to Keep More Cash in Your Pocket
Some money-saving tricks sound too odd to work — until you try them and realize they’re pure genius. From psychological hacks to small everyday changes, these weird tips can save you real money without feeling like you’re cutting corners.
All five are in the comments — and I’d love to know which one you’d actually try 👇
💬 Tip #1
Pay yourself every time you skip a bad habit.
Every time you skip something unnecessary — like fast food, coffee runs, or that $10 impulse buy — transfer the same amount to a “reward savings” account. You’ll be shocked at how fast it grows. Skipping a $6 coffee twice a week adds up to over $600 a year — and that’s real money that could go toward something you truly want.
💬 Tip #2
Use two wallets: a “yes” and a “no.”
Keep a second wallet (or envelope) labeled “Not Today.” When you’re tempted to buy something, put the cash you would have spent into that wallet instead. Watching that money pile up feels incredibly satisfying — and seeing the results makes skipping impulse buys a lot easier.
💬 Tip #3
Shop while slightly bored, not emotional.
This one’s weirdly psychological. Shopping when you’re emotional — whether happy, stressed, or tired — makes you more likely to overspend. But shopping when you’re calm and slightly bored helps you make logical choices. You’ll compare prices more carefully, avoid splurging, and walk away with what you actually need.
💬 Tip #4
Hide big online purchases in your cart for 48 hours.
Instead of hitting “Buy Now,” leave the items in your cart and close the tab. Many stores will email you a discount code within a day or two — and even if they don’t, that waiting period will usually kill the impulse. If you still want it after 48 hours, it’s probably a purchase worth making.
💬 Tip #5
Always check Frugal Freebies before you shop.
I post coupon codes, lightning deals, and freebie alerts here every day to help you save before you spend. A 30-second scroll can help you snag the same item for less — or even find it for free.
💬 Tip #6
Want to help more people save smarter? Share this post with your friends so they can try these weird but wonderful money-saving tricks too. Saving is more powerful when we do it together — and one shared idea might be exactly what someone else needs to finally start building their savings.
💬 Extra Tip
Want instant access to the hottest deals before anyone else sees them? I still have a few spots open in our Today’s Best Deals chat. Join here to get notified the moment I post the top daily deals, the recap, and all the newest freebies: https://m.me/ch/AbbK1yH2gw-tnR8M/
Join us on Facebook for even more great deals, plus freebies, games, and frugal tips!
✨ Weirdest Money-Saving Tricks Wednesday: 5 Strange Strategies That Actually Work
Sometimes the best ways to save money aren’t the obvious ones — they’re the odd little tricks most people would never think to try. Today’s list is full of weird, creative, and surprisingly powerful ways to cut costs without cutting back.
All five tips are in the comments — and I bet at least one will make you say, “Wait… people actually do that?” 👇
💬 Tip #1
Keep your “fun money” in an inconvenient place.
It sounds strange, but if you store your impulse-spending money in a separate savings account or even a physical envelope tucked away at home, you’re less likely to spend it on a whim. The extra step of transferring or retrieving it makes you think twice before making an unnecessary purchase — and often, that pause is all it takes to walk away from a bad buy.
💬 Tip #2
Use the 24-hour screenshot rule.
When you’re tempted to buy something online, take a screenshot instead of adding it to your cart. Then walk away and revisit it in 24 hours. If you still want it, go ahead — but most of the time, the impulse will pass. It’s a super simple trick that can save you hundreds over the course of a year.
💬 Tip #3
Set “imaginary deadlines” for sales.
Retailers use countdown timers to make you spend quickly — flip that trick on its head by setting your own imaginary waiting period. For example, if a flash sale ends in 3 hours, challenge yourself to wait until the last 30 minutes before deciding. That extra time breaks the impulse cycle and gives you space to decide if you really need the item.
💬 Tip #4
Pay yourself for skipping purchases.
Every time you resist buying something — like skipping a coffee run or leaving an item in your online cart — transfer that money into a savings account. Watching your “saved by skipping” balance grow is both motivating and rewarding. It’s like turning not spending into a new way to make money.
💬 Tip #5
Always check Frugal Freebies before you shop.
I post daily deals, hidden coupon codes, and freebies that can turn full-price items into deep discounts. Even if you weren’t planning to buy anything, a quick scroll could uncover something you need — for a lot less.
💬 Tip #6
Want to help more people save? Share this post with your friends so they can try these unusual money-saving tricks too. Saving is more powerful when we do it together — and one shared idea might be exactly what someone else needs to finally start building their savings.
💬 Extra Tip
Want instant access to the hottest deals before anyone else sees them? I still have a few spots open in our Today’s Best Deals chat. Join here to get notified the moment I post the top daily deals, the recap, and all the newest freebies: https://m.me/ch/AbbK1yH2gw-tnR8M/
Join us on Facebook for even more great deals, plus freebies, games, and frugal tips!
💡 Thrifty Tuesday: The Weirdest Money-Saving Tricks That Actually Work
Some of the best ways to save money are also the strangest - the kind of tips that make you raise an eyebrow at first but actually deliver results. Today’s list is full of quirky, creative strategies that really work if you give them a try.
All five tips are below - and I’d love to know which one you’re bold enough to test this week 👇
💬 Tip #1
Freeze your credit cards (literally).
This is one of the oldest “weird tricks” in the personal finance world — and it still works. If you struggle with impulse spending, put your physical credit cards in a small container of water and freeze them. They’ll still be there if you really need them, but you’ll have to thaw them out first. That built-in waiting period gives you time to rethink those impulse buys.
💬 Tip #2
Switch shopping tabs to “incognito mode.”
Retailers track browsing habits and sometimes raise prices if they see you’ve visited a product page multiple times. Using your browser’s private or incognito mode hides your cookies and can sometimes reveal lower prices or extra offers that wouldn’t otherwise appear.
💬 Tip #3
Use cash-only days to “reset” spending habits.
Pick one day a week where you leave your cards at home and only use cash. It forces you to think twice before buying anything and gives you a real sense of how quickly small purchases add up. Even one or two “cash-only” days a month can have a surprisingly big impact on your spending.
💬 Tip #4
Shop for groceries backwards.
Instead of planning meals and then buying ingredients, shop based on what’s on sale first and build your meal plan around that. It’s the reverse of how most people shop — but it can easily shave 20–30 percent off your grocery bill every month.
💬 Tip #5
Always scan Frugal Freebies before you check out.
I post daily coupon codes, surprise markdowns, flash deals, and freebie finds that can save you serious money on the things you were already planning to buy. A quick scroll can often turn a regular purchase into a steal.
💬 Tip #6
Want to help more people save? Share this post with your friends so they can try these unusual tricks too. Saving is more powerful when we do it together — and one shared idea might be exactly what someone else needs to shrink their spending this week.
💬 Extra Tip
Want instant access to the hottest deals before anyone else sees them? I still have a few spots open in our Today’s Best Deals chat. Join here to get notified the moment I post the top daily deals, the recap, and all the newest freebies: https://m.me/ch/AbbK1yH2gw-tnR8M/
Join us on Facebook for even more great deals, plus freebies, games, and frugal tips!
🎉 Frugal Friday: 5 Weird but Brilliant Money-Saving Tricks That Actually Work
Saving money doesn’t always mean clipping coupons or cutting back - sometimes the most effective tricks are the ones that sound a little odd. Today’s tips are a mix of clever, unusual, and surprisingly effective ways to keep more cash in your wallet.💬 Tip #1
Use “freezer banking” for meals.
Instead of cooking large meals and letting leftovers go to waste, portion out single servings and freeze them in labeled containers. This creates a “freezer bank” of ready-to-eat meals for busy nights when takeout is tempting. It might sound simple, but over a month, skipping just two takeout orders a week could save you $60 or more.
💬 Tip #2
Keep a “spending delay” sticky note on your debit card.
This one’s weird — but it works. Place a sticky note that says “Do I really need this?” on your debit or credit card. That tiny pause before swiping often gives your brain just enough time to rethink impulse purchases. It’s a low-tech hack that can save you hundreds of dollars a year without any effort.
💬 Tip #3
Try the “odd cents” savings trick.
Every time you check your bank balance, transfer the odd cents (or even a couple of dollars) into savings. For example, if you have $238.64, move $8.64 into your savings account to make it an even $230. It’s such a small, painless action you won’t miss it — and over time, those tiny transfers add up fast.
💬 Tip #4
Use price-drop alerts on items you don’t plan to buy yet.
Most people only use price alerts on items they’re ready to purchase — but setting them for things you might want down the road gives you a head start. You’ll be notified when they hit their lowest price, and you can decide if it’s worth grabbing without pressure.
💬 Tip #5
Always check Frugal Freebies before shopping.
I share hidden coupon codes, lightning deals, freebie alerts, and price drops here every single day. Spending just one minute scrolling through can help you find discounts you didn’t even know existed — before you pay full price.
💬 Tip #6
Want to help your friends save smarter too? Share this post so they can grab these clever and quirky money-saving tricks. Saving is more powerful when we do it together — and a single shared tip could help someone else cut their costs this week.
💬 Extra Tip
Want instant access to the very best bargains? I still have a few spots open in our Today’s Best Deals chat. Join here to get notified the moment I post the hottest daily deals, the full recap, and all the newest freebies: https://m.me/ch/AbbK1yH2gw-tnR8M/
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NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of posting. Prices can change at any time.
Join us on Facebook for even more great deals, plus freebies, games, and frugal tips!
Let’s face it—kids have the energy of a caffeinated squirrel and the attention span of a goldfish.
When you’re fresh out of ideas (or just fresh out of patience), here are 10 low-effort, zero-budget ways to keep them entertained while you sip your coffee and pretend you have it all together.
1. The "Who Can Stay Quiet the Longest?" Game 🤫
A classic. Just declare it a competition and watch the silence roll in like sweet, sweet music. Add a prize if needed—like bragging rights or an extra cookie.
2. Build a Pillow Fort 🏰
Tell them they’re architects and the couch cushions are their building blocks. Bonus: once the fort’s up, it doubles as a jail for their wild sibling (or you, hiding with snacks).
3. Cardboard Box Olympics 📦
Got an empty box lying around? Hand it over. Within five minutes, it’s a spaceship, a racecar, or a secret lair. The possibilities are endless—and so is your break time.
4. Sink or Float Science Lab ⚓
Fill a bowl with water and give them random household objects. Their job? Test which ones sink or float. You get 20 minutes of peace; they get a crash course in physics. Win-win!
5. Animal Charades 🐒
Tell them to act like their favorite animal while you guess (or pretend to). The catch? You have to keep a straight face while they squawk, roar, and crawl like maniacs.
6. Hallway Bowling 🎳
Line up water bottles in the hallway and grab a ball. Instant bowling alley! No shoes required, and the only “gutter balls” are when the toddler throws it at the wall.
7. Mirror My Moves 🕺
Stand in front of them and do goofy moves: wiggle, jump, wave your arms. They have to copy you. When they’re tired, let them lead while you strategically sit down.
8. The Laundry Basket Express 🚂
Plop them in a laundry basket and push them around the house while making train noises. Bonus: this counts as cardio for you!
9. Treasure Hunt Xpress 🗺️
Hide random objects (even socks) around the house and give them clues to find them. No time to write a list? Just call it “find everything I didn’t clean up.”
10. The Floor Is Lava 🌋
No setup required—just declare that the floor is lava, and suddenly every chair, couch, and table becomes a life raft. Watch them scramble like their lives depend on it.
✨ Pro Tip: The key to these activities? A big imagination and absolutely zero effort on your part. Your kids will have a blast, and you’ll finally get a chance to sit down (even if it’s just for five minutes).
What’s your go-to lazy parenting hack?
Drop it below and let’s share the wisdom of minimal effort! 🎉
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NOTE: Prices are accurate at the time of posting. Prices can change at any time.
Join us on Facebook for even more great deals, plus freebies, games, and frugal tips!
Here is such an adorable way to provide an extra measure of security for your little one when you are out and about, especially in a crowded area.
Make a phone number bracelet for your child(ren), using Mom, Dad or other family member's cell phone number, with the area code.
Make the bracelet to fit snugly on your little one's wrist, or as an anklet by younger children.
Perfect for children under 10 years old, or handicapped children, or anyone who might not remember their parent or guardian's phone number in an emergency, should they get lost or separated from you.
A wonderful idea for anyone vulnerable.
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| Mixed Number Letter Beads |
For field trips, sleepovers, shopping trips, festivals, or day trips - lets people know who to contact if your child is lost.
Peace of mind on vacations such as Disneyland or Lego Land.
How to Make Bracelets:
🖐️ How to Make Stretch Bracelets That Don't Break🖐️ Braided Bead Bracelet
🖐️ Beaded Paracord Bracelet
Check out Amazon or Walmart for number beads to make your own!
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| Mia and The Go Away Monster Spray |
For him, that was enough.
Here is another neat little idea though...
Just make up a bottle of Monster Spray
with water and some calming essential oils, print a Monster label, and spray it around the room at bedtime.
Free Printable Monster Spray Labels:
- DIY MONSTER SPRAY {FREE PRINTABLE}
- Free Monster Spray Label Printable
- Monster Spray to Help Kids Who Are Afraid of Monsters
- Monster Spray Repellent + Free Labels
- DIY Monster Spray with Free Printable Label
- Monster Spray 👹 Free Printable
Spray two sprays under the bed, one in the closet, or wherever your little one thinks a monster might be lurking!
More Monster Clearing Ideas from Amazon:
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| Monster Masher Children's Sleep Spray |
👹 Monster Spray -- Corey is frightened by the monsters who live in her basement, but she has a plan: Monster Spray has the power to make the monsters go away forever, but will it actually work?
👹 Monster Spray Bottle -- Scare off monsters big and small with Play Therapy Supply Monster Spray. Empty bottle can be filled with water, or add a drop of a calming essential oil.
👹 Monster Spray Label -- Add this label to any spray bottle to make those monsters go away. Your kids will love the idea of spraying Monster Spray under their bed or in the closet.
👹 Schylling Magic Wand -- Push the button on the plastic wand to hear a
swooshand flashing light.
👹 Wizard of Oz Glinda Light Up Wand -- Star-shaped light-up wand with gems
More Monster Clearing Ideas from Walmart:
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| Go Away Monster Spray |
👹 Kindle and Windle Monster Repellent Kit -- DO YOU HAVE LITTLE ONE'S IN YOUR BED, BECAUSE OF MONSTERS IN THEIR ROOM??? Here's your Solution!! Kindle and Windle, two BRAVE little fairies have put together a Monster Repellent Kit with everything you need to scary Monsters AWAY! PARENT APPROVED Kindle and Windle's Monster Repellent Kit will give your child ease of mind at bedtime, resulting in more sleep for everyone! AND IN THEIR OWN BED!
👹 Go Away, Big Green Monster! -- As kids turn the die-cut pages of this vibrantly illustrated book, they'll watch the Big Green Monster grow before their very eyes. Then, when they're ready to show him who's in charge, they'll turn the remaining pages and watch him disappear! Ed Emberley's groundbreaking book about mastering fear and emotion through play and imagination has been a bestselling favorite for decades and feels as fresh and innovative today as it did 30 years ago.
👹 Five-pointed Star Design Flashing Fairy Wand -- Star-shaped wand is suitable for evening parties, festival parties, cultural performances, etc.
👹 Toysmith Magic Wand -- Conjure up a world of wonder with the Toysmith Magic Wand. The perfect wand for a wise wizard or magical fairy, this magic wand is a visual treat that provides hours of fun, imaginative play. The wand makes magical sounds when the buttons are pressed, and lights up in assorted colors.
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| Photo credit: Selene, of RestorationBeauty.com - All rights reserved |
Or even better - be really frugal and simply recycle your used ones when your gutters (or your neighbors) get replaced.
Simply sand the old gutters down and repaint.
One 10 ft vinyl rain gutter will cost under $5, and the caps (at each end of the shelf) can be bought as cheaply as $2.50.
So for less than $10 per shelf, you could create a trendy reading nook for your little ones!
To install, cut your gutters to your desired length,
-- find the studs where you want to mount your gutters,
-- use a leveler to make sure they come out straight.
Then screw them into the wall! That's it!
NOTE: use vinyl not aluminum gutters, so no sharp edges.
MORE HOW TO: Rain Gutter Bookshelves
Our Facebook Fans commented:
Amanda suggested: Add this to the corner to the right of my son's window, but with wood trim instead of rain guttersCristal commented: Funny that you tagged me in this. You know me well. I actually have had these in my classroom for years under the whiteboards. They are great. I display current books for science, social studies, math and more there. They love them.
Christy suggested: This works great for rolls of ribbon, vinyl, etc.
Vickie suggested: Cool idea...you could spray paint them any color too!!
Janet suggested: Rain pipes good planters too
Denise suggested: Also for closets and inside cupboard doors and garage/attic/basement. On the back wall of kitchen counter for spices, teas, coffee etc. Drill drain holes and use on shower/ bath wall. As a bird feeder attached to windowsill so you can watch the birdies. As window boxes for plants, and in the craft room.
April suggested: I could see this as a great pantry idea as well.
Sandra suggested: This would work well for books well for a homeschool learning center also.
Lorrie suggested: I did a long gutter at the top of my wall and put stuffed animals on it. I loved this idea.
Cygnus suggested: for hair supplies
Tonda suggested: That is an awesome idea for books, spices, anything!
Roxanne suggested: Also great for displaying photos.
Kellijo suggested: Love it! Hmmmmmm...Wonder if it might hold shoes too...
Jan suggested: That's a neat idea and also they can be used to plant strawberries
Julia suggested: We used crown molding and rain gutter holders... Works great
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| Fleece Duster refill replacements |
I wonder if these work the same as the store bought Swiffers®?
Maybe I should make one and find out!
These look so simple to make - here are several ideas and patterns!
🧹 How to Make a No-Sew Reusable Duster
🧹 Reusable Swiffer® Duster Cloths Tutorial
🧹 DIY: How to make Swiffer® dusters out of fleece
🧹 Make Your Own Swiffer Wet Pads
🧹 How to Make Your Own Swiffer Pads and Solution
🧹 DIY Reusable Swiffer Mop Pads (Wet or Dry) | How to Make Swiffer Pads
🧹 Make Reusable Swiffer Covers | Dollar Store Crafts
🧹 Homemade Swiffer Cloth Patterns
🧹 3 Money-Saving Hacks You Need To Know If You Use A Swiffer
No time to make your own?
🧹 Fleece Sweeper Mop Refills for Swiffer® - Purposely made of fleece which attracts dust particles and colorfully cleans a wide variety of hard floor surfaces including: hardwood, laminate, ceramic, tile, terracotta, and linoleum.🧹 Microfiber Mini Duster - Still wasting money on Swiffer® dusters? Here's a machine washable alternative!
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| Suddenly Frugal |
The truth is, frugal living can be the change you wish to happen in your life. It has proven to cause several benefits that can surely increase the chances of living a stress-free life. Moreover, frugal living is the answer to our daily what-ifs and what-now. To get started, you need to understand what frugal living is.
Living a frugal life entails being more responsible and intentional with your money. It involves being more mindful of your spending habits with a conscious effort to consider your financial goals. In simpler words, it is spending on the necessities and cutting back from spending on unnecessary buys.
Choosing to live this kind of life is indeed challenging, yet it is possible. With the right mindset, discipline, and attitude, it is achievable. There may be a few bumps along the way, but you will eventually get the hang of it, and you will indeed be thankful that you decided to begin on this journey.
However, it is vital to note that you do not necessarily have to indulge in cheap quality just because you chose to live a frugal life. Frugal living means being smart with your purchases.
It involves explicitly prioritizing the quality and ensuring the benefits of purchases encompasses your aims and goals financially. With the long list of benefits frugal living has, it is impossible not to consider doing this. In this article, you will learn ten simple tips to make this frugal life a reality.
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| Clever Fox Budget Planner |
-- Creating a budget list is always the key to saving money. It is impossible to live a frugal life without a monthly budget. The best way to do it is by making categories based on its importance. Set realistic goals to ensure that you can accomplish it. If you are quite unfamiliar and unsure, you can download a budgeting app online to help you.
2. Explore ways to earn extra income.
-- One of the realistic ways to save money is to increase your income. You do not have to work 24 hours to do this because there are many freelance opportunities in the online world, such as content writing, part-time virtual assistant, social media manager, and many more. The best part is, you can find an extra job that is in line with your interest. That way, you do not feel like you are working extra hours.
3. Make use of online coupons while shopping.
There is a common misconception regarding online coupons that are sadly making the consumers think it is of no help. The truth is, online coupons or weekly ad circulars may be a form of marketing strategies, but it does have its benefits. Purchasing your necessities using online coupons may allow you to save a portion of your money intended for the purchase. Contrary to what most people believe, online coupons offer a great deal. You have to give it a chance.
4. Set aside money for an emergency fund.
Life is full of unforeseen events. Thus, it is a wise decision to set aside a portion of your money for emergencies. This money should never be used unless something urgent happens. Having an emergency fund can be less-stressful in case your air conditioning unit or mobile phone breaks down. The best part of this fund is that you do not need to take any money out of your budget. Being prepared can help you live a frugal life easier.
5. Revisit your subscriptions and memberships. Cancel, if not needed.
Too much freedom in spending can cause you to pay subscriptions and membership fees you do not even need in the first place. As time passes by, you could not even remember when you subscribed and possibly forget that you are being charged by these monthly. Thus, it is best to check your subscriptions and memberships and cancel these before it drains the money out from your bank account.
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| Meal Prep Lunches |
Planning your meals ahead of time can help you avoid the impulsive decisions of eating out. Eating out is quite expensive when done regularly. Living a frugal life may encourage you to plan your meals for the week and watch for your food intake. It is also the best time to be conscious about what you eat and focus more on food that provides nutritional benefits that your body needs.
7. Learn how to make a good cup of coffee at home.
If you are a coffee-lover, you unconsciously spend a great deal of money every day in a coffee house. If you wish to start a frugal living, the best solution to this is purchasing your coffee machine and making your coffee cup. This way, you can cut down coffee shop expenses, and you can start exploring the coffee taste of your liking. It is like hitting two birds in one stone!
8. Discipline yourself to avoid impulsive shopping.
This tip may seem impossible, but you can free yourself from guilt from unnecessary purchases with the right mindset. Understandably, shopping has proven to help us feel better after a long day at work, yet impulsive shopping has proven to show us its cons as well. It may feel suitable for a while, but it does not benefit you in the long run. Discipline yourself to avoid impulsive shopping, but it would also be best to reward yourself once in a while if you have got some extra hustle.
9. Refrain from constantly purchasing bottled water.
We need water. It is something that we need to bring with us at any time of any day. Instead of buying a bottle of water to satisfy your thirst, it is wise and cost-effective to purchase your bottled water and refill it when it runs out. There are several kinds of bottled water you can choose that works best for you.
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| The Complete Do-it-Yourself Manual |
Before purchasing a replacement, try to fix the item on your own as much as possible. With the millions of manuals uploaded to make DIY options possible, you can try to save it rather than buy a new one. Moreover, if a particular system in your home is not working well, google it and try to fix it before asking a professional to help you.
It may take some time to get used to frugal living, yet do not be too hard on yourself. Take it one easy step at a time until you reach your goals.
By: Samantha Underhill, a freelance writer and works as a content manager for various international brands. When Samantha is not researching and writing she loves nothing more than heading out in to the country for some downtime.
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| Face Mask w/ Eye Shield |
My 32 year old son works in a grocery store where several other co-workers got sick, and a fellow employee died of Covid-19. My son also got sick, and though he never got as sick as I did, he is still not recovered completely
So yes, I wear my mask whenever I leave my home or someone comes to my house. I keep a 6ft distance from everyone but my family I live with.
Inside my cloth mask, is a 5-layer PM2.5 filter, which includes an activated carbon filter layer. It's not as good as a N95 mask, but I also have one of those and a surgical mask to wear (given to me by the hospital), should I need it.
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| American Flag Face_Mask |
CDC recommends people wear cloth face coverings in public settings and when around people who don’t live in your household, especially when othersocial distancing measures are difficult to maintain.
Cloth face coverings may help prevent people who have COVID-19 from spreading the virus to others.
Cloth face coverings are most likely to reduce the spread of COVID-19 when they are widely used by people in public settings.
Read more: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)
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| DIY Face Masks To Sew |
What We Know So Fardocuments are intended to provide an overview of some of the published and unpublished reports related to emerging issues with respect to coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). The reports are found through ongoing scanning of the published literature and scientific grey literature (e.g., ProMed, CIDRAP, Johns Hopkins Situation Reports), as well as media reports.
Read more: Publichealthontario.ca
If you choose NOT to wear a mask, I guess that is your choice, but one that affects not only you but everyone you come into contact with.
Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) advice for the public: Mythbusters
Read for more info: COVID-19 Mythbusters – World Health Organization
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| GlassesShield: Full Face Protection |
😷 C.D.C. Weighs Advising Everyone to Wear a Mask.
😷 Testing the Efficacy of Homemade Masks: Would They Protect in an Influenza Pandemic?
We should all agree any available medical masks should be reserved for hospitals and emergency workers. So, if you want a mask, you can to make it yourself.
A homemade mask should only be considered as a last resort to prevent droplet transmission from infected individuals,Cambridge researchers wrote,
but it would be better than no protection.
A vacuum cleaner bag was considered the most formidable household material with a rate of nearly 86 percent protection against the smallest particles tested. Falling behind was a standard dish towel at nearly 73 percent; a cotton-blend T-shirt at 70 percent; and an antimicrobial pillowcase at 68 percent.according to The New York Post
Here are some DIY ideas!
😷 Calling All People Who Sew And Make: You Can Help Make Masks For 2020 Healthcare Worker PPE Shortage
-- A significant movement, perhaps even a revolution of epic noble intentions, is underway in hackerspaces, makerspaces, and sewing groups to come together and solve a problem to save lives at risk with the Coronavirus.
Read more: Calling All People Who Sew And Make: You Can Help Make Masks For 2020 Healthcare Worker PPE Shortage
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| Black Lives Matter Mask |
-- After seeing the N95 shortage gripping the nation's healthcare workers, HP Inc., and partners have mobilized to create 3D printed face mask and face shield solutions, plus a few other innovative ideas, to keep people safe during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Read more: Calling All Makers With 3D Printers: Join Critical Mission To Make Face Masks And Shields For 2020 Healthcare Workers
😷 How to Make a Face Mask
-- Make them for yourself, your family, and friends. If you are feeling ambitious, you can also make them for organizations that need masks. Includes a database to help connect individuals and companies making masks to those organizations needing masks.
Read more: How to Make a Face Mask - Deaconess
😷 How to Sew a Face Mask
-- A tutorial on how to make your own fabric face mask from common household materials.
Read more: How to Sew a Face Mask
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| Child's Cotton Mask with Shield |
-- Sewers and preppers have lately been flooding social media with designs for DIY masks made out of household materials — some T-shirt fabric, elastic ribbon and a little bit of stitching.
Read more: It's Time to Make Your Own Face Mask
😷 What Are The Best Materials for Making DIY Masks?
-- Data shows DIY and homemade masks are effective at capturing viruses. But if forced to make our own mask, what material is best suited to make a mask? As the coronavirus spread around China, netizens reported making masks with tissue paper, kitchen towels, cotton clothing fabrics, and even oranges!
Read more: What Are The Best Materials for Making DIY Masks?
😷 How to make an effective face mask at home
-- You can make a face mask at home with common materials, regardless of whether you know how to sew. Here's how.
Read more: How to make an effective face mask at home
😷 Make your own face mask — no sewing machine required
-- This tutorial is a simple project for people who don't have a sewing machine, adapted from MakerMask by Helpful Engineering, a global open-source COVID-19 project.
Read more: Make your own face mask — no sewing machine required
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| Reusable Cotton Masks |
-- There is more than one way to construct a mask. Can't get a hold of elastic string? Try ponytail bands, rubber bands or simple baker's twine for tying. And while wrapping a bandana around your face might look pretty badass, it's not the most effective material at blocking virus particles, according to a 2013 Cambridge University study on how household materials hold up against micron-size particles and viruses.
Read more: Doctors are now running out of face masks — here's how to make your own
😷 DIY Cloth Face Mask
-- Mask pattern PDF (reg size) and child-size pattern. Plus some new informative links related to cloth mask effectiveness and other relevant topics. Lastly, I've added a section about FILTERS. Keep sewing and keep safe!
Read more: DIY Cloth Face Mask
😷 DIY Face Mask – 8 Steps in Making Protective Gear
-- In the past few weeks, lab tests were conducted on the efficacy of surgical mask after washing and sterilizing. Scientific analysis of safety and effectiveness was also conducted on do-it-yourself (DIY) face masks which could provide an alternative for the public to alleviate the acute shortage of face masks.
Read more: DIY Face Mask – 8 Steps in Making Protective Gear
😷 Everything you need to know about making your own face mask
-- You won't be arrested or for sure infected, if you don't wear a face mask, but it's not a bad idea to have some sort of face-covering on hand right now, particularly if you live in a dense area.
Read more: Everything you need to know about making your own face mask
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| Protective Face Shield for Kids |
-- Hong Kong scientists reveal a temporary solution for those unable to get protective gear because of panic buying and price-gouging. Lab tests by City University find home-made masks achieve 80 to 90 percent function of regular ones in terms of filtration of aerosol and droplets.
Read more: How to make your own mask
😷 Make your own face mask with these simple step-by-step guides
-- Japanese netizens have been getting crafty, sharing tips and tricks on making DIY face masks from paper towels, handkerchiefs, or even old bras. To be clear: no homemade mask is as effective as a proper surgical face mask, but if the store-bought kind isn't readily available, and you've got some spare time at home this weekend, then grab a ruler and some scissors and try making one of these.
Read more: Make your own face mask with these simple step-by-step guides
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| Sewing Patterns for Face Masks |
😷 How To Make a No-Sew Face Mask Out of a T-Shirt
-- With just a t-shirt and some rubber bands, you can construct a no-sew mask you can wear again and again.
😷 How to Make a No-Sew Mask
-- A no-sew mask is a quick project anyone can do — you don't need to be particularly crafty or have experience with a needle and thread.
😷 10 Free DIY Face Masks to Sew
-- Use these free sewing patterns and templates to sew up a DIY face mask you can donate to a hospital, medical office, health care workers, or other essential employees.
😷 Face Mask Sewing Patterns Roundup
-- Here's a list of some of the best face mask sewing patterns I could find on the internet.
Read more: Face Mask Sewing Patterns Roundup
For more information, here are eight common coronavirus health myths, how to sanitize your house and car, and answers to all your questions about coronavirus and COVID-19.
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