Uncover 7 frugal living tips that will make your mum proud

It’s no secret that our parents and grandparents in general lived, or were forced to live, far more frugally than we do now. They were in the habit of “making do” and many of the habits they employed to live on a shoestring budget can be helpful even now, especially if you’re trying to cut down on expenses in retirement.

Their timeless wisdom on stretching every dollar is more relevant than ever. In a time of endless choices and impulsive spending during an ongoing cost-of-living crisis, it’s time to rediscover the power of frugality.

Let’s explore the practical and proven tips that our mums would be proud of, embracing simplicity, resourcefulness, and finding joy in the little things. Get ready to save money, live intentionally, and honour the values passed down from those who came before us.

1. Line dry your washing

While tumble dryers offer undeniable convenience, they devour a substantial amount of electricity. Whenever possible, opt for the traditional clothesline and take advantage of the natural sunlight On rainy days, consider setting up a clotheshorse indoors or on the balcony. If you find your laundry just shy of complete dryness, utilise the dryer solely for the finishing touch. By adopting these practices, you’ll not only save a considerable amount of electricity but also contribute to a greener environment.

2. Grow your own veggies

While achieving complete self-sufficiency may be a lofty goal, there’s a fulfilling and cost-effective alternative that lies within our reach: growing our own food. By cultivating a small garden or even a few potted plants, you can embark on a journey that not only saves you money at the checkout but also offers a sense of satisfaction. Imagine the joy of savoring a meal prepared with ingredients you grew with your own hands.

3. Stretching meals

When it comes to making the most out of your food, a simple yet savvy approach can work wonders.

If you’ve bought a rotisserie chicken, for example, you can usually get several meals out of it by using different parts. The same goes with a roast lamb; you could use the leftovers in a casserole or a shepherd’s pie.

By exploring creative ways to repurpose leftovers, you not only stretch your meals and reduce food waste but also unlock a world of flavors and textures that keep your taste buds engaged for days to come.

4. Make your own cleaning products

Unlocking the secrets to effective and budget-friendly cleaning doesn’t require a collection of pricey products from the supermarket cleaning aisle.

A little vinegar, bicarb soda, or dishwashing liquid is usually all you need for surface cleaning, so you can skip the expensive products in the cleaning aisle in the supermarket.

With these trusty items at your side, you’ll not only achieve sparkling clean surfaces but also enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a more economical and eco-friendly cleaning routine.

5. Freeze leftovers

In the ongoing fight against food waste and the temptation of costly takeaway meals, freezing leftovers emerges as a favourable solution.

If you have a lot of leftovers, freeze them! This way, they don’t get thrown out after a few days, and they’ll be there when you can’t be bothered cooking, saving you from ordering expensive takeaways.

With a well-stocked freezer, you can bid farewell to the guilt that can often come with throwing out precious food and wave goodbye to the hefty expenses of indulging in takeout.

So, let the freezer become your ally, ensuring that no delicious dish goes to waste and the contents of your wallet remains happily intact.

6. Stop using paper towels

When faced with a stash of worn-out towels, don’t be so quick to toss them aside. Instead, consider giving them a new lease on life by transforming them into versatile cleaning cloths.

A simple snip here and there, and you’ll have a ready supply of absorbent companions for tackling spills and wiping down surfaces. These repurposed towels not only help you save some hard-earned cash but also champion the cause of sustainability. By opting for these eco-friendly alternatives, you contribute to the reduction of waste and lessen the burden on our environment.

Once they’ve served their cleaning purpose, fear not, for these trusty companions can be effortlessly tossed into the next laundry cycle, emerging fresh and ready for their next cleaning endeavor

7. Exercise for free

Don’t let costly gym memberships drain your wallet and gather dust when your motivation wanes.

Instead, go for a walk in the fresh air, walk the dog, or if you want to do some strength training, use your body weight at home. No complicated equipment is necessary. Following the recent lockdowns an explosion of exceptional online workouts has emerged, tailored to every age and energy level, right at your fingertips.