30 things I no longer buy... that save me money
30 things I no longer buy... that save me money!
These saving challenges are not only going to help you build better habits, but they're going to put more money back in your pocket each month.
~ Reusables ~
1.Dryer Sheets
I no longer buy dryer sheets. For a while, I was using dryer balls that you could add essential oils to . I eventually threw those out, and now I don’t use anything at all. I often wonder if you even need to use dryer sheet? Is there another reason besides static?
2. Parchment Paper
Instead of parchment paper, I bought silicone mats. They’re very affordable on Amazon, and you can reuse them over and over again, which is fantastic!
~ Homemade ~
3. Hand Soap
For hand soap, I buy a large container of castile soap. It has so many uses! I dilute it heavily with water—it's surprisingly strong.
4. Bug Spray
I also use castile soap to make bug spray, which I found handy when I was gardening last year.
5. Toilet Bowl Cleaner
To clean my toilet, I simply mix castile soap, water, and baking soda.
6. Body Soap
A year or two ago, I got into soap making. I made just two batches, which produced around 15 bars of soap. I've been using that homemade soap for the past two years, as it lasts a long time!
7. Shaving Cream
For shaving, I just use my homemade soap. It's simple and effective.
8. Special Face Cleanser
For my face, I use my homemade soap again. It’s been working well for me!
9. Beauty Products
My facial care routine involves just regular soap and coconut oil. However, after breaking out last year and dealing with some scars, I started making a homemade lightening cream using baking soda, lemon, and honey. It’s cheap and chemical-free—definitely a win!
10. Laundry Detergent
I make my own laundry detergent by mixing washing soda, baking soda, grated bar soap, and some essential oil. It’s easy to prepare, and buying in bulk means it lasts a long time.
11. Body Lotion
For body lotion, I just use coconut oil. I buy a large container and find it works for many purposes.
12. Deodorant
I use coconut oil again for deodorant. The basic recipe includes coconut oil, baking soda, and essential oil, (with the secret ingredient buying arrowroot powder which is amazing) Make sure to tweak to your preference as some people tend to be a little sensitive to the baking soda.
13. Febreze
For a homemade air freshener, I mix water, alcohol, a carrier oil (like avocado or olive oil), and any essential oil I like. It works surprisingly well!
14. Baking Soda
I sprinkle baking soda on carpets before vacuuming to freshen up stale rooms. It’s a simple and effective deodorizer. (As for this one - you might want to double check with your manufacturer that this will be okay to do with your vacuum)
15. Soda
I haven’t bought soda in ages. Instead, if I want something different, I make homemade soda using honey, sparkling water, and whatever fruit I have on hand, like berries or pineapple. It’s delicious!
16. Veggie Broth
I save veggie scraps when peeling or chopping vegetables, then freeze them. Once I have enough, I boil them with spices to make a surprisingly good stock.
17. Tea Bags
Though I’m not a big tea drinker, my go-to is boiling ginger and cinnamon. After it’s done, I add honey and lemon (not while it’s boiling to preserve the health benefits).
18. Cough Syrup
Thankfully I don’t get sick often, but for my cousins, we make a simple cough syrup using onions and honey. Tasty and effective!
19. Tonics
Instead of buying super pricy tonics at the store, I just make them at home. I use ginger, lemon, apples, and oranges in my juicer to create super yummy and healthy drink. I go heavy on the ginger for a kick but if you don't normally eat ginger, go light!
~ Miscellaneous ~
20. New Jewelry
I only own a pair of simple earrings. I used to have hoops, but they broke, so these are my go-to!
21. Expensive Perfume
Instead of pricey perfume, I prefer body mist. I enjoy smelling good but don’t want to spend a fortune on particular scents.
22. Home Decor
I keep my decor simple what can I say, I'm a minimalist!
23. Streaming Subscriptions
I don’t subscribe to Netflix, Amazon Prime, or Hulu. I used to have Netflix, but now I mainly watch YouTube for free, though I sometimes need to cut back on that!
24. Gym Membership
I work out at home using bodyweight exercises, so I don’t need a gym membership.
25. Brand New Car
When it comes to cars, I prefer used ones that have been well maintained. You won’t see me driving a brand-new car!
26. Souvenirs
I’ve never been much of a souvenir person.
27. Latest Phones
I keep using my phone until I absolutely can’t stand the cracked screen anymore - then I buy used/refurbished phone on ebay or amazon.
28. Trendy Clothes
I stick to neutral colors that I can mix and match. I don’t like standing out with flashy outfits.
29. Name Brands
I find that name brands are usually just more expensive for the same quality, so I avoid them.
30. Wallet
I don’t own a wallet. I keep my cards in the zipper compartment of my purse. It’s simple and one less thing to carry. I do have a small wallet for traveling, but I rarely use it.
Bonus: Gifts
When it comes to gifts, I prefer giving homemade items or experiences, like going out to eat or visiting a new place together.
Bonus: Cable TV
Most people don’t have cable anymore, and I’m glad I don’t either. I definitely don't miss those commercials!
Also click here to download my free spending plan template. simplyabundante.net/spending-plan. This will help you maximize the dollars you already have coming in.
Watch the video here!
