Living a frugal lifestyle means making conscious choices to save money without sacrificing quality of life. Budget-savvy people commonly avoid paying for certain services, opting instead to do it themselves or find cost-effective alternatives. We take a look at 21 services that frugal people typically skip and how they manage without them.
DIY Home Cleaning
Frugal people often skip professional home cleaning services and choose to clean their homes themselves. By creating a regular cleaning schedule and using homemade or budget-friendly cleaning solutions, they maintain a clean and organized home without the added expense.
Cooking at Home
Instead of dining out frequently, some people cook most of their meals at home to save money. Meal planning, list writing, and bulk buying are all easy ways to save money. Cooking at home reduces food costs and allows for healthier eating. If you’re stuck for ideas, websites like Allrecipes provide lots of ideas to inspire home-cooked meals that you will never tire of.
Car Maintenance
Those looking to save money choose to handle basic car maintenance themselves, avoiding the high costs of garage services. Tasks such as oil changes, replacing air filters, and rotating tires can be done at home with some know-how and the right tools.
Home Repairs
Minor home repairs and improvements are another area where people look to save money. More than ever, people are learning to fix leaky faucets, paint walls, and even tackle small electrical and plumbing issues in a bid to make their money stretch further. By investing in a basic set of tools and utilizing online tutorials from sites like DIY Network, people avoid the high costs of hiring professionals for minor jobs.
Lawn Care
Some people care for their own yards instead of paying for lawn care services. Mowing the lawn, trimming bushes, and planting flowers can all be done with some effort and the right equipment. It will be easier for you to manage your garden if you keep on top of it every week rather than letting weeds run wild.
Subscription Services
Unnecessary subscription services, such as streaming TV, magazines, or wine boxes, can significantly reduce your monthly salary. Instead, try free trials, share subscriptions with family or friends, or use library services to access books and media. Websites like MoneySavingExpert offer advice on managing and reducing subscription costs and highlight trending ways to save money.
Gym Memberships
Rather than paying for a gym membership, savvy individuals often find free or low-cost ways to stay fit. There are many ways to save money, from free workout videos online to joining community fitness groups and engaging in outdoor activities like running, hiking, or biking.
Haircuts
Not everyone has spare cash to spend on expensive haircuts, so they cut their own hair or have a family member do it. Plenty of tutorials are available online to guide them through the process. Those who prefer a professional touch might opt for less frequent visits to the salon or more affordable options.
Coffee and Snacks
Money-savers prepare their own coffee and snacks at home rather than buying them on the go. Investing in a good coffee maker and making homemade snacks can save hundreds of dollars each month and also allow for healthier choices. Blogs like The Kitchn provide recipes and tips for making delicious coffee and snacks at home.
Travel and Leisure
Frugal people often look for ways to travel and enjoy leisure activities without breaking the bank. Strategies include looking at budget travel sites, booking flights in advance, staying in affordable accommodations, and taking advantage of free or low-cost attractions.
Dry Cleaning
Instead of regularly using dry cleaning services, people often purchase machine-washable clothing or learn how to hand wash delicate items at home. For garments that need dry cleaning, limit how often you take to cleaning services or look for more affordable options in your area. You can also follow guides on sites like Real Simple, which offer advice on caring for clothes without dry cleaning.
Banking Fees
You can avoid unnecessary banking fees by choosing accounts with no maintenance fees, avoiding overdrafts, and using in-network ATMs. You should also stay informed about any fee changes and look for better options from other service providers.
Cable TV
Many budget-minded individuals have cut the cord on cable TV, opting instead for streaming services or even free over-the-air television. They significantly reduce their entertainment expenses by carefully selecting a few key services and taking advantage of free content. Guides on CNET can help you navigate the best streaming options and how to set up digital antennas to save money.
Pest Control
The frugal-minded often handle minor pest issues themselves rather than hiring pest control services. They use DIY solutions and preventative measures to keep pests at bay. For more serious infestations, they might use a combination of DIY methods and occasionally get professional help.
Moving Services
When it comes to moving, frugal people often handle it themselves or with the help of friends and family. Renting a moving truck and packing items yourself can save a lot of money compared to hiring professional movers.
Childcare
Frugal families often look for cost-effective childcare solutions, such as sharing childcare duties with friends or family, joining co-op childcare groups, or using flexible work schedules to reduce the need for paid childcare. Resources like Care.com can help find and manage affordable childcare options, including nanny sharing.
Tutoring
Instead of paying for expensive tutoring services, some parents choose to use free or low-cost resources to help their children with their studies. This can include online tutorials, educational apps, and community programs.
Entertainment and Hobbies
Creatives find affordable ways to enjoy entertainment and hobbies. They attend free community events, explore nature, join hobby groups, or find second-hand crafting materials and tools for their interests.
Beauty Treatments
Instead of paying for expensive beauty treatments, people do their own manicures, pedicures, and skincare routines at home. There are lots of quality but affordable products in supermarkets and discount stores, and there are DIY tutorials to follow online.
Gifts and Celebrations
Money-minded gift-givers often make their own gifts and decorations for celebrations, adding a personal touch while saving money. If you want to try this, you can use materials you already have or find budget-friendly options on crafting websites.
Learning and Self-Improvement
Instead of paying for expensive courses and workshops, people often use free or low-cost resources for learning and self-improvement. This can include online courses, such as those found on Coursera, library resources, and community classes.
Pet Care
Money-conscious pet owners often handle basic pet care tasks themselves, such as grooming and training. In addition, there are plenty of free ways to keep your pet entertained and exercised. Explore local dog parks, take walks in nature, have playtime in your backyard, or engage in indoor games using household items.
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