With the cost of living rising by the day, it’s important to try and keep spending low wherever possible. However, it can be hard to know where to start cutting costs that will actually have an impact. Fear not, we’ve done the hard work for you by putting together a list of things to try which will help you look after your budget without too much bother.
How to Cuts Costs In Your Home
Check out the easy ways for super savings by cutting your home budget check them below!
1. Go For Solar
Solar energy can help you slash your bill by around $100 per month in the long run. While there are initial outlay costs to contend with, you can check if you’re eligible for the Government’s federal tax credit for solar systems incentive. If you’re entitled, you could offset your start-up costs for the system and its installation against your federal taxes.
2. Meal Plan
Heading to the grocery store without a meal plan is a sure-fire way to overspend on the food you don’t really need or want. Stores spend thousands of dollars on strategic marketing to make sure you pick up extra purchases that you don’t need. Rather than get distracted by unnecessary offers, a firm list of items that fit in with your plan will mean that you can make it through the aisles without grabbing random bits. Try and incorporate as many items from your pantry shelves as possible. It’s far easier to save money shopping if you already have the ingredients. When you’re at the store, try and buy generic wherever possible on items that don’t need to be a specific brand like cheese or oatmeal. You won’t notice a difference in taste, but you will notice a difference at the checkout. Incorporate batch cooking into your meal plan so that you have plenty of leftovers to freeze. This will make your money go further and save you forking out for an expensive takeout when you’re too tired to cook.
3. Couponing
Couponing can offer you incredible savings without much legwork. Before you hit the grocery stop, flick through any free coupon booklets you have lying around for big savings at the grocery store. This can often help you buy in bulk, so stock up on store cupboard items and dry goods such as pasta, beans, and toilet rolls that will last you a long time for less money.
4. Cashback
If you prefer to shop online, sign up for a cash-back website that will offer you money back on your online purchases. They’re free to join and you can get as much as 20% back on purchases, which is perfect for big spend items such as appliances and even air travel tickets. Sometimes you have to spend money, but at least you can have a little reward back.
5. Get Handy
Rather than employ professionals to undertake odd jobs around your home, learn how to do them yourself (except for dangerous things messing with electricity and heavy building works and try to use the best commercial and architectural LED lighting solutions). You can find a ton of YouTube videos and tutorials online that will show you how to fix a leak, how to change a tire, and how to build furniture. If you want to save the pennies, forgo expensive cleaning products, and make them yourself. Mix vinegar and baking soda together to create a paste that will make your taps shine like brand new and mix vinegar and water to make a glass cleaner that will rival any store-bought product.
6. Grow Your Own
Growing your own fruit and vegetable is a great way to cut spending and eat healthier. Some veggies are super easy to grow at home and you’ll guarantee that you’re eating organic, pesticide-free food. If you’re not really green-fingered or don’t have a yard space you can at least grow herbs on your own, with an inside garden planter that will even water your greens for you!
7. Reduce Your Water Usage
Reducing your water consumption can make big savings across your home. With appliances that use water such as your washing machine and dishwasher, look for models with the Energy Start logo. These machines can save you up to 50% of your energy use, which means a huge reduction in your bills. Turn taps off when you’re brushing your teeth and washing dishes for a small but steady decrease in water usage. Low flow water products will mean that you will use far less water without compromising on water pressure. You can switch out your shower head with a low flow option without too much expense and make a bigger saving overall.
8. Switch Providers
Changing up your utility suppliers can give you a big saving right off the bat. Use a price comparison site to search for your best options and check out each company’s offers. There are often sign-up discounts that new customers are eligible for, so you can usually get a good money-saving deal. As long as you don’t sign up for a locked-in contract, you can switch as regularly as you like, so look for new offers annually.
9. Make Money From Your Driveway
If you have a driveway or parking space outside your home and you live in a city or near heavily used public transport, why not capitalize on your space by renting it out to other drivers? There are plenty of people who face a big commute to work each morning and are looking to cut down on parking costs. Rather than let your drive sit empty, you can earn a few extra bucks with absolutely zero effort.
10. Add Insulation
If you live in a state that gets chilly from time to time you may be forced to put the heating on to keep you and your family warm. Poorly insulated homes will leak the heat out of your home, completely wasting some of the money you’re spending on bills. Add recycled insulation to your attic and crawl spaces and you’ll notice a difference in your home temperature and bills in no time.
Which of these tips will you be trying to save money around your home? Share in the comments or let us know your favorite money-saving ideas!
Which expenses can I reduce to save money?
Places to reduce your expenses:
- Petroleum and energy.
- Snacks and supplies.
- Credit and banking.
- Taxation.
