15 Ways to Save Money for Moms
With gas prices soaring, an increase in food costs and a growing family it’s important to save as much money as possible. Here are a few ways we do that…
1. Adjust the temperature.
During the summer months we set the thermostat to 75 degrees Fahrenheit and 68 degrees during the winter month. And of course on nice days we open the windows. We also use fans to circulate the air and open the windows whenever possible.
2. Adjust your laundry habits
Kids generate a lot of dirty laundry but there are ways to reduce your costs on laundry. We wash everything in cold water. Also using a clothes line can help reduce the cost of drying. When you do use the dryer always clean out the lint filter to ensure a solid performance from the dryer.
3. Clip Coupons and value shop.
Print coupons from the computer, use e-coupons, get coupons from the paper and compare prices at the store. When something is on sale try to stock up on the essentials. Break down price per unit cost to make sure you’re getting a great deal. Buy mostly store brand products, they taste the same and are sometimes half the price.
4. Use cloth… diapers, napkins, towels to clean.
Using cloth diapers can save you hundreds of dollars. Also using cloth napkins cuts back on buying paper products. Using microfiber cloths to clean kitchen counters, bathrooms and more are also a great way to save money.
5. Join Online Money Saving Programs.
Online programs like E-bates, Honey, Ibotta and more are a great way to save money on products you are already buying. Most of the time they integrate right into your browser so it makes saving money super easy.
6. Take a walk.
If you’re stuck in the house and just itching to get out, rather than driving somewhere in the car get out and take a walk. If your fortune enough to live in a city where you have places nearby enjoy the exercise.
7. Learn to entertain yourself for cheap.
Use Netflix or Amazon Prime Video to watch movies at home. Go to the $1.50 theater. Go to a regular price movie for the matinee. Join the movie theater rewards clubs… you get free movies after you spend so much money and discounts on snacks.
8. Use coupons for meals out.
Most of the time we go to a restaurant we use a coupon, usually cutting our bill in half. We also join restaurant e-clubs/newsletters where you get special offers in your email or a punch card where you can get free food.
9. Cook at home and try to be a vegetarian.
Meat is expensive but you can have a hearty meal with no meat. Fresh vegetables are pricey too but the health benefits are rewards. Also, you can incorporate frozen or canned vegetables into your recipe if needed. Be sure to incorporate plenty of high protein foods like beans, nuts, or dairy. Here is one of our favorite meat free meals.
10. Pay your bills online.
Stamp prices are constantly increasing and by paying the majority of your bills online not only do you save a few dollars on postage but you can keep a close eye on your accounts.
11. Review your payment plans.
Make sure you are using all of you cell phone minutes or switch to a plan with less minutes. Make sure you aren’t being charged incorrectly for a service you don’t have or want. I found several errors on our internet bill which would have been overlooked had I not been paying attention. Be on the look out for better deals or plans that might save you money.
12. Breastfeed your baby.
Buying baby formula is one of the largest expensive of having a baby. I know this isn’t always possible but if you can it’s a great option.
13. Break out your library card.
The local library has an online catalogue where you can look up, request, and pick up books at your local library. No Cost!
14. Open the blinds and let the sun shine in… save your light bulbs for night time.
15. Shop the clearance racks.
I’m addicted to Target’s clearance sections. I can find organic food for half price, kids clothes for just a few dollars, and other great deals. Just be sure you don’t buy things you don’t really need. Put it in your cart and reassess your purchase before you check out… you can always put it back.
