Save Big, Save Small

Here are some practical tips for downsizing your lifestyle in this rough and tough economy! Whether you try one or try them all...I am sure they will help!!!

These are in no particular order, by the way...

~If you need to save money to catch up on bills, or just get a little ahead, declare a "no spending" month! You'll be amazed how much you save when you only pay bills and buy necessities like food and gas! No toys, books, haircuts, movie rentals, clothes or eating out!

~The markup on household cleaning products is HUGE! Consider making your own household cleansers. Head to the library and try to find a book about Green cleaning tips!

~Use a hand towel, mop and old rags instead of disposables like paper towels, cleaning wipes and Swiffer pads.

~The best deals at the grocery story can be found on the top and bottom shelves. Companies pay top dollar to be featured eye-level.

~Keep nonperishable snacks in the car to cut down on visits to convenience stores and vending machines!

~Make large batches of convenience foods, like waffles, French toast sticks, and pancakes, in your own kitchen and freeze them. Pop the waffles or pancakes in the toaster (and the french toast sticks in the microwave) for quick convenience food without the added cost!

~Make sure your tires have the proper amount of air in them...this will save you SO much in gas! Keeping your engine tuned will also be a HUGE help!

~Use cruise control to get better gas mileage.

~Buy gifts throughout the year, whenever you see things on sale, and put them away until needed. Keep a running list of what you've bought and for whom, so you don't end up with three plaid throws for Uncle Bob. Check out the post on Cozi, it could help a lot in this area!

~Put together a theme basket of gifts for a family instead of individual presents - for example, a DVD, popcorn and drinks!

~Try to make an extra mortgage payment during the year, or add a little extra to your mortgage payment each month. This will help you save on interest and reduce your loan balance more quickly!!!

I hope these tips help. Stay tuned though...we may post more of these money saving ideas in the future!!

Need more financial help? Check out the book Dollars & Sense: a mom's guide to money matters by Cynthia Sumner or head over to http://www.crown.org/!