4 Household Changes That Can Save You Money Over Time
Did you know that 60 percent of Americans lack enough savings to cover a $1,000 emergency? If you’re part of that statistic, building a rainy-day fund to protect your family from unexpected expenses might be easier than you think.
Small savings on everyday expenses can add up over time to help you put away a solid nest egg.
Here are four simple household changes to get you started.
Choose Cloth Over Paper
How many paper towels, napkins, and cleaning wipes does your family go through each month?
You could be putting the money spent on paper products into your bank account instead of the landfill by replacing disposables with a reusable cloth.
Save even more money by reusing old clothes to make towels and rags instead of buying them new, or look for gently used items at yard sales and thrift stores.
Block Out the Sun
The sun’s rays are your summer energy bill’s worst enemy. Stay cool for less by using blackout curtains or window tinting to keep out light and heat.
Curtains are affordable and easy to install, while tinting is an excellent large-window solution that won’t block your view.
Keeping ultraviolet rays out of your home not only cuts your energy bill but also protects your furniture and floors from fading.
Reuse Containers
What do you do with that margarine tub or yogurt cup when you’re done with it? If your answer is to toss it into the trash, think again.
Those containers are a useful and free way to store leftovers or craft supplies, meal prep, or start seeds for your garden.
You will save a few dollars every time you reuse an old container instead of buying a new storage set or pot.
Utilize Gray Water
Leftover water from taking a bath or washing the dishes might look gross, but don’t pour it down the drain just yet.
That murky, soapy water may not be fit for a cool drink, but it’s perfect for flushing your toilet.
You can utilize it the old-fashioned way with a bucket or invest in a high-tech gray water system.
Either way, you will save money with every flush.
Now that you’re adding to your bank account each month with these money-saving changes, how do you make that extra savings work for you?
Choose an account with a high interest rate to make the most of your emergency savings fund, and only dip into it when absolutely necessary to avoid excess fees.
Category: Family Finances
