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Money Saving Tips
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Reader's Frugal Hints
Even during the best of times it can be difficult trying to make ends meet on one income. Saving a few cents here and there can make a big difference at the end of the month. In a previous article, our readers shared their frugal tips. This week, I would like to share a few more tips that parents have submitted. Thanks to everyone who has sent in their frugal hints!
From Ruth:
- My husband loves KoolAid. I found that if you save some glass juice bottles they make perfect, (disguised under the real label) replacements for the more costly namebrand juices you pick up at the store.
From Debbi:
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Having 4 children of my own and providing daycare for 5 others,
I am surprised at how many parents do not use store-brand
diapers because they're afraid the diapers won't work as well.
I use the cheapest brand I can possibly find during the daytime, but
use a brand name for nighttime wetness. The store brands truly don't
hold as much urine as the brand names, so I change them maybe 3 more times
during the day.
Cathy's Tip:
- I work in the IS Department of a hospital. We recently installed new pc's hospital wide. The pc's and monitors were all wrapped in plastic bags. I have been using these bags at home for over a year. Great for trash and storing clothes in. Founds all kinds of uses for these bags.
From Elena:
- For anyone who uses manufactures coupons:
Check with your grocery store to see if they accept expired coupons. Yes, expired coupons!
Our grocery store here in Wisconsin called "Cub Foods" takes them - they have to be within 6 months prior to actual expiration date. There are also Cub Foods stores in Minnesota (I used to live there). So, if there is a Cub Food store in your city you should be able to use them. For other grocery stores your best bet is to ask.
Sue W. wrote:
- In our one income house, we continually strive for a simple,
frugal life. Our most recent money saver has been to join an
Organic Food C0-OP. Buying in bulk has brought our food
budget, including soaps, tissue,etc. to $200 per month.About
$70 that cost is bulk purchasing.Buying in bulk,once a month
has made me think about menus. When you buy 25 pounds of
rice, you use it!
From Sylvia:
- If your child is having a birthday party away from home,
eg. at McDonalds, team up with another Mom whose
childs birthday within a week of yours and split the cost.
My daughter and her friend are going bobsleighing
together for their party. They both have the same friends
so every-one is happy!
From Ellen:
- I have two little toddlers and I bought a folding drying rack for their clothes. I put all of their freshly-laundered clothes on it to dry--it saves wear and tear on their togs and I don't have to fill the dryer with baby clothes!
From Debbie:
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Since we too have only one income and two children (ages 8 months and 4 years), I had to come up with money saving techniques too. One is that I buy my childrens' clothing way in advance, about 6 months usually, when all the sales are at the lowest. I buy spring clothes at the beginning of winter, summer clothes at the beginning of fall, etc. I always get name brands and never pay more than half of retail..people are always asking how I keep them so cute.
You can also find some great clothes for yourself that way too!!
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