1. Parenting & Family

Frugal Housekeeping, Cleaning, Upkeep and Gardening Tips

Our readers have shared these tips to help you save money on housekeeping, cleaning, upkeep and gardening costs.

Buy Off-Season Plants

Here's how one mom saves money by buying and growing out-of-season plants.

Clean the Bathtub

Can't get your bathtub clean? Here's a tip that is inexpensive and really works.

Dusting Mitt

Save money with this hint for a dusting mitt.

Grow Your Own Vegetables

Find out how this stay-at-home mom saves by growing her own vegetables.

Homemade Bath Oil

Here's a tip to save money by making homemade bath oils.

Homemade Bubble Bath

Most kids love bubble baths, but they can be fairly expensive. Here's a tip to save money by making homemade bubble bath for your kids.

Household Uses for Clothes Pins

Here's a tip for using regular clothes pins around your house.

Pay Cash for Home Repair

Paying cash for home repairs might get you a discount. Find out how.

Plant a Garden

Reward yourself and save with a backyard garden.

Save 10 Percent Around the House

Follow the "10 percent rule" and save money.

Save Electricity on Your Air Conditioner

For those who live in hot climates, the air conditioner is a big user of electricity during the summer months. These tips will help you save money on your air conditioner.

Save Electricity on Your Refrigerator

Your refrigerator is a big electricity user in your home. These tips will help you save money on your refrigerator's energy use.

Save on Dishwasher Soap

You might be able to use much less soap in your dishwasher. Here's how.

Save on SOS Pads

Here's a tip for saving money on SOS pads.

Save With Compost

Make your own compost for your garden and save money.

Save With Concentrated Cleaner

Here's a tip for how you can save money by buying a large bottle of concentrated cleaner.

Timer for Lights

Here's how one mom saved on her electric bill with a light timer.

Water Heater

Here's a tip to save money on your water heater.

Yogurt and Septic Tanks

Here's a tip for using yogurt to possibly help your septic tank.

©2012 About.com. All rights reserved.

A part of The New York Times Company.