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    Home » Best Of

    26 Clever Ways to Cut Costs The Old-Fashioned Way Right Now

    Sarita Harbour.
    Modified: Jan 16, 2025 by Sarita Harbour · This post may contain affiliate links·
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    Finding smart ways to cut costs can feel like a challenge, but old-fashioned methods often hold the best solutions. These tried-and-true strategies focus on simplicity, creativity, and getting the most out of what you already have. They’re perfect for anyone who wants to save money without sacrificing practicality or quality. From household tips to budgeting tricks, these ideas prove that small changes can add up in a big way. If you’re looking for reliable ways to trim expenses, these time-tested approaches are worth a closer look.

    Homemade Laundry Detergent Recipe

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    Homemade Laundry Detergent Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Skip the expensive store-bought detergent with this simple homemade recipe. It’s a great option for anyone looking for ways to cut costs while keeping clothes fresh and clean. Plus, you’ll have control over the ingredients, making it a safer choice for sensitive skin or eco-conscious households.
    Read the Article: Homemade Laundry Detergent Recipe

    21 Toilet Paper Alternatives for When the TP is Gone

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    21 Toilet Paper Alternatives for When the TP is Gone. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This guide offers practical and affordable solutions when toilet paper isn’t available. By using these alternatives, you can easily find ways to cut costs on daily essentials. These ideas not only help in emergencies but also reduce dependency on store-bought paper products.
    Read the Article: 21 Toilet Paper Alternatives for When the TP is Gone

    How to Make Beeswax Wraps

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    How to Make Beeswax Wraps. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Beeswax wraps are a reusable alternative to plastic wrap, saving money and reducing waste. Making them at home is one of the easiest ways to cut costs on kitchen supplies. With a little effort, you’ll have durable wraps that are perfect for keeping food fresh naturally.
    Read the Article: How to Make Beeswax Wraps

    Easy Winter Composting Tips for Year-Round Success

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    Easy Winter Composting Tips for Year-Round Success. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Composting during winter is a smart way to keep reducing waste and enriching your soil. These tips show you how to make the most of scraps and save on expensive fertilizers, making it a practical way to cut costs for gardeners. Even in the cold, your compost pile can work wonders.
    Read the Article: Easy Winter Composting Tips for Year-Round Success

    Edible Garden Weeds & How to Cook Them

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    Edible Garden Weeds & How to Cook Them. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Turn common garden weeds into delicious meals with this guide. It’s a surprising way to cut costs on groceries by using what’s already in your yard. Learn how to identify, harvest, and prepare these wild edibles to make your meals both creative and frugal.
    Read the Article: Edible Garden Weeds & How to Cook Them

    How to Hot Compost

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    How to Hot Compost. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Speed up your composting process with this efficient hot composting method. It’s a resourceful way to cut costs by creating nutrient-rich soil faster, reducing the need for store-bought gardening products. This method helps you turn organic waste into gardening gold in no time.
    Read the Article: How to Hot Compost

    Securing Your Food Supply: 15 Ways to Start

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    Securing Your Food Supply: 15 Ways to Start. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This guide offers practical and affordable steps to build a reliable food supply. These methods show you ways to cut costs while ensuring your family is prepared for any situation. From bulk buying to preserving food, you’ll find solutions to keep your pantry stocked without overspending.
    Read the Article: Securing Your Food Supply: 15 Ways to Start

    Homemade DIY Toilet Cleaning Bombs

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    Homemade DIY Toilet Cleaning Bombs. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These easy-to-make cleaning bombs are both effective and budget-friendly. By switching to this natural alternative, you’ll find ways to cut costs on store-bought cleaning products. They’re perfect for maintaining a fresh and clean bathroom without breaking the bank.
    Read the Article: Homemade DIY Toilet Cleaning Bombs

    Sourdough Discard Recipes: Tips for Zero-Waste Baking

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    Sourdough Discard Recipes: Tips for Zero-Waste Baking. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Use leftover sourdough starter to create delicious recipes instead of throwing it away. These ideas highlight ways to cut costs while embracing a zero-waste approach in the kitchen. Turn scraps into something special and make every ingredient count.
    Read the Article: Sourdough Discard Recipes: Tips for Zero-Waste Baking

    Homemade Plant Food: 7 Easy Natural Fertilizer Recipes

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    Homemade Plant Food: 7 Easy Natural Fertilizer Recipes. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Create your own plant food with these simple recipes using household items. This guide shows practical ways to cut costs on fertilizers while keeping your garden healthy. With natural ingredients, you’ll nourish your plants without spending extra on commercial products.
    Read the Article: Homemade Plant Food: 7 Easy Natural Fertilizer Recipes

    8 Simple Homemade Fire Starters

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    8 Simple Homemade Fire Starters. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Learn to craft fire starters using items you probably already have at home. This guide is full of practical ways to cut costs on camping or emergency supplies. These homemade solutions are easy to make, effective, and a great way to put your leftovers to good use.
    Read the Article: 8 Simple Homemade Fire Starters

    Winter Foraging: 65+ Wild Foods to Find in the Cold

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    Winter Foraging: 65+ Wild Foods to Find in the Cold. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Discover how to find and use wild foods during the colder months with this comprehensive guide. It’s one of the most resourceful ways to cut costs on groceries while exploring nature’s hidden bounty. From berries to roots, winter foraging offers endless possibilities for frugal living.
    Read the Article: Winter Foraging: 65+ Wild Foods to Find in the Cold

    How to Grow Microgreens in a Jar at Home

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    How to Grow Microgreens in a Jar at Home. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Growing microgreens in jars is a budget-friendly way to enjoy fresh greens all year long. This method offers simple ways to cut costs on store-bought produce while adding nutrition to your meals. Plus, it’s a fun and easy gardening project for small spaces.
    Read the Article: How to Grow Microgreens in a Jar at Home

    How to Make a Handmade DIY Chicken Feed Bag Tote

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    How to Make a Handmade DIY Chicken Feed Bag Tote. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Transform old feed bags into durable totes with this easy project. This creative approach provides unique ways to cut costs while repurposing materials you already have. These sturdy bags are perfect for groceries, gardening tools, or everyday use.
    Read the Article: How to Make a Handmade DIY Chicken Feed Bag Tote

    Pine Vinegar DIY Kitchen Cleaner

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    Pine Vinegar DIY Kitchen Cleaner. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Make a natural and effective kitchen cleaner using pine and vinegar with this easy recipe. It’s a practical way to cut costs on expensive store-bought cleaning products. This homemade solution is eco-friendly and perfect for keeping your kitchen spotless without overspending.
    Read the Article: Pine Vinegar DIY Kitchen Cleaner

    Depression Era Peanut Butter Bread Recipe

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    Depression Era Peanut Butter Bread Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Inspired by tough times, this peanut butter bread recipe is a delicious and frugal way to stretch your pantry staples. It’s a tasty reminder that simple ingredients can help you find ways to cut costs without sacrificing flavor or comfort in your baking.
    Read the Article: Depression Era Peanut Butter Bread Recipe

    DIY Homemade Wood Butter Recipe

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    DIY Homemade Wood Butter Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Protect and preserve your wooden kitchen tools with this simple wood butter recipe. It’s an effective way to cut costs on store-bought care products while extending the life of your favorite utensils. With just a few ingredients, you’ll keep your tools looking and feeling like new.
    Read the Article: DIY Homemade Wood Butter Recipe

    How to Grow Food from Scraps

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    How to Grow Food from Scraps. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Learn how to regrow vegetables and herbs from kitchen scraps to save on groceries. This sustainable approach is one of the most rewarding ways to cut costs and reduce food waste. With just a little effort, you can turn leftovers into a thriving source of fresh produce.
    Read the Article: How to Grow Food from Scraps

    How to Grow Black Beans Indoors

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    How to Grow Black Beans Indoors. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Growing black beans indoors is a great way to save on groceries while enjoying homegrown ingredients. This simple method shows ways to cut costs and eat healthier with minimal effort. It’s perfect for anyone looking to maximize their indoor gardening space.
    Read the Article: How to Grow Black Beans Indoors

    Stove Top Red Beans and Rice Recipe

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    Stove Top Red Beans and Rice Recipe. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    This classic dish is a hearty, affordable way to feed a family or stretch your budget. It’s a comforting recipe that highlights ways to cut costs without compromising on flavor or nutrition. Perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights, it’s as practical as it is delicious.
    Read the Article: Stove Top Red Beans and Rice Recipe

    DIY Recipe: How to Make Your Own Homemade Toothpaste

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    DIY Recipe: How to Make Your Own Homemade Toothpaste. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Create a natural and cost-effective alternative to commercial toothpaste with this simple recipe. It’s one of the most practical ways to cut costs on personal care items while avoiding unnecessary additives. Keep your teeth clean and your wallet happy with this DIY solution.
    Read the Article: DIY Recipe: How to Make Your Own Homemade Toothpaste

    How to Save Seeds: A Beginner's Guide to Seed Saving

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    How to Save Seeds: A Beginner's Guide to Seed Saving. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Saving seeds from your garden is a straightforward way to grow future crops for free. This beginner-friendly guide offers practical ways to cut costs on seeds while ensuring your garden thrives season after season. It’s a smart approach for anyone interested in self-sufficiency.
    Read the Article: How to Save Seeds: A Beginner's Guide to Seed Saving

    7 Essential Hand Crank Kitchen Tools

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    7 Essential Hand Crank Kitchen Tools. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Manual kitchen tools save energy and last for years, making them a wise investment. This list highlights ways to cut costs by reducing dependency on electricity and disposable gadgets. They’re durable, practical, and perfect for everyday use in a budget-conscious kitchen.
    Read the Article: 7 Essential Hand Crank Kitchen Tools

    Hot and Reusable: How to Make Eco-Friendly Hand Warmers

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    Hot and Reusable: How to Make Eco-Friendly Hand Warmers. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    These reusable hand warmers are simple to make and keep your hands cozy in cold weather. They’re one of the most creative ways to cut costs while reducing waste. Use them again and again for an eco-friendly alternative to disposable hand warmers.
    Read the Article: Hot and Reusable: How to Make Eco-Friendly Hand Warmers

    How Much To Plant Per Person: Growing Your Own Food

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    How Much To Plant Per Person: Growing Your Own Food. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Learn how to plan your garden efficiently to grow the right amount of food for your household. This guide offers practical ways to cut costs on groceries by avoiding overplanting or waste. With proper planning, you can save money and enjoy fresh produce year-round.
    Read the Article: How Much To Plant Per Person: Growing Your Own Food

    How to Make Homemade DIY Compost Starter

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    How to Make Homemade DIY Compost Starter. Photo credit: An Off Grid Life.

    Skip buying compost starter with this easy-to-follow recipe using natural materials. It’s a smart way to cut costs while boosting the efficiency of your compost pile. Your garden will thrive with this simple and budget-friendly solution.
    Read the Article: How to Make Homemade DIY Compost Starter

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    Sarita Harbour.

    I'm Sarita. My family and I lived off the grid for 11 years in Canada's far north. If I did it, you can too.

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