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60 Ways to Stretch a Dollar

© Erin Huffstetler

No matter how thrifty you think you are, there's always something else you can do to save more money. Below is a list of quick ways to stretch your budget even further. While you may already be doing a lot of these things, I guarantee you'll find at least a few new ideas to add to your growing arsenal. Have any ideas that aren't included on this list? Be sure to pass them on. The discussion board is a great place to share ideas.

1. Dry your clothes using low heat.
2. Wash laundry with cold water instead of warm or hot.
3. Hang your clothes out to dry on sunny days.
4. Set your thermostat back a few degrees at night.
5. Use wash clothes instead of paper towels whenever possible.
6. Raise the temperature setting in your fridge.
7. Turn off a few lights.
8. Put your computer into suspend mode when it's not in use.
9. Fix leaky faucets.
10. Make your own baby food.
11. Make your own baby wipes.
12. Pack your lunch.
13. Switch to rechargeable batteries. Though initially more expensive, they'll save you money in the long run.
14. Grow your own fruits and vegetables.
15. Turn the heat dry option off on your dishwasher.
16. Turn the water off while you are brushing your teeth.
17. Keep the tires rotated on your car. When tires wear evenly, they last longer.
18. Check the air pressure in your tires frequently. If tires are not properly inflated they will wear faster.
19. Wash your car at home, rather than taking it to a car wash.
20. Lower the temperature on your hot water heater.
21. Lower the water level in your toilet.
22. Take a shorter shower.
23. Switch to a free checking account.
24. Keep blinds closed on hot days to lower the temperature in your house.
25. Purchase a kit to clean your "dry clean only" clothes at home.
26. Change the oil in your car regularly. Changing it late will only add to repair bills later.
27. Lower the thermostat in your house while you are on vacation.
28. Change the filter on your air conditioning return vent every month.
29. Empty out your trunk. Extra junk will only reduce your mileage.
30. Get in the habit of carrying a snack. Vending machine purchases can really add up.
31. Instead of buying books go to the library.
32. Instead of renting movies, go to the library. Most libraries offer free or nearly free movie check-outs.
33. Take advantage of free concerts, and events around town.
34. Pay bills online, and save on the postage.

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