Groceries for a family of four with young children cost an average of about $1,100 a month in the first half of 2022, not including takeout and restaurant meals, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture. That’s a big chunk of change. But there are ways to spend less on food and still … [Read more...] about How to save money on food without using coupons
Home & Garden
Save time, money by getting rid of clutter
As you look at your holiday gifts — the ones you wanted and the ones that made you wonder, “What was she thinking?” — there is probably one thought on your mind: Where am I going to put this stuff? The best way to find places to put your valued new gifts is by organizing what you have … [Read more...] about Save time, money by getting rid of clutter
5 cheap, healthy party snacks
It's a struggle to find something unique to bring to parties. Sure, guacamole and chips are delicious, but it's a bit ridiculous when five people bring a batch. Mix it up with these affordable, healthy, vegetarian snacks. Your friends will be impressed by how yummy they are, and you'll be … [Read more...] about 5 cheap, healthy party snacks
How to throw a cheap and easy holiday party
You like to entertain, but you can't afford to spend a fortune every time you invite people over for a party. Here is our guide to saving money on a party for Christmas or the New Year. Decorate with items from around the house and yard If you (or an agreeable neighbor) have evergreen or … [Read more...] about How to throw a cheap and easy holiday party
Make your own easy holiday wreath
As a traditional part of decorating for the holidays, we adorn our walls and doors with pine wreaths and garlands. The stores are full of wreaths with sensors that start music for passersby, simple plastic-pine wreaths embellished with bells and bows, and natural pine garland wreaths that fill the … [Read more...] about Make your own easy holiday wreath
10 best budget-friendly kitchen gifts
As an avid cook who feels at home in the kitchen, I'm familiar with lots of kitchen tools and gadgets. This list of affordable kitchen gifts will make life easier for the home chef on your holiday list. I own most of these items myself and use them often enough to know that they're worth the space … [Read more...] about 10 best budget-friendly kitchen gifts
Throw a memorable kids’ birthday party for less
The birthday dilemma: Parents want their children to have great childhood memories – but is it necessary to dish out the big bucks for an expensive kid’s birthday party? The short answer is no. When I did an impromptu poll with my kids, my daughter piped in right away that her … [Read more...] about Throw a memorable kids’ birthday party for less
15 quick and easy handmade Christmas gift ideas
Looking for DIY and handmade Christmas gift ideas? We found tons of handmade gifts that are easy to make and special to give. From food gifts to handmade bath products, all of these holiday gift ideas provide an affordable way to celebrate the holidays and to give gifts that are unique and … [Read more...] about 15 quick and easy handmade Christmas gift ideas
Elegant holiday party on a beer budget
You’d love to give a holiday party, but those events can be real budget-busters. Well, ho-ho-hold on there. There are ways to do it up right and not break the bank. Here are some tips. Invitations Most people today are OK with an e-mail invitation. If you know someone who isn’t, get … [Read more...] about Elegant holiday party on a beer budget
18 tips to save big on winter utility bills
Heating season is back in most of the country, and heating costs are expected to rise. Here's what energy experts say you can do to save on utilities this winter. Most of these ideas won’t cost you anything, but they will save you money. Bottom line: Know that there are ways to mitigate some of … [Read more...] about 18 tips to save big on winter utility bills
20 creative Thanksgiving leftover recipes
Do you love Thanksgiving dinner, but want fresh ideas for Thanksgiving leftover recipes that go beyond pot pie and tetrazzini? We found a rafter of turkey ideas for breakfast lunch and dinner that make frugal and delicious use of all the food in your fridge. Breakfast dishes … [Read more...] about 20 creative Thanksgiving leftover recipes
Save money with a freezer-meal party
When you’re trying to balance work, school and other obligations, coming up with dinner ideas can seem like a thankless task that renews itself each night. And chances are, many of your overscheduled friends feel the same way. Share the dinner burden by hosting a freezer-meal party. You’ll stock up … [Read more...] about Save money with a freezer-meal party
30 ways to stay warm, save money this winter
Looking for ways to stay warm and cozy at home? For many of us, winter is a time when we discover a few more cracks and crannies for the cold air to find its way inside. Not only does that make it harder to keep your house warm, it sends money out the door as the electric or gas bill climbs. So, … [Read more...] about 30 ways to stay warm, save money this winter
Make felted wool dryer balls, a cheapskate’s fabric softener
Here's a project that will help you save on electricity from your dryer and eliminate the need for fabric softener, which has harmful chemicals and perfumes. Fabric softener can be expensive, isn’t recommended for certain articles (towels, cloth diapers) because it reduces absorbency, and it can … [Read more...] about Make felted wool dryer balls, a cheapskate’s fabric softener
Throw a Halloween party on a budget
Halloween is one of those times of year in which we can all revert to being kids. We dress up and enjoy a little extra candy and parties. Planning a Halloween party can be so much fun, and it's even more fun when you throw a Halloween party on the cheap. Choose one of these Halloween party ideas … [Read more...] about Throw a Halloween party on a budget