What is the most frugal thing that you do to help cut everyday costs?

Question

What do you do to help your family cut costs and save money during these hard economical times?

Answer 1

Best Answer - Chosen by Voters

it has been a difficult and tight season for me and my new family- well, first off, we made christmas gifts this year.
but on a more practicle note, we've turned off our central heat and pulled out a 1500 watt radiater into our living room. that's where we bunker down during the day. at night we take it into our bedroom- our son is only 3 months so we've closed off the nursery and he sleeps in the bassinet at the foot of our bed.
now we only have an electric bill- which is by far easier on the check book.
also- cook in bulk and freeze the leftovers- perfect for stocks and soups and easy to thaw and use through out the week. I budget our groceries so that I plan three meals per week- then we use the left overs the rest of the time.
all of our essential items (like toilette paper, garbage bags, tampons, shampoo, wax paper etc.) come from the dollar store. I'll get other stuff there as well, like certain make up and daipers- because they are so much cheaper than going to a department store- and those kinds of items, it doesn't matter what brand name it is.
also- (when our family guinea pig was still alive) i'd use shredded old paper/newspaper for the bedding in his cage
I'm always holding onto boxes and gift bags to use the next time i need to wrap a present for an event.
when i run low on coffee filters- i'll re-use one (they really only last two times- don't push for three)
I was raised a frugal girl and forever will i remain one. I'm always looking for new ideas as well.

Answer 2

Turn off lights.
Use CF lightbulbs
Grocery shop with a list and don't deviate
Do all your driving/shopping in one outing.
Carpool
Bring coffee/lunch from home
Minimize eating out
Turn down the heat and put on a sweater
Have a yard sale or use Ebay to get cash for unused items
Shop sales and Goodwill for clothing
Have game night at home for entertainment
Stop drinking alcohol and smoking
Shop around for cheaper car insurance and boost your deductable