Beat Rising Costs With These Budget Finds
Every day there's another news story about rising costs in everything from home prices to the cost of groceries. Unfortunately, it seems like the only thing that isn't going up is most people's paychecks. There are a lot of costs that are out of our control, like rent or house payments. However, there are spending decisions we can make to stretch our dollars and make them work harder for us. I try to be a smart shopper, and I've compiled a list of some items that I hope you'll find helpful. I hope there's something here that can help you find some cost savings in your day-to-day expenses.
Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.An Income & Expense Tracker That You Can Begin Using Any Month Of The Year
Amazon
The first step to saving money is to be aware of how much we are spending, which may come as a surprise to some of us. One thing I like about this Budget Planner is that the calendar dates are not preprinted for a specific year. I can start using it right away, and I don't have to wait until January to start keeping track of my expenses. I especially like the Bills Checklist, so I can jot down my monthly bills and check them off as they are paid.
See it on AmazonSkip The Gym Membership With A Mini Stair Stepper
Amazon
Sunny Health & Fitness's Mini Stair Stepper is Amazon's #1 Best Seller in Step Fitness Machines. Its features include; Resistance Bands, a Digital Monitor, Non-Slip Foot Pedals, Adjustable Height, and a Hydraulic Cylinder. Available in Original and Advanced.
See it on AmazonNutriBullet Baby For "Baby Food, Made With Love"
Amazon
I haven't had to buy baby food for several years, but I'm sure the costs for baby food have gone up just like everything else. Additionally, by making baby food at home, supply chain problems are not a concern. The NutriBullet Baby can create food for every stage of development, from fine purees to hearty mashes. The components include the motor base, batch bowl, storage containers with a date dial to track freshness, and a 12-ounce silicone tray.
See it on AmazonAquaBliss Is Amazon's #1 Best Seller In Showerhead Filters
Amazon
AquaBliss High Output Revitalizing Shower Filter provides a "cleaner, clearer, beautifying shower for less than 0.09 cents per day." The filter replacements last longer and cost less than their competitors. AquaBliss's Shower Filter provides the "cleanest clean" by reducing "chlorine, pesticides, pharmaceuticals, dirt, odors, helps control scale buildup plus restores what your hard, chemical-filled water did to your hair, skin, and nails!"
See it on AmazonBigelow Vanilla Chai Black Tea Because "Times Change. Their Tea Doesn't."
Amazon
One of my favorite treats is a Grande Skinny Spiced Chai at my local coffee shop, which costs me $5.15 for each one. That didn't seem that expensive until I discovered that I could get 120 servings of Bigelow Vanilla Chai for less than it would cost for 4 cups at the coffee shop! Plus, Bigelow's Chai is delicious and is manufactured in the USA by a family-owned company.
See it on AmazonCreate A Water Park In Your Backyard With Jambo's Triple Lane Slip, Splash And Slide
Amazon
Jambo Triple Lane Slip, Splash And Slide is Amazon's Choice for "slip and slide." The Slip, Splash, and Slide has a double-sided sprinkler system and was independently tested and certified for international safety standards. It is 45% thicker than most lawn water slides. Three inflatable Body Boards are included.
See it on AmazonSave Money And Time By Doing Your Own Nails With A Gel Nail Polish Kit
Amazon
Trips to the nail salon can be expensive, and the cost adds up if you go regularly. However, just because you're on a budget doesn't mean you can't have a nice manicure. The Gel Nail Polish Kit With U V Light has everything needed to create an Instagram-worthy manicure at home. There are 10 color combinations to choose from; Unicorn is perfect for the summer!
See it on AmazonHoneywell Home's Programmable Thermostat "Helps Save Energy When Everyone's Away"
Amazon
The Honeywell Home Wi-Fi 7-Day Programmable Thermostat can be programmed to sync your home's heating and cooling with your schedule. Settings can be changed anytime from anywhere, using a smartphone or tablet. The Thermostat is easy to install and is Energy Star Certified.
See it on AmazonA Food Storage Container Set Helps Keep Bulk Food Purchases Fresh
Amazon
A lot of the time, it's a better value to buy in bulk, but once that huge bag of cereal is opened you have to keep it from getting stale. This 24 Pack Airtight Food Storage Container Set has four sizes of containers. Regina P., a Verified Purchaser, says, "Excellent product. These are amazing. I wish I had seen this deal before I purchased a smaller set just like these but a different brand name. Keeps food fresh and are a sturdy plastic. Highly recommend these!"
See it on Amazon5 Different Colored Adjustable Spray Bottles For 5 Different Uses
Amazon
I hate having a spray bottle where the nozzle doesn't spray! I've bought spray bottles at the big-box discount store for my cleaning solutions, and I'm always disappointed. I love that this Set Of 5 Plastic Spray Bottles has each bottle a different color, which makes them easier to tell apart. According to Verified Purchaser, J. Sauers, "I finally found a great sprayer! It's the little things in life that make your everyday smooth and these cute sprayers do just that!"
See it on AmazonReusable Sports Water Bottles Are "A Smarter Option Over Throwaway Bottles"
Amazon
Whether you're providing drinks for the soccer team or just the kids in the backyard, it's cheaper in the long run to use refillable bottles. The Set of 10 20oz Sports Water Bottles comes in Black or White and a variety of lid colors. You could even order them in your team's colors!
See it on AmazonClassic Popcorn Containers Add The Perfect Touch To Family Movie Night
Amazon
Sure, you can eat the popcorn out of a bowl, but that's not quite as much fun as everyone having their own Classic Popcorn Container. The red and white striped containers are plastic so they can be hand washed and used over and over again. Avoid contact with hot oil or high water temperatures to preserve the red paint.
See it on AmazonA Theater Popcorn Kit That's Cheaper Than The Snack Bar
Amazon
One of the most expensive things about going to the movie theater is the snacks, but popcorn is a big part of the theater experience. Why not recreate that experience at home? The Theater Popcorn Kit includes 16 ounces of popcorn kernels, 8 ounces of theater popcorn butter flavored oil, and a 1-ounce jar of ranch, nacho cheddar, and white cheddar seasonings.
See it on AmazonWatch Your Savings Grow With An Adventure Fund Wooden Bank
Amazon
Most of us probably had a piggy bank growing up, and many of us probably still have a change jar. The small Wooden Bank is a great way to demonstrate to children that money adds up, including pennies. The family could pick the next adventure to use the savings for, even if it's just a trip to the movies!
See it on AmazonStore Homemade Baby Food In WeeSprout's Glass Baby Food Storage Jars
Amazon
The Glass Baby Food Storage Jars have measurement markings to make it easier to get the right portion when filling the jars. The twist-on lids are airtight to ensure freshness. The jars are microwave, freezer, and dishwasher friendly. WeeSprouts jars are available in 4 Ounce, 8 Ounce, or a combination of both sizes. Available in Matte Variety or Bright Variety.
See it on AmazonWestrock Coffee Company "Makes Coffee That Makes A Difference"
Amazon
I enjoy a good cup of coffee, and I like to feel good about the products I purchase. Westrock "provides global export opportunity and purposeful employment to 1.5M farmer partners in countries around the globe." Westrock Coffee Company's East African Blend Coffee Cups contain 100% Arabica Coffee with a Medium-Dark roast. The blend has the "sweet flavor of roasted chestnuts with hints of milk chocolate." The coffee is Kosher certified and ethically sourced.
See it on AmazonDo What The Sign Says And Save Water Shower Together
Amazon
Worrying about money and bills is stressful, and sometimes you just need a hot, relaxing shower to wash the worries away. One way to combat a high water bill could be showering together! The Save Water Shower Together Sign is printed on Baltic birch wood and is a light-hearted addition to the bathroom.
See it on AmazonSave On Utility Cost With An Energy Star Rated Dishwasher
Amazon
My water bill is astronomical, and I suspect part of the reason is my old dishwasher. While a new dishwasher may not seem "budget-friendly" at first, I think the savings on my water bill will be substantial after I switch to an Energy Star Rated Dishwasher. The Amana Dishwasher can hold a 12-place dish setting.
See it on AmazonScreen-Free Fun Is The Inexpensive Solution For "Humdrum Days And Wet Weekends"
Amazon
Screen-Free Fun by Alain de Botton has a lot going for it. It provides entertainment without technology, and the only materials that may be involved are things you already have around the house. Activities include such things as interviewing your grandmother, drawing the view you wish you had outside your bedroom window, making a time capsule, and pretending to be a detective on a stakeout. The 144-page book is designed for children aged 8-14.
See it on AmazonI Can't Believe I Found An Aldi Quarter Holder Keychain On Amazon!
Amazon
I'll never underestimate what is available on Amazon again! I do most of my grocery shopping at Aldi because I can get the most for my money there. I love the quality and unique finds as well. If you've never been to an Aldi, you probably don't know that to keep costs down, shoppers put a quarter into a slot of the shopping cart and then have to return the cart to the stall to get the quarter back. On rare occasions, Aldi will feature a Quarter Holder Keychain in their ad, but I've never seen one before they sell out. Thanks to Michelle B's Embroidery in Tennessee, I found one on Amazon!
See it on AmazonThermal Insulated Window Curtains Are Beautiful And Effective
Amazon
Thermal Insulated Window Curtains are energy efficient on heating and cooling costs. In addition to blocking out 90% of sunlight and UV rays, they also reduce unwanted noise. The Set of 2 Panels is available in 4 lengths and 6 cohesive colors.
See it on AmazonA Hot Air Popcorn Popper So Easy The Kids Can Use It
Amazon
Measure, add kernels, and push the button. That's all there is to making 16 cups of hot, fresh, healthy, and inexpensive popcorn! The Dash Hot Air Popcorn Popper even comes with a recipe book that has a recipe for S'mores popcorn!
See it on AmazonNo Fancy Lunch Box Required With Tried And True Brown Bags
Amazon
It's called "brown bagging it" for a reason. People have been making sack lunches for school, work, and field trips for years and years. Reli's Premium Kraft Paper Brown Bags are strong, tear-proof, and 100% recyclable. Stock up and buy in bulk with an order of 500 bags.
See it on AmazonGood and Cheap: Eat Well On $4/Day
Amazon
Good and Cheap: Eat Well On $4/Day by Leanne Brown was "created for people who have to watch every dollar—but particularly those living on the U.S. food stamp allotment of $4.00 a day." Oprah.com's review said, "Unfussy recipes (that) go way beyond predictable." Peanut Chicken and Broccoli with Coconut Rice is just one example of the creative recipes included. A bonus with this cookbook is that for every cookbook bought, a book will be donated to someone who needs it. The book is an IACP Cookbook Award Winner and is 208 pages.
See it on AmazonPlant-Based on a Budget: Delicious Vegan Recipes For Under $30 A Week
Amazon
I'm not a vegan, but I've been a vegetarian for a little over a year, and sometimes it's been a challenge. I've found time management to be more of a problem for myself, and Plant-Based on a Budget by Toni Okamoto promises that her meals can be made "in less than 30 minutes a meal." "With Plant-Based on a Budget, going vegan is not only an attainable goal, but the best choice for your health, the planet—and your wallet." 256 pages.
See it on AmazonSYLVANIA LED Light Bulbs Can Last Up To 11,000 Hours!
Amazon
According to SYLVANIA, it's possible to save up to 85% on energy bills by replacing incandescent lights. LED Light Bulbs are "7x more energy-efficient, and provide 11x the bulb hours, compared to traditional incandescent lights." The 24 Pack 60W Bulbs are available in Soft White or Daylight.
See it on AmazonNo More Drafty Windows With Alien Seal
Amazon
Measure, cut, and apply is all that is required to use Alien Seal's Transparent Silicone Seal Strip. The silicone is designed to work on all surfaces, and the peel-and-stick backing makes the application simple. Each pack includes 3 rolls that are 1.4 inches wide, and the total length is 49 feet.
See it on Amazon150 Everyday Organic Cleaning Products You Can Make Yourself That "Save Money--And The Planet!"
Amazon
Think of the money that could be saved just by making your own laundry detergent! That's just one of the 150 Everyday Organic Cleaning Products You Can Make Yourself with the book written by Becky Rapinchuk. Other items include foaming hand soap, antibacterial wipes, and hand sanitizer. I bet the lemon and clove hardwood floor cleaner smells amazing! 224 pages.
See it on AmazonA Wooden Darning Mushroom Kit Has Everything Needed For Small Repairs
Amazon
With the cost of everything going up, and the common-sense philosophy of reduce, reuse, recycle, it's a good time to bring back the skill of darning. To be honest, I've never used a darning mushroom or egg and I wasn't taught the weaving method of darning. I've mended clothes before, but the Wooden Darning Kit should make it easier, and it has everything needed for easy repair. The kit includes the Darning Mushroom, Sewing Needles, and 50 skeins of thread.
See it on AmazonBe Your Own Beautician With Garnier Nutrisse Nourishing Permanent Hair Color Creme
Amazon
Garnier Nutrisse is the #1 Nourishing Color Creme. "Nutrisse Color is formulated with color boost technology and a blend of triple fruit oils: avocado, olive, and shea, to deliver permanent hair color." It imparts rich, long-lasting color while providing 100% gray coverage. There are 41 gorgeous color options to choose from.
See it on AmazonNo Need For Expensive Face Creams When L'Oreal Paris Skincare Is Part Of Your Beauty Regimen
Amazon
Two of my favorite things about Revitalift Anti-Aging Face Moisturizer are that I don't have to apply a separate sunscreen and how quickly the cream is absorbed. The Moisturizer has sunscreen with SPF 25 and is lightweight and non-greasy. The "Moisturizer protects, strengthens, and repairs skin barrier to help resist visible lines, loss of firmness, and other signs of aging."
See it on Amazon"Money: How to Make It, Save It, And Spend It"--A Smart Girl's Guide
Amazon
It's never too early to start learning about money and how to manage it responsibly. A Smart Girl's Guide is geared towards girls aged 8-11. "Money: How to Make It, Save It, And Spend It" by Nancy Holyoke is a Teachers' pick and part of the American Girl series. 96 pages.
See it on AmazonA Staycation Isn't So Bad As Long As You Know "The Best Things To Do In Every State"
Amazon
This may not be the year that the family can afford to spend a week at the beach or drive cross country, but that doesn't mean you can't go somewhere. I've lived in one state my whole life, and there are still plenty of places I haven't been to in my state. "Moon USA's State by State: The Best Things to Do in Every State for Your Travel Bucket List" is a whopping 792 pages! The travel guide is broken down by region and lists the top 3 experiences in every state.
See it on AmazonSave Money While Quenching Everyone's Thirst With Gatorade Powder
Amazon
My husband started ordering the Gatorade Powder Canister when he realized how cost-effective it is. He has a physically demanding job, so he goes through a lot of Gatorade, especially when it's hot weather. The 76.5-ounce canister makes 9 gallons of Gatorade and is available in 5 flavors.
See it on AmazonGrow Food For Free: The Sustainable, Zero-Cost, Low-Effort Way To A Bountiful Harvest
Amazon
Grow Food For Free by Huw Richards explains how "you can plant fruit and veggies at home without spending a penny. Look in your kitchen cupboards for food that you can plant. Out-of-date food, such as sprouted potatoes and old dried peas, can easily be planted and will yield fresh crops. The seeds of virtually any store-bought pepper can be planted." The 224-page book includes the author's "52-week journal of how he grew his own food for free for a year without spending a penny."
See it on AmazonWear A Don't Forget My Discount T-Shirt So You Won't Even Have To Ask
Amazon
It's amazing how many businesses offer discounts that you may not even be aware of. A lot of restaurants offer discounts for birthdays and have rewards programs that you can sign up for. A coffee shop in my town offers a discount if you check into their location on Facebook. It never hurts to ask if there are any coupons or discounts in effect. That's not being cheap, it's just being a smart shopper! The Don't Forget My Discount T-Shirt is available in 5 colors and sizes Small to 3X-Large.
See it on AmazonThe Fuel Saver Treatment For Increased MPG
Amazon
Lucas Upper Cylinder Lubricant with Injector Cleaners and Fuel Conditioners neutralizes poor quality fuel. The fuel treatment allows fuel to burn more efficiently which increases MPG and results in fewer emissions. A 1-gallon jug can treat 400 gallons of gasoline or diesel fuel.
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