20 Unusual Ways to Reduce Spending and Save More

Cutting back on spending might seem tough, but with the right approach, it’s easier than you think. Whether you’re looking to save for a big purchase, build an emergency fund, or just have more control over your finances, finding creative ways to reduce your expenses can make a big difference.

In this post, you’ll learn practical tips for trimming costs and boosting your savings—without feeling deprived. These unusual strategies will help you save more and spend less, giving you more financial freedom and peace of mind.

Use reusable cloths instead of paper towels

Ditch paper towels and start using washable cloths. This simple swap cuts down on waste and saves money over time.

You’ll be spending less on disposable items, keeping more cash in your pocket. A small change like this adds up quickly.

To learn more: How to Be Frugal Green: 91+ Tips to Save Money and Environment

Barter services or skills with friends and neighbors

Trade skills or services with neighbors instead of paying for them. Whether it’s lawn care, babysitting, or home repairs, bartering can help you avoid spending money.

It’s a smart way to get what you need while keeping your wallet happy. Plus living life in a community is always a bonus.

Cut your own hair or learn basic grooming

Haircuts can get pricey, but learning to cut your own hair can save hundreds each year. You’ll avoid the salon costs and spend that money elsewhere.

Simple grooming skills are easy to pick up and can make a big difference in your budget. Quickly learn hair cutting tricks on YouTube.

To learn more: 12 Surprisingly Easy Ideas to Pay Off Debt Faster

Make your own cleaning products using household items like vinegar and baking soda

Store-bought cleaners can be expensive, but basic items like vinegar and baking soda work just as well.

DIY cleaners cost a fraction of the price and can be made with things you already have. It’s an easy way to save money on household essentials.

Swap clothes or host clothing exchanges with friends

Instead of buying new clothes, swap with friends.

Clothing exchanges are a fun, free way to refresh your wardrobe. It helps you save money and get something new without spending a dime. Plus, it’s a great way to avoid fast fashion costs.

To learn more: How to Shop for Clothes on a Budget

Freeze leftover sauces and herbs in ice cube trays for later use

Don’t let leftover sauces or herbs go to waste. Freeze them in ice cube trays for quick use later.

This small habit reduces food waste and keeps you from spending more on ingredients. It’s an easy way to stretch your grocery budget.

To learn more: 10 Straightforward Ideas to Save Money on Groceries

Repair and mend clothes instead of buying new ones

Mending your clothes instead of replacing them can save you tons of money over time. While you may need to learn to sew, it is ridiculously easy.

Fixing a tear or sewing on a button takes just a few minutes, and you’ll avoid unnecessary spending. This tip helps you get more out of what you already have.

To learn more: Why a Thrifty Lifestyle is Something You Need Today

Use a library for digital content (ebooks, audiobooks, streaming services)

Libraries offer more than just books. Many offer free digital content like eBooks, audiobooks, and even streaming services for movies.

Instead of paying for subscriptions, use your library to access this content for free. It’s a great way to cut entertainment costs.

To learn more: 105 Fun Things To Do With No Money

Install a water-saving showerhead to reduce water bills

Switching to a water-saving showerhead can cut your water bill without much effort. You’ll use less water every time you shower, saving money and reducing waste.

Yes, that means giving up that awesome rain showerhead, but it’s a simple, affordable fix that can make a noticeable difference over time.

Practice “no-spend” days or weeks for non-essential items

Set aside “no-spend” days or weeks where you avoid buying anything that’s not essential. It’s a great way to reset your spending habits and see where you can cut back.

This practice can help you save more without feeling like you’re sacrificing too much. Plus you will learn what matters to you to spend money on.

To learn more: No Spend Challenge: The #1 Fastest Way To Save Money

Grow your own herbs or small vegetables in containers at home

Growing your own herbs and vegetables saves money on groceries. You don’t need a big garden—just a few pots at home will do.

It’s an easy and cost-effective way to have fresh produce without the high supermarket prices. This can happen year around and not just during the summer months.

Borrow or rent tools and equipment instead of buying

Instead of buying expensive tools or equipment you’ll only use once, borrow them from friends or rent them. This reduces the need for big purchases, saving you money and space.

Ask in your local community or Buy Nothing Facebook group. It’s a smart way to get the job done without breaking the bank.

Unsubscribe from promotional emails to avoid impulse buys

Promotional emails are designed to make you spend money. Unsubscribing helps you avoid tempting sales and impulse buys, keeping your spending in check.

You’ll be less likely to make unnecessary purchases and save more in the long run. Plus you will spend less time managing your inbox.

To learn more: The Vicious Cycle- Learn How to Stop Spending Money Now

Make bulk purchases with a friend to split costs

Buying in bulk saves money, but it’s not always practical for one person. Split bulk purchases with a friend to enjoy the savings without overstocking.

You’ll both benefit from lower prices and avoid waste. It’s an easy way to stretch your budget.

Use free online classes instead of paying for courses or memberships

Plenty of free online classes are available for almost anything you want to learn. Skip the expensive courses and memberships and find free resources.

It’s a great way to gain new skills without adding to your expenses.

To Learn More: Top High Income Skills Without a Degree to Learn

Opt for manual tools over electric ones to save on energy

Manual tools may take a bit more effort, but they save money on electricity and often cost less upfront. This simple switch can help lower your energy bills and reduce the need for costly power tools.

It’s a practical way to save on home projects. Plus you get a good workout.

Use solar-powered gadgets and chargers

Solar-powered gadgets can help lower your electricity usage, saving you money in the long run. They’re great for everyday items like phone chargers or lights, letting you save energy and cut down on bills without much effort.

Plus helpful for when you are out and about.

Sign up for community-supported agriculture (CSA) for seasonal food savings

Community-supported agriculture (CSA) programs offer fresh, seasonal produce at lower prices. Signing up means you’ll save on groceries while supporting local farms.

It’s a win-win that helps reduce food costs and adds variety to your diet. You may have to volunteer a certain number of house per month to participate.

To learn more: Strategies to Lower Grocery Budget. Easy. Quick. Simple.

Round up your spending

Some apps or banks allow you to round up each purchase to the nearest dollar, putting the spare change into savings. This method helps you save a little bit at a time without even noticing.

It’s an easy way to grow your savings and invest without extra effort.

Share streaming service accounts with family or friends

Okay, this one is getting harder as these providers are cutting down hard on sharing services. So, be warned, you may lose complete access for violating their sharing policy.

Sharing streaming accounts with friends or family helps cut down on monthly subscription costs. By splitting the bill, you save money and still get to enjoy the shows and movies you love.

Another option is to only use the streaming services for a couple of months and then cancel when your calendar is busier.

Explore more ideas to save money with these frugal living tips

Saving money doesn’t have to be hard. These frugal living tips offer simple ways to cut costs and make the most of what you have.

Start with a few habits and then keep adding additional ideas to lower your spending. Explore more ideas to help you live within your means, save for the future, and enjoy a more budget-friendly lifestyle.

To learn more: 175+ Simple and Easy Frugal Living Tips to Save Money

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