If you’re wondering how you can save money, one noteworthy way would be looking at items where you could cut your use in half.
Whether you want to believe it or not, you are most likely using way too much of too many items. This is a habit that develops without realizing it, but it is likely that much of it is subconsciously caused by advertisements and the media. Our society is all about mass production and consumption. Nevertheless, addressing the fact that you may be wasting money unnecessarily allows you to reevaluate the way you consume.
There will be no right or wrong answer as you dive into your personal research. A precise amount to reduce is nonexistent, and the process will take some trial and error. You’ll find that some items may be able to be cut more than others, while some can be eliminated all together.
Although this may seem insignificant, every little bit counts in the world of finances. If you were to calculate all the wasted money, it would considerably add up. Test it out for yourself. Consider these suggestions to cut your use in half:
Water
The green community will love us for mentioning this one. It’s probable that you are consuming more water than you need. Make tweaks like shutting off the water more while brushing your teeth or waiting to shave until you are out of the shower. These small actions can save a serious amount of water. Also, be sure to fix those leaky faucets where water can be escaping right under your nose. Find more water saving (and therefore money saving) tips in our forums here.
Juice
Speaking of beverages, we could do without so much juice. We don’t need to drink a handful of apples at once, and often, 100% juice is stronger than we even require. Cut your use in half by watering down your glasses of juice. It might be a shock to your taste buds at first, but you should quickly become accustomed to the taste if you stick with it for a couple weeks. You can modify your children’s intake and do this for them too. The alternative would be not to bother buying juice. While it is typically better than soda, water still costs less. Plus, you could make your own juice from the fruits you need to use up before they go bad.
Food Portions
Food portions in America contribute to the rising obesity rates, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood institute. Often, the mes we eat while dining out are much more than what our bodes need. We can train ourselves to eat less while still eating well though. Not only is making smaller plates and packing up more leftovers a money saver, it’s also a healthier choice.
Makeup
Guidelines do exist for makeup, such as appropriate distribution and proportions. Without knowing the proper way to apply as well as what tones and colors work for your skin and complexion, you can easily waste money regularly on makeup. The internet provides opportunities to learn something new every day, and makeup application is one of them. Thanks to YouTube, you can watch thousands of free tutorials from experts. Learning this skill will prevent waste and give you the biggest bang for your buck.
Liquid Soap
You don’t need multiple pumps of soap to wash your hands. Surprisingly, one drop is all you really need, and changing this can reduce the amount you use by 90%. Not to mention, a foam soap dispenser does not hold any special liquid. The spout helps create that foam. Instead of buying a new one when it runs out, replace it by putting about a tablespoon of liquid soap in the dispenser and filling the rest with water. Simply put the lid on and shake before use.
Cleaning Products
Using more of a cleaning product will not make an item any more clean than it would with a normal amount. So, just use what you need to actually get the job done. Anything more is just wasteful. You can actually limit costs even more by making your own household cleaners.
Laundry Detergent
If you do not measure out your laundry detergent when doing laundry, this is a huge waste of product (and money). Pay attention to the measuring tools associated with the cleanser. The maximum amount to use will be less than the full size of the cup, but many individuals will just fill it up completely. Manufacturers know this, which is why you might notice larger cup sizes to encourage consumers to use more and, therefore, buy more. But, over the years, washing machines have become more efficient, and less detergent is needed to get your clothes clean. It may not be a bad idea to look into making your own.
The above suggestions hopefully give you an idea of different items to cut your use in half of in order to save more.
What would you add to the list that you have found to be helpful in saving you money?
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