Simple Living Hacks: 12 Ways to Slow Down and Save Money

We’re all looking for ways to simplify our lives and keep more money in our pockets. It feels like things are always moving so fast, and the bills just keep coming. That’s why we’ve put together some simple living tips that can help us all slow down a bit and save some cash. These aren’t complicated schemes, just practical ideas we can start using today.

Key Takeaways

Unplugging appliances when they’re not in use can reduce energy waste and lower utility bills.
Air-drying clothes instead of using a machine saves energy and extends the life of your garments.
Planning meals ahead of time helps reduce food waste and impulse grocery purchases.
Tracking our spending makes us more aware of where our money is going, leading to smarter financial choices.
Canceling unused subscriptions frees up money that can be redirected to more meaningful expenses or savings.

1. Unplug Appliances

We all have those devices that seem to be constantly plugged in, even when we’re not actively using them. Think about the TV in the living room, the coffee maker on the counter, or even that phone charger you leave plugged in by your bed. These items, often called vampire electronics, are silently drawing power from the wall, and it adds up over time. It’s like leaving a faucet dripping – a small amount of waste that becomes significant when you look at the total.

The simplest way to combat this is to get into the habit of unplugging things when you’re done with them. For items that are used frequently, like a toaster or blender, this might seem like a hassle. But for things that sit idle for long stretches, like a spare charger or a lamp you rarely turn on, it’s an easy win. A great trick is to use power strips for clusters of electronics, like your entertainment center or home office setup. Then, you can just flip one switch to cut power to everything at once.

Here’s a quick look at some common culprits:

Televisions and gaming consoles: Even when off, they can draw power for standby modes.
Computers and monitors: Unless they’re completely shut down, they’re still using energy.
Kitchen appliances: Coffee makers, microwaves, and toasters often have clocks or standby lights that consume power.
Phone and laptop chargers: They continue to draw a small amount of electricity even when no device is connected.

Making a conscious effort to unplug these devices, or using smart power strips, can lead to noticeable savings on your electricity bill. It’s a small change in our daily routine that has a real impact on both our wallets and the environment.

2. Air-Dry Clothes

We all know that dryers eat up a lot of electricity, right? It’s one of those appliances that just seems to run constantly in many homes. But what if we told you there’s a super simple way to cut down on that energy use and save some cash? Yep, we’re talking about air-drying your clothes.

Think about it: instead of tossing your wet laundry into a hot, tumbling machine, you can just hang it up. We’ve found that using a clothesline or even just a simple drying rack can make a big difference. Not only does this method use zero electricity, but it’s also way gentler on your clothes. That means your favorite shirts and jeans might actually last longer, which is another win for your wallet. Plus, there’s something kind of satisfying about the smell of fresh air on your laundry.

Here’s a quick rundown of why we love air-drying:

Saves Money: Less electricity means lower utility bills. It’s that straightforward.
Extends Clothing Life: The tumbling and heat in a dryer can wear out fabrics faster. Air drying is much kinder.
Eco-Friendly: Reducing energy consumption is good for the planet.
Fresher Smelling Clothes: Many people prefer the natural scent of line-dried laundry.

We used to toss everything in the dryer without a second thought. But once we started tracking our energy usage, we realized how much of a drain it was. Switching to air drying, especially for most of our loads, has been a game-changer for our budget and our peace of mind. It just takes a little bit of planning to hang things up, but the savings are totally worth it.

If you’re worried about stiffness or wrinkles, try giving your clothes a good shake before hanging them. For items like towels or jeans, you might still want to use the dryer for a short period, but even cutting down your dryer time can lead to noticeable savings. It’s all about finding a balance that works for you. Give air drying clothes a try; you might be surprised at how easy and effective it is.

3. Make Your Own Gifts

We all have those moments when a birthday or holiday sneaks up on us, and suddenly we feel pressured to buy a gift. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking we have to spend money to show we care. But what if we shifted our perspective? Making gifts is a fantastic way to save money and add a personal touch that store-bought items just can’t match.

Think about it: instead of browsing endless aisles or scrolling through online shops, we can tap into our own creativity. This doesn’t mean you need to be a master crafter. Simple, thoughtful gifts can be incredibly meaningful. We could try knitting a scarf, baking a batch of cookies, or even putting together a personalized playlist. For those who are a bit more hands-on, consider making homemade soaps, candles, or a custom piece of art.

Here are a few ideas to get us started:

Edible Gifts: Jars of homemade jam, infused oils, or baked goods like bread or cookies are always a hit. Package them nicely in jars or tins.
Crafty Creations: Think knitted or crocheted items, handmade cards, painted mugs, or even a simple photo album filled with memories.
Experience Gifts: Offer your time and skills! A certificate for a home-cooked meal, a night of babysitting, or help with a chore can be priceless.

Making gifts isn’t just about saving cash; it’s about slowing down and putting a piece of ourselves into what we give. It’s a way to connect with people on a deeper level, showing them we took the time to create something special just for them. Plus, it’s a great way to use up craft supplies or pantry staples we already have.

This approach not only cuts down on expenses but also reduces waste and the pressure to consume. It’s a win-win for our wallets and our well-being.

4. Plan Your Meals

We all know that impulse buys at the grocery store can really add up. One of the best ways to combat this and save some serious cash is to plan out our meals for the week. It sounds simple, but it makes a huge difference.

When we take a little time each week to figure out what we’re going to eat, we can shop smarter. This means we only buy what we need, which cuts down on food waste too. Plus, it stops those last-minute "what’s for dinner?" panics that often lead to expensive takeout.

Here’s how we get started:

Look at what you already have: Before making a list, check your pantry, fridge, and freezer. Use up those items first.
Check sales flyers: See what’s on special at your local stores and build meals around those deals.
Keep it simple: Don’t plan gourmet meals every night. A few easy, go-to recipes are perfectly fine.
Factor in leftovers: Plan for meals that can be eaten again the next day for lunch or dinner.

This simple habit helps us stick to our budget and reduces food waste significantly.

Planning meals isn’t just about saving money; it’s also about reducing stress. Knowing what’s for dinner takes a load off our minds, especially on busy weeknights.

5. Buy Generic Brands

We all know that name brands can be tempting. They’re advertised everywhere, and sometimes, they just feel more trustworthy. But when we’re trying to slow down and save money, those fancy labels can really add up. We’ve found that switching to generic brands for everyday items is one of the easiest ways to cut costs without sacrificing quality. Think about it: the ingredients in a generic bottle of pain reliever are often identical to the name-brand version. The same goes for pantry staples like flour, sugar, or canned goods. The packaging might be simpler, and you won’t see the flashy logo, but the product inside is usually just as good.

It’s not just about food, either. We’re talking about toiletries, cleaning supplies, and even medications. For things like basic T-shirts or socks, the difference between a brand name and a store brand is usually negligible. We’ve made a habit of comparing the ingredient lists and nutritional information, and honestly, we’re rarely disappointed with the generic options. It might take a little extra effort to find them on the shelf, but the savings are definitely worth it.

Here’s a quick look at where we’ve seen the biggest savings:

Groceries: Canned vegetables, pasta, rice, cereal, and baking supplies.
Health & Beauty: Shampoo, conditioner, soap, toothpaste, and basic pain relievers.
Household: Paper towels, toilet paper, and cleaning sprays.

The real magic happens when you combine this habit with other money-saving strategies. Those few extra dollars saved on each shopping trip can really start to pile up over the course of a year, freeing up cash for things that truly matter.

6. Grow Your Own Produce

We’ve all seen those beautiful farmer’s markets, but let’s be real, the prices can add up fast. What if we told you that you could bring a little bit of that freshness right to your own home, and save a good chunk of change in the process? Growing even a small amount of your own food can make a surprising difference to our grocery bills.

It doesn’t take a huge backyard or a green thumb the size of a professional gardener. We’re talking about starting small. Think about a few pots on a sunny windowsill or a small raised bed if you have a bit more space. We’ve found that growing things like herbs and salad greens is super easy and yields a lot for the effort. Imagine snipping fresh basil for your pasta or grabbing a handful of lettuce for a quick salad – it’s incredibly satisfying and way cheaper than buying them pre-packaged.

Here are a few ideas to get us started:

Start with easy wins: Herbs like mint, basil, and chives are pretty forgiving. Salad greens like spinach and lettuce can be harvested multiple times from the same plant.
Regrow from scraps: Believe it or not, you can regrow things like green onions, celery, and even lettuce from the scraps you’d normally toss. Just place the base in a shallow dish of water, and watch it sprout.
Container gardening: Don’t have a yard? No problem! Many vegetables and herbs thrive in pots. Tomatoes, peppers, and even some root vegetables can be grown successfully in containers.

Growing our own food isn’t just about saving money; it’s also about connecting with where our food comes from and enjoying the freshest possible ingredients. Plus, it’s a really rewarding hobby that can bring a lot of peace and satisfaction.

7. Track Your Spending

We all know we should keep an eye on where our money goes, but actually doing it can feel like a chore. Yet, it’s one of the most powerful ways to start saving. Knowing your habits is the first step to changing them.

Think about it: how much are we really spending on those daily coffees, impulse buys, or subscriptions we forgot we even had? When we don’t track our spending, it’s easy for money to just… disappear. We might have a general idea, but the specifics are often fuzzy.

Here’s a simple way to get started:

Choose a method: Whether it’s a notebook, a spreadsheet, or a budgeting app, pick something you’ll actually use. We like using a simple spreadsheet for its flexibility.
Record everything: For a week, or even a month, jot down every single penny you spend. Yes, even that pack of gum.
Categorize: After you’ve tracked for a bit, group your expenses. Think "Groceries," "Utilities," "Entertainment," "Transportation," etc.
Review and adjust: Look at where your money is going. Are there areas where you can cut back? Maybe you’re spending more on takeout than you realized, or perhaps that gym membership isn’t getting much use.

This process helps us see the real picture of our finances. It’s not about deprivation; it’s about making conscious choices. Once we see where the money is going, we can make smarter decisions about where we want it to go. This awareness is key to building better financial habits and saving more effectively. For more tips on managing your money, check out this guide on how to save money effectively.

Sometimes, just seeing the numbers laid out can be a real eye-opener. It’s like finding a forgotten twenty-dollar bill in a coat pocket, but instead of a surprise, it’s a clear path to saving.

8. Use Reusable Containers

We all know that single-use plastics are a big problem, both for our planet and our wallets. Think about all those plastic wrap rolls, disposable baggies, and takeout containers we toss out. It adds up fast! Switching to reusable containers is a simple hack that saves money and cuts down on waste.

We’ve found that having a good set of reusable containers makes a huge difference in our kitchen. It’s not just about packing lunches, either. We use them for storing leftovers, buying bulk goods, and even for meal prepping. Making this one change can seriously cut down on your household spending on disposable items.

Here’s why we love using reusable containers:

Save Money: No more buying plastic wrap or disposable bags every few weeks. Over time, this really adds up.
Reduce Waste: Less plastic going into landfills and oceans. It feels good to make a more sustainable choice.
Keep Food Fresh: Many reusable containers, especially glass or good quality plastic ones, seal better than disposable options, keeping your food fresher for longer.
Versatile: They work for everything from packing snacks to storing big batches of soup.

We started by replacing our plastic wrap with beeswax wraps and then invested in a set of glass containers. It was a small upfront cost, but we’ve already saved money by not buying disposable baggies and plastic wrap. Plus, our leftovers seem to last longer!

Consider glass, stainless steel, or durable BPA-free plastic options. You can find great deals at discount stores or even repurpose old jars. It’s a small step that has a big impact on both your budget and the environment.

9. Shop Post-Holiday Sales

We all know the feeling: the holidays are over, the decorations are coming down, and suddenly, there’s a ton of stuff on sale. This is the perfect time to stock up on things we need for the next year, or even just for ourselves. Think about it – after Christmas, stores are practically giving away holiday-themed items, but also general merchandise that people bought as gifts and then returned, or just overstocked.

This is our chance to get great deals on things we would have bought anyway.

Here’s how we can make the most of it:

Plan Ahead: Before the sales even start, make a list of things you know you’ll need or want in the coming months. This could be anything from wrapping paper and gift bags for next December to new clothes for spring or even small appliances you’ve been eyeing.
Target Specific Items: Post-holiday sales are fantastic for seasonal items. After Halloween, you can find costumes and decorations for a fraction of the price. After Easter, it’s candy and baskets. For general items, look for things like electronics, clothing, and home goods that might have been popular gift items.
Don’t Forget Non-Holiday Needs: Stores often put a wide range of items on clearance after major holidays, not just the holiday-specific stuff. We can snag great deals on everyday essentials or items for upcoming birthdays and events.

It’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of a sale and buy things we don’t really need. The key is to stick to our list and only buy items that offer genuine savings on things we would have purchased eventually.

We can also use this time to buy gifts for upcoming birthdays or even for next year’s holidays. If we see a great deal on a toy for a niece or nephew, or a nice scarf for a friend, why not grab it now? It saves us the stress and expense of last-minute shopping later on.

10. Cancel Unused Subscriptions

We all do it. We sign up for a free trial, get busy, forget about it, and suddenly we’re paying for something we don’t even use anymore. It’s like a slow leak in our budget, and it really adds up over time. Think about all those streaming services, apps, or even that gym membership you haven’t visited in months. Going through and canceling these forgotten subscriptions can put a surprising amount of money back into your pocket.

It’s easy to lose track. Here’s a simple way to tackle it:

Gather your statements: Pull up your bank and credit card statements from the last few months. Look for recurring charges you don’t recognize or haven’t thought about.
Make a list: Jot down every subscription service you find. Note the name, the cost, and how often it’s billed.
Evaluate honestly: For each item on your list, ask yourself: "Do I really use this?" and "Is it worth the money?" Be ruthless! If you haven’t used it in a while, chances are you can live without it.
Cancel away: Follow the cancellation process for each service you decide to cut. Sometimes it’s a simple online form, other times you might need to call customer service.

Don’t be afraid to negotiate. If you find a service you really like but can’t afford, see if they offer a lower rate. We’ve found that sometimes just asking can lead to a discount.

We often forget about the small monthly charges, but when you add them all up, it’s a significant amount. For example, if you have three streaming services at $15 each per month, that’s $45 a month, or $540 a year. Canceling just one could mean an extra $180 in your pocket annually. It’s a simple hack that pays off.

11. Brown Bag Your Lunch

We all know that buying lunch every day adds up. Think about it – a few dollars here and there, and before you know it, you’ve spent a small fortune on sandwiches and salads. Packing your own lunch is one of the easiest ways to save money and eat healthier. It might seem like a small change, but the savings are significant over time. We’ve found that dedicating a little time on Sunday to prep lunches for the week makes a huge difference. It cuts down on morning stress and ensures we have a good meal ready to go.

Here’s why we love brown-bagging it:

Cost Savings: The average person can save hundreds, even thousands, of dollars per year by packing their lunch instead of buying it. This money can then be put towards other goals, like saving for a vacation or paying down debt.
Healthier Choices: When you make your own lunch, you control the ingredients. You can load up on fresh vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, avoiding the hidden sugars, unhealthy fats, and excessive sodium often found in restaurant meals.
Reduced Waste: Think about all the disposable containers, bags, and utensils that come with takeout. Packing your lunch often means using reusable containers, which is better for the environment.

We often hear people say they don’t have time to pack a lunch. But with a bit of planning, it’s totally doable. Meal prepping, like batch cooking proteins and grains, can cut down on daily prep time significantly. This way, you’re not starting from scratch every single morning. It’s about making smart choices that benefit both our wallets and our well-being. Plus, it gives us a chance to get creative with our meals and try out new recipes. We’ve even started a little lunch club with friends where we swap ideas and leftovers – it makes it more fun!

12. Make Your Own Pastry

We all love a good pie, tart, or quiche, right? But buying pre-made pastry can really add up. Learning to make your own basic pastry dough is surprisingly simple and can save us a good chunk of change over time. Think about it: a simple batch of shortcrust or puff pastry is way cheaper than the store-bought stuff, and it opens up a world of possibilities for using up leftovers or creating delicious meals from scratch.

Making pastry isn’t just about saving money, though. It’s also a really satisfying skill to have. Plus, it’s a great way to control the ingredients going into your food. We can skip the preservatives and weird additives that sometimes sneak into commercial products.

Here’s a super basic breakdown of how we can get started:

Gather your ingredients: Usually, it’s just flour, butter (or other fat), cold water, and a pinch of salt. The quality of your butter really makes a difference here!
Rub in the fat: This is where you combine the flour and cold butter until it looks like breadcrumbs. Keep everything cold for the best texture.
Add water: Gradually add cold water until the dough just comes together. Don’t overwork it!
Chill: Wrap the dough and let it rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes. This makes it easier to roll out.

Honestly, once you get the hang of it, you’ll be whipping up pastry in no time. It’s a skill that pays for itself pretty quickly, especially if you make things like savory pies or sweet tarts regularly. It’s a small effort for a big reward, both for our wallets and our taste buds.

Wrapping It Up: Small Changes, Big Impact

So, there you have it. We’ve gone through a bunch of ways to slow down and save some cash, from making your own cleaning supplies to planning meals and ditching subscriptions you don’t even use. It might seem like a lot at first, but remember, we don’t have to do everything at once. Pick a few things that feel doable for you and give them a try. Over time, these small shifts can really add up, not just in your bank account, but in making life feel a little less rushed and a lot more intentional. We hope these ideas help you find a simpler, more affordable way of living.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why should we unplug appliances when we’re not using them?

We should unplug appliances because many of them, even when turned off, still use electricity. This is called ‘phantom load’ or ‘vampire power.’ By unplugging them, we stop this wasted energy, which helps lower our electricity bills and is better for the environment.

How does air-drying clothes save money?

Using a clothes dryer uses a lot of electricity. When we air-dry our clothes on a line or a rack, we skip that energy cost entirely. Plus, it’s gentler on our clothes, making them last longer, and we don’t need to buy fabric softener sheets.

What are some easy homemade gifts we can make?

We can get creative and make gifts like homemade jams or baked goods, knitted scarves, or even personalized photo albums. Simple things like a jar of cookie mix with instructions or a handmade card can be very meaningful and cost much less than store-bought items.

How does planning our meals help us save money?

When we plan our meals, we know exactly what ingredients we need for the week. This stops us from buying extra food we don’t need, which often ends up going to waste. It also helps us use up what we already have and can lead to fewer impulse buys at the grocery store.

Why is buying generic brands a good money-saving tip?

Generic brands, often called store brands, are usually much cheaper than name brands. They typically have the same ingredients and quality, so we get the same product for less money. It’s a simple way to cut costs on everyday items like groceries, toiletries, and cleaning supplies.

How can we track our spending to save money?

We can track our spending by writing down every purchase we make, using a budgeting app, or reviewing our bank statements. Seeing where our money actually goes helps us spot areas where we might be overspending without realizing it, allowing us to make smarter choices and cut back where needed.